The largest of the Dalmatian Islands, and the third largest island in the Adriatic, Brac has been occupied by humans since at least the Paleolithic era. Ancient Illyrians traded with Greeks who visited by boat, and it was not until the year 9 AD that the Romans finally settled the area, bringing about major growth. Today, this island continues to be a thriving port and is becoming more popular as a tourist destination with every passing year. With intriguing geologic features and an abundance of marine life, Brac is also a fantastic place to dive. Here are five of favorite sites you're certain to enjoy.
Lucica Cave - Brac Dive Sites
Located on the southeast coast of Brac, Lucica Cave is located just outside a series of coves near the city of Milna. The entrance to the cave is located about 5 meters from shore at a depth of just 3 meters; the dark tunnel leading to the main chamber is approximately 25 meters long. In the main chamber, a hole in the ceiling forms a natural skylight which allows a brilliant shaft of sunlight to penetrate the cave's interior. Incredibly, in addition to the usual cave-dwelling organisms, Lucica Cave is a favorite hunting ground of Gofs, or Greater Amberjack - some as large as 1.5 meters long. These huge silver fish are incredible - and they're one reason this site is a favorite with local divers and visitors alike.
Brak - Brac Dive Sites
Brak is a shallow site located just off the harbor near Supetar. Here, clusters of rocks house abundant marine life, including lobsters, electric rays, conger eels, and moray eels; unfortunately, many of the largest fish have been hunted, so most of those you'll find here are small. Use caution as you make your way from one rock heap to the next; there are well-hidden scorpionfish living here! Featuring depths between 12 and 22 meters, Brak is a great site for all divers, and it's even more exciting once the sun goes down.
Borova - Brac Dive Sites
At Borova, you'll find a beautiful rocky wall that drops away to meet the seabed at a little over 40 meters. This wall is surprisingly smooth, with a little less coral and sponge growth than you might expect to find on a wall of this size; however, there are large pelagics swimming by in the distance, and some divers have reported finding shark egg cases here. In the shallows at the top of the wall, you'll find crustaceans and invertebrates in abundance. Keep an eye out for octopus and conger eels as you explore.
Solta Ribolovac Wreck - Brac Dive Sites
Located just 50 meters from shore, the Solta Ribolovac Wreck lies at depths between 9 and 23 meters. This old wooden fishing boat is sitting mostly upright, with a slight list to starboard, and from the bottom, you get the feeling that you're in a massive aquarium looking at a picture-perfect shipwreck. While the boat is deteriorating as the years pass, one can still see the propeller and engine, rudder, and many pieces of equipment still on board. This wreck is ideal for all divers, and it's home to a nice array of marine life. Watch out for the scorpionfish that hide around the decks!
Wreck Meje Mrduja - Brac Dive Sites
This old wooden ferry once provided service between Split and many of the smaller towns in Braczu. It is located near the entrance to Milna bay, right off the islet of Mrduja. The Meje is just about 30 meters long, and lies upright with her keel at a depth of 45 meters. Though intact, the wreck is deteriorating; it should not be penetrated. You'll make your ascent along a small wall, where marine life is abundant.
Brac is famous for its cheese, wines, olives, and hospitality. There are fantastic restaurants topside, plus museums and archaeological sites to explore between dives. If you plan to visit at the height of summer, be sure to make reservations well in advance, as space is limited.