Zadar: Kornati and Telaica Nature Park with lunch & drinks

This experience made our article of The 12 Most Popular Lunch Experiences In Zadar.

Introduction

Our review of the Kornati and Telaica Nature Park tour offers a practical look at what travelers can expect from this full-day adventure departing from Zadar. While we haven’t personally taken the trip, the detailed itinerary, reviews, and features suggest it’s a well-rounded option for those eager to experience Croatia’s stunning coast and islands.

What we particularly like about this tour is the combination of scenic sailing and active exploration—you get to enjoy the beautiful vistas from the water and also have time to swim and hike ashore. Plus, the included lunch and drinks add a nice touch of comfort and local flavor. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the admission fees for the parks are not included**—adding a modest extra cost. This tour suits travelers who want to see the highlights of Kornati and Telaica in a relaxed, social setting without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

If you love nature, scenic sailing, and authentic Croatian flavors, this tour offers a good value with a focus on natural beauty and leisure. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy being on the water and want a taste of the islands’ rugged charm.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and panoramic views during sailing highlight the natural beauty of Croatia’s islands.
• Swim in crystal-clear seawater and salt lakes, perfect for cooling off and relaxing in untouched environments.
• Included lunch features Croatian grilled specialties and local wine or soft drinks, offering good value for a full-day tour.
• Visit two significant natural parks—Kornati and Telaica—each with unique landscapes and photo opportunities.
• Limited park entrance fees are extra, so budget accordingly for a smoother experience.
• The tour’s roughly 10-hour duration makes it suitable for those who enjoy a full, active day on the water.

A Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure kicks off early at 8:00 am from Zadar’s water polo area. The boat, named Moj Dragulj, is a wooden vessel that exudes a traditional Croatian charm. We appreciate that this is a mobile ticket experience, making it easy to plan your day without complicated check-ins.

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, which includes travel time, stops, swimming, hiking, and meals. The group size is capped at around 65 travelers, so the atmosphere can be lively yet manageable.

The Journey Out to Kornati Islands

As you set sail, you’ll enjoy panoramic views, with the crew likely sharing some local stories or tips. The boat’s attention to detail—restroom onboard, friendly staff, and ample space—enhances comfort during the journey. The early start means you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy some peaceful moments on the water.

Kornati Island: The Largest Island and Star of the Day

The first major stop is Kornat Island, the largest island in the national park and the namesake of the protected area. The island’s rugged cliffs and clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll have about 1 hour and 50 minutes here, enough time to take photos, relax, and enjoy your Robinson-style lunch—a grilled meal served on the boat or possibly ashore.

Many reviews highlight how crystal-clear water makes swimming here a highlight. One reviewer called the experience “superbe,” praising the attention of the staff and the delicious lunch.

Telaica Nature Park: Salt Lake and Cliffs

Next, you’ll head to Telaica Nature Park, where the highlight is the salt lake Mir. The water here is warmer and saltier than the sea, which makes for a unique swimming experience—think of it as floating in a natural salt bath. The park also offers amazing cliff views, perfect for photography and soaking in the dramatic landscape.

You’ll spend about 2 hours exploring this area. Keep in mind that park entrance fees are not included—around €15 per person—but most reviewers say it’s a small price to pay for the privilege of seeing such dramatic scenery.

Lunch and Drinks: Croatian Flavors on the Water

The lunch is a big plus—grilled dishes paired with Croatian wine or soft drinks. The quality of the meal appears to be well-regarded, making it a satisfying highlight of the day. The availability of unlimited drinks onboard adds to the relaxed, social atmosphere.

Summary of the Visit

Throughout the day, you’ll have chances to swim, hike, take photos, and simply enjoy the natural surroundings. The balance of active exploration and leisure makes this a flexible experience, suited to families, couples, or groups of friends.

Practical Details and Tips

• Pricing: At $59.95 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions—breakfast, lunch, drinks, and park visits. Remember, the park entrance fee (~$15) is extra.
• Booking: Highly booked, with over 20 reservations just last week, so it’s wise to book ahead.
• Transportation: The boat handles all transportation, so you avoid the hassle of ferries or multiple bookings.
• Group Size: Max of 65 travelers, which is a comfortable size for socializing but still intimate enough for a relaxed vibe.
• Weather: As with all outdoor activities, good weather is essential—poor conditions can lead to cancellations with full refunds.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Reflections

Many travelers mention the stunning views as the highlight, with one reviewer describing the “superbe” island-hopping scenery. The attention from crew members and quality of food and drinks seem to set this tour apart as a well-managed, enjoyable outing.

However, some note that admission fees are not included in the base price, which adds a small extra step. Also, most travelers find the overall experience highly positive, with a rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 23 reviews.

The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing you to modify plans if needed, as long as you do so 24 hours in advance.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour appeals most to active travelers who enjoy being on the water and want to see some of Croatia’s most scenic islands without the stress of planning multiple trips. It’s ideal for those who appreciate good food and local wine and want to swim and hike in natural settings. Families, couples, and small groups will find it a convenient way to spend a full day immersed in Croatia’s coastal charm.

It might not suit travelers looking for a luxury experience or those who prefer independent exploration—the group format and park fees mean some extra planning.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Zadar: Kornati and Telaica Nature Park tour offers a balanced mix of scenic sailing, active exploration, and relaxed dining. The stunning views, warm salt lake swimming, and quality Croatian cuisine make it a compelling choice for those wanting a taste of the islands’ wild beauty and local flavors.

While the extra park fees are a small consideration, they are well worth the experience of seeing these spectacular natural sites. The tour’s informative, friendly atmosphere and well-organized itinerary make it a practical, enjoyable adventure for anyone visiting Zadar who craves a full day of authentic Croatian coast.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers, including families, participate comfortably. Just keep in mind the need for active swimming and walking. The age limit isn’t specified, but the experience suits most ages, especially those comfortable with water activities.

How long is the boat ride?
The total duration is about 10 hours, including sailing, stops, and meals. The actual travel time on the water varies but offers plenty of opportunity to enjoy the scenery.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are included with lunch and available onboard throughout the day.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a camera for the cliffs and panoramic views. A small cash amount for park entrance fees is recommended.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour has a full refund policy if canceled due to bad weather, provided you do so at least 24 hours prior.

Is there a minimum or maximum number of travelers?
The maximum group size is 65, and the tour generally operates with a sufficient number of participants for a full experience.

How much do the park entrance fees cost?
The combined fee for Kornati and Telaica parks is around €15 per person; children up to 12 pay less.

What is the food like?
The lunch features grilled Croatian specialties, praised for their quality, and is served with local wine or soft drinks, making for a satisfying midday break.

Is there free time to explore or just relax?
Yes, each stop provides ample time for swimming, taking photos, and enjoying the surroundings at your own pace.

This tour blends scenic waters, natural parks, and good company—an authentic Croatian day that’s tough to beat for anyone eager to combine adventure with relaxation.