Like the majority of sharks, they are grey on top with whiter colors underneath. Speedboats are significantly more dangerous than sharks. To start, Dubrovnik's rocky terrain makes it ideal for cliff jumping. Youre most likely to approach them if you take a boat trip further away from the coast. They might be popular tourist destinations for snorkeling and relaxation, but the Brijuni Islands are uninhabited, which has given marine life great opportunities to thrive. Shark menaces Dubrovnik beachgoers Theres also no certainty behind their attacks, but weve all seen Jaws and know just how horrendous the result can be. ), their temperature mild, and there will be plenty of opportunities to explore secluded bays and coves. Dubrovnik is a stepping stone to some of Croatias best islands, but its incredibly clear blue waters also offer the perfect setting for tracking down marine life. Dubrovnik Next up, we have Scorpions. They might be one of the most dangerous animals in Croatia, but bear sightings are a rarity and they tend to dwell in remote forest areas. Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations. Despite being home to a few species of dangerous sharks, Croatias waters are very safe to swim in and the Adriatic is enjoyed by millions of tourists across Europe every year. Yes, unfortunately there are sharks in the Adriatic sea and many species of them too. This huge rock and cave straddle the Croatian-Bosnian border. Nevertheless, we encourage sticking to the recommended routes when hiking and taking a guide with you if you plan to go off the beaten track. As with most European countries, Croatias forests and gardens are no strangers to ticks. Dubrovnik Speedboats are significantly more dangerous than sharks. Even so, bear attacks are rare, and of the three recorded attacks from 2000 to 2015, none were fatal. The Great White is probably the most dangerous but there have only been 11 deaths in 150 years from Shark attacks at the waters are deemed very safe for swimming. Sharks tend to populate very deep waters and drop-offs and keep their distance from humans, and dolphins can actually be a deterrent for sharks. Practice caution when outside in the summer, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is the strongest. Theyre also far less common in the northeastern part of the country, and unlikely to be spotted on Rab Island, Dugi Otok, or Mljet. The last attack happened in 2008. That's why as a Croatia travel advisor based in Dubrovnik, I help travelers navigate these logistics to ensure a smooth vacation. To enter, you'll need one of the following: A negative PCR test (taken 72 hours before arrival at the border) or an Antigen test (taken 24 hours before arrival at the border). Dolphins are also warm-blooded animals and prefer temperate waters so their populations are most rife in Croatia from May until September, but you could spot them any time of year if youre lucky. Luxury Tour and Travel Agency in Croatia Croatia Sea urchins are prominent in the Adriatic Sea. Like many places in the world, ticks can be found throughout Croatia. The latest reported sighting of the blue shark in Croatian waters was in June 2021 off the north coast of Korcula Island. WebDubrovnik has a reputation of being among the best saltwater fishing grounds in the Croatia. That's why I always pack water shoes in my beach bag. The last shark attack was recorded in 2008 in a bay on island Vis. In conclusion, you will likely find Croatia one of the most rewarding places to swim in Europe. Which Vacation Hotspot Should I Choose? Despite the common misconception that sharks are bulky with a characteristic triangular, dorsal fins, this one has an unusually flattened body. Shark Attack Data Unfortunately, these notoriously dangerous spiders are common throughout Croatia, with their favorite habitats being the Primorje, Dalmatia, and Istria regions. The pedestrianized central Placa in the old town is also paved with limestone and punctuated with boutiques and local eateries. Porec is a bustling summer resort in western Istria, best known for the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica complex you can find in its old town. Croatia is home to the brown bear, which can be found in the areas of Lika and Gorski Kotar (in continental Croatia). I always make sure to carry cash in Dubrovnik. Could we soon see more American airlines flying to Croatia? There are about 2030 species of sharks, but only two species of sharks that can rarely be seen in the Adriatic sea are dangerous to humans: the great white shark and the shortfin mako shark. How to Holiday in Mykonos on a Budget: Money Saving Tips, 7 Spots For The Best Snorkeling Santorini Has To Offer. Theyre very slow and often hang around the surface of the water, which makes them an easy target for fishermen. Here I have put together a helpful guide showing