Planning a day on the water exploring Croatia’s spectacular islands can be a highlight of any Dalmatian holiday. This boat tour from Preko offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful spots in the Kornati archipelago and Telašćica Nature Park — a trip that promises stunning scenery, swimming, and a taste of local flavors.
While there’s plenty to love—particularly the breathtaking vistas, salt lake swim, and fresh seafood—the experience isn’t without its snags. Limited time at each stop and some logistical quirks mean it’s best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed day of cruising, photo opportunities, and a taste of island life.
If you appreciate beautiful coastlines, enjoy a good boat ride, and want to combine sightseeing with a swim, this tour could be just right. However, if you prefer a more in-depth exploration or are sensitive to crowded spaces, you might want to consider other options or prepare for a busy, slightly rushed day.
This experience made our article of Our 4 Favorite Preko Tours & Experiences.
Key Points
- Stunning Views: The scenery along this route is truly exceptional, with dramatic cliffs, salt lakes, and panoramic island vistas.
- Good Value: With breakfast, lunch, and guided commentary included, the $65 price offers reasonable value—especially considering the beautiful locations.
- Swim & Relax: Several swim stops in crystal-clear waters give you time to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty.
- Limited Time at Stops: Many travelers find the allocated time for exploring and swimming to be a bit brief, often leaving a desire for more.
- Organizational quirks: From crowded boarding to short delays, some guests mention logistical hiccups, but nothing that ruins the overall experience.
- Authentic, Uncrowded Spots: You’ll visit less touristy areas like Lake Mir and a secluded stone church, offering genuine moments away from crowds.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
Planning more time in Preko? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Itinerary
The adventure begins at Preko harbor early in the morning. You’ll be greeted by a friendly crew who will set the tone for the day. From there, the boat departs, and you’ll enjoy a welcome drink and a ham and cheese sandwich, a simple yet satisfying start as you glide past islands like Mrtovac and Mana. This initial sail offers a chance to settle in and soak up the sea breeze.
Telašćica Nature Park
The first major stop is Telašćica Nature Park, known for its peaceful, protected bay and high cliffs. Travelers love the chance to walk up to the 150-meter-high cliffs for spectacular, sweeping views of the sea and islands. The salt lake, Lake Mir, is a highlight—an unusual salty body of water that feels more like a natural swimming pool than a lake, sitting beautifully between rocky hills and the sea.
Many reviews highlight the tranquil beauty of this area, with some guests remarking on the short time available—about 1.5 hours—which can feel rushed. Still, the chance to swim in Lake Mir or simply relax with a drink is a big plus. One reviewer mentions, “The views are definitely a plus. There’s not much time at the stops, and this time has been shortened even more compared to the original plan,” emphasizing how time constraints can impact the experience.
Kornati Islands
Next, the boat heads toward Kornat Island, the core of the national park. Here, you’ll visit a small stone church tucked away in the rugged landscape and climb up to an old fortress that offers panoramic views across the archipelago. The landscape feels raw and untouched—ideal for photography and quiet reflection.
The lunch break is another key part of this tour. You’ll enjoy grilled fish or chicken with salad and a glass of wine, which many find to be good quality for the price. As one traveler notes, “The food was good but the portions were tiny,” a reminder that portions may leave some wanting more, especially after a morning of exploration and swimming.
More Great Tours NearbySwimming and Free Time
A major draw of this tour is jumping into the crystal-clear waters—some stops are perfect for swimming from the boat, so bring your water shoes and enjoy the refreshing dip. “Jumping off the boat into the water was unforgettable,” shares a guest, capturing the appeal of this activity. The water’s clarity and calmness make it a perfect way to cool off and connect with nature.
The Return Journey
After several hours of sightseeing and swimming, you’ll cruise back toward Preko, often in the late afternoon. The return trip lasts around 3 hours, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day. Some reviews mention delays or shorter stops, often due to crowding or weather, but most agree that the scenery and experience outweigh these minor inconveniences.
Practical Details and What to Expect
Included & Not Included
The tour includes a guide, breakfast, lunch, a welcome drink, and insurance. You’ll need to pay the €16 park entry fee (discounted for children) directly at the park entrances. The bar on board offers additional drinks, but guests should be prepared to bring cash — some reviews noted card payments aren’t always available.
Meeting Point and Timing
The tour begins at Preko harbor, near the “Dado” cafe bar. It’s important to arrive a bit early to ensure a spot, especially since some reviews mention that the boat can get crowded. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making it straightforward to plan your day.
What to Bring
Remember to pack your sun hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and water shoes. Since the tour involves boat transfers and outdoor exploration, these essentials will keep you comfortable. Note that strollers are not allowed, so plan accordingly if traveling with young children.
Weather & Cancellation Policy
This tour is weather-dependent; cancellations are possible if conditions are unsafe. If that happens, you can reschedule or get a full refund—something to keep in mind if you’re planning around unpredictable weather.
Authentic Traveler Perspectives
Guests’ reviews paint a realistic picture of the trip. Some mention crowded boarding and short stops—“There were no more seats outside, so the people who got on at the end were the ones who got the short end of the stick,” shares one. Others appreciate the stunning scenery, with comments like “The views make up for all the downsides,” and “We saw a dolphin quite by accident,” showing unexpected delights.
Many travelers are divided on the value, with some feeling the experience is a bit pricey considering the limited time at each stop. However, most agree that the scenery and swimming opportunities are the main attractions worth savoring.
The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This boat trip from Preko is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed day of scenic cruising, swimming, and light exploration. If you love beautiful coastlines, don’t mind a busy schedule, and want to sample local Croatian cuisine amid spectacular views, this tour fits the bill.
It’s a good choice if you’re looking for value for money, especially since breakfast and lunch are included, and you get to see some of Dalmatia’s best natural spots without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.
However, if you prefer more time at each location or want to explore islands at a slower pace, you might find this tour a little rushed. Those sensitive to crowds or with mobility constraints should also consider the logistical challenges some reviews mention.
This trip offers a beautiful snapshot of Croatia’s islands, with enough highlights to make it memorable—and plenty of opportunities for that perfect photo or refreshing swim. Just be ready for a lively, busy day, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories to tell.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
Strollers are not allowed, so if you’re traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. However, older kids who enjoy boat rides and swimming could have a good time.
How long does the entire trip last?
The full-day tour lasts from morning until late afternoon, with around 1.5 hours at Telašćica, a few hours at Kornat, and a 3-hour return cruise.
Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast (ham and cheese sandwich) and a set lunch (grilled fish or chicken with salad and wine) are part of the package.
What’s the main scenery highlight?
Expect stunning views of cliffs, salt lakes, and the rugged landscapes of Kornati and Telašćica. Swimmers will love the clear waters and salt lake.
How crowded does it get?
Some reviews mention that the boat can fill up, especially with last-minute bookings or at peak times, leading to limited seating and quick stops.
Can I pay for extra drinks onboard?
Yes, but funds should be in cash, as card payments might not always be available at the bar.
Is it weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling for safety reasons.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water shoes, a towel, and beachwear to make the most of swimming stops and outdoor exploration.
📍 This experience made our list of the 4 best Tours & Experiences in Preko