Preko: Lojena Beach, Kornati Islands and Telascica Boat Trip

Exploring the Beauty of Croatia: Preko’s Lojena Beach, Kornati Islands, and Telašćica Boat Trip

Taking a boat trip around Croatia’s Dalmatian coast sounds like a dream, and this particular tour from Preko promises a full day of scenic views, swimming, and exploring some of the region’s most breathtaking spots. While reviews highlight the trip’s enchanting scenery and friendly crew, they also point out some logistical hiccups, so it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking.

What we love about this experience is the chance to sail through crystal-clear waters, enjoy fresh, tasty onboard meals—including wine—and experience the diversity of the Kornati archipelago and Telašćica Nature Park firsthand. Plus, the opportunity to swim in sandy coves and hike to incredible viewpoints adds a real adventurous touch. The only notable drawback seems to be timing — some reviews mention shorter stays and delays, which could be frustrating if you’re hoping for a relaxed, unhurried pace.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive day of island-hopping, stunning scenery, and some active exploration. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy boat rides, breathtaking views, and a taste of Croatia’s coastal charm, but might be less ideal for those seeking a completely flexible or luxury experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: From Kornati cliffs to Telašćica’s salt lakes, scenery is a highlight.
• Good onboard meals: Includes breakfast, a packed lunch, and wine, making the day feel indulgent.
• Active elements: Swimming, hiking, and exploring islands are core parts of the trip.
• Timing issues: Some reviews mention delays and shorter stays, so manage your expectations accordingly.
• Guided experience: The crew shares stories and offers insights, enriching the journey.
• Limited flexibility: The set itinerary means you’ll need to enjoy it as planned.

The Full Experience: What to Expect on this Boat Tour

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins in Preko, a small town on Ugljan Island. The meeting point is conveniently near the “Dado” cafe bar, where you’ll meet your crew. The boat is well-equipped for a day out on the water, but keep in mind that the experience depends heavily on weather conditions. If it’s rough, the trip could be canceled or rescheduled, so it’s wise to have some flexibility.

The Cruise to Kornati Islands

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink, and a ham and cheese sandwich serves as the breakfast. As we set sail, the views of nearby islands like Mrtovac, Levernaka, and Mana set a stunning backdrop. The cruise itself lasts around 2.25 hours, providing plenty of time to relax, chat, and soak in the sea breeze.

What stood out in reviews is how friendly the crew was. One guest commented, “The people on board were very friendly,” which is often a reflection of the genuine hospitality the Croatian coast is known for.

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Exploring Levrnaka Island

After reaching Kornati National Park, the boat stops at Levrnaka Island, a favorite for its scenic beauty and the chance for a quick walk or hike. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here for free time, sightseeing, and taking photos. Many travelers use this time to explore the island’s trails or simply lounge on the beach.

One reviewer noted, “The stay at both locations was shorter than stated, which I would have understood due to the delay if we hadn’t been back at the port about an hour earlier than planned,” highlighting that timing can be tight.

Swimming at Lojena Bay

Next up, your bright sandy cove at Lojena Bay is perfect for cooling off in the clear waters. The sandy beach makes it friendly for swimming and relaxing, especially if you prefer shallow, calm waters over rocky coastlines. The water’s transparency was praised, and many travelers appreciated the opportunity to unwind here.

Lunch and Cruise to Telašćica

After the swim, you’ll head back to the boat for a tasty onboard lunch. The menu options include grilled fish or chicken fillet, accompanied by fresh salad and a glass of Croatian wine. Several reviews mention the good quality of the meals, which adds value to the trip—no need to worry about packing a picnic.

Following lunch, the boat sails toward Telašćica, a protected bay known for its salt lakes and dramatic cliffs. The cruise lasts about 2 hours, giving you time to enjoy the scenery en route.

Exploring Telašćica Nature Park

Upon arrival, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore. One of the most popular activities is hiking to the 150-meter-high lookout point, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding islands and the open sea. You can also take a dip in Lake Mir, a salt lake connected to the sea, or relax at the park’s facilities with a cool drink.

From reviews, it’s clear that the park’s natural beauty is a highlight, but the short duration might leave some wishing for more time to fully enjoy the hiking or swimming.

Return Journey and Final Views

Finally, the boat heads back toward Preko, with ample opportunities to admire the coastlines, islands, and the setting sun if timing allows. It’s a relaxing end to a busy day of exploration, with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflecting on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour package includes the boat trip itself, a guide, breakfast, lunch with wine, and insurance. Extra costs are the park entry fee (€16 per person), and it’s recommended to bring some cash for additional drinks at the boat bar or for any optional extras.

Be sure to pack essentials like a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and water shoes. Note that strollers are not allowed, so plan accordingly if traveling with small children.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing and cancellations: The schedule is fixed, and delays have been reported, so arrive early and prepare for some flexibility with time.
• Weather dependence: The trip may be canceled if weather conditions are unsafe, so check the forecast if possible.
• Group size: While not specified, it’s likely a typical tour size—expect a lively, friendly atmosphere but be prepared for a shared experience.
• Cost vs. value: For around €70-€80 per person, you’re getting a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and excellent food. The value is good, especially considering the scenic beauty and included meals.
• Tour duration: 8 hours is a solid length for covering multiple highlights without feeling rushed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of the Kornati and Telašćica areas without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy boat rides, scenic views, and active options like swimming and hiking. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized day with good food and friendly service, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, keep in mind the possible timing constraints—if you’re very particular about spending ample time at each spot or have limited mobility, you might want to consider other options or private tours.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

All in all, this tour offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, good food, and engaging activities. The sailing through crystal waters, combined with the chance to hike and swim in remarkable locations, makes it a memorable outing. The onboard meals and wine add a touch of indulgence, making the day feel special.

While some reviews point out issues with timing, most agree that the natural beauty and friendliness of the crew make this trip worthwhile. It’s a great way to experience Croatia’s coast if you’re looking for an active, scenic, and social adventure.

Ideal for travelers who want a guided experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and exploring, all wrapped into an accessible, full-day package.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The trip lasts approximately 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning by late afternoon or early evening.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers the boat trip, guide, welcome drink, breakfast, lunch, and insurance. The park entry fee (€16) is extra.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users and may not be ideal for very young children due to timing and activity levels.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and water shoes. Cash is recommended for additional drinks or souvenirs.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, especially if weather conditions make the trip unsafe.

Are there any hidden costs?
Apart from the park entry fee and extra drinks, no other mandatory costs are indicated.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have around 1.5 hours at Levrnaka Island and Telašćica, with additional cruising and swimming time in between.

Is it a crowded tour?
The total size isn’t specified, but it’s typical for organized tours and generally offers a lively camaraderie with fellow travelers.

Is the food on board good?
Reviews suggest the meals are quite good for a day trip, with options like grilled fish and vegetarian pasta, plus wine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In summary, this boat trip from Preko packs a lot into a single day — scenic cruising, active exploration, and delicious Croatian cuisine. With a friendly crew and stunning vistas, it’s a solid choice for those eager to experience Croatia’s island magic with ease and comfort, despite some minor timing hiccups.