May, June, September, or October are all great alternative months when the weather is still sunny and warm and the crowds are far fewer. Tourists to Croatia should be more on the alert for non-shark-related dangers. Over the past 25 years, it has been responsible for four fatalities, but bites are still rare. 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). We select the targeted destination depending on the weather conditions and our anglers desires. in the water, close to the shore - theyll prick your feet, making it painful to walk for the rest of your vacation! However, you can tour the islands by boat with a number of operators from nearby Pula, the unofficial capital of the Croatian Istrian region. Up to 47 different species of shark are found in the Adriatic, including blue, bull, tiger, and, yes, even the fearsome great white shark! 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. However, there are precautions to take as a traveler. 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. Being highly intelligent, sharks are also curious by nature. The short answer is yes, and that includes Shortfin mako shark. The shortfin mako shark is also known as the blue pointer or bonito shark and can grow up to 13 foot long and weigh no more than 1,300 pounds. These creatures tend to be very aggressive, especially when nursing their cubs, or when theyre hungry. Although Croatia is part of the European Union, they are still using Croatian Kuna until the end of 2022. This may be wise for another reason. Theyre really fast, which makes them capable of injuring and killing people, but they dont usually target humans. As mentioned above, theyre not really dangerous to humans and nothing occurred as a result of said sighting. They also have a tendency to attack when their environment is interfered with. If it doesnt, retreat slowly and choose another route, just to be on the safe side. Croatia is home to a few species of venomous snakes, most of which belong to the viper family. Jokester as he is, he said the only scuba diving he would sign up for would take place in his bathtub. Dolphin tours can take you close to areas where dolphins dwell and give you a good chance of sightings, but you have to keep your distance and you shouldnt knowingly get in the water with them. Sharks 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. Dubrovnik follows all the required COVID-19 regulations set by Croatia. Being highly intelligent, sharks are also curious by nature. 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. If you have any questions or comments, please get in touch. The distinctive walls are accessible, all 1,940 meters can be walked, providing views of glittering rooftops, private courtyards, meandering streets, or local fisherman swimming out to retrieve their nets. 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. 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. Losinj is known for its lush vegetation and laid-back vibe. The most recent attack that ended in death took place in 1974 near Omis, and the last known recorded attack happened in the water near Vis, in 2008. Youll find the most unique, and generally, dangerous bears in the northern part of Croatia. The animals are often carelessly killed as bycatch if we do not do more to ensure sustainable fishing, many species will be at risk of extinction. The most characteristic part of the common thresher shark is its tail fin. Having a car while in Dubrovnik is a great option if you plan to take day trips throughout Southern Dalmatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. In 50 years of enjoying the sea, their casualties are down to one: my grandfather was slightly stung by a jellyfish although an independent family commission never properly investigated the case. Tourists and locals had a camera opportunity as members of the Dubrovnik Sharks American football team wandered through the heart of Dubrovnik this morning. The short answer is yes. It has a pointed snout and seven fins in total. Adult great whites can grow up to 20 foot in length and usually weigh no more than 5,000 pounds. Blue sharks are a large species that live across almost all seas and oceans, including in parts of the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia. As luck would have it, they have terrible eyesight and catch prey, like flying and climbing insects, through vibrations in their web, so you should be fine as long as you dont stumble through them. 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. Seeing this monstrous marine creature with its huge, open mouth can be a terrifying experience. It might sound surprising but spiny dogfish is commonly sold as food in many countries across the world, especially in the UK, France, and the US. Theres also no certainty behind their attacks, but weve all seen Jaws and know just how horrendous the result can be. WebAre there sharks in Croatia? 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. 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. The pristine waters around the Pag archipelago are perfect for dolphins, who only live in very clean seas. 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. ], traffic jams, celebrity appearances on the coast, and other stories that venture into the world of the bizarre. Photo credit IG @matt_mcgee_underwater The most recent deadly attack took place way back in 1974 near Omis. Luckily, most of them are harmless, and its extremely rare to ever see one there. Some 50 kilometers up the coast from the Brijuni Islands, the waters off the coast of Porec can also offer great dolphin watching opportunities. in the Adriatic, but only two are actually dangerous - and attacks are extremely rare. Portugal or Croatia? Dont let the arid landscape fool you, there is plenty happening on Pags beaches and Zrce Plaza, in the town of Novalja to the north of the island, is a party hub playing host to a number of international music festivals every year. 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. If you plan on visiting Dubrovnik in the spring, fall, or winter, be prepared for rain. If you happen to see one, leave it alone. The last basking shark sighting in Croatia was in 2015 near Linjan, not too far from Pula. 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. No, not the Jaws type with the fin and razor-sharp teeth but the American football type. He would go fishing, but even then, was extra careful if he caught anything bigger than a sardine. A leisurely walk will take about 2 hours. My family and many others are inexplicably terrified of sharks in the Adriatic - but the real danger facing visitors to the Croatian seaside is being ripped off, not ripped apart. Stay up to date with what you want to know. My family from my mothers side has been going to the northern island of Rab for half a century. I share with you all my best tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure. A leisurely walk will take about 2 hours. Try not to step on these, as the spikes will stay in your skin and it will be painful to walk on. 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. Another thing to be aware of, more than sharks, is the time spent in a restaurant waiting for your meal, approaching starvation as your nerves come to the edge. As the name suggests, you can distinguish these sharks by their beautiful deep blue color, which appears on top of their bodies. The angelshark or angel shark is a more innocent representative of the shark family than the three listed above, so there is no need to worry if you happen to cross paths with one. Go to the hospital as soon as you notice youve been bitten (you might not even realize youve been bitten at first, as the bites themselves arent painful, youll just feel the effects of the poison that are extremely dangerous - sharp pains, leading to spasms and paralysis). Their timid nature means getting close enough to observe is often a challenge. The last attack happened in 2008. Black widows are even more poisonous than many venomous snakes (although the males arent dangerous). WebDubrovnik offers many vantage points to appreciate its beauty. Brown bears are dispersed across Eastern Europe and they have healthy populations in the Balkans, but they usually mind their own business and avoid humans. The best way to combat overtourism is to consider visiting outside of the peak season. I always make sure to carry cash in Dubrovnik. However, you do have to wear masks in medical institutions. 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. Portugal or Croatia? Sign up for notifications from Insider! The species found there usually pose no threat to humans and tend to keep themselves to themselves, avoiding any kind of contact with us. Theyre great for protecting your feet. 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). 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. WebDubrovnik follows all the required COVID-19 regulations set by 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. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. There are around 30 species of sharks in Croatia In the past 150 years, 9 people were killed by sharks. Adorned with mosaics and housing an atrium, bishops palace, baptistery, and sacred relics from the 4th century, the basilica will fascinate even the least historically inclined visitor. Be that as it may, you shouldnt panic too much if you do find yourself stepping on one. Their needles might not be venomous, but they break easily and can get stuck under the skin, and the pain that ensues is no joke. WebThe short answer is yes. The weather can change from clear skies to downpours in a matter of hours. Slightly further out to sea, in the Croatian part of the northern Adriatic, a good portion of the countrys dolphin populations are also said to dance and play for spectators that wait patiently on passing boats. This is why I would suggest to my family and to everyone else visiting Croatia this summer: sharks may have thousands of sharp teeth, but restaurants, bars and a good many other things on the Adriatic coast may rip you apart far worse. Look no further! We select the targeted destination depending on the weather conditions and our anglers desires. To put things in perspective, in 2011 alone, 982 people died from accidents due to falling from heights. Are there sharks in Croatia? While most holidaymakers never even get close to seeing a shark during their Croatian adventures, it doesnt mean that theyre not lurking beneath the surface of the seas. And so on, and so on. It is people, though, that take advantage of these marine creatures. Subscribe to Travel Snippet newsletter for free travel tips and inspiration. Still, blue sharks, bull sharks, and even tiger sharks have all been spotted off Croatias coast. They can live till 70 years old. It was a surprising visit, considering how rarely you can see these creatures in the shallow waters near the shore. Speedboats are significantly more dangerous than sharks. While cards are widely accepted, some bars or shops are often cash only. How to Holiday in Mykonos on a Budget: Money Saving Tips, 7 Spots For The Best Snorkeling Santorini Has To Offer. few dangerous shark species that lurk in these waters, Cyprus Road Trip: Your Epic 7 Day Itinerary, Croatia Hidden Gems: 9 Secret Spots to Visit, Beaches & History: The Ultimate Dubrovnik 5 Day Itinerary. The sea is also extremely clean, so I never worry about the quality of the water either. If you do come across a bear while walking, hiking, or camping, the best course of action would be to play dead. Speedboats are significantly more dangerous than sharks. Sharks also have the ability to smell blood from over 15 meters, so its important to avoid swimming in deep water with a fresh wound. Traffic signs can be confusing, the roads are narrow, and parking is often limited, causing traffic. As with most European countries, Croatias forests and gardens are no strangers to ticks. 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. Although he had a boat, he now entered the water even more rarely than the others. There were only 25 recorded attacks on humans in the last 100 years here, too, so there is little reason to panic when bathing in the warm blue waters between Pula and Split. Which Vacation Hotspot Should I Choose? Much of it comes from Croatian waters, with nearly 50 metric tons exported every year. Speedboats are significantly more dangerous than sharks. WebAre there sharks in Croatia? 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. Swimming With Sharks In Croatia. Most beaches in Dubrovnik are rocky, which can make it tricky to get in and out of the water. Dont wear bright jewellery. From the Renaissance Sponza Palace to the Baroque St. Blaise Church and Gothic Rectors Castle, now a museum, theres plenty to entice history buffs and architecture aficionados. Bringing along a good insect repellent and wearing full-length clothing when outdoors comes highly recommended. That's why I always pack water shoes in my beach bag. I also try not to drive into town during the summer, as there is usually a lack of parking and frequent traffic jams. Brown Bear, Kuterevo - Photo credit IG @mphotos_sotohpm, ROYAL CROATIAN TOURS d.o.o. Despite some 25 years of us children making fun of our elders fears, they remain wary of the water. 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!]. After the whale shark, its the second largest in the world. And yet as someone who has lived here for over four years, and originally came here seven years ago to study abroad, I still see a lot of tourists making common mistakes. WebA complete list of the shark attacks that have occurred in Croatia. Yes, of course. Just a stones throw from Hvar and the Dalmatian coast, Korcula is Croatias sixth-largest island, covered in pine forests and with a jagged shoreline, punctuated by idyllic swimming spots and pebble beaches. Most recorded attacks by this specie have been provoked by divers or fishermen. 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. Is Croatia home to sharks? Although the Slovenian diver claimed to have been attacked by a great white shark, this has never been proved. These creatures are found primarily in the Adriatic coastal area of Croatia, and the chances of you having an encounter with one of these dangerous arthropods are actually fairly slim. Blue Shark catch&release in Dubrovnik The Adriatic Sea is considered extremely safe for swimming. WebAre There Sharks in Croatia: 7 Species You Can Find There Great white shark. Another aggressive shark you might encounter in Croatia is the shortfin mako shark. 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. Which Vacation Hotspot Should I Choose? Since records exist, in 150 years, sharks in the Adriatic have been responsible for the deaths of 11 swimmers. Theyre also far less common in the northeastern part of the country, and unlikely to be spotted on Rab Island, Dugi Otok, or Mljet. If you want to avoid this scenario entirely, your best bet is to pick up a pair of protective water shoes. Silba is located 30 kilometers from mainland Croatia, in the Zadar archipelago, southeast of Losinj, and nestled between the islands of Premuda and Olib. Swimming With Sharks In Croatia. Pebble and sand beaches define the shoreline, and the dry, rugged lands are actually the reason for Pags most famous export. Although they were once very common in the Adriatic, angel sharks are now critically endangered due to overfishing. Or just fantasized about catching sight of them dipping and diving out of the water alongside your boat? About the author Jamie Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. Somewhat of an undiscovered gem, this forested island is dotted with colorful Venetian villages, pebble beaches, and ancient history. A leisurely walk will take about 2 hours. Up to 47 different species of shark are found in the Adriatic, including blue, bull, tiger, and, yes, even the fearsome great white shark! No, not the Jaws type with the fin and razor-sharp teeth but the American football type. 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. 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. It lives in shallow waters, so its among the most likely sharks to see while bathing in those crystal-clear Croatian waters. Being highly intelligent, sharks are also curious by nature. Even so, you should definitely avoid stepping on these tiny, spiked, black, ball-shaped critters. But despite the occasional sensationalist story, there is little chance of you having any close encounters with sharks. Join us today at Rewind Dubrovnik Boat Trips as we answer that question.And while youre here, be sure to take a look at our Dubrovnik Private Boat Tours: our expert local guides take you out onto the azure waters of the Adriatic to uncover the most magical sites around the picturesque city of Dubrovnik. Its true that in 2008 a diver was attacked by a suspected great white shark, but the incident was newsworthy for how unusual it was, rather than it representing any kind of the norm.From the relevant statistics, we can see that since 1900, there have been 25 shark attacks in Croatian waters, with 14 people killed; the last such incident was in 1974. The short answer is yes, and that includes Shortfin mako shark. They like deep waters and rarely visit the shoreline, so the chances of spotting this creature while bathing by the coves are, again, very low. Well, despite what you might think, you dont have to venture as far as the beaches of Bali to do so. Common threshers can reach up to 20 feet in length, half of which is just that elongated back fin! A vaccination certificate or booster dose certificate. The main resort of Mali has a breathtaking natural harbor and youll find the Museum of Losinj tucked away nearby. 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. Ask locals for safe places to jump. Also make sure you are comfortable with heights, as the main road connecting Dubrovnik to the airport goes alongside a steep cliff. Be careful there are sharks in Dubrovnik today! That said, there are plenty of much smaller individuals that wont grow above 15 foot long. By clicking Sign up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider Theyre more of an annoyance than anything else. They can also come close to the shore, especially as Korcula has some steep drop-offs along its jagged coast. 