From Zadar Kornati and Telascica National Park Cruise with Lunch

Introduction

If you’re considering a day trip from Zadar that combines breathtaking scenery with a taste of Dalmatian hospitality, the From Zadar Kornati and Telašćica National Park Cruise with Lunch might just fit the bill. This tour promises an 9.5-hour adventure across shimmering waters, exploring two of Croatia’s most iconic maritime parks—Telašćica and Kornati—while enjoying locally inspired food and drinks onboard.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances nature exploration with relaxed comfort. You’ll visit Telašćica’s peaceful bays and salt lakes, and then sail through the “tears of God,” the stunning Kornati archipelago, with its scattered islands and rocky formations. Plus, the included lunch with grilled fish and local wine elevates the experience from just a boat trip to a taste of Dalmatian life.

A minor consideration is the longer travel time between Zadar and the parks—around 2.5 hours each way—which can feel tiring if you’re short on time or prefer shorter excursions. But if you’re eager to see these natural treasures and don’t mind a bit of sailing, this tour offers a solid, value-packed way to do so.

This trip suits travelers who love nature, enjoy group boat adventures, and want to experience Croatian cuisine in a setting that’s equal parts scenic and social. Families, couples, and curious explorers will all find something to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: The tour visits Telašćica Nature Park and Kornati National Park, both renowned for their dramatic landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
• Inclusion of Food and Drink: The onboard lunch features grilled fish, chicken, salad, and local wine, making it a relaxing culinary highlight.
• Good Value: At $65.63 per person, the tour includes snorkeling gear, WiFi, water, juice, and wine, offering a comprehensive experience.
• Long Travel Time: The round-trip journey can be quite lengthy—about 2.5 hours each way—something to consider for those on a tight schedule.
• Flexible Ticketing: You pay park entrance fees separately, which means you can choose to skip or extend your time at each park.
• Family Friendly: The boat is noted to be suitable for children, and reviews praise its family-friendly atmosphere.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Telašćica Nature Park

Starting your day at Telašćica Nature Park is like stepping into a calmer, greener world. Known for its salt lakes, peaceful beaches, and steep cliffs, it’s a favorite among nature lovers. We loved the way the tour highlights the park’s abundance of flora and fauna, with 2500 hours of sunshine annually making the landscape glow.

On arrival, you can take a swim in the salty lake, climb the cliffs for panoramic views, or relax on empty beaches. One reviewer mentioned, “The home to an abundance of flora and fauna, the place where peaceful beaches meet the steep cliffs, where the forests gently greet the barren rock.” That’s a pretty accurate description—you’ll feel a sense of tranquility here, away from crowded tourist spots.

However, note that tickets for Telašćica, which cost €8 for children and €16 for adults, are paid in cash at the entrance. This means you’ll want to have some local currency on hand if you plan to explore more. The tour doesn’t include admission so you can decide how long you’d like to spend here.

Lunch on the Boat

Around mid-morning, the boat sets sail again, and it’s time for lunch. This is one of the tour’s highlights—sitting on the deck or inside, enjoying a freshly prepared meal of grilled fish and chicken, complemented by a crisp salad. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if requested.

Guests frequently mention the quality of the meal and the local wine, which is served freely during lunch. One review noted, “Dining on a boat is an experience that is special on its own, but it reaches another level when served with Dalmatian dishes and a good glass of local wine.” The food is simple but authentic, giving a genuine taste of Dalmatian hospitality.

Kornati National Park: The Pearls of the Sea

The most dramatic part of the journey is the visit to Kornati National Park, often called “The Tears of God” by locals. The tour offers about 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the islands, which are scattered like white pearls across the sea. You’ll see impressive rock formations, hidden coves, and the stark beauty of this rocky archipelago.

The views here are truly stunning, and the boat cruise offers ample opportunities for snorkeling and photography. The waters are crystal-clear, inviting a quick dip to escape the summer heat. Many travelers remark that the islands’ beauty is hard to describe and even harder to capture fully in photos.

However, some reviews express disappointment with the entry fee—€16 for adults—feeling it’s steep for what many consider a very minimal “beach” or “scenic stop.” One reviewer stated, “There’s literally nothing to see there,” suggesting that the park feels more like a scenic photo-op than a full-day adventure. Still, if you love rock formations and secular islands, this stop offers great value.

Practical Aspects and What You Need to Know

Transportation and Timing

The tour departs bright and early at 8:30 AM from Vrata Sv. Roka in Zadar, giving you plenty of time to settle in and meet your group. The boat is described as accommodating up to 150 travelers, so it tends to be a lively, social environment.

The return to Zadar is around 6:00 PM, which makes for a long but rewarding day. The 2.5-hour sail each way might seem like a lot, but it’s part of the experience—giving you ample time to relax, take in the views, and enjoy the onboard amenities.

Group Size and Comfort

While the boat can carry a sizable group, reviews suggest that the experience is generally positive, with many appreciating the family-friendly atmosphere and professional organization. WiFi is available onboard, offering a chance to share photos or check messages without leaving the boat.

Cost Breakdown and Value

For $65.63 per person, the tour includes snorkeling equipment, WiFi, water, juice, and wine during lunch. The main extra expense is the park entrance tickets, which you pay separately—€8 for children and €16 for adults. Considering the included amenities and the chance to see scenic islands and protected parks, many find this to be an excellent value.

What the Reviews Say

While some reviews praise the stunning views and delicious food, others point out disappointments—notably the long travel times and limited time at each stop. One reviewer mentioned, “No explanation during the visit. No comment. Just a boat trip,” highlighting that the tour is more about the scenery than in-depth guided commentary.

Conversely, another visitor called it a “fantastic experience,” especially appreciating its family-friendly setup and beautiful beaches.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This cruise offers a beautiful and relaxing way to see some of Croatia’s most famous islands and parks. If you’re eager to enjoy stunning scenery, good food, and a comfortable boat, and don’t mind the longer travel times, this trip provides great value. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a full day of outdoor adventure combined with culinary delights.

However, if your schedule is tight or you prefer shorter excursions with more in-depth exploration, you might find the 2.5-hour boat ride each way a bit exhausting. Also, those expecting a guided tour with detailed commentary might be disappointed, as the trip is more about sightseeing and relaxing.

This tour is a solid choice for nature lovers and families looking to experience the Croatian coast in a laid-back, enjoyable manner. With its scenic beauty, tasty lunch, and friendly atmosphere, it promises a memorable day on the Adriatic—just keep your expectations aligned with the real pace and style of this adventure.

FAQ

Do I need to buy tickets for Telašćica or Kornati?
Yes, tickets for Telašćica are purchased in cash at the entrance, costing €8 for children and €16 for adults. The Kornati entrance fee is €16 for adults, which you pay separately on site.

Is the lunch included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes a lunch with grilled fish and chicken, salad, and free wine during lunch. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if requested.

How long is the boat trip each way?
Travel time to and from Zadar is approximately 2.5 hours each way, which is a significant part of the day but allows for a relaxing cruise with onboard amenities.

Can children participate?
Absolutely. The boat is described as family-friendly, and reviews mention children enjoying the trip, especially the beaches and snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel for swimming. Having some cash for entrance fees is recommended, as well as anything you want to buy at the parks.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, WiFi is available on the boat, making it easier to share your photos or check messages during the trip.

How much free time do we get at each stop?
You’ll have about 2 hours at Telašćica and 1 hour 30 minutes at Kornati, which is enough for swimming, quick exploration, and photos but not for extensive sightseeing.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

To sum it up, this boat cruise from Zadar offers a scenic, food-filled day that showcases Croatia’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy relaxing on the water, exploring islands, and sampling local flavors. While the long travel times and minimal guided commentary may not suit everyone, the stunning vistas and authentic experience make it a worthwhile outing for most.