Underwater park Punat

Underwater Park Punat is an attraction on the shore of Krk Island in Croatia, near the town of Punat, that lets people explore the sea floor without needing to dive or even swim well. The activity is known as sea walking, or helmet diving: participants wear a large, weighted helmet connected to a supply of air, and they walk along the bottom in shallow water, breathing normally, while the water stays below the helmet and the head stays dry. It is a popular choice for families and for anyone curious about the underwater world who does not want to learn scuba diving.

The experience is guided and carefully controlled. Instructors explain the equipment and the basic rules on land, then help each participant into the water and walk with the group along a set route, usually at a shallow depth of a few metres. Walking on the sea floor feels slow and strange, as the water's weight gives each step a floating quality, and visitors see sand, seagrass, rocks, small fish and other marine life at close range. The park also includes underwater features designed to be seen on the walk, which adds interest, and photographs are often taken by staff. Visibility depends on the weather and the season, and conditions in the Bay of Punat on the Adriatic are generally calm and sheltered.

Practical points are worth knowing. Participants must be able to follow instructions and should be in reasonable health, and people with heart, breathing or ear problems, or who are pregnant, should ask in advance whether the activity is suitable. Age and height limits may apply to children. You will usually need swimwear and a towel, and it is wise to book ahead in the summer months, when the park is busiest. The visit typically lasts one to two hours including preparation, and prices and opening times change by season.

Punat is a pleasant base for a day of exploring. The Islet of Košljun (Otok Košljun), in the bay, has a Franciscan monastery that can be reached by a short boat ride, and Punat Marina (Marina Punat) is one of the larger marinas in the Kvarner area. The Punat Waterfront Promenade (Lungomare Punat) links cafés and restaurants, Beach Medane and Beach bar Ulika offer a place to swim and relax, and the Mir Site (Archaeological Site) adds a touch of history.

The park suits families, adventurous children and curious adults, and it makes a good change from a standard beach day.