Zadar: Kornati and Telaica Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch

This experience made our article of 4 Must-Try Cruises And Boat Tours In Kornati National Park.

Zadar: Kornati and Telašćica Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch — A Detailed Review

Taking a boat trip through Croatia’s Kornati National Park and Telašćica Salt Lake is an experience many travelers find captivating. Based on countless reviews and detailed descriptions, this tour from Zadar offers a full day of scenic cruising, swimming, and delicious local food. It’s perfect for those who love nature, stunning coastlines, and engaging guides.

What we really like about this trip is how smoothly it combines adventure with comfort — you get plenty of time for swimming and picture-taking, all wrapped in an organized and friendly environment. Plus, the included lunch and wine turn what could be a simple boat ride into a genuine Croatian feast.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind: the tour involves a lot of time on the boat, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer long walks, this might not be your ideal adventure. Still, for lovers of the sea and scenic islands, this trip hits the mark.

This experience best suits travelers looking for an authentic, well-organized day out on the water, ready to relax, explore, and taste local cuisine in a spectacular setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Croatian islands, cliffs, and salt lakes
• Well-organized with plenty of swimming, sightseeing, and photo opportunities
• Includes breakfast and lunch, plus wine and aperitifs — good value for a full-day tour
• Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the area’s natural and cultural highlights
• Crowded stops at Telascica and Kornati might mean limited space for sunbathing or relaxing on land
• Dolphin sightings are a potential bonus, as several reviews highlight

What to Expect from This Tour

This full-day boat trip from Zadar is a blend of scenic cruising, natural wonders, and tasty meals onboard. It’s designed for travelers who want to experience the Croatian coast without the hassle of planning every detail.

The day begins early, with you meeting your captain at a designated spot depending on your booking. The boat is large, comfortable, and equipped with shaded areas and tables — ideal for enjoying the journey. After a quick welcome, you’ll start your cruise through the 109 islands that make up Kornati National Park.

The Journey to Kornati

The first part of the trip is a scenic ride across the Adriatic, giving you a chance to feel the wind in your hair and see the dramatic limestone cliffs and rolling grassy hills. The boat is well-suited for relaxed sightseeing, and the crew provides commentary about the islands and their geological features.

During the cruise, you’ll enjoy a breakfast sandwich—a simple but satisfying start, as many reviews mention. The boat’s size and the friendly atmosphere mean you can sit comfortably, chat with fellow travelers, and get ready for the day ahead.

Kornati National Park Stop

Once at Kornati, you’ll have time to explore. The islands are famous for their karst limestone formations and rugged cliffs, which are perfect for photography. Many travelers rave about the views, with some mentioning the opportunity to climb and take in the panoramic vistas.

Swimmers will love the chance to jump into the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing dip, with enough space to sunbathe or relax. Several reviews highlight the generous swimming time at Kornati, with some noting dolphin sightings, which add an extra touch of magic.

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Telascica Salt Lake & Bay

Later, the boat moves on to Telašćica Bay, known for its large salt lake and natural port with dozens of small beaches. The salt lake is a particular highlight: warmer than the sea and ideal for a dip. Many reviewers mention how the salt lake water feels different—more buoyant and warm—making it a memorable swimming experience.

While Telascica can be crowded, the surrounding cliffs and natural beauty make up for it. If you’re lucky, you might see some local birdlife, including the Croatian endemic species, and enjoy the stunning scenery of cliffs rising dramatically from the sea.

Food and Drinks

Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to a packed lunch, often featuring fish or chicken, with vegetarian options available if requested at booking. Many find the lunch simple but tasty, especially paired with Croatia’s excellent white wine and local aperitifs. Many reviews appreciate the generous and well-prepared meals, which give energy for the day’s activities.

Snacks and drinks are also available onboard, and many travelers enjoy relaxing with a glass of wine after their swim, making the trip feel more leisurely and authentic.

The Value of This Tour

At $51 per person, this trip offers good value considering the length, meals, and included guide. The price covers transportation, the guide, breakfast, lunch, and drinks, with just the $16 park entry fee additional. When you factor in the stunning landscapes, wildlife sightings, and cultural insights, it’s a worthwhile investment for a full day of Croatian nature.

Some reviews mention the tour’s crowd levels, especially at popular spots like Telascica, which can limit space for sunbathing or relaxing on land. The boat itself is described as comfortable and spacious, but it can get busy during peak season.

The tour’s organization is generally praised, though some mention that more detailed narration would enhance the experience. Still, the crew’s friendliness and the scenic stops more than compensate for this minor shortcoming.

Practical Tips for the Trip

Bring swimwear and towels for swimming in the sea and salt lake, and comfortable shoes if you want to explore on land — especially at the top of Kornati for views. Remember to carry cash for park fees and personal expenses, as well as sunscreen and hats to protect against the sun.

This tour isn’t suited for those with baby strollers or very young children, as the boat has restrictions and the terrain can be rocky. Expect a long day on the water, so prepare for some sitting and possibly some discomfort from the wooden benches.

Weather can influence the route, especially in April and May, with some reviews noting possible rescheduling for safety reasons. Dress appropriately for wind and potential wind chill, particularly if you plan to stay on the deck.

Authentic Experiences from Traveler Reviews

Many travelers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, who provide informative commentary and answer questions. The dolphin sightings are a recurring highlight—visitors seem to appreciate the chance to spot these graceful mammals.

The food gets generally positive mentions, with many calling the lunches “refreshing” and “well-prepared,” though some note that vegetarians should request options in advance. The wine and aperitifs often get high marks, especially after swimming or during relaxing moments onboard.

However, some mention that more detailed narration or a shorter waiting time for lunch would make the day even better. Still, most agree that the value for money is good, and the overall experience is memorable.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who love being on the water, scenic island landscapes, and swimming. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a full day of activities without strenuous hiking or overly complicated logistics.

Those interested in nature, wildlife, and photography will find plenty of opportunities here, especially with the dramatic cliffs and salt lakes. It’s also a great choice for wine lovers, as the onboard drinks elevate the experience.

Families with older children, couples, or groups of friends will find this trip relaxed and friendly. However, if you’re seeking long hikes or solitude, this might be a bit too crowded and busy.

The Sum Up

This full-day boat trip from Zadar to Kornati and Telašćica offers a solid balance of scenic beauty, comfortable transportation, and tasty Croatian cuisine. With knowledgeable guides, abundant swimming opportunities, and stunning island views, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to explore Croatia’s coast in one memorable day.

While some stops can be crowded, the overall feeling of being on the water, combined with the chance to see dolphins and enjoy a relaxed lunch with local wine, makes this tour worthwhile. It’s an authentic, well-organized experience that emphasizes natural beauty and Croatian hospitality.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water — with plenty of photo ops and good food — this trip is likely to meet your expectations. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring your sun gear and a healthy appetite for adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the boat journey, a guide, breakfast sandwich, packed lunch, and drinks including wine and aperitifs.

How much is the park entry fee?
The mandatory entry fee for Kornati National Park is €16 for adults and €8 for children (4-12 years), payable on-site.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable shoes for walking, cash for extras, and sunscreen.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be requested at booking, but it’s recommended to specify this when reserving your spot.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s better suited for older children and adults, as the boat doesn’t accommodate baby strollers, and some stops involve rocky terrain.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour may be rescheduled or routes altered during bad weather, especially in April and May, for safety reasons.

How long is the trip?
Expect around 6 hours on the boat, with stops at Kornati and Telašćica, plus time for swimming, eating, and sightseeing.

Will I see dolphins?
Some travelers report dolphin sightings, which can be a delightful surprise during the cruise.

Is the trip crowded?
During peak season, stops and the boat itself can be busy, which might limit space for relaxing on land or sunbathing.

You can check availability for your dates here: