Planning a day trip from Zadar that combines breathtaking scenery, fascinating nature, and some well-deserved relaxation? This Kornati National Park and Telaica Nature Park tour promises just that—an opportunity to see the Croatian coast from the deck of a comfortable boat, enjoy good food, and experience some natural wonders. It’s especially appealing if you love scenic landscapes, swimming in salt lakes, and exploring unspoiled islands.
What we love about this tour is how effortlessly it blends activity with leisure. You get a chance to see 155 islands of the Kornati archipelago, a true highlight for anyone interested in the Croatian sea. Plus, the visit to Telaica Nature Park and the visit to the salt lake “Mir” add a unique natural touch that’s hard to find elsewhere. On the downside, the trip’s length and multiple transfers might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer a more relaxed, less packed schedule.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate stunning views, enjoy guided boat trips, and want a taste of Croatian nature without strenuous hiking. It’s ideal for those who like good food, a friendly group atmosphere, and a chance to relax on deck with a drink in hand. But if you’re prone to seasickness or non-swimmers, it’s worth noting the tour isn’t suitable for you.
Key Points
- Spectacular scenery of the Kornati archipelago and Telaica Nature Park
- Includes meals: breakfast and a hearty lunch with wine
- Two swimming stops for a refreshing dip and time in nature
- Guided commentary in both English and Croatian enhances the experience
- Spacious boat with Wi-Fi, bar, and sundeck
- Natural wonder: the salt lake “Mir” offers a unique photo opportunity
An Overview of the Tour Experience
Embarking on this full-day boat trip from Zadar means setting sail with Vagabundo, a vessel designed with comfort in mind. With room for up to 140 passengers, it’s a lively but manageable size that allows for easy mingling and a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll appreciate the spacious deck where you can lounge, take in the views, and snap pictures of the stunning coastlines and islands.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kornati National Park.
Departing from Liburnska Obala
The journey kicks off early at Liburnska Obala, a lively part of Zadar’s coast. It’s easy to find, and the boat, Vagabundo, is ready to set sail. A welcome drink starts your day, and you quickly realize this isn’t just a standard cruise—it’s a thoughtfully organized experience that balances sightseeing, relaxing, and eating.
The Transfer to Telaica Nature Park
Your first stop is Telaica (or Telašćica) Nature Park, which requires about 2.25 hours of cruising. During this transfer, the guide provides commentary, giving you context about the islands and the Croatian coast. Once you arrive, you’ll have about two hours to explore, visit the salt lake “Mir”, and enjoy the scenery.
Telaica Nature Park is known for its steep cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and the salt lake “Mir”, which is famous for its high salinity—so much so that you can float effortlessly, similar to the Dead Sea. Many reviews mention how “the salt lake Mir is a natural phenomenon worth experiencing”. You might find the walk around the park carries a bit of a rugged charm, but the payoff is the incredible views and the unique experience of floating in the salt lake.
Lunch and Relaxation
After the Telaica visit, a 30-minute transfer takes you to Kornati National Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch—either grilled meat or fresh fish, paired with a salad and accompanied by local wine. The unlimited water and juice keeps you hydrated, essential after a morning in the sun.
The 45-minute cruise around Kornati offers plenty of opportunities for photos. You’ll get a glimpse of the many islands that make this area a true maritime jewel. It’s a chance to see the islands from the water and appreciate their rugged beauty.
More Great Tours NearbyTime in Kornati National Park
Post-lunch, you’ll have additional time in Kornati, including a photo stop, possibly a guided visit, and some free time to swim or relax. The swimming stops are a highlight—crystal waters, rocky coves, and plenty of space to float or snorkel if you’re inclined. The reviews mention that “the swimming spots are well-chosen, with calm, clear waters perfect for a dip”.
Return Journey
The day concludes with a return transfer back to Liburnska Obala, with the boat arriving around sunset, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights. Many travelers find the comfortable deck, free Wi-Fi, and scenic views make the return just as pleasurable as the morning start.
What’s Included and What You Should Budget For
The tour offers a lot of value—meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and guided commentary are all included. The welcome drink sets a friendly tone, and the breakfast sandwich is simple but satisfying. The lunch is hearty, with a choice of grilled meat or fish, and the free-flowing wine enhances the experience, especially during the scenic lunch.
Additional costs include tickets to the national park and Telaica Nature Park, which can be bought on site or included in your ticket. Alcoholic beverages outside the wine served at lunch aren’t included, so if you want more drinks, plan accordingly.
The ticket price might seem steep at first glance, but considering the included meals, Wi-Fi, guided commentary, and the multiple stops, many find the cost justified—particularly for the convenience and access to areas that would otherwise take days to explore independently.
The Experience on Board
Travelers consistently praise the Vagabundo boat’s comfort and amenities. The spacious deck allows everyone room to soak up the sun or relax in the shade. The refreshing bar offers drinks throughout the day—though, as noted, extra alcohol needs to be purchased separately.
The Wi-Fi is a nice touch, allowing you to share photos or check messages while on the water. The sundeck is an ideal spot for taking in the views, especially during the cruising segments when the scenery is at its most striking.
Reviews from Travelers
One common theme in reviews is the stunning scenery: “We loved the way the boat cruise allowed us to see so many islands in just one day,” one guest said. Others appreciated the friendly guide who provided informative commentary in both English and Croatian, making the trip educational as well as scenic.
Many travelers also mention that the salt lake “Mir” is a must-see, with some describing it as a “natural wonder” that you can float in effortlessly. Several reviews highlight how the meals are simple but tasty, with fresh ingredients and good portions.
Considerations for Different Travelers
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness. The boat’s movements can be choppy on windy days, so if you’re sensitive, consider medication or check the weather forecast beforehand. Also, the 1-day duration means you’ll want to be prepared for a full day out.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?
This trip is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a taste of Dalmatian island life without the hassle of multiple bookings. If you’re interested in spectacular coastlines, floating in salt lakes, or exploring a UNESCO-worthy archipelago, this is a solid choice.
It’s also a good fit for travelers looking for all-inclusive comfort, with meals, drinks, and guided commentary providing a relaxed yet engaging experience. Families with older children should find it suitable, but very young kids or non-swimmers might find the swimming stops less appealing.
Final Thoughts
This Kornati and Telaica boat trip offers a compelling combination of scenic beauty, engaging stops, and tasty meals. The boat’s amenities and the variety of sights along the way make it a worthwhile day out from Zadar—especially if you love cruising along the Croatian coast, snapping photos of rugged islands, and floating in a salt lake.
For travelers eager to tick off multiple natural wonders in one day, this tour delivers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s a well-organized trip that emphasizes comfort without sacrificing the authenticity of Croatia’s striking landscapes.
If you’re after a memorable day exploring Croatia’s maritime gems—complete with good food, scenic views, and a bit of swim time—this tour is worth considering.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
While the boat is generally stable, the waters can be choppy on windy days. If you’re sensitive to seasickness, it’s wise to take preventive measures or consult your doctor beforehand.
Are the meals vegetarian options available?
The description mentions grilled meat or fresh fish, so vegetarian options aren’t specified. It’s best to check with the provider if you have dietary restrictions.
Do I need to buy tickets to the national parks separately?
Tickets to Kornati and Telaica Nature Park are not included in the initial price but can be purchased either separately or included in your ticket.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, and flip-flops. The boat has a sundeck and Wi-Fi, but personal items are your responsibility.
How long are the transfers between stops?
Transfers are about 2.25 hours to Telaica, followed by 30 minutes to Kornati, making this a full-day adventure with considerable cruising time.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s recommended to confirm specific needs with the provider before booking.
To sum it up, this Zadar boat trip to Kornati and Telaica offers a balanced and scenic experience perfect for those looking to explore Croatia’s coast in a relaxed, well-organized setting. You’ll get stunning views, engaging natural attractions, and delicious local food—all on a comfortable boat with great amenities. It’s a good pick for travelers who want a taste of everything Croatia’s maritime landscape has to offer, without the hassle of multiple arrangements or long hikes.
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