From Zadar: Kornati National Park & Telaica Boat Tour

Travelers seeking a day full of sun, sea, and striking scenery will find this boat tour from Zadar a compelling choice. With its combination of stunning coastal views, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to explore two remarkable parks, this experience promises a blend of relaxation and adventure. It’s well-suited for those who love nature, simple pleasures like good food and wine, and a comfortable boat journey.

What we particularly like about this tour are two things: the knowledgeable guides who help make each stop interesting and the quality of the included meals and drinks — especially the wine during lunch. The only possible drawback? The long day on a boat (around six hours) might feel a bit tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to spending many hours at sea. Still, for those looking for a laid-back, scenic day out, this tour offers solid value and authentic Croatian charm.

This experience is best for travelers who enjoy island-hopping, swimming in beautiful spots, and appreciate a good mix of guided insights and free time to explore or relax. It’s also ideal if you want a taste of local Dalmatian cuisine and the chance to marvel at Kornati, the famously rugged and photogenic archipelago.

This experience made our article of Zadar’s 12 Best National Park Tours.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of Kornati and Telaica, often described as a photographer’s dream.
• Expert Guides: Guides are appreciated for their helpfulness and English-speaking ability, making the trip informative.
• Good Value: With included meals, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and stops at two different parks, the price offers decent value.
• Multiple Stops: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and snorkeling at Salt Lake Mir and other scenic spots.
• Food & Drink: A simple but tasty Dalmatian lunch with local wine, plus unlimited water and juice.
• Flexible Booking: Reservation options allow you to book without immediate payment, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of the Kornati & Telaica Boat Tour

Setting Out from Zadar

The tour begins early, at 08:30 AM, giving you plenty of time to soak in the morning sunlight and gentle breezes of Dalmatia. Meeting at Liburnska Obala, next to the bridge to the old town, you’ll find the boat ready and waiting. Transportation logistics are straightforward — parking options nearby include paid lots and free spots within a 10-15 minute walk, which is helpful for planning your day.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with a good size that keeps the crowd manageable, and the crew is lauded for their attentiveness. This initial phase is important because it sets the tone for the day: relaxed, well-organized, and packed with scenic potential.

Telaica Nature Park — A Calm Introduction

Your first stop is Telaica Nature Park, where you’ll spend around two hours exploring a peaceful area filled with lush flora and fauna. The landscape combines gentle beaches with striking cliffs and dense forests, making it a perfect spot for photos and short walks. Several reviews highlight the beauty of this area, with mentions of “beautiful” beaches and scenic cliffs.

There’s time for swimming in Salt Lake Mir, a shallow, salty body of water that’s often a highlight for visitors. As one reviewer notes, “Bring your watershoes as the beaches are with stones!” This is a wise tip — comfortable footwear makes your time on rocky beaches much easier. The area invites both relaxation and light hiking, offering a break from boat cruising that many travelers enjoy.

Lunch – A Taste of Dalmatia

Midday, the boat anchors for a freshly prepared lunch. The meal is simple but satisfying: grilled fish and chicken served with a fresh salad, alongside a glass of local wine. Several reviews mention the quality of the food, with one reviewer describing the onboard lunch as “lovely” and “great value for money.” The wine, in particular, receives praise for being a good house wine that complements the meal well.

This part of the tour is not just about food but about enjoying a leisurely meal with fellow travelers, often surrounded by stunning sea views. The inclusion of unlimited water and juice ensures you stay refreshed, and the optional snorkeling equipment allows for some underwater exploration if you’re inclined.

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Discovering Kornati National Park

After lunch, the tour heads toward Kornati, often called “The Tears of God” by locals, a name that hints at the rugged, dramatic landscape. This archipelago comprises 89 islands, islets, and reefs, scattered like pearls across the sea — an area considered one of the most beautiful in the world by many.

Guides often share stories about the islands’ formation and geography, adding context to the dramatic scenery. Travelers commonly comment on the contrasting rugged rocks and the pristine blue waters, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike. The tour does not typically include a detailed narration at every site, but guides are noted for their helpfulness and friendliness.

Snorkeling and Swimming Opportunities

The stops in Kornati are a highlight for many visitors. Snorkeling gear is provided upon request, and the two swimming stops allow guests to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy the sea. Reviewers mention that “snorkeling at the second stop was amazing,” and many appreciate the chance to cool off in such clear waters.

Be aware that some spots can be crowded, and the water’s clarity varies depending on the location. Still, most agree that the natural beauty of these islands makes the effort worthwhile, with some noting they even saw dolphins — a special treat for wildlife enthusiasts.

Sunset and Return to Zadar

The day concludes with the boat sailing back toward Zadar, giving passengers a final chance to enjoy the views of Telaica and Kornati during sunset. The peaceful return voyage allows travelers to reflect on the day’s adventures, with many describing the experience as “breathtaking” and “very relaxing.”

The entire tour lasts about six hours, which many find to be a good balance of activity and downtime. You’ll arrive back in Zadar as the evening light softens, feeling both refreshed and enriched by a day on the water.

Practical Details & Tips for Travelers

Pricing and Value: At $51 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with meaningful inclusions like meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and guided insights. Many reviews highlight it as “great value,” especially considering the number of stops and activities packed into the day.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, camera, and beachwear are essentials. Since some beaches are rocky, watershoes are recommended. Remember to bring cash for the park entrance tickets, priced at €16 for adults and €8 for children.

Accessibility & Parking: The boat isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but parking in Zadar can be managed with a bit of planning. The closest parking is limited to three hours, so opting for full-day parking options nearby, like Ravnice 2 or Ulica Domovinskog rata, is wise if you plan to arrive early or stay longer.

Weather & Cancellation: The tour can be canceled or rescheduled in bad weather, so it’s worth checking the forecast. Bookings are flexible, with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip from Zadar is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic cruising, swimming, and good food in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal if you’re looking to see some of Croatia’s most stunning islands without complicated logistics or long hikes. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it accessible and enjoyable.

While some may find the long boat ride tiring, most reviews emphasize the comfort and friendly crew, making it a peaceful way to see a lot in one day. The inclusion of local wine and a hearty Dalmatian lunch adds a touch of authenticity that enhances the experience.

For those wanting more guided commentary or less crowded spots, you might find this tour a bit too structured or busy. But for most, it strikes a solid balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural flavor.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children between 4 and 12 can join, with a reduced ticket price. Just note that the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, and rocky beaches require watershoes.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes breakfast, lunch, a welcome drink, water and juice, wine during lunch, snorkeling equipment, and two swimming stops.

How much are the park entrance tickets?
You need to buy tickets separately — €16 for adults and €8 for children — payable in cash before entering the parks.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, camera, beachwear, and watershoes if you plan to explore rocky beaches.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is there a guide during the tour?
Yes, an experienced English-speaking guide accompanies the trip and provides helpful information about the sights.

Are pets allowed onboard?
Yes, pets are welcome at no extra cost.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled in case of unsafe weather conditions, so keep an eye on the forecast and confirm your booking.

To sum it up, this Zadar-based boat tour offers a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s stunning Kornati archipelago and Telaica Nature Park. With a good balance of guided sightseeing, swimming, tasty local food, and relaxing sea views, it provides a memorable day out for those eager to experience Dalmatia’s natural beauty firsthand. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value comfort, authentic local flavors, and scenic landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

You can check availability for your dates here: