Diving Cres introduces itself Since 1994
Professional service in a friendly atmosphere
Croatia is known for its fantastic water quality. Since there are no sandy beaches, but rather pebble beaches, the sea is significantly clearer than in other regions of the Mediterranean. Visibility of 25 meters and more is quite normal here – ideal conditions for diving.
Easily accessible by car in the north of the country, off the Istrian peninsula, lies the island of Cres, which, along with Krk, is one of the largest in the Adriatic. Off the coast of the town of Cres, with its 3,000 inhabitants, there are perfect dive sites for anyone who has taken up the sport. Beginners flock here, and experienced divers become repeat visitors. Jutta and Mario Hofer are the best example: The Austrians have been associated with the dive center at the Kovacine campsite for 25 years – they learned to dive here and later worked as diving instructors. Four years ago, they became involved with Diving Cres, and two years ago they fulfilled a lifelong dream by taking over the dive center completely.
Diving Cres is characterized by its absolutely professional service: The equipment is in excellent condition, and the dives are led by experienced guides. Just in time for its 25th anniversary, the dive center underwent a thorough renovation. Order, cleanliness, and a welcoming atmosphere are top priorities.
The number of regular customers grows year after year. This is no accident. “The previous owners already ran the center superbly. But Jutta and Mario have taken it to another level,“ rave Diana and Wolfgang. The two Berliners have been coming to Cres to dive for years. Their son Jordi first dived here at the age of 12. The center is geared towards young divers. There is special equipment for children and teenagers, such as smaller vests and tanks.
The young diving students especially benefit from the friendly, family atmosphere. Mario always has a kind word for everyone, complete with Austrian charm. All staff speak fluent German – this also makes it easier for beginners to get started with their first fin strokes in scuba diving.Having fun together
It quickly becomes clear that for Jutta and Mario, the dive center isn’t just a job, but a true passion. Especially during the shoulder seasons, they host barbecue evenings with their guests in the beautiful bays of Cres. Or they take an evening boat trip to the charming fishing village of Valun to enjoy delicious food and a good glass of wine.
What could be better than a sunset boat trip followed by culinary delights far from the tourist hotspots? The central topic of conversation is usually shared diving experiences. Their daughter Denise often joins them. The biologist, who wrote her thesis on the island’s flora and fauna, not only enjoys sharing her knowledge with guests, but her humor always keeps everyone laughing.
In addition to individual dives, Diving Cres also offers day trips with multiple dives. A trip to the famous “Blue Grotto“ is highly recommended. Its fantastic play of colors and dozens of bats create an impressive natural spectacle. But it’s not just a feast for the eyes; your physical well-being is also taken care of: fresh fish and meat are grilled at lunchtime.
Mass events are not to Jutta and Mario’s liking. Day trips are limited to twelve guests, ensuring everyone has plenty of space on the boat. This also applies to trips to the various dive sites, such as the beautiful shipwreck Lina. Early booking is recommended.
The surroundings are perfect.
Diving Cres means not only professionalism and a relaxed atmosphere, but also short distances: the boat dock and the beach are just a few meters from the dive center. If a boat trip to a dive site takes too long, you can also dive on the house reef. Even the center of Cres, with its many delicious Mediterranean restaurants around the small, romantic harbor, is within walking distance. For those who find the journey home too strenuous, an inexpensive water taxi is available.
The island of Cres, and especially the Kovacine campsite, is also highly recommended for its high environmental standards. Nature lovers appreciate this location. After all, Cres has much more to offer than just beautiful and exciting dives. The natural surroundings above water are also spectacular.
With its pristine landscapes, where griffon vultures can still be observed in their natural habitat, the island is a hidden gem for hikers. For Jutta and Mario, however, the water is the central focus. Their deep connection to it is something their guests experience every day.
The water quality in Croatia is unparalleled in the Mediterranean; visibility of 25 meters and more is perfectly normal for us. Diving on “ECO ISLAND CRES“ means experiencing nature, both above and below the water. Where else can you, for example, dive in the morning and then observe free-roaming griffon vultures on an afternoon walk?
Diving and a holiday surrounded by unspoiled nature on an island that has remained untouched by mass tourism even after all these years. A hidden gem for connoisseurs and lovers of the Mediterranean.
Our base is located directly at the Eco Camping Kovacine, where our guests have access to great pitches and modern mobile homes.