Boat trip from Biograd na Moru to Kornati National Park

Exploring the Kornati Islands by Boat: An Honest Review

A boat trip through the Kornati archipelago from Biograd na Moru offers a blend of scenic beauty, relaxed island hopping, and local flavor. From what we’ve gathered, this tour captures the essence of Croatia’s maritime charm, making it a compelling choice for those eager to see some of the most iconic islands without spending a fortune. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, comfortable boat rides, and good food, all wrapped into one full-day adventure.

What we love most about this experience is the thoughtfully curated itinerary that combines scenic cruising with opportunities to swim and hike. The inclusion of local food and wine on board elevates the experience, giving travelers a taste of Croatian hospitality. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the limited free time at each stop—if you’re eager to explore every corner, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a hassle-free, well-organized day on the water, with plenty of chances to relax, take photos, and enjoy authentic flavors. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy a guided experience but want flexibility within a structured day. Let’s explore what makes this trip a good option and where it might fall short.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Combines boat cruising, swimming, hiking, and delicious Croatian food.
• Great Value: At approximately $59 per person, it offers a comprehensive day in Kornati with meals, drinks, and scenic views included.
• Authentic Flavors: Enjoy local Croatian wine during lunch and fresh fruits in the morning.
• Flexible Stops: Swim at Lojena beach, hike to Veli vrh, and visit other scenic spots, all within a well-structured day.
• Comfortable Transportation: A well-equipped boat with Wi-Fi, experienced local captain, and a friendly crew.
• Some Time Constraints: Each stop is brief, so those eager to explore every island on foot might find it a bit rushed.

Overview of the Experience: What to Expect

This full-day boat trip from Biograd na Moru is designed to give a taste of Croatia’s Kornati islands without the fuss of separate arrangements. Starting early at 8:20 a.m., you’ll board the vessel Sveti Ante, a comfortable boat that acts as your moving base. The journey itself sets a relaxed tone, with the captain sharing insights about landmarks like the fish farm Koara and Velika Proversa, adding a touch of local storytelling to the scenic cruise.

The itinerary is carefully planned to maximize your time in the park while keeping the pace manageable. The first stop, Uvala Tomasovac, offers a chance to enjoy the beach, indulge in a drink at Suha Punta tavern, or go for a short hike. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for unwinding after the morning’s travel. The brief stop here (about 1 hour 30 minutes) is enough for a quick swim or a stroll, but don’t expect extensive exploration.

Next, you’ll visit Levrnaka Island, home to Lojena Beach, where you’ll have roughly an hour and a half to swim in the clear waters or hike up to Veli vrh, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding islets. This hike is optional but highly recommended for those wanting a little adventure and fantastic photo opportunities. The beach is sandy and inviting, making it an ideal spot for relaxing in the sun.

The final segment involves sailing through more islands and rocky bays, with commentary from your captain about the history and geology of the area. This part of the trip is more about the journey than stops, giving you time to enjoy the scenery, sip Croatian wine, and take photographs. The voyage concludes back in Biograd na Moru around 6:30 p.m.

The Highlights: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Scenic Cruising and Authentic Views

The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly the stunning scenery. Passing by jagged cliffs, peaceful bays, and rocky meadows, the views are postcard-perfect. The route is designed to show off the best of the Kornati archipelago without the need for multiple boat transfers or land visits, making it a practical way to see these iconic islands.

Swimming and Hiking Opportunities

The stops at Uvala Tomasovac and Lojena Beach provide plenty of chances to cool off in the remarkably clear waters. The sandy bay of Lojena is especially appreciated by travelers, offering a gentle entry into the sea after the boat ride. The hike to Veli vrh offers a rewarding vantage point, with views that showcase the rugged beauty of the islands.

