Zadar: Kornati and Telaica Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch

Thinking about exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast by boat? This full-day tour to the Kornati National Park and Telaica Salt Lake promises a laid-back yet impressive day soaking up scenic landscapes, swimming in pristine waters, and enjoying local food and drinks. It’s a popular option for travelers craving a mix of natural beauty and easy adventure.

What we love about this trip is how it balances stunning vistas with relaxed swimming opportunities — plus, the inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and local wine makes it feel like a proper treat. On the flip side, the long hours on the boat and crowded stops might not suit everyone, especially those seeking a more leisurely pace or quieter spots.

This experience is especially well-suited for those who enjoy a social atmosphere, scenic photography, and healthy dose of nature. It’s perfect for first-timers in Zadar looking to tick off two must-see Croatian highlights without fuss, or for anyone who appreciates good value in a guided day out.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Kornati islands and Dugi Otok cliffs
• Opportunities to swim in the Adriatic and salt lake
• Informative guides enhance the experience with local insights
• All-inclusive meals and drinks simplify the day
• Crowded stops may limit time for exploring or relaxing
• Suitable for travelers who enjoy group tours, scenic boat rides, and easy access to nature

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Croatia’s famous islands, this tour provides a solid, well-organized way to see some of the best sights without breaking the bank. Priced at around $51 per person, it offers a surprisingly good value considering the length of the trip, the included meals, and the multiple stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Early Morning Meet-up and Departure
The day kicks off with meeting your guide and captain at a designated boat in Zadar. The specific meeting point can vary depending on the booking, but it’s straightforward and usually easy to find. The boat is described as comfortable, with plenty of shaded areas, which is a relief considering the midday sun often beats down on the Dalmatian coast.

Breakfast Sandwich and Scenic Sea Travel
As you set off, you’ll enjoy a breakfast sandwich—a simple but satisfying start to the day—while cruising through the 109 islands that make up Kornati National Park. This stretch, lasting about 3 hours, offers plenty of opportunities to snap photos of dramatic karst limestone formations and rugged coastline. Many reviews highlight how beautiful these islands are, with some pointing out the steep cliffs, grassy hills, and rocky outcroppings that define the landscape.

Stop at Kornati National Park
The main highlight is the Kornati Islands, famous for their scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. You’ll get some free time here—enough to walk, sunbathe, or simply relax. Many travelers rave about the excellent swimming in the clear waters, with some noting how lively the marine life can be, including dolphins sightings as one reviewer shared: “We even saw 3 sightings of dolphins — what a bonus!”

Visit Telaica Bay and Salt Lake
Next, the journey takes you to Telaica Bay, renowned for its salt lake—one of the largest natural ports in the Adriatic. Here, you can take a dip in the warm, salty water, which many reviews mention as a uniquely pleasant experience. The salt lake’s brighter, warmer waters are a refreshing change from the sea, and the scenery—the cliffs rising up to 161 meters—is striking. Travelers often enjoy walking to the cliffs for the views, with the option to swim or just soak in the landscape.

Lunch and Drinks
Midday, you’ll sit down for a packed lunch onboard, which most reviews describe as simple but tasty—fish, chicken, and vegetarian options usually available upon prior request. The wine and aperitif flow freely, making this a social highlight. Several reviewers mention how much they appreciated the refreshing drinks and the delicious, straightforward meals, which add to the laid-back vibe of the trip.

Additional Stops and Wildlife Watching
Other stops include viewing Dugi Otok’s cliffs and exploring small beaches. Many travelers enjoy swimming on rocky beaches or just relaxing in the sun. Birdwatchers will like spotting rare or endemic species like the Croatian Centaury, and some mention sightings of flying fish and even dolphins, which elevate the experience from merely scenic to memorable.

What’s Good and What’s Not

The Value Proposition
At $51, the tour includes all transportation, guide, breakfast, lunch, and drinks, which makes it quite the bargain compared to private charters or longer excursions. The reviews consistently praise the generous portions of food, quality of the wine, and the expertise of guides who are helpful and informative. Many mention that the scenery exceeds expectations and that the stops are well-paced, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each location.

A Few Drawbacks
A common theme in reviews is crowding. Stops like Telaica often become busy with other boats, making it hard to find a spot for your things or enjoy a peaceful swim. The long hours on a hard wooden bench can also test your patience, especially if you’re sensitive to comfort or motion sickness. Some mention limited commentary during the trip, suggesting a missed opportunity for more storytelling or historical context.

Weather and Season Considerations
The tour can be affected by weather—April and May are more unpredictable, and routes may be altered in the off-season for safety. It’s wise to check if the day’s weather looks clear, especially if you want optimal swimming conditions or scenic views.

Other Practicalities
Bring swimwear, towels, and perhaps some snacks for the long day. The trip does not include hotel pickup, and the Kornati entrance fee of around €16 per adult isn’t included, so have some cash ready. The boat prohibits baby strollers, which is worth noting if traveling with small children.

This full-day cruise from Zadar offers a finely balanced mix of scenic sailing, swimming, wildlife watching, and good food. It’s a great way to see the islands without the hassle of planning your own boat or spending a fortune on private charters. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge help make the hours on board more engaging, and the impressive vistas make it clear why this part of Croatia is so beloved.

If you’re someone who enjoys group tours, is comfortable with long boat rides, and desires a quick immersion into the Kornati archipelago’s natural splendor, this trip will suit you well. But if you’re after more secluded spots or less crowded beaches, you might find the stops a bit bustling.

This boat trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Zadar wanting to tick off the highlighted sights with ease. It’s also perfect for people who enjoy scenic boat rides combined with swimming and appreciate local cuisine and wine. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find it a fun and social experience, though those seeking quiet solitude may prefer smaller or private tours.

For those on a budget but wanting authentic scenery and memorable moments, it’s a solid pick. Keep in mind, it’s a long day—about 6 hours of travel and sightseeing—so be prepared for a full-day adventure.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a boat ride, guide, breakfast sandwich, packed lunch, and wine and aperitif. You also pay the Kornati entrance fee separately.

Is it suitable for children?
Babies and strollers are not allowed, which suggests it’s better suited for older children and adults who can comfortably sit through the long boat ride and enjoy the stops.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be requested during booking. Many reviews mention the fish and chicken lunch was well-received, but some wish there had been clearer info about vegetarian choices.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
Most stops allow enough time for swimming, walking, or relaxing, but the duration can vary depending on weather and crowd levels. Many travelers report plenty of time to enjoy the water and the scenery.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Absolutely. During April and May, weather conditions might lead to route changes or rescheduling. Check ahead to ensure safe and pleasant conditions.

What about the boat’s comfort?
The boat is described as large, shaded, and comfortable, but some reviews mention hard wooden benches and crowded conditions at peak times.

Do I need cash?
Yes, for the entrance fee and any additional purchases ashore, having some cash on hand is advisable.

How does the value compare?
Considering the length of the trip, meals, drinks, and scenic stops, most find the price fair and a smart choice for an authentic, shared experience in Croatia.

This full-day boat tour from Zadar offers a balanced glimpse into Croatia’s stunning Kornati archipelago and Telaica salt lake. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to maximize scenery and activity without the fuss of organizing their own transport or meals. Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of guides, the breathtaking views, and the quality of included food and wine, making it a worthwhile splurge.

The tour’s popularity stems from its excellent value—a full day packed with swimming, sightseeing, and good company. While crowded stops might not satisfy those craving peaceful solitude, most visitors appreciate the vibrant, lively atmosphere that makes the day feel like a true Croatian adventure.

If you want a fun, scenic, and well-organized day in Dalmatia, this boat trip is a dependable choice. Just remember to bring your swim gear, some snacks, and a sense of adventure—you’re in for a memorable ride.