Diving in Montenegro to Explore the Underwater World | SeaSpace

If you are curious to discover the underwater wonders, diving in Montenegro must be on your bucket list. It is a small country known for its pristine beaches, majestic mountain ranges, and a rich cultural heritage. Along with the stunning landscapes, it also has a magical world underneath. 

Do you want to turn your dreams of exploring the breathtaking beauty of Montenegro and its vibrant marine life into reality? If your answer to this question is yes, then you are at the right place. In this post, we’ll share how you can uncover the secrets hidden beneath the waves and explore the underwater world where beauty knows no bounds. Read the post and get ready for an amazing adventure. 

What is Freediving? 

What comes to your mind when you come across the word freediving? Some people may relate it to scuba diving, and some may have heard of it as a competitive sport. Before we proceed, it is important to understand its basics.

Freediving is one of the oldest forms of diving. This underwater diving is also known as breath-hold or apnea diving. In simpler terms, it can be explained as the practice of holding your breath when diving underwater without any equipment. Therefore, relying on breath-holding techniques is the most important aspect of this activity rather than using apparatus like scuba gear.

Why Choose Freediving?

Now that you know what freediving is, the next question arises: why do people dive or what makes it so trendy? Let’s find out –

• Recreational Freediving

When people choose freediving for personal enjoyment, it refers to recreational freediving. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced individual, it lets you relax, enjoy, and explore the underwater world. It is a perfect hobby as well as a leisure activity on vacations. 

• Applied Freediving

Diving with a purpose is known as applied diving. For example – when you dive for a purpose and use your diving skills for a professional context such as hunting for seafood or performing scientific research. For some people, this activity is a part of their daily routine as they rely on collecting pearls and seafood for their livelihood. All these activities come under applied freediving.

• Competitive Freediving

The dedicated athletes who practice and participate in the freediving competition are competitive freedivers, and it is known as competitive freediving. Various events and competitions are organized where professionals participate and compete against each other to win and break records. 

These are three main reasons for freediving. In this post, we’ll cover recreational freediving and explore its various aspects. 

Amazing Benefits of Freediving

Most people think that freediving is only limited to a fun and adventurous activity. But, it offers various mental and physical health benefits. Such as –

• Strengthen the Lungs

Freediving involves regular practice of controlled breath-holding. Also, you learn about the various breathing techniques and the importance of full breath. This ultimately helps improve the overall respiratory health and strengthen the lungs. 

• Improves Fitness and Flexibility 

Freediving engages multiple muscle groups which help promote overall fitness. Moreover, it also involves whole-body stretching, particularly in core, back, and leg muscles that helps in improving the flexibility of the body. So, diving helps you live a healthier and longer life. 

• Improves Joint Health 

Freediving is known for its low-impact nature that helps to improve joint health. It also allows people suffering from arthritis to relieve pain. While high-impact activities like running and weightlifting are not good for joint health, diving places minimal stress on the joints. 

• Reduces Stress 

Not just physical, diving also plays an important role in improving mental strength. When you join a course, it starts with relaxation and breathing techniques because it helps you dive longer. Ultimately, it contributes to reducing stress and anxiety levels. 

• Improves Focus and Concentration 

When you dive, you need to focus on the present and keep all the distractions aside. It helps keep your headspace clean from all the worries. This mental clarity and meditative experience help improve focus and concentration.

 

Diving and Freediving: Understanding the Difference

Is diving and freediving the same? What is scuba diving? Well, these are some commonly asked questions and people often believe in misconceptions. So, it is important to understand the differences. 

As the name suggests, freediving lets you move more freely underwater like a fast-moving fish. Freedivers hold their breath while scuba divers should never hold their breath underwater. In the same way, there are various similarities and differences between both these terms. Let’s explore –

• Breathing Techniques 

Scuba diving involves breathing apparatus like tanks and regulators. It helps to supply the air underwater to allow extended periods of submersion. On the other hand, freediving does not involve the apparatus as it relies on breath-holding techniques.

• Depth and Duration

As stated above scuba diving involves apparatus which typically allows the divers to stay underwater for a longer duration. Also, scuba divers can explore depths ranging from tens to hundreds of feet for extended periods whereas freediving is limited to shallower depths and shorter durations. 

