From Zadar Kornati and Telascica National Park Cruise with Lunch

An Honest Look at the Zadar Kornati and Telašćica National Park Cruise

If you’re in Zadar and craving a taste of the islands, this boat tour offers a full-day adventure through some of Croatia’s most captivating waters. Promising visits to Telašćica Nature Park and Kornati National Park, combined with a tasty local lunch, it aims to blend natural beauty with relaxed sightseeing. From the outset, we love that it’s a half-day trip that includes snorkeling gear and WiFi on board—small touches that can make a big difference on a day out.

One notable highlight is the chance to see the spectacular scenery of Kornati’s 89 islands, often called the “tears of God,” which are truly breathtaking in their white-rock formations and glittering waters. The other big plus? The lunch featuring grilled fish, chicken, and local wine—a simple yet satisfying taste of Dalmatian cuisine.

On the flip side, the long transfer times—around 2.5 hours each way—can make this a tiring day for some travelers, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, some reviews mention that the stops are brief and that fees for park entrance tickets are extra, which might affect your overall value perception.

This tour suits those who appreciate scenic sailing, want to see a handful of iconic Croatian islands, and enjoy a bit of local flavor. If you’re after an active, picture-perfect day on the water and don’t mind the travel time, it could be a worthwhile choice.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Kornati Islands and Telašćica Nature Park make this trip memorable.
• Includes a delicious Dalmatian-style lunch with complimentary wine, enhancing the experience.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, adding an opportunity to explore beneath the surface.
• Long transfer times (around 2.5 hours each way) are the main drawback.
• Tickets for parks are extra, so plan accordingly.
• Suitable for travelers who enjoy sailing, nature, and scenic views, especially those okay with a full day on the water.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Zadar

The tour kicks off at 8:30 am from Vrata Sv. Roka in Zadar. Expect a relatively early start, perfect if you want to make the most of your day, though it does mean waking up a bit before dawn if you’re not staying close to the meeting point. The boat may not be luxurious, but it’s equipped for comfort with WiFi and snorkeling gear, so you can stay connected and explore beneath the waves.

Telašćica Nature Park (10:30 – 12:30)

The first stop at Telašćica is a highlight. Known for its peaceful beaches and dramatic cliffs, this protected area is home to abundant plant and animal life, as well as a salty lake that’s perfect for a swim. The cliffs here are steep and offer great photo opportunities, especially if you enjoy a bit of climbing or simply soaking in views.

The reviews indicate that some travelers appreciate the peacefulness and natural beauty of Telašćica, though you should note that admission tickets aren’t included, costing €8 for children and €16 for adults. If you’re keen to swim or explore the cliffs, bring your gear and some sunscreen—there’s plenty of sunshine (over 2,500 hours a year).

Lunch and Sailing (12:30 – 13:40)

After the morning’s explorations, the boat sets sail again for a lunch break. The onboard meal is quite simple but well-executed—expect grilled fish and chicken served with salad, accompanied by a local glass of wine. The reviews suggest the food is delicious and satisfying, especially considering it’s served on a boat. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if you request in advance.

This part of the trip is also a chance to relax and enjoy the scenic sailing. The experience of eating freshly grilled food with a sea breeze in your hair is a memorable part of any cruise.

Kornati National Park (13:40 – 15:10)

The crown jewel of the tour is the Kornati Islands, often called “The Tears of God.” With 89 islands, islets, and reefs, this area is a spectacle of marvellous rock formations and crystal-clear waters. The tour provides about an hour and a half here to take in the views, swim, or just soak up the scenery.

While some reviews mention that the small amount of time limits the experience, the scenery is undeniably impressive. Be aware that admission tickets for Kornati are extra and cost €16 per adult. If you’re intrigued by unique island landscapes, you’ll find this stop worth the trip, although don’t expect to explore every island or venture far inland.

Return to Zadar (18:00)

The boat heads back in the late afternoon, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day. The return journey is lengthy but often includes opportunities for photos and perhaps a final swim if the weather allows. Keep in mind that the entire trip extends to nearly 10 hours, so it’s a full day, and fatigue can set in if you’re not accustomed to long boat rides.

What to Expect on the Tour

Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates on a mobile ticket basis with a maximum of 150 travelers, so while it’s not a private boat, it’s not overly intimate either. The boat’s comfortable enough for a large group, and the crew is generally helpful and attentive.

Timing and Pacing

The schedule is tight, with brief stops—Telašćica for two hours, Kornati for 1.5 hours—meaning you’ll want to prioritize what interests you most. If you’re looking for a leisurely, in-depth island experience, this might feel rushed. However, if your goal is to see the highlights and enjoy a day on the water, it’s manageable.

Cost and Value

The $65.85 per person fee covers most essentials: snorkeling equipment, WiFi, water, juice, and wine during lunch. Yet, the additional cost for park tickets (roughly €16 for Kornati and €8 for Telašćica) can add up. For travelers who don’t mind paying extra, this isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s worth considering in your budget.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Many travelers praise the scenic views and well-organized lunch, with some stating it was a “fantastic sailing adventure.” The wine served at lunch is especially appreciated, adding a touch of local flavor. On the other hand, some found the time at each stop too limited and felt that the extra fees for park entry diminished overall value.

A notable quote from a reviewer highlights that the boat was family-friendly, which is reassuring if you’re traveling with children. Conversely, a negative review points out that the stops could be insufficient to truly enjoy the islands and that no detailed commentary was provided during the trip—a reminder that this is primarily a sightseeing cruise rather than an educational tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those who love scenic sailing, beautiful island landscapes, and a relaxed pace. If you enjoy being on the water, snorkeling, and taking in panoramic views, you’ll probably find this trip rewarding. It’s also suitable for families, given the boat’s family-friendly reputation and the manageable schedule.

However, if you prefer more in-depth exploration or a less hurried pace, you might find the brief stops and long transfer times less appealing. It’s also less suited for travelers on a tight schedule or those who aren’t comfortable with long days at sea.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In essence, this tour offers a good introduction to some of Croatia’s most iconic island scenery, combined with the enjoyment of a local-style lunch and some light snorkeling. The value is enhanced if you appreciate scenic views, don’t mind the extra park fees, and are prepared for a full day on the water.

The long transfer times are the main downside, which can be tiring, especially if you’re short on time or prefer shorter, more focused excursions. Still, the visual impact of Kornati’s white islands and Telašćica’s cliffs can make the trip memorable.

For those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor, this tour can be a worthwhile choice, particularly if you’re visiting Zadar and want to see the best of the surrounding waters with minimal hassle.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 8:30 am from Vrata Sv. Roka in Zadar.

How long does the trip last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, stops, and lunch.

Are vegetarian and vegan options available?
Yes, these options are available on request for both the breakfast and lunch.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, WiFi on board, water, juice, and wine during lunch are included.

Are tickets for Telašćica and Kornati separate?
Yes, tickets for entrance are extra—€16 for Kornati and €8 for Telašćica—paid in cash or by prior email arrangement.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews highlight its family-friendly nature, and it’s a good option for travelers with kids.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds available if canceled on time.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a scenic, well-organized day in Croatia’s waters that highlights the natural beauty of Kornati and Telašćica. It’s best suited for travelers wanting picturesque views, relaxed sailing, and a taste of local cuisine, willing to accept some time on the road and extra entrance fees. If you’re looking for a way to experience the Croatian coast without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this trip could be a solid choice.