Food and Beverage

The onboard culinary experience is simple but satisfying. The included breakfast sandwich with ham and cheese fuels you up for the day, while the lunch of grilled fish and chicken paired with salads and bread satisfies the hunger that comes with a full day on the water. The wine, a notable feature, is served freely during lunch, and the overall quality of the food is generally appreciated. Reviewers mentioned the delicious food, good wine, and friendly service, making mealtime a highlight rather than a chore.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Travelers consistently mention the friendly, knowledgeable crew. One review highlights how the captain and team are welcoming and attentive, creating a relaxed atmosphere that encourages enjoyment. The boat’s Wi-Fi is a nice touch, allowing you to share your photos or check messages during the voyage.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Pricing and Value

At $59.07 per person, this tour offers a good balance of price and experience. It includes meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, a knowledgeable captain, and all taxes. Comparing the cost to the value of scenic views, swimming, and local food, most travelers find it quite reasonable. The entrance fee to the parks (15 euros for adults, 10 euros for children) is extra and payable on the boat, which is standard for such excursions.

Duration and Group Size

The day runs approximately 10 hours, with a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but not overcrowded environment. Most participants find this length appropriate—long enough to enjoy multiple stops but not so lengthy as to become tiring.

Meeting Point and Timing

Starting at 8:20 a.m. from Biograd na Moru, you’ll need to arrive early but the organized check-in process helps keep things smooth. The return is back at the original meeting point, so plan your day accordingly.

Accessibility and Comfort

The boat is equipped with comfortable seating and Wi-Fi, but small children can sit on top of adults or bring a stroller on board. Only adults over 18 can participate in wine and alcoholic drinks, which is typical and helps keep the atmosphere relaxed.

Important Considerations

• Timing: Each stop is brief—if you’re eager to spend hours on land, this may not be your ideal trip.
• Booking: Confirmations are fast, and free cancellations up to 24 hours before are available, providing peace of mind.
• Language and Service: One review mentions a slightly brusque greeting, but most find the crew friendly and knowledgeable.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This boat trip is best suited for travelers who want a relaxing day of island scenery, swimming, and good food without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided tours with a touch of local flavor and are comfortable with a structured schedule. If you’re passionate about hiking or exploring every island in detail, you might find the brief stops limiting, but for most, the balance of cruising, swimming, and dining makes it an excellent value.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Biograd na Moru to Kornati National Park offers a well-rounded introduction to Croatia’s stunning islands. The combination of scenic cruising, opportunities for swimming and hiking, wholesome Croatian cuisine, and friendly crew make it an attractive option for many travelers. It’s not a deep exploration, but rather a beautifully packaged taste of the Kornati archipelago’s natural beauty and local hospitality.

For those who appreciate authentic, straightforward experiences, this trip delivers on its promises—beautiful views, good food, and relaxed atmosphere. Just remember, if you’re eager to spend hours exploring every nook of the islands, a more specialized or longer tour might suit you better. For most, this boat trip strikes a fine balance between adventure and comfort.

FAQ Section

Is the tour suitable for small children?
Yes, small babies can sit on top of adults or be carried in strollers, but it’s best suited for slightly older children who can enjoy swimming or short hikes.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes breakfast, lunch with grilled fish and chicken, free wine with lunch, fresh fruits, water, soda, Wi-Fi, and the services of a local captain and crew. Entrance fees to parks are extra.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, starting at 8:20 a.m. and ending back at the meeting point in Biograd na Moru.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. You get a full refund if you cancel in time.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available if you notify the provider in advance.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers love the scenic views, swimming at Lojena Beach, the hiking opportunity to Veli vrh, and the delicious Croatian wine paired with lunch.

Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, the boat offers free Wi-Fi during the trip.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 50 participants, providing a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs; the main extra is the park entrance fee payable on the boat.

Is it easy to find the meeting point?
Yes, the starting point is clearly located at Obala kralja Petra Kreimira IV 18, Biograd na Moru.

Whether you’re after spectacular views, a relaxed day on the water, or a taste of local Croatian flavors, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience the Kornati islands.