ELHAWI STAR - Istria Peninsula

The Elhawi Star is a proper wreck dive, not just a pile of rubble. We love that it’s still largely intact, lying on its side at 30 metres, the hull plates ripped open in places where the cargo shifted and dragged it down. Dropping onto the deck you can still get a real sense of its size, a 100-meter freighter, and it’s genuinely eerie to think about how it capsized in calm weather. Our favourite bit is exploring the superstructure. Head for the bridge area where you can poke around, imagining the crew trying to save her. We’d suggest a good dive light to really make out the details inside, and check the weather; while the Adriatic is often flat, a little surface chop can make the descent less comfortable. Visibility here is usually decent, 15-20 metres, which lets you appreciate the sheer scale of the wreck. Keep an eye out for resident scorpionfish camouflaged on the plating and schools of juvenile fish darting in and out of the cargo holds. This site is definitely one for experienced wreck divers comfortable with depth and navigating a large structure.

Location
Istria Peninsula, Croatia, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
45.318325, 14.437373
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m

Marine Protected Area: Podmorje Kostrene

Best Time to Dive in Istria Peninsula

The warmest water temperatures in Istria Peninsula occur in August, averaging 26.1°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 11.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 13.5°C
  • February: 11.9°C
  • March: 11.8°C
  • April: 13.4°C
  • May: 17.0°C
  • June: 22.4°C
  • July: 25.6°C
  • August: 26.1°C
  • September: 23.6°C
  • October: 20.3°C
  • November: 17.8°C
  • December: 15.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Istria Peninsula

Nearest Dive Centres to ELHAWI STAR

Marine Life in Istria Peninsula

Home to 48 recorded species including 28 reef fish, 7 sharks & rays, 3 other, 2 crabs & lobsters, 2 octopus & squid, 1 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ELHAWI STAR

Based on average water temperature of 18.3°C, currents 2 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 18°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the ELHAWI STAR dive site and its shallowest accessible parts?
The maximum depth of the ELHAWI STAR dive site is 30 meters. While the shallowest accessible parts are not explicitly detailed, divers can expect to explore the upper structures of this impressive 100.6m long motor vessel at shallower depths before descending to its deepest point.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see when exploring the ELHAWI STAR?
When exploring the ELHAWI STAR, divers can expect to encounter the substantial features of a 100.6m x 15.9m motor vessel, built in 1957 and sunk in 1982. This non-dangerous wreck, which capsized due to bad cargo stowage, offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks typically attract various species over time, making it a potential habitat for local fauna.
What is the recommended skill level or certification required to dive the ELHAWI STAR wreck?
The ELHAWI STAR wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This typically means divers should possess an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, ensuring they have the necessary experience and training for deeper dives and wreck exploration. It's always wise to dive within your comfort and training limits.
When is the best time of year to dive the ELHAWI STAR for optimal visibility and conditions?
Specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal visibility and conditions at the ELHAWI STAR dive site is not provided in the available data. For general guidance on diving seasons in Croatia, please refer to our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can often provide the most current insights into seasonal variations.
What specific diving certifications are needed to dive the ELHAWI STAR wreck?
To dive the ELHAWI STAR wreck, which is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally recommended. This ensures divers have experience with depths up to 30 meters and the skills required for responsible wreck diving. Always consult with a local dive center in Istria for specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the ELHAWI STAR dive site?
The provided data does not specify the typical current conditions or visibility at the ELHAWI STAR dive site. While the vessel sank in calm weather, this refers to the historical event and not ongoing conditions. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators in Istria for up-to-date information on currents and visibility.