KARIN, Croatia – Croatia is pushing for its Karin Sea to be officially recognized as the world’s smallest sea by Guinness World Records. Located on the Adriatic coast, this small body of water is cherished by locals and known for its scenic beauty and rich marine life.
The Karin Sea, situated approximately 18 miles east of the coastal city of Zadar, spans just over 2.3 square miles. This makes it a contender for the title of the world’s smallest sea, currently held by Turkey’s Sea of Marmara, which lies near Istanbul.
Tomo Aracic, head of the Karinska Riviera tourist association, expressed optimism about the potential recognition: “First, the tourist potential is currently great, but if declared the smallest sea in the world, I expect it to be a major contribution. After that, it is also necessary to maintain a high level of sea cleanliness and environmental protection.”
Guinness World Records defines seas as “smaller bodies of water than oceans, but still large water bodies, partly enclosed by a land mass and connected to an ocean.” The Karin Sea has been marked as a sea on maps for centuries, reflecting its long-standing recognition in regional geography.
The Karin Sea is not only a geographical point of interest but also a habitat for protected marine species, including dolphins and sea turtles. Local resident Danko Vivodinac shared his pride, stating, “This is the most beautiful sea for me. If we manage to do this (officially declare it the smallest sea in the world), then it will be really great that someone takes care that it is known about.”
The push for official recognition underscores Croatia’s commitment to promoting its natural assets and enhancing its tourism appeal. If successful, the Karin Sea could attract greater international attention and contribute significantly to local tourism and environmental efforts.
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