The Adriatic Sea, which hugs the Croatian coastline, is well known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning islands, and vibrant marine life. However, many travelers often ask us: “are there sharks in Croatia?” or “are there sharks in the Adriatic Sea?“.
The short answer is yes, but shark encounters are extremely rare, and they are not dangerous for people in 99.99% cases. In this 2025 report, we’ll dive into the facts, myths, and safety aspects regarding sharks in Croatia.
Are There Sharks in the Adriatic Sea?
Yes, the Adriatic Sea is home to various shark species, but they are mostly harmless to humans. Unlike oceans where sharks thrive in large numbers, the Adriatic’s shallow and enclosed nature makes it less suitable for large, predatory sharks. Most sharks found in the region are small, deep-water species that pose no threat to swimmers or divers.
Common Shark Species in Croatia
While the Adriatic Sea has around 30 different shark species, only a handful are ever seen near the coast. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Blue Shark (Prionace glauca) – Found in deep waters, rarely near shore.
- Dogfish Shark (Squalus acanthias) – Small and harmless, often found in fishing areas.
- Smooth-Hound Shark (Mustelus mustelus) – Non-aggressive bottom-dweller.
- Basking Shark (Cetorhinus maximus) – The second-largest fish in the world, completely harmless as it feeds only on plankton.
- Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) – Very rare in the Adriatic, with only a handful of sightings in the past 100 years.
Have There Been Shark Attacks in Croatia?
Shark attacks in Croatia are exceedingly rare. According to records from the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), there have been only 25 documented shark attacks in the Adriatic Sea in the last 150 years. The majority of these occurred decades ago, and none in recent years have resulted in fatalities.
The last fatal shark attack in Croatia happened in 1974, involving a great white shark. Since then, only a few non-fatal incidents have been reported, mostly involving fishing accidents rather than actual attacks.
Why Are Shark Attacks in Croatia So Rare?
- Lack of Large Predator Sharks: The Adriatic Sea doesn’t have an abundant population of large predatory sharks like in the Pacific or Atlantic Oceans.
- Low Seal and Fish Density: Sharks are more likely to be found in areas with high seal populations, which the Adriatic lacks.
- Human Activity Keeps Sharks Away: Frequent boat traffic, fishing, and tourism naturally deter sharks from approaching coastal areas.
- Sharks Prefer Deeper Waters: Most sharks in the Adriatic stay far offshore in deep waters, well away from popular swimming and snorkeling areas.
Is It Safe to Swim in the Adriatic Sea?
Absolutely! Millions of tourists swim in the Adriatic every year without any shark-related incidents. Here are some safety tips for peace of mind:
- Swim in designated areas – Lifeguarded beaches are the safest.
- Avoid swimming at dawn or dusk – Sharks are more active during these times, though encounters are still rare.
- Stay away from fishing boats – Sharks might follow fishing vessels in search of scraps.
- Don’t enter the water if you have open wounds – This precaution applies to all marine environments.
- Respect marine life – Never provoke or harm any sea creatures, including small sharks.
Are There Shark Sightseeing Tours in Croatia?
Unlike some other destinations, Croatia does not have specific shark diving or sightseeing tours because sharks are rarely seen near the coast. However, divers and marine biologists occasionally spot small sharks in deeper waters around islands such as Vis and Lastovo.
If you’re a diving enthusiast, consider visiting Kornati National Park or the Brijuni Islands, where you can encounter a variety of marine life, including rays, groupers, and small harmless shark species.
Environmental Impact and Shark Conservation in Croatia
Sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems, yet many species are threatened due to overfishing and habitat destruction. Croatia has implemented several marine protection zones to help preserve biodiversity in the Adriatic.
Croatian Efforts in Shark Conservation
- Fishing Regulations – Certain shark species are protected under Croatian and EU laws.
- Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) – The Adriatic has several protected zones to ensure the survival of various marine species.
- Public Awareness Campaigns – Organizations such as Blue World Institute work to educate people about marine conservation.
Final Verdict: Should You Worry About Sharks in Croatia?
No, there is no reason to worry about sharks while swimming, snorkeling, or diving in Croatia. Encounters with sharks are extremely rare, and the species found in the Adriatic are mostly harmless.
Key Takeaways:
- Yes, there are sharks in the Adriatic Sea, but they pose no significant threat to humans.
- Shark attacks in Croatia are extremely rare, with the last fatal attack occurring in 1974.
- Swimming in the Adriatic is safe, and following basic safety guidelines ensures an enjoyable experience.
- Croatia is actively working on marine conservation, helping protect shark species and their natural habitats.
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, rest assured that the beautiful Adriatic coastline is one of the safest places to swim in Europe. Enjoy the pristine waters, explore the stunning islands, and leave your shark worries behind!