Kornati – hidden bay & Telascica from Zadar

Introduction

If you’re looking to explore some of Croatia’s most breathtaking maritime scenery without the hassle of planning every detail, a day trip to Kornati National Park and Telascica Nature Park from Zadar might be just what you need. This tour, offered by Gostilje boat, promises a blend of stunning island views, opportunities for swimming and hiking, and a taste of local Croatian cuisine.

What we love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with convenience—the included park entry fees, a generous lunch, and drinks make it a solid value. Plus, the flexible free time at Telascica allows you to customize your visit. On the flip side, some travelers have found the boat crowded or the day slightly long, so it’s worth considering whether those factors matter to you.

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic boat rides, and relaxed atmospheres. It’s especially suited for those who want a taste of Croatia’s famous islands without spending days on multiple tours. If you’re okay with a busy day that involves a lot of cruising and a modest amount of hiking and swimming, this tour offers authentic flavor with a comfortable twist.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Offers breathtaking views of cliffs, reefs, and salt lakes, making it perfect for photography lovers.
• Flexible Free Time: Plenty of time to swim or explore Telascica at your own pace.
• Included Meals & Drinks: Enjoy a Croatian breakfast and grilled lunch, complemented by local wine or soft drinks.
• Value for Money: Combines park entry fees, meals, and drinks into a competitive price, providing a hassle-free experience.
• Group Size & Atmosphere: Typically operates with up to 50 travelers, which can feel intimate or bustling depending on your preferences.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the guides, food, and scenery, some mention boat crowding and short park visits.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Departure and Arrival

You’ll meet the boat promptly at Gostilje Boat Excursions in Zadar at 8:00 am. The boat, named Gostilje, is a wooden vessel that’s described as cozy but capable of handling up to 50 passengers. The early start means you’ll beat the worst of the crowds and enjoy a full day of sights.

First Stop: Telascica Nature Park

The tour begins with a two-hour stop at Telascica, a stunning natural area renowned for its dramatic cliffs, salt lake (Mir), and scenic walking trails. According to reviews, the viewpoint overlooking the cliffs is truly spectacular, with many visitors capturing Instagram-worthy shots. One key highlight here is the salt lake Mir, where you can float effortlessly due to its high salinity—a perfect photo opportunity and a relaxing break.

Travelers often mention the well-organized free time to swim in the clear waters or hike around the park. The salt lake walk is a must, offering a picturesque stroll around this unusual feature. However, be aware that an entrance fee for the park (15 euros per person) is paid cash on the boat, so budget accordingly.

Second Stop: Kornat Island for a Hidden Bay

Next, you’ll land on Kornat Island, where there’s no infrastructure—no water, electricity, or ferry service. This “Robinson Crusoe” setting is ideal for those craving authentic, untouched nature. You’ll spend approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes here, indulging in a mouth-watering grilled lunch of meat and fish, served with salads and bread.

Multiple reviews highlight the quality of the meal, with many praising the freshly grilled seafood and meat. The drinks, including Croatian wine and soft drinks, are available throughout the day, making the experience leisurely and enjoyable. One guest remarked, “The food was good and the soft and alcoholic drinks too. It was worth the price and the trip,” emphasizing the value.

Returning Journey

After lunch, the boat heads back to Zadar, allowing some time for rest and more scenic views. The total tour duration is roughly 10 hours, offering a full but manageable day of exploration.

What You Can Expect in Practice

Scenery and Photography: The combination of cliffs, reefs, salt lakes, and secluded bays provides excellent opportunities for photography. The clear waters and dramatic landscapes are often described as breathtaking, especially from the boat’s upper deck.

Comfort and Capacity: While some reviews mention the boat being crowded—up to 60 people at certain times—others say it’s spacious enough for comfort, particularly on the upper deck. The boat has two decks, with the upper offering better views and space for sunbathing, though some travelers found this area crowded.

Food and Drinks: Included in the tour are breakfast ham and cheese sandwiches, plus a substantial grilled lunch. Many reviews praise the quality, though a few mention that the fish and chicken can be dry or bland—so don’t expect gourmet fare, but rather solid, decent Croatian cuisine. Drinks are available throughout the day, including unlimited water, soda, and local wine, which helps keep everyone refreshed.

Guide and Organization: The guides are generally described as friendly and knowledgeable, managing the logistics well. A well-organized schedule and clear instructions contribute to a smooth experience. However, some reviews note that timing can be tight, especially at the second park, which can feel rushed for those wanting more time for swimming or exploring.

Crowd and Atmosphere: For travelers who prefer intimate, peaceful experiences, the size of the boat and the number of travelers might be a drawback. One reviewer noted that the boat wasn’t as spacious as hoped, with limited room to sunbathe or relax on deck.

The Price and its Value

At around $66 per person, this tour offers a lot: park entry fees, meals, drinks, and transportation—all bundled into one. Many reviews confirm the experience is good value for money, especially when considering the included meals and scenic stops. For those seeking a hassle-free way to see Croatia’s islands and parks without additional fees or planning, this tour hits the mark.

However, some travelers felt that the day could be longer or that the boat ride was slow and lengthy. If you’re prone to motion sickness or dislike long boat rides, it’s worth considering these factors. But overall, the consensus is that the experience is worthwhile, particularly if you enjoy guided outdoor adventures and scenic boat trips.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery, swimming, and casual hiking. It’s a good choice for those who want a family-friendly outing or a social atmosphere, given the group size. If you’re after luxury or solitude, this might not be the best fit, as some reviews note crowded spaces and a busy schedule.

It’s also ideal for first-time visitors to Croatia who want a broad taste of the islands’ beauty without multiple bookings or logistical headaches. Foodies and wine lovers will appreciate the Croatian wine served during lunch, and nature lovers will enjoy the salt lakes and cliffs.

The Sum Up

This Kornati and Telascica boat tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, good food, and relaxed exploration. The inclusion of park fees, meals, and drinks makes it a practical choice for travelers looking for value, while the scenery and free time at Telascica ensure a memorable experience.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic boat rides, authentic Croatian landscapes, and a friendly atmosphere, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. Its main appeal lies in the breathtaking views and the opportunity to swim and hike—without the fuss of organizing transportation or meals yourself.

However, if you prefer more solitude, a longer park visit, or a less crowded boat, you might want to consider other options or prepare for a slightly busier day. Still, for many, this tour provides a solid introduction to Croatia’s stunning islands and parks, capturing the essence of what makes the Dalmatian coast so special.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride to the parks?
The entire trip lasts about 10 hours, with a significant portion spent cruising between Zadar, Telascica, and Kornati.

Are meals included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast ham and cheese sandwiches and a grilled lunch of meat and fish with salads and bread.

Do I need to pay for park entry fees?
Yes, the entry fees for Kornati and Telascica parks are paid cash on the boat and are approximately 15 euros per person.

Is there enough time to swim and explore?
Yes, the tour provides plenty of free time, especially at Telascica, where you can swim, walk, and take photos. However, some reviews mention the time is somewhat limited, especially on Kornati.

How crowded does the boat get?
Some travelers find the boat crowded, especially on the upper deck, with up to 60 people. It’s best to arrive early if you want more space.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
The tour supplies all food and drinks included in the price. Bringing additional snacks or beverages is not specified, but it’s worth checking if you have specific needs.

This tour balances the allure of Croatia’s legendary islands with practical comforts, making it a worthwhile choice for those eager to see the coastline’s highlights with minimal fuss.