Šolta
Šolta, a serene island in the heart of the Adriatic, offers a tranquil diving escape just off the coast of Split. While it features a select number of dive sites, the quality is exceptional, characterized by dramatic underwater cliffs, intriguing small caves, and fascinating wrecks. Divers are drawn to the island's pristine conditions and the sense of discovery that comes with exploring its less-trafficked underwater landscapes. The topography is a key highlight, with vertical walls plunging into the deep blue, decorated with vibrant gorgonians and sponges, making it a photographer's delight.
Diving conditions in Šolta are typical of the Adriatic, with calm seas and excellent visibility, often exceeding 30 meters during the peak season. Water temperatures are comfortable from late spring to early autumn, making it an ideal destination for summer getaways. Šolta is perfect for divers seeking a peaceful retreat combined with high-quality dives. Its proximity to Split makes it easily accessible, yet it feels a world away from the crowds, offering a genuine and relaxed Croatian diving experience for all skill levels.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Šolta, Croatia?
The shipwreck of the fishing boat 'Pijavica' is arguably the most famous dive site in Šolta, Croatia. Lying near the islet of Stipanska, it rests at a manageable depth suitable for advanced divers. Its popularity stems from its intact structure, which is now a thriving artificial reef. Divers can explore the wheelhouse and cargo holds, which are often teeming with fish, making it a fantastic photo opportunity and a memorable dive.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Šolta, Croatia?
Besides the popular Pijavica wreck, the dramatic wall dives on the southern side of the island are well-known and spectacular. For a less common experience, ask local dive centers about sites in secluded coves or around smaller, uninhabited islets. These 'hidden gems' in Šolta, Croatia, often feature interesting caverns, swim-throughs, and vibrant macro life away from the few frequently visited spots, offering a true sense of exploration.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Šolta, Croatia?
Water temperatures in Šolta, Croatia, vary significantly by season. In the summer months (June-August), expect warm surface temperatures of 22-26°C (72-79°F). During the shoulder seasons of spring (May) and autumn (September-October), it ranges from 17-21°C (63-70°F). Winter diving (November-April) is for the hardy, with temperatures dropping to 12-15°C (54-59°F), often requiring a dry suit.
When is the best time to visit Šolta, Croatia?
The best time for diving in Šolta, Croatia, is from June to September when the weather is warm, the sea is calm, and water temperatures are at their peak. For fewer crowds and excellent visibility, consider the shoulder months of May and October. While the water is cooler, the diving conditions are still fantastic. The main tourist and diving season runs from May through October.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Šolta, Croatia?
Underwater visibility in Šolta, Croatia, is generally excellent, which is a hallmark of the Adriatic Sea. During the main diving season from May to October, you can typically expect visibility ranging from 15 to 40 meters (50-130 feet). The clearest conditions are often found in late summer and early autumn after the spring plankton bloom has subsided, providing stunningly clear blue water.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Šolta, Croatia?
Diving in Šolta, Croatia, does not feature large-scale migrations of megafauna like manta rays or whale sharks. The appeal lies in the fantastic Adriatic topography and resident marine life. While not a guaranteed event, encounters with dolphins are possible during boat trips. The diving focuses on exploring stunning walls, wrecks, and observing the diverse ecosystem of the Mediterranean, including octopus, eels, and numerous fish species.
What marine life can I expect to see in Šolta, Croatia?
You can expect to see a rich variety of Mediterranean marine life. Common sightings in Šolta, Croatia, include octopus, moray and conger eels, scorpionfish, forkbeards, and schools of damselfish and bream. The walls are covered in colorful sponges and gorgonians. Macro lovers will find nudibranchs, hermit crabs, and lobsters. Lucky divers might even spot a seahorse or a john dory in the seagrass beds.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Šolta, Croatia?
For peak summer (July-August), a 3mm to 5mm full wetsuit is usually sufficient. In the shoulder months (May-June and September-October), a 5mm or 7mm wetsuit is recommended as water can be cooler, especially at depth. For winter diving, a 7mm semi-dry or a full dry suit with appropriate undergarments is essential to stay comfortable in the colder waters of Šolta, Croatia.
How do I get to Šolta, Croatia?
To get to Šolta, Croatia, you first need to travel to the city of Split. The nearest international airport is Split Airport (SPU). From the city's main port, regular and frequent ferry and catamaran services run to Šolta's main port, Rogač. The journey is short, typically taking 30-60 minutes depending on the vessel. In summer, these services are very frequent, making access to the island straightforward.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Šolta, Croatia?
Staying on shore is the best and only practical option for diving in Šolta, Croatia. The island is not a liveaboard destination. Diving is conducted by local, land-based dive centers that take divers out on daily boat trips (usually RIBs) to the nearby sites. This approach allows you to enjoy the island's charming villages, local cuisine, and relaxed atmosphere after your dives.