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. Luckily, only two sharks in Croatias waters are considered dangerous, and coming across either is extremely unlikely. Dont try to move it or move closer to it, and wait at a safe distance until it moves out of your way. For example, I bought nice jewelry in Dubrovnik and received a 15% discount for paying in cash. 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. 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. Unlike the previous two sharks, these arent really dangerous to humans, so there is no need to panic if you happen to see one. To get the best exchange rate, exchange Euros or US dollars inside any bank, or take out cash from a bank ATM. Once you discover the countrys picturesque islands, bays, and coastal villages, the thought of historical encounters with sharks will be far from your mind! This flavors the wild pastures and actually infuses sheeps milk with a distinct salty taste that can be recognized in the namesake, Pag cheese. WebFear not, they pose little risk to swimmers in Croatia. So, where can you see dolphins in Croatia? Cover your neck by clasping your hands together behind your neck, Stay as still as possible and wait for the bear to leave. Some rocks are unstable, and sometimes you can't see rocks under the surface of the sea. 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. 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. Days would pass and he wouldnt take a swim. 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. Although the probability of a shark attack in Croatia is really insignificant, you may take some precautions anyway. Despite the common misconception that sharks are bulky with a characteristic triangular, dorsal fins, this one has an unusually flattened body. Dubrovnik is most famous for the huge 16th-century stone walls than encircle the town, but it also plays host to a selection of well-preserved ancient buildings. Much less common in the northeastern part of the country, More common along the coast and have been seen on the islands, too, You probably wont find them on Rab Island, Dugi Otok or Mljet, Found in river lowlands of the Sava, Drava, Mura and Danube Rivers, Found in mountainous regions of Gorski Kotor, Found in meadows and long other freshwater shores. Thats why theyre often mistaken for a ray. Overtourism in Dubrovnik has been on the rise over the past decade. The last shark attack was recorded in 2008 in a bay on island Vis. The potentially lethal Horned viper is found throughout the country. They have pointed snouts and crescent-shaped tales. If you do rent a car, make sure you are okay with all the above. This can be fatal to children, the elderly, and the sick. All the same, its important to note that theyre a protected species in Croatia, so dont kill them if you come across one. Dubrovnik has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. The strait between Pag and Vir is a popular dolphin spotting territory and lively pods make appearances for sunset cruises all throughout the high season. Korcula might be just seven kilometers wide, but with its long, narrow shape, it boasts almost 100 kilometers of dazzling coastline. Not only is Dubrovnik filled with cobble-stoned streets, but there are also a lot of stairs, so packing comfortable shoes is essential. 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. Are there sharks in Croatia? 2022 Royal Croatian Tours. Ivan is always searching for unique places and experiences to offer his guests and wants to share some of his findings through the blog. There are a few species of poisonous snakes in Croatia, which all belong to the Viper family. Blue Shark catch&release in Dubrovnik The Adriatic Sea is considered extremely safe for swimming. Theyre very slow and often hang around the surface of the water, which makes them an easy target for fishermen. I generally avoid the Old Town in July and August during the day for this reason. The short length of the Ombla means much of the river is actually sea water, making way for a diverse mix of marine life. Plus, there are actually not many of them living in this part of the world. The first story about sharks in the Adriatic in 2017 came unusually early on, on June 14, with an exclusive video of two men chasing away a 1.5-metre blue shark on a ski jet, poking it with a harpoon, which some saw as animal molestation, as spectators could be heard saying Poor thing! on the video. That being said, it would still be best to stay out of their way. Are you looking for a community of like-minded travelers to share your experiences with and get tips from? Yes! They arent particularly life-threatening either, since their venom is too weak to kill humans. Dolphin tours leave daily from Dubrovnik and much of the journey around the nearby islets that flank Dubrovniks shores. Swimming With Sharks In Croatia. It's also legally required that you wear shoes. The highest chance to spot one in Croatia is around Molat Island in the Zadar archipelago. in continental Croatia - if you run into one, just play dead. Are there sharks in Croatia that you should be scared of? ), mainly found along the coastline - their bites are painless, but deadly. The cathedral complex is one of the oldest of its kind and best-preserved examples of Byzantine Christian architecture and art remaining in the modern world. What are some of the most beautiful places I can visit in Croatia? Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations. That said, its classified as endangered, so the chances of spotting one, let alone getting attacked by one in Croatia, are extremely low. Should a snake cross your path, the best course of action would be to try to stay calm and avoid giving the snake a scare. WebDubrovnik has a reputation of being among the best saltwater fishing grounds in the Croatia. 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. An exclusive video of chasing a poor shark on the Adriatic coast. They can be found in forests, bushes, in the grass, in gardens. Despite being home to a few species of dangerous sharks, Croatias waters are very safe to swim in and the Adriatic is enjoyed by millions of tourists across Europe every year.