Zadar: Kornati and Telaica Cruise with Ticket Included

Planning a day out on the water in Croatia? This full-day boat tour from Zadar to the Kornati National Park and Telaica Bay offers a chance to see some of the most picturesque spots in Dalmatia. With meals included, wine and rakija to toast the day, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and walking, this trip appeals to travelers looking for a balance of relaxation and exploration.

What we love about this experience are the knowledgeable guides who make the scenery come alive and the breathtaking views of islands, cliffs, and salt lakes. The quality of the included meals and the chance to swim in unique locations also stand out.

A potential consideration? The length of the boat ride—nearly nine hours—means you should be prepared for a full day onboard, especially if you’re not used to long trips. This tour best suits those who enjoy scenic cruising, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for travelers eager to see Croatia’s natural beauty without hectic schedules.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Pass by islands, cliffs, and salt lakes, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Informed Guides: Expect detailed commentary that enhances your understanding of the region.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Breakfast, lunch, wine, and rakija are included, providing great value.
• Swimming & Walking: Opportunities to swim in salt lakes and beaches, plus optional hikes.
• Long but Relaxing: Nearly a full day on the water with a comfortable boat, although the journey can feel lengthy.
• Good for Relaxers & Nature Lovers: Perfect for those wanting to unwind amidst natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Navigating the Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour kicks off early in Zadar at Liburnska Obala, right next to the Old Town bridge. Once onboard, you’ll settle in for a roughly 2.75-hour cruise to the Kornati Islands. The boat’s size and comfort level make for a relaxed environment, and the guide provides commentary—though, as some reviews mention, this could be more detailed or engaging.

The Kornati National Park

Most travelers agree the highlight is the passing through the archipelago of 89 islands, often called “the stone pearls of the Mediterranean.” We loved the way guides share insights about the islands’ geology and history—adding context to the stunning scenery.

On Levrnaka Island, you’ll get a chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters or hike to panoramic viewpoints. The reviews praise the time spent here for being just right—not too rushed but enough to enjoy swimming or wandering. One traveler noted, “Both islands were beautiful and I feel we had a good amount of time at both stops allowing us to do everything we wanted.”

Lunch and Leisure

After exploring, you’ll enjoy a delicious onboard lunch—options include grilled chicken, fish, or vegetarian pasta in tomato sauce. The quality is described as “decent” but satisfying, and the wine served is praised as “quite decent,” perfect for relaxing during the cruise. One reviewer appreciated the value for money: “The food was good! Nothing to rave about but for the price it was excellent.”

Telaica Bay and Salt Lake Mir

In the afternoon, the boat arrives at Telaica Bay, one of the largest natural ports in the Adriatic. Here, you’ll see 25 small beaches and towering cliffs of Dugi Otok. The highlight for many is swimming in Lake Mir, a salt lake that’s warmer than the sea and offers a different kind of swimming experience. The birdlife here also provides a bonus for nature enthusiasts.

While some reviews mention that the Salt Lake isn’t the most spectacular after a visit, the opportunity to swim in a unique environment still draws praise. Plus, the scenic views of cliffs and islands make this stop worthwhile.

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Return Journey

On the way back, you’ll cruise for another 2.75 hours, soaking in the views of islands and coastlines. Many travelers enjoy this part of the trip for relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere—and, of course, watching for dolphins, as some reviews highlight.

The Practical Details

Duration: About 9 hours – starting in the morning and returning by late afternoon.
Price: $66 per person, which includes all entry fees, meals, drinks, and the guide. Considering the length, scenic value, and inclusions, it’s a solid deal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day out.
Meeting Point: Liburnska Obala, next to the Old Town bridge, easy to find.
Language: Live English commentary, adding educational value to your trip.
Availability: Check ahead for starting times and weather conditions, as the tour is subject to weather-related rescheduling.
What to Bring: Sun protection, swimwear, towel, hiking shoes (if hiking), cash for extras, and a sense of adventure.
Not Suitable For: Wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, as the boat can be quite full and choppy at times.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, with comments like “The staff on board were courteous and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable.” The guides are described as informative and engaging, which adds a layer of understanding to the beautiful scenery.

For instance, one traveler noted, “The guide was incredibly informative, sharing fascinating insights about the islands and their history.” The food and drinks generally meet expectations for the price, with some reviews mentioning that the dinner options are decent and plentiful.

Several travelers appreciated the balance of free time and guided stops, allowing them to swim, walk, or just relax. The boat’s size and seating arrangements mean you can find a shady spot or bask in the sun, depending on your preference.

Critical Considerations

While many are pleased with the overall experience, some reviews cite shorter stop durations, with only around 1 hour and 20 minutes at each location. This limits time for longer hikes or extended swimming. Plus, the lunch—though tasty—is described as not exceptional, and some might wish for more diverse or fresher options.

Another point is the long ride on the water, which can be tiring for those who prefer shorter trips or are less comfortable at sea. The weather can influence the route and stops, so flexibility is key.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed day of sailing, scenic views, and light outdoor activities. It suits those who enjoy natural beauty, boat rides, and a well-organized itinerary that covers multiple highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s also great for wine lovers, as the included wine and rakija add to the pleasure.

However, if you’re looking for a more intense hike or a shorter day, or if you have mobility issues or are sensitive to seasickness, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This Kornati and Telaica boat tour from Zadar offers a rich experience, combining spectacular scenery, delicious meals, and informative guides. It delivers good value, especially considering the all-inclusive price and the chance to see some of Croatia’s most famous natural spots. You’ll love the peaceful cruise, the beautiful islands, and the refreshing salt lake swim.

It’s best suited for adventurous relaxers who want to enjoy a full day on the water without sacrificing comfort or scenery. Food and drinks are good, the guides knowledgeable, and the views unforgettable—making this a memorable part of any Dalmatian journey.

FAQ

• What is included in the price? The tour includes boat transport, entry fees for Kornati and Telaica parks, guided commentary, breakfast, lunch, wine, rakija, and unlimited water.
• How long is the cruise? The entire trip lasts about 9 hours, including cruising time, stops, and meals.
• Where does the tour start and end? It begins and ends at Ulica Nova vrata in Zadar, with the meeting point at Liburnska Obala.
• Is the tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the trip might be better suited for older children who can handle a full day on the boat and short walks.
• Can I swim during the stops? Yes, swimming is a key part of the stops at Levrnaka Island and Telaica Bay.
• Are meals vegetarian options available? Yes, vegetarian pasta is available as an alternative to fish or chicken.
• Is there a guide on board? Yes, the guide provides commentary in English; some reviews suggest that it could be more detailed.
• What should I bring? Sun protection, swimwear, towel, hiking shoes (if planning to hike), cash, and a hat are recommended.
• Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, the trip can be rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe.
• Is this tour wheelchair accessible? No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

In summary, this boat tour from Zadar to Kornati and Telaica offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, local flavor, and relaxing cruising. It provides a good balance for those wanting a taste of Croatia’s stunning islands with the comfort of guided organization and included meals.

You can check availability for your dates here: