SURPRISE TOUR KORNATI & TELASCICA Boat Tour(po Polsku)

If you’re seeking a day on the water exploring Croatia’s famous islands and bays, this boat tour to Kornati National Park and Telascica offers an authentic and scenic escape. While it’s not the fastest or most luxurious trip, it balances natural beauty with cultural richness, guided by knowledgeable guides in English and Polish.

What we like about this experience is the chance to visit a truly untouched archipelago—and enjoy the serenity of a bay where your boat is the only vessel. Plus, the included meals and snorkeling gear add practical value. Yet, potential travelers should consider the lengthy travel times and some mixed reviews about comfort and organization. This trip works best for those who are eager to see Croatia’s natural splendors without fuss, and who don’t mind a longer day on the water.

Key Points

• Unique access to Kornati’s unspoiled islands with private time for swimming and exploration.
• Inclusive meals and drinks provide good value and convenience.
• Guides in multiple languages enrich the experience with local insights.
• Long travel times may test your patience, especially if seasickness is a concern.
• Limited free time at stops means you need to plan your swimming and walking accordingly.
• Additional entrance fees apply on board for parks, which is common but worth knowing upfront.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What This Tour Offers

This boat trip from Zadar promises a full day of exploring two of Croatia’s most celebrated natural sites—Kornati National Park and Telascica Bay—with an emphasis on scenic beauty, local cuisine, and relaxed beachside activities. Based on the reviews, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a mix of guided sightseeing and free time in nature, all while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped vessel.

Two aspects stand out: first, the beautiful, almost deserted islands and bays you’ll visit, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Second, the inclusive meals and drinks, making it a convenient, hassle-free way to indulge in local flavors during your day on the water. On the flip side, some travelers note that the long journey to the stops can feel quite drawn out, especially if seasickness or discomfort on board is an issue.

This tour caters best to those who are comfortable spending several hours on the water and want to experience the natural allure of Dalmatia without spending a fortune. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to see Croatia’s marine treasures with knowledgeable guides in a small-group setting.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Departure from Zadar: Early Morning Start

You’ll meet at Donja Riva, the old town dock overlooking the islands. The boat departs at 8:00 am, so arriving early—by 7:45 am—is essential. This early start is typical for day trips in Croatia, giving you plenty of time to maximize your day.

The Journey to Kornati National Park

The trip begins with a roughly 2.5 to 3-hour cruise to the Kornati archipelago. As some reviews mention, this stretch can feel lengthy, especially since the boat travels at a leisurely pace. The trip is not particularly fast, which might test your patience if you’re eager to reach the islands quickly. The boat accommodates up to 65 passengers and is one of the less commercialized options, which means fewer crowds—an advantage for those seeking tranquility.

More Great Tours Nearby

First Stop: Kornat Island and Its Bay

Once you arrive at Kornat, you’ll get about 2 hours to swim, snorkel, walk, and explore the island. The waters here are crystal-clear, ideal for snorkeling, with masks provided on board, although availability depends on demand. The beautiful bay on Kornat is often empty of other boats, making for a peaceful swim in pristine waters.

The review from Marcelino Sanchez highlights a common frustration: “they give you about 1.5 hours to eat and swim,” which may leave some travelers wishing for more time. Others appreciated the guides’ local knowledge and the chance to witness a largely untouched spot.

Lunch on Board

A highlight for many is the lunch of grilled fish and chicken with seasonal salad, served out on the boat’s terrace. It’s freshly prepared, and the drinks—wine, water, soft drinks, grappa—are available throughout the trip, adding a relaxed, social element. Given the included meal, this trip offers decent value, especially considering the stunning setting.

Second Stop: Telascica Bay and Salt Lake

After lunch, your journey continues to Dugi Otok’s Telascica Bay, a real highlight. Here, you’ll have another 2 hours to swim and explore. Visitors love the chance to relax in Mir Bay or the Salt Lake (Slano Jezero), a small natural wonder where salt naturally accumulates. This spot is noted as one of the most beautiful in the Adriatic, and you’ll appreciate the opportunity to float in calm, salty waters or walk around the scenic surroundings.

A review from Bartomiej praises the “excellent service and wonderful views”, while others note the advantage of arriving at Telascica when many other boats have already left, ensuring a more peaceful experience.

Return Journey

The trip back to Zadar is around 2.5 to 3 hours, according to reviews. Some travelers, like Priscila, find the return trip slow and uncomfortable, especially if they’re prone to seasickness or if the boat is crowded.

What’s Included and What’s Extra

The tour provides aperitifs, breakfast sandwiches, and drinks throughout the day. The lunch is a big plus, with grilled fish and chicken served on deck, accompanied by seasonal salad. Snorkeling masks are available, but their availability can depend on demand.

Onboard, you’ll be insured and equipped with necessary safety gear, and guides are available in English and Polish, adding local insights and language support.

However, the entrance fee for Kornati (30 euros for adults, 20 euros for children) and Telascica (included in park entrance fees) are paid on board, cash only. This is standard practice, but it’s good to be prepared.

The Experience in Perspective: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Spectacular natural beauty: The islands and bays are breathtaking, especially for swimmers and snorkelers.
• Less crowded: Visiting Telascica early means fewer boats, making your experience more serene.
• Good value meals and drinks: The on-board lunch and unlimited beverages contribute to the overall value.
• Knowledgeable guides: Many reviews praise the guides for their helpful explanations and local knowledge.
• Flexibility with booking: You can reserve now and pay later, which is handy for flexible planners.

Cons

• Long travel times: The slow pace can lead to a lengthy day on the water, which might wear thin if you’re not tolerant of long trips.
• Mixed reviews on comfort: Some found the boat uncomfortable or felt the day was too lengthy, especially the return trip.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees are not included in the ticket price and can add up, especially if you’re traveling with children.
• Limited free time at stops: The 2-hour slots mean you need to prioritize swimming and walking, which might not suit everyone.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy natural landscapes, swimming in clear waters, and scenic boat rides, this trip offers a solid introduction to Croatia’s maritime treasures. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate guided experiences with local insights and don’t mind a slightly slow pace. Given the included meals and drinks, it’s great for travelers seeking value for money without sacrificing scenic beauty.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, or prefer a quick, more comfortable ride, you might find the journey taxing. It’s also less ideal for travelers with mobility issues, as the itinerary involves some walking and swimming.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Kornati & Telascica boat tour offers a deep dive into Croatia’s marine landscapes—with the advantage of less crowded stops and friendly guides. The inclusion of meals, drinks, and snorkeling gear adds real value for the price, making it a convenient way to spend a day.

While the lengthy travel time may test your patience, the stunning scenery and peaceful bays compensate for the slower pace. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to see Croatia’s best islands without fuss and willing to spend a full day on the water.

In terms of value, this tour delivers a balanced combination of natural beauty, cultural insight, and practical amenities. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize authentic, scenic experiences over luxury.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children up to 4 years old go free, and children aged 4 to 12 pay a reduced rate of 35 euros. Be aware that the long hours on the water may be tiring for young children.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Avoid large luggage, high heels, or anything that might be difficult to carry or store on the boat.

Are meals and drinks included?
Breakfast sandwiches and drinks are provided throughout the day, and lunch is served on board. Additional entrance fees for parks are paid separately, in cash.

How long is the boat journey?
The trip to Kornati takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, and the return journey is similar in length. Be prepared for a lengthy day if you’re not used to long boat rides.

Can I snorkel during the stops?
Yes, snorkeling masks are available, and the waters are perfect for underwater exploration, especially in Kornati and Telascica bays.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

This boat tour from Zadar offers a genuine peek into Croatia’s pristine waters and islands. Whether you’re after scenic views, a relaxing swim, or a taste of local cuisine, it’s a solid choice—just remember to pack patience along with your swimsuit.

You can check availability for your dates here: