JELSA I - Split & Central Dalmatia

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.

Location

Split & Central Dalmatia, Croatia, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

43.250000, 16.670334

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

60m

Marine Protected Area: Zlatni rat na Braču - podmorje