Excursion to Kornati National Park from Zadar

Our review of the excursion to Kornati National Park from Zadar dives into what makes this tour a favorite among travelers—and where it might fall short. For those planning a day in the Dalmatian waters, this adventure promises a mix of stunning scenery, water fun, and Croatian charm.

What we love about this trip are the carefully curated stops that highlight the park’s natural beauty, and the inclusive nature of the experience—everything from breakfast to lunch, snorkeling gear to Wi-Fi, is thoughtfully arranged. A potential drawback is the size and vibe of the tour, which some might find a bit lively or crowded, especially if you prefer a more tranquil, private experience.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a lively social atmosphere, appreciate scenic boat rides, and want a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and good food—all at a reasonable price. If quiet solitude is your quest, you might prefer a private charter. But for those seeking a well-organized, fun-filled day with friendly guides and the chance to swim in crystal waters, this trip offers good value and authentic experiences.

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

Key Points

Stunning scenery and island views make this trip photogenic and memorable.
All-inclusive amenities like breakfast, lunch, and snorkeling gear simplify your planning.
Multiple stops provide a variety of activities—swimming, hiking, and sightseeing.
Friendly, multilingual guides help you get the most out of each location.
Group size capped at 22 travelers balances intimacy and social energy.
Good value for the price with many comments praising the quality of food and service.

What to Expect on This Kornati Adventure

This tour, priced around $95.91 per person, offers a full day of exploring Croatia’s Kornati Islands, famous for their rugged beauty and hundreds of tiny isles dotting the Adriatic. We found that the nine-hour journey is packed with stops, scenic views, and water-based activities.

Starting bright and early at 8:00 am from Zadar, the tour kicks off with a warm welcome aboard a vessel that’s described by many as well-equipped, with ample space for all guests. The use of a mobile ticket simplifies entry, and the group is kept small—no more than 22 people—so you won’t feel lost in the crowd.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look at Each Stop

Panoramic View of Kornati Crowns

Your day begins with a panoramic view of the Kornati cluster, giving you an immediate sense of the islands’ rugged beauty. The peaceful ascent offers a perfect introduction before the day’s activities.

Levrnaka Island and Lojena Beach

The first major stop is Levrnaka Island, famous for its clear waters and serene beaches. You’ll have about an hour here to swim and snorkel on Lojena Beach—an activity many reviews highlight as a highlight. Reviewers like Louise and Claire mention how much they appreciated the plenty of time to swim and enjoy the water, with reviews praising the crystal-clear waters and the chance to feed fish while snorkeling.

Fortress of Tureta and Scenic Walk

Next is a hike to the Fortress of Tureta, where you’ll get a panoramic view of the islands from a top vantage point. The 1-hour stop allows you to stretch your legs and take in the spectacular vistas. Many guests enjoy this as a chance to snap photos and appreciate the rugged coastline.

Lunch on Kornat Island

The highlight for many is the lunch on Kornat Island, where you’ll be treated to local cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere. The included meal is described as simple but tasty, with options for soft drinks and wine. Reviewers like Allison and Shelley appreciated the delicious lunch and the beautiful, remote setting. Many also noted the generosity of drinks and fresh fruit available throughout the day, adding to the value.

Additional Stops and Activities

Before heading back, there’s time for a short walk to a Byzantine church and fortress, offering a glimpse into the islands’ history and stunning views from the top. Some reviews mention the possibility of dolphin sightings, which adds an unexpectedly magical element to the trip.

Snorkeling, Swimming, and Water Fun

Every review emphasizes the importance of bringing your own swimsuit, towel, and shoes, as you’ll be swimming in pristine waters—a core part of this experience. Snorkeling equipment is provided, and many guests rave about the opportunities to jump off the boat and snorkel in the clear water. The boat’s design allows for easy access to the water, making each swim session relaxing and enjoyable.

Food and Beverage Service

The included breakfast on board and lunch are praised for their quality and presentation. Many reviewers comment on how well the crew manages food service, with fresh fruit, soft drinks, and even wine flowing throughout the day. However, some note that beer is not included, so if you’re a beer lover, you’ll need to purchase it separately.

The Guides and Crew

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides and crew. Aninka and Ivan are frequently praised for their professionalism and multilingual skills, helping guests feel comfortable and informed. A few reviews mention the guides’ caring attitude and willingness to answer questions, making the day feel more personalized.

The Group Dynamic and Atmosphere

Some travelers, like Louise and LesleyAnne, loved the friendly, lively vibe—perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to meet others. The boat’s small size fosters a more intimate setting, but some reviews, including the more critical ones, mention that the atmosphere can feel a bit unpolished or party-like at times, with guides and captain sometimes appearing overly relaxed or distracted.

For those who prefer a more professional, serene experience, this might be a slight downside. One review described the trip as resembling a “frat party,” with some guests feeling that the guides weren’t as attentive or professional as they could be, especially during the lunch and stopovers.

The Price and Overall Value

At roughly $95.91, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions—meals, snorkeling gear, park fees, and Wi-Fi—along with the expert guiding. Multiple reviews praise the quality of the food, the well-organized stops, and the staff’s friendliness. For many, the price point aligns well with the experience, especially given the stunning scenery and multiple swimming opportunities.

That said, if you’re someone who values quiet, private tours or prefers a more polished, less lively atmosphere, you may find this tour less suited to your taste. It’s definitely a social, energetic experience, which many reviews appreciate.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Remember to bring your own swimsuit, towel, and shoes suitable for hiking and water activities.
• Be prepared for a full day—a long, active experience, so dress comfortably.
• While water, soft drinks, and fruit are plentiful, beer is not included—bring your own if you want it.
• The group size is small enough to feel personal but large enough to enjoy social vibes.
• The tour departs promptly at 8:00 am, so plan to arrive a little early.
• The Wi-Fi onboard is a nice bonus if you want to share photos or stay connected.
• The lunch is usually simple but well-rated—perfect for refueling after swimming.
• If you’re after dolphin sightings, keep your eyes peeled—they’re a happy surprise for many guests.
• In case of bad weather, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled, and the policy allows full refunds if notified 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Kornati National Park trip offers a fun, scenic, and well-rounded day on the water. It’s especially well-suited for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who are comfortable in lively atmospheres and enjoy socializing while exploring stunning islands. The inclusive amenities and knowledgeable guides make it easier to relax and focus on the scenery and water activities.

If you’re looking for a quiet, private boat experience with a more refined vibe, or if you prefer a tour with less emphasis on social drinking and more on tranquility, this might not be the best fit. But if you want a value-packed day with plenty of swimming, scenery, and Croatian hospitality, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The trip runs for approximately 9 hours and 40 minutes, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Zadar in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get breakfast on board, park fees, lunch, a local guide, coffee, water, soft drinks, wine, snorkeling equipment, fresh fruit, and Wi-Fi.

Are there any additional costs?
Beer is not included, so if you want to sip a cold one, you’ll need to purchase it separately.

What should I bring?
Bring your own swimsuit, towel, and shoes suitable for swimming and walking. Sunscreen is also recommended.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews reflect a family-friendly vibe, although the lively atmosphere might suit more energetic groups.

How many people are on the tour?
The group is capped at 22 travelers, balancing a friendly environment with enough space for everyone.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect stunning views of hundreds of islands, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque coastlines—perfect for photography and relaxing.

Can I see dolphins?
Some guests have reported dolphin sightings during the trip, adding a magical touch to the experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In essence, this Kornati National Park trip from Zadar offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to experience Croatia’s stunning islands. It’s a great pick for those wanting a full day of water fun, friendly guides, and authentic Croatian charm.