Airplane

Protected Area

Uvala Stivančica

Why dive here

With 138+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, octopuses, sea turtles and cuttlefish - Airplane offers some of Vis & Biševo's richest wreck diving.

Marine lifeDolphins, Octopuses, Sea Turtles and Cuttlefish · 138+ species recorded

CharacterWreck dive · max 20m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

The Airplane wreck near Vis is one of those sites we always come back to. Not because it’s a deep, challenging dive, but because it’s just… easy, and charming. Dropping down to 20 metres, you find the plane surprisingly intact, a B-17 Flying Fortress that ditched back in 1944. You can see the cockpit, the gun turrets, even some of the instrument panels if you look closely. It’s a proper piece of history right there on the seabed. We love exploring the fuselage, watching the schools of damselfish flit in and out of the openings where the wings once joined. There are often conger eels poking their heads out from darker corners, and nudibranchs grazing on the metal. The visibility here is usually excellent, so the light plays beautifully through the wreck, giving it a slightly eerie, peaceful feel. It’s perfect for new wreck divers, or anyone who just wants a relaxing dive with a cool story. Our top tip: go early to have it all to yourself, it can get busy.

Typical Airplane Dive Profile

Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

Safety Notes

Depth of 20m - Advanced Open Water certification recommended.

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.

Today05:1218:4813h 36m daylightGolden hour 18:09

Airplane Wreck History

Vessel Type

aircraft

Cause

unknown

The waters surrounding the Croatian island of Vis are a graveyard of World War II history, and this airplane wreck is a poignant reminder of that turbulent era. During the war, Vis served as a crucial Allied airbase, and many damaged bombers returning from missions over Europe attempted to land here. This wreck is believed to be one of the casualties of that conflict, though its specific identity remains unconfirmed.

Lying at a manageable depth of 20 meters, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into the past without requiring advanced technical training. What remains of the aircraft is scattered across the seabed, slowly being reclaimed by the Adriatic's marine ecosystem. Divers can explore the remnants of the fuselage and wings, imagining the final moments of its flight. It is a somber yet beautiful dive, connecting you to a significant moment in world history.