Veli Cutin

Discover the breathtaking underwater world of Veli and Mali Ćutin, two enchanting islands nestled on Croatia's east coast between Cres and Rab Islands. Dive enthusiasts and researchers alike will be captivated by the stunning natural beauty and diverse marine life of Cutin, renowned as home to some of the most magnificent dive sites in the entire Adriatic.

Prepare to encounter an array of fascinating marine species during your dive in this underwater paradise. Spot conger eels, scorpionfish, octopus, nudibranchs, damselfish, wrasse, and sea bream swimming gracefully through the crystal clear waters. Keep an eye out for catfish eggs delicately clinging to the gorgonians, adding to the captivating marine spectacle.

Begin your underwater exploration by anchoring on the northern side of the island, where the depth reaches a tranquil 5 meters. Descend along the anchoring line towards a dramatic wall with a sheer drop down to 32 meters. Journey into the canyon, starting at 7 meters and descending to 26 meters, marveling at two sharp clefts flanking your path. At its bottom, the canyon widens to 12 meters before tapering to a narrow 4 meters closer to the surface.

As you continue your dive, follow the right side of the wall towards a submerged point at 24 meters, extending vertically towards the open sea. The wall's depth plummets to an impressive 48 meters at this point. For your ascent, navigate along the left side of the wall and through the canyon, eventually reaching the plateau. Delight in the underwater kaleidoscope of flora and fauna, vibrant with a multitude of colors. Be mesmerized by the stunning red gorgonians appearing at 28 meters and the captivating yellow gorgonians beyond 38 meters. Schools of fish, including dentex and tuna, gracefully glide towards the open sea, enhancing the visual spectacle. Explore the numerous holes, terraces, and hiding spots adorned with soft coral and sponges.

Keep an attentive eye on the gorgonians, as they may reveal the fascinating sight of catfish eggs. The canyon, adorned with colorful sponges, serves as a haven for various species of nudibranchs, offering a unique opportunity for avid marine life enthusiasts. The wall and its crevices provide the perfect hiding places for conger eels, octopuses, and lobsters, adding an element of excitement to your dive adventure.

If luck is on your side, you may even find yourself accompanied by a playful group of dolphins on your journey to this remarkable dive site. Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world of Veli and Mali Ćutin, where natural wonders await at every turn.

- Visibility: 18m
- Maximum depth: 29m
- Recommended diver level: beginner, advanced, expert
- Country: Croatia
- Close location: Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Croatia