Host
Located at the entrance to Vis Bay, Host Isle gets its name from British officer William Hoste, who played a role in defeating the French navy during the Battle. Over the years, numerous ships have met their fate on the rocky shores of this site. Today, remnants of these wooden vessels have disappeared, but their cargo of amphorae, ceramic containers used for storing and transporting wine and olive oil, remain.
Divers exploring Host Isle have a high chance of encountering octopuses hiding among the rocks and amphorae. The vibrant marine life includes a variety of nudibranchs in different colors. The northern side of the isle boasts two archaeological sites containing Roman amphorae dating back to the 2nd century BC.
The dive sites here are predominantly located on the north-east side of the isle. The boat typically anchors in an area with a depth of approximately 6 meters, featuring a gently sloping rocky bottom intertwined with sea grass. Due to the distance between Host Isle and the Vis Island, mild waves and currents are common in this area.
As divers venture deeper, they reach the locations where the amphorae are concentrated. The shallowest concentration is found around 9 meters, while the next one begins at 13 meters and extends to 18 meters. These clusters consist of tightly-knit fragments, including rims, necks, and handles. Within the amphorae, divers can spot painted combers, Mediterranean morays, hermit crabs, octopuses, and various other creatures.
Apart from the amphorae, observant divers may come across different utensils, porcelain, and even millstones used for grinding wheat, which could have served as anchors. Deeper dives reveal more scattered amphorae, preserved in larger pieces and adorned with red sponges. At approximately 30 meters, the slope transforms into a sandy plain. Explorers are advised to swim across it to discover the sole intact standing amphora, measuring about 80 centimeters in height, at a depth of 35 meters.
Diving conditions at Host Isle offer a visibility of 21 meters and a maximum depth of 22 meters. Suitable for divers of beginner and advanced levels, this captivating dive site is located in Croatia, specifically in the Svjetionik Host, Jakšina, Kut, Rogačić, Grad Vis, Split-Dalmatia County, 21480.
Last updated: 12 mo. ago - Oct 3, 2023