which animals are dangerous, where they can be found in Croatia, what you should look out for, and what to do if you get bitten. Responsible for the highest number of fatal shark attacks in the world, this one has a reputation as the deadliest marine beast of all. This may be wise for another reason. If it doesnt, retreat slowly and choose another route, just to be on the safe side. Its true that in 2008 a diver was attacked by a suspected great white shark, but the incident was newsworthy for how unusual it was, rather than it representing any kind of the norm.From the relevant statistics, we can see that since 1900, there have been 25 shark attacks in Croatian waters, with 14 people killed; the last such incident was in 1974. In fact, there have only been a handful of biting incidents that involved blue sharks in recorded history, and just four were fatal. In the last 25 years, only four people have been killed by bites and poison of viper in the area of Split-Dalmatia County. Although the Slovenian diver claimed to have been attacked by a great white shark, this has never been proved. Most beaches in Dubrovnik are rocky, which can make it tricky to get in and out of the water. Traffic signs can be confusing, the roads are narrow, and parking is often limited, causing traffic. few dangerous shark species that lurk in these waters, Cyprus Road Trip: Your Epic 7 Day Itinerary, Croatia Hidden Gems: 9 Secret Spots to Visit, Beaches & History: The Ultimate Dubrovnik 5 Day Itinerary. It has a pointed snout and seven fins in total. I share with you all my best tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure. in Croatia Are there sharks in Croatia? The fact that the colors dont blend but drastically change is their biggest giveaway. The Great White is probably the most dangerous but there have only been 11 deaths in 150 years from Shark attacks at the waters are deemed very safe for swimming. Unlike the previous two sharks, these arent really dangerous to humans, so there is no need to panic if you happen to see one. Just to stress how silly those fears were, I give you the statistics. Angel sharks can only grow up to seven feet long and weigh up to 77 pounds. They usually stick to deep, offshore parts of the seas, rather than the shallow waters near the beaches. in the water, close to the shore - theyll prick your feet, making it painful to walk for the rest of your vacation! That being said, it would still be best to stay out of their way. Besides press clippings from the papers featuring the keyword shark, the thing that built up their shark paranoia was Steven Spielbergs 1975 classic movie Jaws, still considered the best in the shark genre. What to do if youve been bitten by a Black Widow? People have been known to suffer nausea, muscle aches, and strained breathing due to paralysis of the diaphragm after being bitten. Are There Sharks in Croatia Royal Croatian Tours - Our Blog, Read for Travel Tips! - Luxury Tour The last attack happened in 2008. Why you can trust Sky News Watch Next 'I'm remembering and crying' Couple rescued after 12 days under rubble 'UK will support others to send jets' Lost dog rescued on US freeway The last basking shark sighting in Croatia was in 2015 near Linjan, not too far from Pula. Its quite common to find more of them on natural beaches that havent been cleaned (public beaches are often cleaned quite well of sea urchins). Although the probability of a shark attack in Croatia is really insignificant, you may take some precautions anyway. VIDEO Breathtaking aerial video of Dubrovnik coastline, PHOTO GALLERY Dubrovnik on the first w, VIDEO First March weekend in Dubrovnik, Salaries of seasonal workers on Croatian, Could we soon see more American airlines, Inflation rate in Croatia drops for thir, Dubrovnik-Neretva County has expected st, Croatia's Modric donates World Cup shirt, Lastovo port to be completely reconstruc. Founder of the Travel Snippet blog, travel and nature lover. Shark menaces Dubrovnik beachgoers Tuesday 23 June 2020 15:29, UK 0:38 Everyone gets out of the water as a shark sweeps along the coastline in Croatia. WebDubrovnik is probably one of the safest places in the world. This means leaving your backpack on, lying flat on your stomach, covering your neck by clasping your hands together behind your head, and staying as still as possible while you wait for the bear to leave. However, despite tourists admitting to swimming with dolphins in Dubrovnik, it is prohibited to deliberately disturb Croatias small populations of Dolphins as they are considered endangered species. You can spend hours getting lost in the winding and steep narrow streets that are characteristic of this magical city. WebThe short answer is yes. But does one of natures scariest animals swim just beneath the surface of the water? WebA complete list of the shark attacks that have occurred