Omiš

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Revision as of 17:04, 7 August 2011

Omis, Croatia

Bay of Omis from SW - click for larger view
(Click links for more information)
	43°26.4′N, 16°42.0′E
	Photo gallery
	Local chartlet

The town of Omis lies at the mouth of the river Cetina on the Adriatic coast of Croatia 15 miles SE of the harbour of Split and five miles N of the coast of the island of Brac. The area is spectacular, the river emerging from a deep gorge between massive mountain ranges, and the surrounding coastline is exceptionally attractive, with long, sandy beaches and clear, emerald waters. Visiting yachts can proceed into the river if draft permits (depths range from 3.0 to 5.0 metres) and tie up alongside the banks or anchor off in the bay assuming there are no W or S winds forecast.

Charts

British Admiralty 2712

Croatian chart 100-21

Imray Nautical Chart M25

Radio Nets

Also see World Cruiser's Nets

Local Weather

Diurnal winds along the coast are mostly moderate during the summer months, predominantly from NW and rarely exceeding force 4/5. At night, katabatic winds off the mountains are a feature of some of the harbours along the NE Adriatic coast. During early spring and (especially) autumn conditions can be more unsettled, occasionally accompanied by violent thunderstorms - luckily of short duration - with winds of 30-35 knots or more and vicious, steep seas. In the winter the sudden, violent N wind off the mountains, the bora, is much to be feared, especially along the Velebitski channel. It tends to blow less strongly S of Zadar.

Equally prevalent in winter - although not uncommon in summer - is the scirocco, a S/SE wind that blows up from North Africa, usually in advance of a depression moving E across the Mediterranean. Unlike the bora, the scirocco only occasionally exceeds gale force, but is still a phenomenon to be wary of, especially if on a lee coast.

For sources of weather forecasting, see Croatia.

Approach and Navigation

The town of Omis lies at the mouth of a deep gorge, through which the river Cetina enters the sea. The gorge is very conspicuous from seaward. In the approach from W, a S cardinal mark marks the end of a rocky spit off the headland of Dugi Rat. Note that shallows extend offshore for nearly half a mile on the approach from W and a careful eye on the depth sounder is essential. There are usually a number of yellow buoys in place marking the shallows. The river entrance can be distinguished by a light structure on the end of the long spit on its E side. If approaching from E or S, note that there is a wreck just SE of the spit, marked on its S side with a red buoy. If proceeding up the river, move slowly as the depths can be variable, especially after winter storms.

River entrance, Omis
Click for larger view

River moorings, Omis
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Check-in facilities (for Customs and Immigration)

Yachts visiting Omis have the option either of tying up alongside on the river or anchoring off in the bay. The river has the advantage of providing better shelter, although depths are less reliable (the deeper water is usually to be found on the E side). The most sheltered spot is just downstream of the low road bridge. There are no facilities on the riverside quays. Alternatively, anchor off to the E of the spit in depths of 4.0 - 5.0 metres. The holding is good in sand. Shelter here is reasonably good in the prevailing winds, but poor in W or S winds, when the river offers better shelter (as long as you can get a fair way upstream). Neither position is comfortable in a strong bora, when Split or Brac offer better protection. There is also a small harbour at the head of the bay E of the river entrance, but depths are shallow here and it is usually filled with local boats.

Offshore Islands and Groups

• Solta
• Brac
• Hvar

Marinas & Yacht Clubs

None.

Yacht Repairs and Services

None.

Fuel, Water, & Electricity

None.

Tourism and Things to do Ashore

Tourism

Most of the tourism and recreation in Omis centres around the river Cetina and the beaches. There are some wonderful walks upriver through the river gorge, which is also popular with adventure sports enthusiasts. The complex of mill and restaurant at Radmanove Mlinice 6klm upriver is a popular tourist spot and well worth the walk. With transport, it is also possible to visit the spectacular Gubavica waterfalls (Velika and Mala Gubavica) 16 kms E of Omis.

River Cetina near Radmanove Mlinice
Click for larger view

Optional activity at Gubavica Falls
Click for larger view

Grocery & Supply Stores

• Supermarket and several provisions shops in the village.

Eateries

• Several cafes and restaurants in the town and along the bay.

Internet/WiFi

From internet cafes.

Laundry

None.

Motorbike & Car Rentals

• Rental outlets in town.

Garbage Disposal

Some bins in the town.

Transportation

• Buses to Split
• Ferries from Split to Rijeka, Dubrovnik and Ancona (Italy)
• International flights from Split airport (30 kms)

Routes/Passages To/From

Popular passages/routes, timing, etc.

Cruiser's Friends

Contact details of "Cruiser's Friends" that can be contacted for local information or assistance.

Forum Discussions

List links to discussion threads on partnering forums. (see link for requirements)

External Links

Links to relevant websites.

• Dalmacija.net: [1]
• Croatia Tourist Board: [2]
• Radmanove Mlinice mill complex: [3]
• River Cetina: [4]

For other useful websites, see Croatia.

References & Publications

See entry for Croatia.

Last Visited & Details Checked (and updated here)

Date of member's visit to this Port/Stop & this page's details validated:

• Data compiled from web research (please update if possible)--Athene of Lymington 18:04, 7 August 2011 (BST)

Personal Notes

Personal experiences?

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