Velika Špilja

Velika špilija, or "great grotto" in Croatian, is a captivating dive site located on the southern side of the island, nestled between the Stupišće and Gaće headlands. This enchanting underwater cavern boasts a depth of up to 31 meters, and its name truly reflects its grandeur.

As you begin your dive, you'll be greeted by a vertical wall that descends to approximately 30 meters. After a short swim at a depth of 20 meters, you'll come across a remarkable sight - a large rock rubble leading to the entrances of the grotto. Stepping into the cavern, you'll be awestruck by its vastness, reminiscent of a bell-shaped chamber. The cave's ceiling hovers at 20-22 meters, while its sandy floor reaches depths of 30-33 meters.

Exploring the cavern is a mesmerizing experience, as you'll encounter a narrow gap just a few meters wide. With ample space for a whole group of divers, you can delve deeper into the side branch of the cavern, navigating through a blind corridor that gradually rises to 23-24 meters.

As you circle the cavern, be sure to observe the remarkable variety of sponges and corals adorning its walls. This diverse marine life creates a vibrant and colorful underwater landscape. Keep an eye out for spiny lobsters, crayfish, and the captivating red fork, a large fish that prefers the shade within the grotto.

But the wonders of this dive site don't end with the cavern. On your way back to the boat, you'll encounter unique rock formations that resemble water slides, offering a thrilling experience akin to water parks. Swim through these formations one by one, as they provide an exhilarating underwater adventure.

During your safety stop in the shallow waters, take the opportunity to circumnavigate a rock column that emerges above the water's surface. This scenic route showcases the beauty of the surrounding area and may reward you with sightings of the elusive octopuses that frequent the small ravine between the shore and the column.

Velika špilija is a dive site that caters to advanced divers due to its maximum depth of 31 meters. With visibility reaching up to 23 meters, you'll have ample opportunity to appreciate the magnificent underwater scenery and the diverse marine life that thrives within this Croatian gem.

Close to Velika špilija lies the Ancient Artillery gun, situated in D117, Grad Komiža, Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia. This strategic location offers divers the chance to explore multiple captivating sites in the region, further enhancing their underwater adventures in Croatia.

When it's time to conclude your dive, the bay provides a sheltered spot for safely reboarding the boat, offering protection from wind and waves. Velika špilija is a dive site that leaves a lasting impression, offering a memorable and enchanting underwater exploration in the heart of Croatia.