From Zadar: Kornati National Park & Telaica Boat Tour

Taking a boat trip from Zadar through Kornati National Park and Telaica offers a chance to see some of Croatia’s most iconic landscapes from the water. This tour promises a relaxed day of swimming, sightseeing, and good food, all wrapped into a package that’s especially appealing for those who love being out on the sea. While it’s not designed for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience without crowds, it’s a solid choice for travelers craving scenic views, comfortable comfort, and a taste of Dalmatian hospitality.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances scenic cruising with active stops for swimming and exploring. The inclusion of a traditional breakfast and a generous lunch, paired with unlimited drinks, adds to its value. However, the tour can feel a bit long for some, especially if you prefer less crowded or less structured excursions. It’s best suited for those who want a well-organized day on the water with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the sights.

• Stunning scenery and well-known sites make this a memorable day trip.
• Guides are experienced and helpful, making the trip informative without overwhelming.
• Good value for money with included meals, drinks, and snorkeling gear.
• Crowded spots and long hours might be a downside for some travelers.
• Flexible options for parking and pet-friendly policy enhance convenience.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed as a full-day adventure starting early in the morning, around 08:30AM, giving you a chance to soak up the sun and sea breeze right from the start. We loved the way it begins with a friendly welcome and a hearty breakfast—nothing beats the anticipation of a day on the water with a good meal and refreshing drinks. The guide’s friendly demeanor and helpful explanations make a difference in setting a relaxed, welcoming tone.

The itinerary is divided into several highlights that each add their flavor to the day. You’ll explore Telaica Nature Park, swim in Salt Lake Mir, enjoy a traditional Dalmatian lunch onboard, and marvel at the islands of Kornati. Each segment is thoughtfully planned to give you a sense of the area’s natural beauty and local charm.

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Telaica Nature Park: A Calm Before the Storm

The first stop at Telaica Nature Park gives you a taste of Croatia’s diverse landscape—calm beaches, cliffs, and lush forests. With about two hours here, you’ll have plenty of time to take a walk, snap photos, or relax on the beach. The scenery is a lovely blend of rugged cliffs meeting tranquil waters, perfect for a quick hike or shoreline exploration. While some reviews mention that the salt lake here isn’t pristine (described as “dirty and disgusting”), others appreciate the chance to experience a different kind of natural environment. If you’re after a peaceful start to your day, Telaica delivers.

Many travelers, including those who’ve been here before, praise the guides for their friendly and helpful attitude, noting that the information shared enhances the experience. The two-hour window is enough to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed, and snorkelers will find gear available at stops, adding an extra layer of fun.

Salt Lake Mir: The Refreshing Swim Stop

Swimmers in the group will appreciate Salt Lake Mir, where clear waters and scenic views beckon for a dip. Bring your watershoes, as noted by one traveler, because the beaches here are rocky. The waters are calm and inviting, making it a perfect spot to cool off and soak up the sunshine. Multiple reviews mention the snorkeling opportunity here, with some describing it as “amazing” and highlighting the chance to see underwater life. The fact that snorkel gear is available upon request at the bar during stops is a nice perk.

Croatian Cuisine on the Water

The highlight for many is the onboard lunch—a simple yet satisfying meal of grilled fish and chicken, served with fresh salad and accompanied by a glass of local wine. The food is described as “delicious” and well-suited to the relaxed pace of the tour. The wine, a well-received white, adds a local touch, making the meal feel more authentic and enjoyable. We noticed that several reviews mention the lunch as a standout feature, offering excellent value for the price paid.

Exploring Kornati National Park: “The Tears of God”

Kornati National Park is undoubtedly the star of the tour—an archipelago of 89 islands, islets, and reefs scattered across the sea. The name “The Tears of God” reflects the islands’ rugged landscape and stunning blue waters, which truly look as if they’ve been crafted by an artist. This is where the tour really delivers its wow factor.

The boat stops here allow for swimming, snorkeling, and photos amidst dramatic rocky formations. Many comments from travelers describe Kornati as “beautiful” and “stunning,” and several mention the higher number of travelers and crowded conditions at the specific stop. While this can detract from the sense of untouched wilderness, it’s understandable given how popular Kornati is. Guides typically share interesting facts about the islands, though some travelers wish there was more detailed guidance during the visit.

