Croatia possesses some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery you are ever likely to see and the water is normally perfect for swimming, diving, and playing watersports. Silba is located 30 kilometers from mainland Croatia, in the Zadar archipelago, southeast of Losinj, and nestled between the islands of Premuda and Olib. Sharks Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations. We use cookies to optimize our website and our service. That's why as a Croatia travel advisor based in Dubrovnik, I help travelers navigate these logistics to ensure a smooth vacation. There are around 30 species of sharks in Croatia In the past 150 years, 9 people were killed by sharks. Next up, we have Scorpions. Theyre also quite shy, so they swim away rather than attack. There are just a couple of scorpion species in Croatia, and the good news is that theyre not the life-threatening ones. As empirical proof of the horror of sharks among ordinary Croatian families, I give you my family. There have been 11 fatal attacks in the last 150 years, with the most recent occurring in 1974 near Omis, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt avoid aggravating these ocean giants. Despite the common misconception that sharks are bulky with a characteristic triangular, dorsal fins, this one has an unusually flattened body. However, we locals know that you can't just do this anywhere. If youre the unfortunate victim of a snake bite try to avoid moving too much to prevent the poison from spreading, and seek immediate medical assistance. Swimming With Sharks In Croatia. Our Facebook Travel Group is the perfect place for you to connect with other travelers from around the world and start planning your next adventure. Dubrovnik The pedestrianized central Placa in the old town is also paved with limestone and punctuated with boutiques and local eateries. Sneakers or sandals that are durable are ideal, but if you do want to pack heels for a night out, I would opt for a block-heel or wedge over thin stilettos. Up to 47 different species of shark are found in the Adriatic, including blue, bull, tiger, and, yes, even the fearsome great white shark! Although it can be seen that the shark was actually 1.7 metres long, the editor rounded this up nicely to 2 metres [I would appreciate if people would do same with my height!]. Currently, as of publishing, Croatia removed mask mandates. Dolphins are also warm-blooded animals and prefer temperate waters so their populations are most rife in Croatia from May until September, but you could spot them any time of year if youre lucky. However, you do have to wear masks in medical institutions. These "sea porcupines," as they are called in Croatian, can get stuck in your foot and are a literal pain to remove. Shortfin makos usually live in the deep waters far away from the coast. Their diet is rich in squid, small, boneless marine animals, and many species of small fish and sharks. Dont wear bright jewellery. Dubrovnik The three most dangerous species are the Horned viper, Karst Meadow Viper, and Common European viper, which can be distinguished by the zigzag patterns on their backs. They might be popular tourist destinations for snorkeling and relaxation, but the Brijuni Islands are uninhabited, which has given marine life great opportunities to thrive. The fact that the colors dont blend but drastically change is their biggest giveaway. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. They might be one of the most dangerous animals in Croatia, but, fortunately, its unlikely that youll contract any infectious diseases like encephalitis or Lyme disease from them, but you still wouldnt want one under your skin. Conservationists track the early years of the pups around Croatias coast, and your excursion tour guide is sure to fill you in on everything there is to know about the lives of young dolphins in the Adriatic. Our Facebook Travel Group is the perfect place for you to connect with other travelers from around the world and start planning your next adventure. Or just fantasized about catching sight of them dipping and diving out of the water alongside your boat? Their timid nature means getting close enough to observe is often a challenge. That said, they like both the open ocean and the coastal parts and often swim close to the surface. Together with the great white, its one of the only two dangerous species that live in the Adriatic Sea. The short answer is yes, and that includes Shortfin mako shark. They can live till 70 years old. So keep your eyes peeled when youre looking out to sea while enjoying that morning coffee. In my experience, unlike other destinations in Europe, petty theft and crime are very rare. Although the Slovenian diver claimed to have been attacked by a great white shark, this has never been proved. VIDEO Breathtaking aerial video of Dubrovnik coastline, PHOTO GALLERY Dubrovnik on the first w, VIDEO First March weekend in Dubrovnik, Salaries of seasonal workers on Croatian, Could we soon see more American airlines, Inflation rate in Croatia drops for thir, Dubrovnik-Neretva County has expected st, Croatia's Modric donates World Cup shirt, Lastovo port to be completely reconstruc. So, can sharks be found in Croatias waters? 2022 Royal Croatian Tours. The best way to combat overtourism is to consider visiting outside of the peak season. Portugal or Croatia? Still, blue sharks, bull sharks, and even tiger sharks have all been spotted off Croatias coast. WebDubrovnik has a reputation of being among the best saltwater fishing grounds in the Croatia. Sharks tend to populate very deep waters and drop-offs and keep their distance from humans, and dolphins can actually be a deterrent for sharks. If, by comparison, we look at the number of shark attacks in the US or Australia during the same period, well see that they have had 1,999 and 1,237 attacks, respectively. This can be fatal to children, the elderly, and the sick. The fierce Bora blows the salty waters all across the inland meadows, scattering dry salt dust all over the island as a result. Yes! Nevertheless, we encourage sticking to the recommended routes when hiking and taking a guide with you if you plan to go off the beaten track. By clicking Sign up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider Not only is Dubrovnik filled with cobble-stoned streets, but there are also a lot of stairs, so packing comfortable shoes is essential. Otherwise, pay attention, go slow, and you'll likely find that driving in Dubrovnik is doable and will give you the freedom to explore the entire region. The museum is located in the Fritzi Palace and houses an expansive collection of Italian baroque and contemporary Croatian art. Copyright BIRN 2007 | Terms of use | Privacy Policy | Powered by WordPress / WPML. There are actually as many as 47 different shark species that inhabit the Adriatic, including bull sharks, tiger sharks, and even great whites. Royal Croatian Tours - Our Blog, Read for Travel Tips! - Luxury Tour According to the Shark Research Institute, over the last 150 years (which is when record-keeping of shark attacks began), there have only been 11 attacks leading to death in Croatia. WebDubrovnik is probably one of the safest places in the world. There are only two dangerous species of shark (Mako and Great White), and attacks are extremely rare. Dolphin sightings are frequently reported off Silbas western shores, and its not uncommon for dolphin calves to be seen swimming alongside their mothers. From the red hourglass markings on their abdomens to their jet black bodies, these spiders truly are a beauty to behold but dont be fooled, their venom packs a powerful punch. The Adriatic Sea is considered very safe for swimming and millions of tourists revel in the warm azure sea every year. That's why I always pack water shoes in my beach bag. Luxury Tour and Travel Agency in Croatia And so on, and so on. PHOTO GALLERY Dubrovnik on the first weekend of March, VIDEO First March weekend in Dubrovnik come and take a stroll with us, Salaries of seasonal workers on Croatian coast exploding 3,200 euro a month for a grill master. They are common in the Dinara mountain range, They generally like to live in grassy parts of the mountains at higher altitudes (1000m +), If you see a snake, stay calm and dont move any closer, Slowly walk away from the snake and give it space, Wait at a safe distance for the snake to move (if its in the way of your path), otherwise, slowly walk far around it, Stay calm and try to keep the bitten limb as still as possible to prevent the poison from spreading further. Are There Sharks In Croatia The Adriatic Sea is still deemed very safe for swimming. Sharks in Croatia Knowing which ones to avoid before heading to the Balkan nation is a good idea. However, despite tourists admitting to swimming with dolphins in Dubrovnik, it is prohibited to deliberately disturb Croatias small populations of Dolphins as they are considered endangered species. Nevertheless, the word shark is something they dont want to hear even if they are a hundred metres from the water. WebAre there sharks in Croatia? Responsible for the highest number of fatal shark attacks in the world, this one has a reputation as the deadliest marine beast of all. Black widows are even more poisonous than many venomous snakes (although the males arent dangerous). Sharks are present in the Croatian Adriatic whether we like to think about them as we dip our feet in it during sweltering summer days or not. If you plan on visiting Dubrovnik in the spring, fall, or winter, be prepared for rain. Scientific Reports magazine stated that between 2000 and 2015, Croatia (despite its large bear population), is at the bottom of the list in terms of number of attacks, with only three non-lethal attacks recorded throughout the survey period. Theres also no certainty behind their attacks, but weve all seen Jaws and know just how horrendous the result can be. WebThe short answer is yes. Dubrovnik is a stepping stone to some of Croatias best islands, but its incredibly clear blue waters also offer the perfect setting for tracking down marine life. The interesting part is, I am not talking about my generation, the children in the family, but about our parents. Sharks in Croatia WebA complete list of the shark attacks that have occurred in Croatia. The sad reality is that shark populations have plummeted during the 20th century due to overall drops in fish populations and, therefore, the sharks food sources, mainly due to overfishing. Shark Attack Data Still, blue sharks, bull sharks, and even tiger sharks have all been spotted off Croatias coast. They can also come close to the shore, especially as Korcula has some steep drop-offs along its jagged coast. What is the Ideal 4-Day Itinerary in Croatia? They arent very dangerous because their poison isnt very strong, however, if you get stung, you could have the following symptoms: Some swelling, redness and itching around the sting spot. Unlike many other species of shark, common threshers have relatively small teeth, which means they only pose a minimal threat to humans. Shark spotted near the island of Korcula WebDubrovnik offers many vantage points to appreciate its beauty. Watch out for black spiders with red dots on their backs (. The potentially lethal Horned viper is found throughout the country. The last shark attack was recorded in 2008 in a bay on island Vis. The archipelago is separated from the west coast of Istria by the narrow Fazana Strait. This flavors the wild pastures and actually infuses sheeps milk with a distinct salty taste that can be recognized in the namesake, Pag cheese. Is Croatia home to sharks? Are there any species of these marine creatures you should fear? Why you can trust Sky News Watch Next 'I'm remembering and crying' Couple rescued after 12 days under rubble 'UK will support others to send jets' Lost dog rescued on US freeway Well, despite what you might think, you dont have to venture as far as the beaches of Bali to do so. Sharks tend to populate very deep waters and drop-offs and keep their distance from humans, and dolphins can actually be a deterrent for sharks. Jokester as he is, he said the only scuba diving he would sign up for would take place in his bathtub. Lets get into it. Are There Sharks In Croatia In conclusion, you will likely find Croatia one of the most rewarding places to swim in Europe. All the same, its important to note that theyre a protected species in Croatia, so dont kill them if you come across one. The early hours of the morning are the best time to spot dolphins when the water is most calm. With a range of trophy species theres also the spectacular beauty of the islands and its surroundings. To prevent a sea urchin injury altogether, pick up a pair of water shoes! The last attack happened in 2008. Chetnik Controversy Highlights Links Between Serbian and Croatian Right, Democracy Digest: Poland Starts Investigations into Abducted Ukrainian Children and Leaked Emails, Ukrainian Children in Montenegro: Enrolled in School, Learning Online, Discrimination Forces Transgender Albanians to Self-Medicate, or Go Abroad, Week in Review: Dangerous Rumours and Bilateral Tensions, Fellowship 2023: Call for Applications Open, Bosnias Genocide Denial Law: Why Prosecutors Havent Charged Anyone, Serbia Rules Out Signing EU Plan Over Kosovo's UN Membership, With TikToks and School Trips, Activists Take on Slovakias Disinformation Ecosystem, Pandemic and Ukraine War Aggravate Suffering for Bosnians with PTSD. Another aggressive shark you might encounter in Croatia is the shortfin mako shark. Are There Sharks in Croatia Search for the words Croatias waters, and youre likely to find an array of photos displaying Croatias stunning natural beauty: clear, bright blue waters and pristine sandy beaches. WebFear not, they pose little risk to swimmers in Croatia. As opposed to the basking shark, the spiny dogfish is the smallest shark on this list. It was a surprising visit, considering how rarely you can see these creatures in the shallow waters near the shore. Are There Sharks in Croatia If you find a tick attached to your skin or clothing, you should grab a pair of tweezers, pinch the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight out without twisting or turning, then dispose of it. It lives in shallow waters, so its among the most likely sharks to see while bathing in those crystal-clear Croatian waters. Stay up to date with what you want to know. Still, blue sharks, bull sharks, and even tiger sharks have all been spotted off Croatias coast. in the Adriatic, but only two are actually dangerous - and attacks are extremely rare. Since records exist, in 150 years, sharks in the Adriatic have been responsible for the deaths of 11 swimmers. Could we soon see more American airlines flying to Croatia? Its only the females that release their poison in their bites. ), their temperature mild, and there will be plenty of opportunities to explore secluded bays and coves. Dubrovnik What to do if youve been bitten by a Black Widow? To enter, you'll need one of the following: A negative PCR test (taken 72 hours before arrival at the border) or an Antigen test (taken 24 hours before arrival at the border). To enter, you'll need one of the following: Alternatively, you can pay for a test upon arrival and remain in self-isolation until you receive a negative result. Some forget to read up on entry restrictions, stay out in the sun too long, and forget essential items when packing. The sea is also extremely clean, so I never worry about the quality of the water either. Some rocks are unstable, and sometimes you can't see rocks under the surface of the sea. Yes, of course. Are there sharks in Croatia that you can eat? Since records exist, in 150 years, sharks in the Adriatic have been responsible for the deaths of 11 swimmers. Shark menaces Dubrovnik beachgoers Tuesday 23 June 2020 15:29, UK 0:38 Everyone gets out of the water as a shark sweeps along the coastline in Croatia. WebDubrovnik is probably one of the safest places in the world. Croatias waters are better known for their great sporting opportunities and fantastic clarity for snorkeling and dolphin watching, but there are also around 45 species of shark that live in the Adriatic. He would go fishing, but even then, was extra careful if he caught anything bigger than a sardine. Always dreamt of swimming with dolphins? Hop from island to island in a country that can boast 2,843 hours of sunlight annually and feel the revitalising effects of getting out into nature. Another aggressive shark you might encounter in Croatia is the shortfin mako shark. If you do rent a car, make sure you are okay with all the above. Are you looking for a community of like-minded travelers to share your experiences with and get tips from? The last attack happened in 2008. No, not the Jaws type with the fin and razor-sharp teeth but the American football type. In Croatia, they can be found in the Istrian region, Primorje, as well as in Dalmatia. Try not to step on these, as the spikes will stay in your skin and it will be painful to walk on. Blue Shark catch&release in Dubrovnik The Adriatic Sea is considered extremely safe for swimming. Brown Bear, Kuterevo - Photo credit IG @mphotos_sotohpm, ROYAL CROATIAN TOURS d.o.o. Although Croatia is part of the European Union, they are still using Croatian Kuna until the end of 2022. Dont swim too far away from the coastline. Being highly intelligent, sharks are also curious by nature. Shark Attack Data Overtourism in Dubrovnik has been on the rise over the past decade. With parliament in recess in July, some of the Croatian media are already well enter into media silly season or, as readers in Croatia call it, the season of sour cucumbers. You should also lookout for the vertical slits that form in their pupils. How to Holiday in Mykonos on a Budget: Money Saving Tips, 7 Spots For The Best Snorkeling Santorini Has To Offer. If you or a fellow traveler get stung by a scorpion, you should clean the area well, apply a cool compress and take pain medication as needed. The only time a bear is likely to attack unprovoked is if a mother bear is protecting her cubs. Strong currents and waves pose more of a threat to swimmers than sea creatures in Croatia, but these can still also be avoided by swimming in protective bays that are flagged and patrolled by lifeguards. That said, its unlikely youll spot one around Croatia, since they arent common there at all. They are valued for their meat, liver oil, and fins for commercial use, as well as a common target for recreational anglers. Although the probability of a shark attack in Croatia is really insignificant, you may take some precautions anyway. You can also swim in marked areas on the Brijuni Islands and recreational water sports are allowed in designated parts of the park. However, the quaint old town of Korcula has been dubbed Little Dubrovnik thanks to its red-tiled roofs, local houses, medieval squares, and charming churches. Unlike the previous two sharks, these arent really dangerous to humans, so there is no need to panic if you happen to see one. That said, there is no need to be scared because theyre totally harmless to people. Similar to some whales, they use their mouths to filter all that from the water. The last sighting of this type of shark in Croatia was back in 2020 in Central Dalmatia. If you're planning a trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia, be aware of weather and COVID-19 advisories. Yes, unfortunately there are sharks in the Adriatic sea and many species of them too. Just two days after a video showing a shark swimming off the Dalmatian coastline on the Makarska Riviera comes news that the same shark was spotted yesterday near the island of Korcula. For example, I bought nice jewelry in Dubrovnik and received a 15% discount for paying in cash. Subscribe to Travel Snippet newsletter for free travel tips and inspiration. Luckily, only two sharks in Croatias waters are considered dangerous, and coming across either is extremely unlikely. Tourists and locals had a camera opportunity as members of the Dubrovnik Sharks American football team wandered through the heart of Dubrovnik this morning. Be careful there are sharks in Dubrovnik today! With a range of trophy species theres also the spectacular beauty of the islands and its surroundings. Simply stay mindful of your surroundings while travelling and you are unlikely to experience any unpleasant encounters the most significant safety precaution you must take is suncream!But if the thought of rare shark sightings is enough to keep you from dipping your toes in the waters, why not consider taking one of our Majestic Sunset Dubrovnik Boat Tours our expert guides take you out onto the azure waters of the Adriatic to admire the most magical sites in the Dubrovnik region. Somewhat of an undiscovered gem, this forested island is dotted with colorful Venetian villages, pebble beaches, and ancient history. Theyre also far less common in the northeastern part of the country, and unlikely to be spotted on Rab Island, Dugi Otok, or Mljet. In the last 150 year, there were 11 registered fatal shark attacks off Croatian waters, starting with one off Trieste in 1868, back when Croatia was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Dubrovnik It's not socially acceptable to walk around town in your swimwear, especially in the Old Town. ], traffic jams, celebrity appearances on the coast, and other stories that venture into the world of the bizarre. After the whale shark, its the second largest in the world. In easy reach from Losinjs Dolphin Way, its no surprise that Silba offers great opportunities for spotting some of Croatias largest pods of dolphins, but its own waters, closer to shore, are equally mesmerizing. are the only poisonous species of snake in Croatia, and can be identified by the zig zag pattern on their backs. Plus, there are actually not many of them living in this part of the world. Sharks Top editors give you the stories you want delivered right to your inbox each weekday. A negative PCR test (taken 72 hours before arrival at the border) or an Antigen test (taken 24 hours before arrival at the border). Although the Slovenian diver claimed to have been attacked by a great white shark, this has never been proved. His jump into the water from the stern and retreat back to the boat was surely a world record were literally talking seconds here. Dubrovnik The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. Cover your neck by clasping your hands together behind your neck, Stay as still as possible and wait for the bear to leave. If I'm going out during this time, I always make sure to throw a rain jacket or umbrella in my car. Are There Sharks in Croatia They also have a tendency to attack when their environment is interfered with. They can be recognized by the zigzag pattern on their backs, and if you get close enough to look into their eyes, youll notice their pupils form a vertical slit. Subscribe to Travel Snippet newsletter for free travel tips and inspiration. Blue Shark catch&release in Dubrovnik The Adriatic Sea is considered extremely safe for swimming. You dont need to hold back from enjoying the inviting Adriatic Sea, but it wouldnt be a bad idea to stick to swimming between the flags at the beach and avoid unallocated areas. Pebble and sand beaches define the shoreline, and the dry, rugged lands are actually the reason for Pags most famous export. Although he had a boat, he now entered the water even more rarely than the others. WebDubrovnik has a reputation of being among the best saltwater fishing grounds in the Croatia. Dubrovnik has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. As with most European countries, Croatias forests and gardens are no strangers to ticks. The Great White is probably the most dangerous but there have only been 11 deaths in 150 years from Shark attacks at the waters are deemed very safe for swimming. According to the Shark Research Institute, over the last 150 years (which is when record-keeping of shark attacks began), there have been 11 attacks that led to death in Croatia. Only three bear attacks have been reported in the country in the last 20 years and none of them were fatal. The ones who are most likely to transmit Lyme, are most active in May and June. turistika agencija, One Day Boating to Elaphite Islands from Dubrovnik. Even if you come by plane, the chances are that the taxi driver will rip you off. Are There Sharks in Croatia Yes, of course. If you do come across a bear while walking, hiking, or camping, the best course of action would be to play dead. As a Canadian in Croatia, Sarah aims to share her favourite things to see and do, in hopes of helping others enjoy and explore this beautiful country. Contact us today to start planning your custom-made Croatia tour! The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network. The last basking shark sighting in Croatia was in 2015 near Linjan, not too far from Pula. According to the Shark Research Institute, over the last 150 years (which is when record-keeping of shark attacks began), there have only been 11 attacks leading to death in Croatia. WebAre There Sharks in Croatia: 7 Species You Can Find There Great white shark. Theyre usually smaller than that, though. They usually stick to deep, offshore parts of the seas, rather than the shallow waters near the beaches. WebThe short answer is yes. Pods dive through the air in the Korcula channel and boat tours that head out in the early morning have the best chance of spotting them in action. Overfishing has caused a decline in their population, so spotting one around Croatia is extremely rare. Look no further! What Is the Best Way to Visit Split and Its Islands? Croatia is home to many wild animals (including snakes, bears, sharks and scorpions to name a few). But what every editor really wants during the oh-so-boring summer months is sharks. But despite the occasional sensationalist story, there is little chance of you having any close encounters with sharks. Wear sunscreen and a hat, drink lots of water, and try to find shade when you can. So, your chances of an unpleasant encounter with the great hunters of the seas are incredibly small. in Croatia As mentioned above, theyre not really dangerous to humans and nothing occurred as a result of said sighting. Croatia The slightest glimpse of what could possibly, potentially, in theory, be a shark fin on the blue horizon is what every newspaper prays for. So, they are familiar with the island and well aware how dangerous the Adriatic is. There are about 2030 species of sharks, but only two species of sharks that can rarely be seen in the Adriatic sea are dangerous to humans: the great white shark and the shortfin mako shark. The short answer is yes, and that includes Shortfin mako shark. The statistic that should be making headlines annually is that 100 million sharks are killed each year by humans. Ask locals for safe places to jump. You should also fill out this Enter Croatia form here. The whole area is encompassed by the Brijuni National Park, established in 1983, and the waters are a protected conservation area. From snakes to bears, sharks, and scorpions, well explore all of the most dangerous animals in Croatia and everything from where you can find these creatures to what you should do if you encounter one. If you notice that youve been bitten, we strongly recommend seeking immediate medical assistance. Over the past 25 years, it has been responsible for four fatalities, but bites are still rare.