An island shaped by the sea

Below the surface, Vis reveals another side of its story. Ancient amphorae, historic shipwrecks and aircraft from the Second World War rest among steep walls, rocky formations, caves and colourful marine life. With underwater visibility that can reach around 30 metres, diving here often feels like entering a vast natural museum.

Vis was known in ancient times as Issa and became one of the earliest Greek settlements on the Adriatic. Its strategic position later made the island an important port for ships transporting wine, olive oil, fish and other goods across the Mediterranean.

Not every vessel completed its journey. Remains of amphorae and ancient cargo can still be found beneath the sea, offering divers a rare connection to more than two thousand years of island history. Over time, sponges, octopuses, fish and other marine creatures have transformed these archaeological remains into living underwater habitats.

Wreck diving around Vis

Vis is particularly well known for its wreck diving. The surrounding seabed contains ships and aircraft connected to some of the most dramatic periods in the island’s modern history.

Among the best-known underwater sites are the remains of the American B-17 Flying Fortress and B-24 Liberator aircraft, as well as several historic vessels. Many of these wrecks lie at considerable depths and are therefore reserved for advanced or technical divers. Other locations are accessible to recreational divers accompanied by experienced local guides.

These wrecks are more than historical monuments. Moray eels, scorpionfish, lobsters and schools of fish often inhabit their decks, openings and metal structures, creating a striking meeting between history and marine nature.