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Practical Details and Comfort

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with enough space for a relaxed experience. The group size is not specified but appears to be moderate, making it manageable to enjoy the scenery without feeling overwhelmed. The tour lasts around six hours, enough to savor the views and activities without it becoming too tiresome.

Included in the price are breakfast, lunch, unlimited water and juice, wine with lunch, snorkeling equipment, and two swimming stops. The price point of $51 per person offers good value—especially considering the meals and drinks included. However, note that park entrance tickets for Kornati ($16 for adults) and Telaica ($8 for children) are not included and need to be paid in cash.

Additional Tips for Travelers

While the tour offers a lot of value, a few practical considerations can make your day smoother. Parking in Zadar is limited to three hours in front of the meeting point, so if arriving by car, plan accordingly or use nearby parking lots that are within a 5-10 minute walk. Pets are welcome onboard, adding a flexible option for travelers with furry friends.

What to bring? Pack your sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and beachwear. Since it’s a full-day outing, dressing comfortably and preparing for sun exposure is key. Also, bring cash for park entrance fees, as card payment might not be available at the toll booths.

Real Traveler Experiences

Many who’ve taken this trip commend the guides for their friendliness and helpfulness, especially noting their good English. The landscape and water views are consistently described as “beautiful,” “breath-taking,” and “stunning,” confirming that the tour delivers on its promise of scenic Dalmatian beauty.

Food and drinks also get high marks—several reviews mention the onboard lunch as “delicious” and the wine as “lovely,” making the meal a true highlight for many. Snorkeling is another favorite activity, with some travelers saying they saw dolphins or enjoyed excellent underwater sights.

A few reviews mention the trip length as a minor drawback, with some feeling it’s a bit too long on the boat, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions. Crowded conditions at Kornati are also noted, but most agree that the overall experience remains worthwhile.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and local cuisine. It’s perfect if you enjoy being out on the water and want to see some of Croatia’s most famous islands without the hassle of planning every detail. The included meals and drinks give it a good value, especially for those looking to relax and indulge in Dalmatian flavors.

Couples, families, and groups of friends will find this tour flexible and enjoyable. If you’re comfortable with a longer day and don’t mind some crowds at the main stops, it’s a reliable way to experience the beauty of Kornati and Telaica.

However, if your ideal trip involves fewer travelers or more secluded beaches, you might find some disappointment here. And, for travelers with mobility issues, note that the tour isn’t suited for wheelchair users.

The Sum Up

This boat tour from Zadar offers a well-rounded experience of some of Croatia’s most iconic landscapes. With friendly guides, comfortable boats, and a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and authentic Dalmatian cuisine, it provides good value for the price. Travelers who enjoy scenic cruises, natural beauty, and social atmospheres will find it particularly satisfying.

While it can get crowded at popular stops like Kornati, the stunning views and the chance to relax on the water make it a worthwhile adventure. It’s a great choice for those who want a full day of fun, food, and breathtaking scenery with plenty of opportunities for photos and swimming.

Lovers of Croatia’s coast, families, and first-time visitors to Zadar will especially appreciate this tour as a memorable, hassle-free way to explore the archipelago. Just remember to bring your essentials and be prepared for a long, lively day at sea.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and the tour includes swimming and relaxing stops suitable for families. Make sure to bring appropriate gear and snacks if needed.

How much do I need to pay for park entrance tickets?
Entrance tickets for Kornati are €16 for adults and €8 for children aged 4-12. Telaica’s ticket is €8 for children, so bring cash to pay at the entrance.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included. The onboard lunch features grilled fish and chicken, served with salad and local white wine.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and beachwear. It’s also wise to carry cash for park tickets and snorkeling gear if you plan to snorkel.

Can I bring pets?
Yes, pets are welcome onboard at no extra charge.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, tours may be canceled or rescheduled in case of unsafe weather conditions. It’s a good idea to check the forecast before booking.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around six hours, from departure in the morning to return in the late afternoon.

Is the boat crowded?
The group size appears moderate, but some reviews mention that the stops can be busy, especially at Kornati.

Can I pay by card?
Payments for park entrance tickets are cash only, so plan accordingly. The tour itself might accept card, but check in advance if possible.

This tour from Zadar offers a lively, scenic, and delicious way to experience Croatia’s archipelago. Whether you’re after stunning island views, a swim in clear waters, or a taste of Dalmatian hospitality, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this full-day boat adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: