Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telaica Nature Park Trip

This experience made our article of 3 Best National Park Tours In Kornati National Park.

Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telaica Nature Park Trip — A Practical Guide

Thinking about spending a day exploring Croatia’s famous islands and parks? This boat trip from Zadar offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful spots in Dalmatia, from the striking Kornati archipelago to the tranquil Telaica Nature Park. While it’s not a full-on adventure with guided hikes or extensive park exploration, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who love being on the water, swimming in natural salt lakes, and relaxing on deck with good food.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines scenery, comfort, and straightforward value — especially for a modest price. The spacious Vagabundo boat with its ample deck space and Wi-Fi makes the day comfortable, and the included meals and drinks mean you won’t need to worry about extra costs. On the flip side, some guests might find the time spent on the boat a bit limited for exploring parks in depth. That said, this trip suits those who prefer a scenic, leisurely cruise with plenty of swimming and a taste of Croatia’s marine beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Focused on scenic boat cruising rather than park exploration
Includes breakfast, lunch, drinks, and Wi-Fi for excellent value
Two swimming stops allow a refreshing break in beautiful locations
Comfortable, large vessel suitable for up to 140 passengers
Guided in English and Croatian with knowledgeable crew
Ideal for swimmers and sunbathers but not for non-swimmers or those seeking heavy park exploration

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An Overview of the Experience

This full-day tour from Zadar is centered around enjoying Croatia’s most scenic marine spots. You’ll board the Vagabundo, which is designed for comfort, with a spacious deck perfect for taking in the views, relaxing, or catching some sun. The trip is quite popular among those who value a laid-back atmosphere, good food, and a chance to see the islands from the water rather than through land-based activities.

The tour includes a welcome drink, a fresh sandwich breakfast, and a generous hot lunch (your choice of grilled meat or fresh fish), complemented by local wine and unlimited water and juice. Wi-Fi on board keeps you connected for sharing photos or quick messages. With a capacity of up to 140 passengers, it’s a lively but not overcrowded experience.

The Route and Stops — What Makes It Special?

Discovering Kornati Archipelago

The Kornati archipelago is often called the “Croatian Maldives” for its crystal-clear waters and unspoiled nature. With as many as 155 islands, it’s a jewel of the Adriatic, and this tour offers a cruise through its most spectacular sections. You won’t have much time to hike or explore on foot, but you’ll get the best of the scenery from the boat.

One reviewer shared that the trip was more about swimming and relaxing than park exploration. They noted, “You don’t get to see much of the parks apart from the swimming locations,” but appreciated the stunning views and the opportunity to climb cliffs at Telascica — if you like a bit of adventure.

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Telaica Nature Park and Salt Lake “Mir”

Telaica is renowned for its salt lake “Mir,” a unique natural pool where the high salinity makes swimming feel almost weightless. Many travelers find this a highlight, as one reviewer put it: “Swimming in the salt lake is a wonderful experience.” It’s a natural phenomenon worth experiencing if you’re interested in something different from a regular beach or pool.

While the tour doesn’t include guided hikes or in-depth park exploration, it allows you to float in the salt lake and enjoy the panoramic views of Telaica’s cliffs and coastline. The chance to swim in clear waters and relax on the boat’s sundeck is a major draw.

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The Experience on Board — Comfort Meets Convenience

The Vagabundo boat offers amenities that enhance the day — a bar serving drinks, a large sun deck for lounging, and free Wi-Fi for quick updates or sharing photos. Its capacity of 140 passengers means that you’ll be in a lively group but still have space to stretch out.

Guests often praise the crew for their friendly attitude and efficiency. One review mentioned how the staff made an effort to connect with guests, even those who don’t speak English fluently. The meals are considered quite good for a boat trip — the lunch of grilled meat or fish is hearty and served with fresh salad. The wine during lunch adds a nice touch to the meal.

What to Bring and What Not to Expect

Since most of your time is spent on deck or swimming, bring sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Flip-flops are practical for walking around the boat. Some reviews noted that non-swimmers might feel left out of the swimming stops, and those prone to seasickness should consider their tolerance — the open sea can sometimes be choppy.

Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed onboard, maintaining a family-friendly and clean atmosphere.

The Practicalities — Pricing, Duration, and Booking

At $59 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering that meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and guided commentary are included. You’ll want to check if park entrance tickets are included — the tour offers the option to purchase these as part of your ticket, which might be more convenient than buying separately.

The trip lasts nearly a full day, with two swimming stops allowing plenty of time to cool off. The meeting point is on the Liburnian coast, where the Vagabundo is anchored. Booking in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later, is recommended for flexibility.

Insights from the Reviews — Authentic Feedback

One guest summarized the experience as “a wonderful day,” emphasizing the relaxing atmosphere and delicious food. Another reviewer appreciated the friendly crew and the spectacular scenery, mentioning how the salt lake “Mir” and Kornati are untouched and stunning.

However, some observed that park entry fees can be expensive, and a few felt that the time allocated to parks was limited, especially if you’re hoping for more exploration. As one reviewer bluntly said, “You don’t need to visit Kornati Park at all,” if your main goal is just to enjoy the boat trip and swimming.

Final Thoughts — Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re someone who enjoys being on the water, soaking up beautiful views, and swimming in unique natural spots like the salt lake, this trip hits the mark. The delicious meals and friendly service add to the experience, making it feel like a well-rounded value.

It’s most suited for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed day with plenty of sun, sea, and good company. If your idea of exploring parks involves hiking or detailed guided tours, you might find this experience somewhat limited. Similarly, those not comfortable on open water or non-swimmers should consider their comfort level before booking.

This tour offers a practical, scenic, and comfortable way to experience some of Croatia’s most iconic natural sights without breaking the bank. It’s an easy choice for travelers seeking a leisurely day in the Croatian sunshine with memorable swimming and stunning vistas.

FAQ — Practical Questions Answered

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many families enjoy the trip, especially the swimming and relaxed atmosphere. Just be aware that non-swimmers might find some stops less engaging.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, breakfast, a hot lunch, wine during lunch, and unlimited water and juice are included on board.

Can I buy park tickets on the day?
You can purchase tickets for Kornati and Telaica parks as part of your trip, which might simplify the process.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, and flip-flops for comfort and safety.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is offered, so you can stay connected during the cruise.

How many people does the boat hold?
The Vagabundo can accommodate up to 140 passengers, making it lively but spacious.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s not ideal, as swimming is a key part of the experience. If swimming isn’t your thing, you might want to consider other options.

To sum it up, the Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telaica Nature Park trip offers a well-balanced day of scenic cruising, swimming, and good food at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for those who prioritize relaxation and beautiful water views over extensive park exploration, making it an easy and enjoyable way to experience Croatia’s coastal gems.

You can check availability for your dates here: