Private Speedboat tour to National Park Kornati Islands

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Croatia’s famed Kornati Islands, this private speedboat tour promises an intimate, flexible adventure through one of the country’s most stunning maritime regions. While we haven’t personally cruised these waters, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s an experience that combines stunning scenery, personalized service, and authentic island life.

What we love is the chance to escape crowded tourist spots and enjoy quiet bays, as well as the opportunity to tailor the day to your interests—whether that’s swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the views. A potential consideration is the cost—at over $200 per person—though the value is evident when you factor in the private, customizable nature of the trip and the included equipment.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy water activities, and want a flexible, private experience rather than a large-group cruise. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a memorable day in the Croatian islands.

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

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience allows you to tailor stops and activities.
• Stunning scenery and peaceful spots away from crowded beaches.
• Includes snorkeling gear and bottled water, making water activities straightforward.
• Additional options for visiting Telascica Bay or enjoying local seafood (own expense).
• Well-rated guides ensure a smooth, informative day on the water.
• Good value for a full-day, personalized adventure with flexible timing.

A Closer Look at the Private Speedboat Tour to Kornati Islands

The Essence of the Tour

This Croatian adventure involves a private speedboat that whisks you across the shimmering waters to explore the Kornati Islands National Park, a collection of 89 islands, islets, and reefs that create a true nautical paradise. The tour is designed for those who want to avoid the crowds and experience the islands in a relaxed, personalized way.

With an average booking lead time of 67 days and a rating of 5.0 from 57 reviews, this experience has quickly become a favorite among travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path island adventures. The cost is around $203.82 per person, which, when considering the private nature and included equipment, offers a solid value for those craving a tailored day on the water.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at the Zadar Marina—a convenient starting point for travelers staying in Zadar—and kicks off at 9:00 am. You’re greeted by your skipper, who is not only a driver but also a guide, making your journey both smooth and informative.

Stop 1: Kornati Islands National Park
Here’s where most of the magic happens. The park’s reputation as a “nautical paradise” is well-deserved. The tour focuses on the northern part of the park, offering highlights like Lojena Bay on Levrnaka Island, where you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters that are often praised by visitors.

The reviews paint a picture of a peaceful experience: “Ivan was a great driver/guide and took us to quiet places to hike, swim, and snorkel away from the tourist masses,” notes a satisfied guest. This suggests that your guide’s local knowledge aims to find those hidden gems, away from the crowds.

Mana Island and Fortress
The visit to Mana Island includes a glimpse of its fortress, offering a touch of history amid natural beauty. This adds a subtle layer of Croatian culture and history that enriches the experience without overwhelming it.

Swimming and Snorkeling
Expect plenty of time in the water. The snorkel equipment is provided, allowing you to explore the underwater world—home to colorful fish and intriguing rock formations. Our sources highlight that travelers appreciated the “relaxing swimming and snorkeling opportunities,” making this a true highlight of the day.

Optional Extensions: Telascica Bay

For those wanting more, there’s an extension option to visit Telascica Bay, another Croatian highlight. Known for its dramatic cliffs and tranquil waters, this bay is a designated nature park and a perfect addition for nature lovers. The entry fee for Telascica is an additional 60 euros per booking, but it promises an even more scenic, peaceful experience.

Food and Drinks

While the tour includes bottled water and snorkeling masks, you’ll need to bring your own lunch or plan to dine at a local restaurant (not included). Some reviews mention that a seafood lunch or local tapas could elevate the experience—so if you’re a foodie, consider packing a picnic or asking your guide for restaurant recommendations.

The Benefits of a Private Tour

The private nature of this experience means you get to decide the pace and focus. Whether you want more swimming, exploring, or simply relaxing, your skipper accommodates your preferences.

This flexibility is a huge plus, especially for travelers who prefer to avoid large groups and enjoy a more intimate connection with the environment. The reviews underscore this as a major advantage, with guests noting how guides took them to quiet spots to avoid tourist crowds.

Practical Details: What It Means for You

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you a full day to explore without feeling rushed. The meeting point at the Zadar Marina is accessible and easy to find, and the activity ends back at the start.

The cost includes the skipper fee, boat rental, snorkeling masks, and bottled water—adding to the convenience and value. However, there’s a national park entry fee of 60 euros per booking and a fuel surcharge of 160 euros per booking—fees that are typical for such excursions and worth considering in your overall budget.

What Travelers Say

Reviews reveal a consistent appreciation for the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery. One reviewer said, “We loved the way the guide took us to quiet places away from tourist crowds,” and another noted the “relaxing swimming and snorkeling opportunities.”

The flexibility and personalized approach seem to stand out as the main strengths—guests often mention how the guides listen to their ideas and adapt the itinerary accordingly.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers who want a private, tailored day on the water. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or families seeking a peaceful escape from busy tourist sites. If you enjoy water activities like snorkeling and swimming and appreciate authentic scenery without the hustle of crowded beaches, this trip fits the bill.

However, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer a more structured, group-based tour, you might want to compare other options. But for those seeking personalized service in one of Croatia’s most beautiful archipelagos, this private speedboat tour offers a compelling combination of scenery, flexibility, and comfort.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Given the glowing reviews, the excellent ratings, and the detailed itinerary, this private speedboat trip offers significant value for those wanting an authentic Croatian island experience. You get to customize your day, avoid the crowds, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Kornati Islands at your own pace.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear, the opportunity to explore quiet bays and historic sites, and the chance to extend your adventure to Telascica Bay make this a well-rounded and memorable day. It’s a solid choice for travelers who prioritize quality, flexibility, and immersive experiences over purely economical options.

If you’re looking for a day of relaxation, exploration, and stunning scenery in Croatia, this tour could very well be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at Speed Boat Zadar, located at Ul. Ivana Metrovia 3 in Zadar, Croatia.

What time does the tour begin?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, and you can choose a time that works best for you when booking.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, providing plenty of time to explore, swim, and relax.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the skipper fee, boat rental, snorkeling masks, and bottled water. You will need to pay extra for national park entry and optional extensions.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, there are additional fees such as the national park entry fee of 60 euros per booking and a fuel surcharge of 160 euros per booking. Optional Telascica Bay extension costs 60 euros per booking.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks, or you can opt to be taken to a local restaurant.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is private, so it’s well-suited for small groups or families.

What about weather considerations?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I extend the tour to visit Telascica Bay?
Yes, you can extend the itinerary for an additional fee, which includes exploring this beautiful nature park.

This private speedboat tour to Kornati Islands offers a personalized, scenic, and flexible way to experience one of Croatia’s hidden gems. Whether you’re after tranquility, adventure, or a bit of both, it delivers a memorable day on the water in a setting few places can rival.