• Equipment Usage

When it comes to equipment, scuba diving requires specialized equipment, including tanks, regulators, buoyancy control devices, and dive computers. On the other hand, freediving relies on minimal equipment, such as a mask, snorkel, fins, and a wetsuit for thermal protection. Also, freediving equipment is lightweight and portable which makes exploration easier. 

• Physical Demands

Both diving and freediving require physical fitness but there are also some minor differences. Freediving focuses on the breath-holding ability, lung capacity, and relaxation techniques. On the other hand, scuba diving requires carrying heavy equipment and regulating breathing.

• Exploration Focus

If you want to explore underwater environments, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and deep-sea ecosystems, you should go scuba diving. But, if you need an intimate and sensory experience, focusing on interactions with marine life, underwater topography, and personal connection with the ocean environment, then freediving is the best choice. 

What Makes Montenegro a Popular Diving Destination? 

Montenegro is a small Balkan country located in Southeastern Europe. It is a popular diving destination nestled along the Adriatic Coast and known for unparalleled underwater exploration. If you want to experience adventure and serenity, diving in Montenegro is one of the best ideas. From small and big picture-perfect beaches to mountain ranges, and diversified diving spots, this tourist destination has something for everyone. 

If you want to soak in the raw beauty of diving sites and experience underwater life, here is a list of the best places for freediving in Montenegro –

• Blue Cave 

Blue Cave is also known as Blue Grotto or Plava Spilja. As the name suggests, here you can find an amazing sea cave which makes it a popular tourist attraction. It is one of the most unexplored underwater dives located on the Lustica Peninsula. 

Imagine gliding beneath the surface of the crystal-clear waters and sunlight filtering through the water and bouncing off the limestone walls. Sounds amazing, right? This is what you can experience while diving in Blue Cave. Encountering colorful fishes, delicate corals, and sea turtles make it a more beautiful and adventurous experience. 

• Tihany Wreck

Tihany Wreck is one of the most popular dive sites in Montenegro. It used to be a steamship rented by the Austro-Hungarian Navy during World War I and this historical significance makes it worth exploring. What makes it more exciting is that you can dive in to find the shipwreck and the things left behind. Moreover, you can also experience beautiful tiny fishes, sheepshead fish and the damselfish.

• Poseidon City 

If you love to explore mysterious places filled with caves and tunnels, Poseidon City is a diving site that must be on your list. You can find a lot of caves surrounded by reefs, reflecting the natural light. However, as you go deeper, you’ll need a torch as it gets darker. Moreover, tiny and big marine creatures like lobsters, shrimps, crabs, and diverse flora and fauna will surely amaze you. 

• Reef Galiola 

Again, the name of this site suggests that it is a reef. What makes it attractive is that the reef is in the shape of a pyramid. This is not it. Here you will also find an underwater mine and the remnants from World War I. So, if you are an adventure lover and interested in diving, Reef Galiola will be an unreal experience for you. 

• Island Mamula 

One thing that makes Island Mamula an interesting diving site is a fort. The fort Mamula has witnessed various military operations and it has protected the entrance to Boka Bay. Although tourists visit this fort only a few people know that diving at this site can be a memorable experience. Now that you know about it, you must add it to your list. From the treasure trove of marine life to various corals and anchors of historical significance, you will find something new every time you dive. 

Planning Your Diving Trip to Montenegro

Here is how you can plan a dreamy diving trip to Montenegro –

1. Choosing the Right Time to Visit

The first and most important point is to consider the weather. The best time for diving in Montenegro is during the summer months. You can choose a month from June to September, when the weather is warm and the sea is calm.

Pro tip – Whenever you plan to visit research water temperature beforehand to ensure the right diving conditions. 

2. Selecting Dive Sites

The next step is to conduct a thorough research to find out the popular diving sites. Make sure you choose a dive site that matches your experience level.

3. Booking Accommodation

When booking the accommodations, ensure to find dive-friendly accommodations. You can choose hotels or guest houses that offer facilities like equipment storage, rinse tanks, and knowledgeable staff. Moreover, the accommodation must be close to your diving site.

4. Arranging Equipment Rental or Transporting Your Own

Start looking for reputable dive shops in Montenegro that offer equipment rental and/or tank fills. You can also bring your own equipment. So, consider the convenience and cost-effectiveness and make a decision accordingly. 

5. Checking Certification and Insurance

One of the most important things is to ensure you hold a valid certification from a recognized agency before diving in Montenegro. Additionally, you can purchase dive-specific travel insurance to cover any unforeseen incidents or emergencies.

6. Budgeting for Your Trip

Making a budget is one of the most important factors of any trip. Consider expenses such as accommodation, transportation, dive equipment rental, dive fees (if applicable), food, and any additional activities or souvenirs and decide accordingly. If traveling from abroad, don’t forget about the currency exchange rates.

7. Packing Essentials

Last but not least, pack important dive equipment and non-dive items. Some essential items include sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, and any necessary travel documents.

Safety First: Essential Diving Tips and Guidelines 

It is important to avoid common mistakes, follow the essential tips, and guidelines to ensure safety. Here are some important points that you must keep in mind. 

1. Never Dive Alone

The first and most important tip for divers of all levels is – never dive alone. You should always have an experienced partner with you who is well-known for emergencies like sambas or blackouts and the basics of first aid.

2. Proper Weight Selection

Overloading can result in difficulty relaxing on the surface. Therefore, it is important to choose the right amount of weight to avoid overloading as it can result in increased energy consumption. In addition, when using new equipment it is suggested to check buoyancy regularly.

3. Hydration and Nutrition

Often people are not aware of the need for proper nutrition and hydration for diving. It is important to avoid diving within 3-4 hours after a full meal or 1-2 hours after a light snack. Additionally, dehydration can reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, and increase the risk of blackout. So, you should always carry water during training and drink after each dive to avoid dehydration.

4. Dive Planning and Communication

Some of the important factors that you must consider when planning for freediving are – weather, currents, and visibility. Also, you must communicate with your partner and monitor each other’s activities during the dive. 

5. Avoid Full Exhale Diving

You should never exhale underwater or exhale too sharply on the surface after returning from depth. It reduces buoyancy and oxygen reserves. Also, practicing correct recovery breathing on the surface can help prevent sambas or blackouts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can a person hold their breath while freediving?

Professionals are trained and familiar with the diving techniques. Therefore, they can hold their breath for several minutes. However, it also depends on other factors, such as – physical health, technique, and environmental conditions.

2. Is freediving safe?

Yes, freediving is a safe activity. But, it is important to follow the safety guidelines and take proper measures. Some common risks involve – shallow water blackout, barotrauma, and hypoxia. However, with proper training, and equipment the risks can be minimized, making diving a relatively safe activity.

3. Do I need to know how to swim to try freediving?

You don’t need to be a swimming champion. But, having basic knowledge of swimming and feeling confident in the water will benefit you. Beginners must start under the guidance of a certified instructor.

4. What is the right age to start freediving? 

Children as young as 8 to 10 years old can start learning the basics of diving under the guidance of an instructor in a controlled environment. But, it also depends on the physical and mental health of individuals.

5. Do I need any equipment for freediving?

Yes, you must have some basic equipment for freediving. It includes a mask, snorkel, and fins. Additionally, a wetsuit may be necessary for thermal protection, especially in colder waters. Also, you must ensure that all equipment you need is properly maintained and fits comfortably to enhance safety and performance.

SeaSpace: A Hub for Diving in Montenegro 

We hope this post helps you get familiar with the various aspects of diving in Montenegro. It is like a once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore the underwater landscapes. From exploring the hidden caves and wrecks to tranquil shallow reefs, it offers various unparalleled opportunities. 

When planning your journey to new depths and self-discovery, you can count on SeaSpace. It is a retreat center, freediving school, and coworking space. Nestled along the picturesque Adriatic Sea, you can rely on this hub to experience the depths of the ocean. You can explore the wonders of the underwater world under the guidance of skilled instructors which also boosts your connections and personal growth. Explore more and book today!