Where the World Champion Dives: Mirela Kardašević’s Top Spots in Croatia
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Diving is like entering a world without time or weight, where every worry is left above the surface and each inhale and exhale becomes a bridge to your silence. In the blue that gently envelops you, the world slows down thoughts quietly, the body surrenders to the rhythm of the water, and every movement becomes a meditation. The sea is not just a place, but a feeling of freedom, presence, and an inexplicable connection with nature and oneself. In that silence, far from the noise of everyday life, we discover how strong, calm, and alive we truly are. Diving is not just a sport, but a return to oneself-a meeting with your limits, but also with the infinity that awaits beneath the surface.
No one knows this better than Mirela Kardašević, Croatia’s most successful freediver and one of the world’s leading athletes in this extreme sport. In just seven years of her career, she has set an astonishing 15 world records, won 11 medals at World Championships (four gold, four silver, and three bronze), and two European bronze medals. She holds world records in both pool and depth disciplines and can hold her breath underwater for more than seven minutes.
Her remarkable achievements, mental strength, and experience have made her an undisputed authority in freediving and an expert in the most beautiful underwater visions.
So, where does the world champion dive? Here are Croatia’s best diving locations through the eyes of Mirela Kardašević.
Top 5 diving locations in Croatia
Blue Cave (Modra špilja), Biševo
This famous cave is known for its spectacular play of light: sunrays penetrate through an underwater opening, creating an unreal blue glow that makes you feel as if you’ve entered another world. Diving in the Blue Cave offers a unique experience of silence, peace, and total presence-which, for Mirela, is the essence of diving. The cave is suitable for divers of all levels and is especially magical early in the morning when the light effect is most intense.
Cape Kamenjak, Istria
Cape Kamenjak is renowned for its untouched, wild nature and crystal-clear sea. It’s one of the rare places where you can dive straight from the shore and immediately enjoy a rich underwater world, rocks, and caves. It’s ideal for beginners as well as experienced divers seeking peace and authenticity far from the crowds. Kamenjak is also a paradise for underwater photographers thanks to the exceptional clarity of the water and diversity of marine life.
Komiža, Island of Vis
Komiža is Mirela’s summer base for deep training. This spot offers an outstanding combination of crystal-clear sea, great depths right off the coast, and the special energy of the place. Komiža is known for its underwater caves, walls, and shipwrecks, and due to its remoteness and isolation, the sea is exceptionally clean and clear. It’s perfect for serious training as well as relaxing dives in untouched nature.
Rukavac, Vis
Rukavac is a favorite among divers for its indented coastline, caves, and interesting underwater topography. Here you can explore caves and tunnels, enjoy rich marine life, and find peace far from tourist centers. Rukavac is perfect for relaxed dives, but also for those who want to discover something new every time they dive.
Lučice Cave, Island of Brač
Lučice Cave is one of the most famous diving caves in Croatia. The entrance is just five meters deep, and the cave opens into an impressive underwater chamber at 15 meters. It is especially attractive due to its unique light effects and abundance of marine life. This location is suitable for divers of all levels, and the experience of diving in Lučice remains etched in the memory of every visitor.
Mirela’s Diving Tips
- Don’t force depth: Listen to your body and progress gradually. Patience is key, and progress comes with time.
- Breath is everything: Practice breathing even out of the water. Proper breathing calms the body and mind, which is crucial for a safe and enjoyable dive.
- Relax: The biggest enemy underwater is tension. When you relax, diving becomes effortless and enjoyable.
- Mental training: Visualization, calmness, and focus are key to a successful dive. Meditation and mental exercises help overcome fear and negative thoughts.
- Learn from the experienced: The right mentor can make a huge difference. Always seek advice and learn from those with more experience.
According to Mirela Kardašević, diving in Croatia is not just a sport, but a way of life and a return to oneself in the most beautiful environment possible-in the silence and blue of the Adriatic. Enjoy!
