Full Description & Details
Skrivena Luka, meaning 'hidden port' in Croatian, is a naturally protected bay on the southern coast of Lastovo island in the Adriatic Sea. The bay is formed in a secluded area surrounded by lush green hills and dense Mediterranean vegetation, making it invisible from the open sea until vessels approach the narrow 150-metre-wide entrance. The bay extends approximately 900 metres inland and is renowned for its untouched natural beauty and tranquil environment.
The anchorage provides excellent natural shelter from strong winds and rough seas, especially from the northern and western quadrants. Depths generally range from 2.5 to 10 metres in the main anchoring area, with some areas reaching 15 metres. The bottom is muddy and overgrown with seagrass, providing good holding ground for anchors. However, winds from the south, west and north are appreciable, and southwest winds can create high waves at the entrance. The last 100 metres of the bay are very shallow, and caution is required due to reefs and shallows between Struga point and Velji More to the west, as well as Uska Rock to the northwest of the bay entrance.
Limited facilities are available through the konoba Portorosa restaurant, which offers a 30-metre pontoon deck and mooring buoys with electricity and mooring lines. The restaurant also provides showers, toilets and laundry washing service, though reservations are needed in high season. Water supply is limited and availability may vary, so vessels should carry sufficient supplies. There is no fuel station in the bay, and boats should plan to refuel at larger ports. The area is part of Lastovo Nature Park, and preservation rules apply.
The bay is suitable for smaller boats and yachts and focuses on leisure vessels rather than commercial shipping. The nearby Struga lighthouse sits dramatically on a cliff, enhancing the picturesque landscape. Crystal-clear turquoise waters and the rich underwater world make the area popular with swimmers, snorkelers and diving enthusiasts.
How to get there
Skrivena Luka is located on the southern coast of Lastovo island, approximately 24 nautical miles southwest of Korcula town and 50 nautical miles from Split. The bay entrance is narrow and difficult to spot from the open sea, but can be identified by the Struga lighthouse on one side and the light on cape Strazica. Navigate to approximately 42°44'24"N, 16°50'32"E where the bay mouth reveals itself between two low headlands.
The approach channel is deep at 10-15 metres and free of hazards, widening into a spacious inner basin. Caution should be taken while entering, especially during nighttime or adverse weather conditions, as submerged rocks exist near the entrance. Northwest winds can create large waves at the entrance.
Vessels should keep to mid-channel and maintain moderate speed as the bay bends gently before opening into the main anchorage. Watch out for reefs and shallows between Struga and Velji More points to the west of the bay, and Uska Rock to the northwest in front of the bay. Local nautical charts are recommended for safe navigation.
The passage from Ubli, Lastovo's ferry port on the north coast, is approximately 5 nautical miles overland or 8 nautical miles by sea around the island's western cape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What depths can be found at Skrivena Luka?
Depths at Skrivena Luka generally range from 2.5 to 10 metres in the main anchoring area, with some areas reaching 15 metres. The last 100 metres of the bay are very shallow.
Can I stay overnight at Skrivena Luka?
Yes, overnight stays are possible at Skrivena Luka. Vessels typically anchor in the bay utilizing the good holding ground, or can use the 30-metre pontoon deck and mooring buoys available from konoba Portorosa restaurant.
What protection does Skrivena Luka offer from wind?
Skrivena Luka offers excellent natural shelter from strong winds and rough seas, especially from the northern and western quadrants. However, winds from south, west and north are appreciable, and southwest winds can create high waves at the entrance.
What facilities are available at Skrivena Luka?
Limited facilities are available through konoba Portorosa restaurant, including a pontoon with electricity and mooring lines, showers, toilets and laundry washing service. Water supply is limited and there is no fuel station in the bay.
What hazards should I watch for when approaching Skrivena Luka?
Watch out for reefs and shallows between Struga and Velji More points to the west of the bay, and Uska Rock to the northwest in front of the bay. Submerged rocks exist near the entrance, and northwest winds can create large waves at the entrance.
Is Skrivena Luka suitable for all vessel sizes?
Skrivena Luka is suitable for smaller boats and yachts. The bay focuses on leisure vessels rather than commercial shipping activities.
What is the holding ground like at Skrivena Luka?
The bottom at Skrivena Luka is muddy and overgrown with seagrass, providing good holding ground for anchors. However, some sources describe it as poor holding ground with sand.
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