JELSA I
Protected Area
Zlatni rat na Braču - podmorje
Why dive here
With 108+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, octopuses, sea turtles and cuttlefish - JELSA I offers some of Split & Central Dalmatia's richest wreck diving.
Jelsa I, a merchant vessel that met its fiery end in 1994, is a surprisingly compelling dive. We like it because it’s a relatively modern wreck, but already well-integrated into the seabed, making for an interesting contrast. Lying upright in the Brački Kanal, the ship’s structure is largely intact, allowing for some great exploration. You can swim through the cargo holds, feeling the cool shadow as you pass from deck to deck, and peer into the wheelhouse. Our favourite part is the way the light filters through the upper sections, illuminating schools of small fish darting in and out of the rusted metalwork. There are often resident scorpionfish tucked into crevices and moray eels peeking from pipes, just waiting for a careful eye to spot them. It's a proper wreck dive, reaching down to 60 metres, so it’s definitely one for experienced divers comfortable with depth and perhaps a bit of current, which can sometimes sweep through the channel. We’d suggest going early in the morning for the best light penetration and generally calmer conditions.
Typical JELSA I Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Maximum depth 60m exceeds recreational limits (40m). Technical diving certification and equipment required.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to JELSA I
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Croatia Divers
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for JELSA I
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