in Croatia. The biggest shark that lives in Croatian waters is the basking shark. Two Sharks spotted in Dubrovnik Yes! The fierce Bora blows the salty waters all across the inland meadows, scattering dry salt dust all over the island as a result. Another thing to be aware of, more than sharks, is the time spent in a restaurant waiting for your meal, approaching starvation as your nerves come to the edge. Strong currents and waves pose more of a threat to swimmers than sea creatures in Croatia, but these can still also be avoided by swimming in protective bays that are flagged and patrolled by lifeguards. That said, there is no need to be scared because theyre totally harmless to people. WebFear not, they pose little risk to swimmers in Croatia. Jokester as he is, he said the only scuba diving he would sign up for would take place in his bathtub. in the Adriatic, but only two are actually dangerous - and attacks are extremely rare. Ask locals for safe places to jump. Since records exist, in 150 years, sharks in the Adriatic have been responsible for the deaths of 11 swimmers. If you notice that youve been bitten, we strongly recommend seeking immediate medical assistance. They tend live on the sandy bottom in the relatively shallow parts of the sea. Sharks in Croatia It is people, though, that take advantage of these marine creatures. These "sea porcupines," as they are called in Croatian, can get stuck in your foot and are a literal pain to remove. Dont swim too far away from the coastline. Should a snake cross your path, the best course of action would be to try to stay calm and avoid giving the snake a scare. There are actually as many as 47 different shark species that inhabit the Adriatic, including bull sharks, tiger sharks, and even great whites. A vaccination certificate or booster dose certificate. There are realistic chances that you will find someone else lying on your towel after you leave the water. Dubrovnik The islands of Croatia promise sun and relaxation. in Croatia Otherwise, pay attention, go slow, and you'll likely find that driving in Dubrovnik is doable and will give you the freedom to explore the entire region. Common European vipers favor habitats in mountainous regions, meadows, and other freshwater shores like the lowlands of the Sava, Drava, Mura, and Danube Rivers. The three most dangerous species are the Horned viper, Karst Meadow Viper, and Common European viper, which can be distinguished by the zigzag patterns on their backs. The ancient greeks called the island Black Korcula because of the dense, dark woodland that dominates much of the landscape. Yes, unfortunately there are sharks in the Adriatic sea and many species of them too. Shark Attack Data In 50 years of enjoying the sea, their casualties are down to one: my grandfather was slightly stung by a jellyfish although an independent family commission never properly investigated the case. They can be found in different places - in the bushes, under rocks, mainly places where there isnt a high volume of traffic. The most recent attack that ended in death took place in 1974 near Omis, and the last known recorded attack happened in the water near Vis, in 2008. If you or a fellow traveler get stung by a scorpion, you should clean the area well, apply a cool compress and take pain medication as needed. Plus, if you are shopping for souvenirs, some places will offer a cash discount. I share with you all my best tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure. Adorned with mosaics and housing an atrium, bishops palace, baptistery, and sacred relics from the 4th century, the basilica will fascinate even the least historically inclined visitor. However, there are precautions to take as a traveler. WebDubrovnik follows all the required COVID-19 regulations set by Croatia. It wont usually exceed three feet in length, but sometimes you might be lucky to see larger individuals. There were only 25 recorded attacks on humans in the last 100 years here, too, so there is little reason to panic when bathing in the warm blue waters between Pula and Split. I've traveled all over the world and Dubrovnik is still by far the place where I've felt the safest. Luxury Tour and Travel Agency in Croatia Sneakers or sandals that are durable are ideal, but if you do want to pack heels for a night out, I would opt for a block-heel or wedge over thin stilettos. What are some of the most beautiful places I can visit in Croatia? The animals are often carelessly killed as bycatch if we do not do more to ensure sustainable fishing, many species will be at risk of extinction. The short answer is yes, and that includes one of the most fearsome sea creatures out there: The great white shark. But despite the occasional sensationalist story, there is little chance of you having any close encounters with sharks. Royal Croatian Tours - Our Blog, Read for Travel Tips! - Luxury Tour There are about 2030 species of sharks, but only two species of sharks that can rarely be seen in the Adriatic sea are dangerous to humans: the great white shark and the shortfin mako shark. No, not the Jaws type with the fin and razor-sharp teeth but the American football type. Get a pair of tweezers, pinch the tick as close to the skin as possible (getting as much of the tick as possible) and pull straight out (no twisting or turning), Make sure there arent any parts of the tick still left in your skin. Known for its barren, almost lunar landscape, Pag is a sprawling and unique island in the Adriatic, located just a few kilometers off the mainland coast of northern Dalmatia. With over 1,000 miles of beautiful coastline, turquoise waters, and plenty of sunshine, its no surprise that Croatia is one of the most popular European holiday destinations. You can also swim in marked areas on the Brijuni Islands and recreational water sports are allowed in designated parts of the park. Just two days after a video showing a shark swimming off the Dalmatian coastline on the Makarska Riviera comes news that the same shark was spotted yesterday near the island of Korcula. Somewhat of an undiscovered gem, this forested island is dotted with colorful Venetian villages, pebble beaches, and ancient history. Dont try to move it or move closer to it, and wait at a safe distance until it moves out of your way. This is why I would suggest to my family and to everyone else visiting Croatia this summer: sharks may have thousands of sharp teeth, but restaurants, bars and a good many other things on the Adriatic coast may rip you apart far worse. Be careful there are sharks in Dubrovnik today! I also try not to drive into town during the summer, as there is usually a lack of parking and frequent traffic jams. The majority of Croatian forest ticks arent infected by serious tick-borne illnesses, but those which tend to seek habitats in the continental parts of Croatia, around Zagreb, Koprivnica, Varazdin, and Bjelovar. How to Holiday in Mykonos on a Budget: Money Saving Tips, 7 Spots For The Best Snorkeling Santorini Has To Offer. There are around 30 species of sharks in Croatia In the past 150 years, 9 people were killed by sharks. Another aggressive shark you might encounter in Croatia is the shortfin mako shark. So, your chances of an unpleasant encounter with the great hunters of the seas are incredibly small. Still, blue sharks, bull sharks, and even tiger sharks have all been spotted off Croatias coast. Are There Sharks in Croatia The strait between Pag and Vir is a popular dolphin spotting territory and lively pods make appearances for sunset cruises all throughout the high season. That said, its classified as endangered, so the chances of spotting one, let alone getting attacked by one in Croatia, are extremely low. turistika agencija, One Day Boating to Elaphite Islands from Dubrovnik. do exist in Croatia, but if they sting you, their poison isnt strong enough to be life threatening. Over 1.9 million tourists visited Dubrovnik in 2019 alone, making it one of the most popular destinations in the Mediterranean. I generally avoid the Old Town in July and August during the day for this reason. Shark Attack Data Try not to step on these, as the spikes will stay in your skin and it will be painful to walk on. A vaccination certificate or booster dose certificate. Croatia is home to a few species of venomous snakes, most of which belong to the viper family. Local Fishing Experience - Maritimo Fishing Sharks tend to populate very deep waters and drop-offs and keep their distance from humans, and dolphins can actually be a deterrent for sharks. in Croatia Common thresher sharks are known to live in Croatian waters but seeing one isnt an easy task. If, by comparison, we look at the number of shark attacks in the US or Australia during the same period, well see that they have had 1,999 and 1,237 attacks, respectively. Stepping on a sea urchin is more of a nuisance than anything to be seriously worried about, so dont panic if you do step on one, just follow the steps below: Try to remove it carefully if its still stuck in your foot (but try not to prick your hand while doing so), Remove any spikes that can be reached with tweezers (some will be too deep to remove), Apply cream (go to the pharmacy, and the pharmacist will give you a special cream that will help the spikes come out on their own). Although the probability of a shark attack in Croatia is really insignificant, you may take some precautions anyway. The species found there usually pose no threat to humans and tend to keep themselves to themselves, avoiding any kind of contact with us. Look no further! They might be one of the most dangerous animals in Croatia, but, fortunately, its unlikely that youll contract any infectious diseases like encephalitis or Lyme disease from them, but you still wouldnt want one under your skin. Local Fishing Experience - Maritimo Fishing Being highly intelligent, sharks are also curious by nature. While most holidaymakers never even get close to seeing a shark during their Croatian adventures, it doesnt mean that theyre not lurking beneath the surface of the seas. Join our travel community and discover the world through the eyes of passionate travelers like yourself. For example, I bought nice jewelry in Dubrovnik and received a 15% discount for paying in cash. While the waterway can be busy with traffic, to the north of Brijuni and its national park, are some of the best dolphin spotting waters in the country. Ivan is always searching for unique places and experiences to offer his guests and wants to share some of his findings through the blog. The first story about sharks in the Adriatic in 2017 came unusually early on, on June 14, with an exclusive video of two men chasing away a 1.5-metre blue shark on a ski jet, poking it with a harpoon, which some saw as animal molestation, as spectators could be heard saying Poor thing! on the video. You'll also avoid stepping on any sea urchins that you see along the rocks. In the last 150 year, there were 11 registered fatal shark attacks off Croatian waters, starting with one off Trieste in 1868, back when Croatia was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Its a good idea to get be able to identify them if youre planning a Croatian retreat. Their venom might not be particularly potent, but a sting could still able to cause intense pain, burning, redness, swelling, and itching. If you're set on a prime July or August visit, I recommend staying outside of the city center in areas like upa or Cavtat, where you'll not only save money on accommodations, but you'll also be able to escape the crowds for a more relaxed stay. Two of my aunts, even when went for long swims, now always did so taking small routes, and only at a depth at which they could still stand. If there is any danger related to animals in Croatias coastal regions, it would be in the form of prickly sea urchins and jellyfish. Even so, you should definitely avoid stepping on these tiny, spiked, black, ball-shaped critters. Much of it comes from Croatian waters, with nearly 50 metric tons exported every year. Nevertheless, such stories are well read, not only by foreign tourists but also by some Croatian swimmers. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. This gigantic marine beast can grow up to a whopping 30 feet in length and usually weighs around 4.65 tons! If you want to avoid this scenario entirely, your best bet is to pick up a pair of protective water shoes. Luka Malohodi | OIB: 58266458494 | IBAN: HR5824070001100032262 |. Unlike many other species of shark, common threshers have relatively small teeth, which means they only pose a minimal threat to humans. Currently, as of publishing, Croatia removed mask mandates. WebAre There Sharks in Croatia: 7 Species You Can Find There Great white shark. Dont let the arid landscape fool you, there is plenty happening on Pags beaches and Zrce Plaza, in the town of Novalja to the north of the island, is a party hub playing host to a number of international music festivals every year. The last shark attack was recorded in 2008 in a bay on island Vis. Are there sharks in Croatia that you should be scared of? Photo credit IG @matt_mcgee_underwater The most recent deadly attack took place way back in 1974 near Omis. Only three bear attacks have been reported in the country in the last 20 years and none of them were fatal. Are There Sharks in Croatia All rights reserved. So keep your eyes peeled when youre looking out to sea while enjoying that morning coffee. From the Renaissance Sponza Palace to the Baroque St. Blaise Church and Gothic Rectors Castle, now a museum, theres plenty to entice history buffs and architecture aficionados. Shortfin makos usually live in the deep waters far away from the coast. The main resort of Mali has a breathtaking natural harbor and youll find the Museum of Losinj tucked away nearby. Brown Bear, Kuterevo - Photo credit IG @mphotos_sotohpm, ROYAL CROATIAN TOURS d.o.o. They arent particularly life-threatening either, since their venom is too weak to kill humans. However, you can tour the islands by boat with a number of operators from nearby Pula, the unofficial capital of the Croatian Istrian region. As the name suggests, you can distinguish these sharks by their beautiful deep blue color, which appears on top of their bodies. According to the Shark Research Institute, over the last 150 years (which is when record-keeping of shark attacks began), there have been 11 attacks that led to death in Croatia. It might not be a bad idea to seek medical assistance to be safe (especially if the sting happens to a child).