Zadar: Kornati National park PRIVATE speedboat tour

Introduction

If you’re visiting Zadar and crave a day on the water exploring Croatia’s hidden gems, a private speedboat tour of Kornati National Park might just be the highlight of your trip. These tours are designed for those who love a mix of scenic beauty, authentic island charm, and a touch of adventure—all in a very manageable day.

What we especially like about this tour is its flexibility and focus. You’ll get to enjoy Kornati’s dramatic landscapes—with its striking cliffs and stone walls—while having the comfort of a private boat and skipper to tailor the experience. Plus, the inclusion of a lunch in the park adds value and a taste of local cuisine. That said, it’s not the cheapest option, especially if you’re traveling with a group, but the exclusivity and personalized service can make it worth it.

This experience comfortably suits travelers who prefer a more intimate, customized adventure over crowded group tours, and those eager to explore Croatia’s nautical paradise with a bit of flexibility in their schedule. If you’re passionate about scenery, nature, and authentic island life, this tour could be just right.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience with a dedicated skipper aboard a speedboat.
• Coverage of multiple destinations: Kornati National Park, Dugi Otok, Island Lavdara, and Ugljan.
• Scenic highlights: razor-sharp cliffs, stone dry-walls, and unique landscapes reminiscent of Mars.
• Includes a delicious lunch within the national park—added convenience and local flavor.
• Duration of around 8-9 hours offers an immersive day without rushing.
• Group size capped at 14 for a more personalized journey.

Exploring the Kornati National Park by Speedboat

This tour is a solid choice if you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty with comfort. The Kornati National Park itself is a maze of over 89 islands, though some sources suggest even more. With a private boat, you and your companions will enjoy the freedom to stop where the scenery calls—whether it’s a quiet cove or a photogenic cliff.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Kornati Islands, the largest of which, Kornat Island, boasts an impressive 260 km of stone dry-walls—an enduring testament to the islanders’ ingenuity in land management. These dry-walls, built from hand-selected stones, snake across the landscape, creating a patchwork of land that’s almost surreal in its ruggedness. Some compare the landscape to Mars, thanks to the starkness of rock and sparse vegetation, but don’t let that mislead you—this is a vibrant habitat for many plant and animal species.

Your skipper will navigate the boat to high cliffs and secluded bays, giving you spectacular vantage points and chances for photos. Expect to see blue skies, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic rock formations that make the scenery unforgettable.

Dugi Otok and Ugljan

Beyond Kornati, the tour includes stops at Dugi Otok, known for its rugged coastal scenery and quiet beaches, and Ugljan, a less-visited but charming island with lush forests and welcoming villages. These islands add variety to the experience, showing different facets of Croatia’s island life.

Island Lavdara

A more intimate stop on the tour is Island Lavdara, a tiny, peaceful island perfect for a quick walk or some tranquil moments away from the crowds. Its small size and lack of tourist-heavy facilities make it a genuine slice of island life, ideal for relaxing and soaking in the scenery.

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The Experience of a Private Speedboat Tour

One of the biggest advantages of booking a private tour is the personalized attention and flexibility. Your skipper, who is fluent in English, will craft a route based on the weather, your interests, and the day’s conditions, making each trip unique. We loved the way this tailored approach allows you to avoid the often crowded spots of larger group tours.

The tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, which is enough to see multiple sites without feeling rushed. The boat itself is equipped with a skipper and fuel costs are included in your price, but lunch, drinks, and other extras are not included—so plan accordingly if you want to eat or hydrate during the day.

What You’ll See and Do

• Kornati National Park: Marvel at the wide-open, rocky landscape with its dramatic cliffs and stone walls. The park is a photographer’s dream—think sharp, angular rocks against a bright blue sky.
• Island Lavdara: Wander around this tiny island, enjoy its untouched serenity.
• Dugi Otok: Discover a different side of Croatia, with its rugged coastline and quiet beaches.
• Ugljan: Explore a lush, less-visited island, perfect for those who want to experience local island life.

What to Expect During the Day

Expect a mix of cruising, stops for swimming or photos, and relaxing on deck. Your guide will point out interesting sights and share stories about the islands’ history and land use—highlighting how land was carefully managed with dry-walls—an aspect that’s both fascinating and practical.

Practical Details and Value

While the cost of $765 per group might seem steep at first glance, remember it covers a private experience for up to 14 people, which can make it a good deal for families or friends traveling together. The private aspect means you won’t share the boat with strangers, and you can tailor the stops and timing to your preferences.

The tour is offered with flexible booking options, including the chance to reserve now and pay later, and full refunds are possible if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is helpful, especially if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Starting point is conveniently located at Obala Kneza Trpimira 37 in Zadar, making it easy to access from the city.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private speedboat trip is ideal for travelers who value comfort, exclusivity, and flexibility. If you’re traveling with a small group or family and want a personalized adventure that includes multiple island stops and a scenic cruise, this is a good fit.

It’s particularly suited for those interested in geology and land management, thanks to the impressive dry-walls and unique landscape. And if you’re a photographer or nature lover, the stunning scenery and quiet islands will provide ample opportunities.

However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer guided tours with set itineraries, you might find more affordable group options. Also, since lunch isn’t included, you’ll need to plan to bring snacks or purchase food ashore, which might be a consideration for some.

Final Thoughts

A private speedboat tour of Kornati National Park from Zadar offers a wonderful blend of scenery, comfort, and personalized service. You’ll get to explore Croatia’s nautical paradise at your own pace, with the freedom to discover unspoiled islands and dramatic cliffs in a day packed with beauty and tranquility.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate quiet, authentic island environments and enjoy the idea of a flexible, private adventure. While it’s a pricier option, the exclusivity and tailored route make it a worthwhile investment for those who want a memorable, less crowded Croatian island experience.

Overall, if you’re seeking a day of stunning landscapes, peaceful islands, and a touch of luxury, this tour will deliver—leaving you with special memories of Croatia’s remarkable coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, this tour is suitable for most ages, especially since it involves a boat ride and scenic stops. However, because of the trip’s length (8-9 hours), very young children might require extra comfort or distractions.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat, skipper, and fuel. Lunch, drinks, and any additional expenses are not included, so plan to bring your own or purchase on the islands.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Obala Kneza Trpimira 37 in Zadar, which is easily accessible from the city center.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Rescheduling policies depend on the provider’s terms, so it’s best to confirm at booking.

How many people can join?
The group size is limited to 14 people, making it a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, the skipper speaks English and will share information about the islands and landmarks during the trip.

This private Kornati National Park speedboat tour from Zadar offers a memorable way to see Croatia’s stunning islands, with plenty of flexibility and comfort for a truly personalized adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: