Treasures of the Adriatic Sea – A divers guide to the wrecks of the Croatian Adriatic is a book written by Danijel Frka, a well-known Croatian scuba diver, researcher and underwater photographer. I will note here that the copy of the book I have is actually an older edition, from 2013, co-authored by Jasen Mesić. There is a newer, updated edition, with more content and locations, published in 2023 I believe.
Nevertheless, this divers guide is a gem. It provides a sweeping and insightful journey through not only the wrecks, but the historical events that led to their final destination.
The book is divided into three main chapters: Wrecks of the Northern Adriatic, Wrecks of the Central Adriatic, and Wrecks of the Southern Adriatic, each exploring their share of the most well-known wrecks on its territory.
From ancient sail-boats to modern submarines and bombers, Frka skillfully navigates through the divers briefing and the course of events that brought the wrecks to their resting point.
One of the standout features of the book are the illustrations of the wrecks made by the author himself.
Frka’s research is evident in the wealth of information presented throughout the book; he also did all the dives himself. This being foremost a dive guide, it features all the necessary information about the diving locations, such as location itself, access, min and max depth, currents, visibility, flora and fauna and so on.
This book is recommended for those seeking a broad yet insightful exploration of the many wrecks of Croatian Adriatic, along with the historical and cultural heritage they bring with them. For adventurers and history freaks. For the divers.
Verdict: Pretty fucking good.
Pages: 390
Cover: Hardcover
Language: English (also available: German, Croatian, Italian)
