Zadar: Kornati National Park & cliffs of Telascica

This review takes a close look at the popular Zadar boat tour to Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park, a full-day adventure that promises spectacular views, refreshing swims, and plenty of opportunities to connect with Croatia’s incredible maritime landscape. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the detailed itinerary, reviews, and experiences shared by travelers give us a clear picture of what you can expect.

What I love about this experience are the stunning scenery of the islands, the well-organized itinerary with a variety of stops, and the delicious food and wine included. A potential consideration is that the boat ride might feel a bit long, especially if you’re eager to spend more time on the islands themselves. However, this trip suits travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and culinary pleasure — perfect if you’re eager to see the highlights of the Dalmatian coast without too much hassle.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The tour showcases some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands and coastlines.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Breakfast, lunch, wine, and water are included, adding great value.
• Flexible Stops: Stops at Levrnaka and Telašćica offer swimming, hiking, and sightseeing opportunities.
• Limited Time in Parks: The national parks have time restrictions, so expect shorter visits.
• Comfortable Boat Ride: The cruise is relaxing with plenty of scenic views and onboard commentary.
• Accessible for Most Travelers: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive day tour without strenuous activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

If you’re considering a full-day boat trip from Zadar, this experience hits all the high points: stunning island scenery, time for swimming and exploring, and a chance to see some of Croatia’s most famous natural parks. It’s perfect for travelers craving a mix of adventure and relaxation, with a friendly guide detailing the sights along the way.

You’ll appreciate how smoothly the day is planned — from the welcome drink and breakfast to the leisurely stops for swimming, hiking, and sightseeing. The tour is designed to maximize your time on the water and in nature, while also offering tasty local food and wine to keep you energized.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat ride itself can be quite lengthy, and some reviews have mentioned that more time on the islands would be ideal. But overall, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances travel time with opportunities for immersion in Croatia’s coastal beauty.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip works best for those who love being on the water, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to see Croatia’s islands without the hassle of arranging everything themselves. It’s great for first-timers to Croatia, adventure lovers, and foodies alike, thanks to its included meals and drinks. If you’re short on time but want to experience the highlights of Kornati and Telašćica, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable solution.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins at the Arbiana Cruises in Zadar’s harbor, conveniently located near the Old Town. There are also pickup points at Draenica in Borik and Preko on Ugljan Island, making it flexible depending on where you’re staying. The meeting point is easy to find if you look for guides with “Arbiana Cruises” accreditation, and the GPS coordinates make it straightforward.

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The Cruise: First Leg (2.5 hours)

The day kicks off with a scenic cruise through the Zadar Archipelago, giving you your first taste of Croatia’s seafaring landscapes. Expect stunning views of the coastline, small islands, and perhaps a glimpse of local fishermen at work. During this time, your guide shares stories about the area’s history, adding a layer of context to the scenery.

Stop 1: Levrnaka Island and Lojena Cove (2 hours)

The first major stop is Levrnaka Island, famous for its white sandy cove of Lojena with crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll have around two hours of free time to swim, relax, or even hike for a panoramic view of the archipelago. Several travelers noted how beautiful and peaceful the cove is — perfect for unwinding or snapping photos of the turquoise waters and rugged cliffs.

A reviewer mentioned, “The scenery was beautiful and the stops were good,” although they also noted that the boat ride felt a bit long considering the number of stops. Still, the quiet beauty of Lojena makes it worth the journey.

Stop 2: Dugi Otok and Telašćica Nature Park (30 minutes of cruising + exploration)

Next, the boat heads towards Telašćica Nature Park on Dugi Otok. During the cruise, lunch is served onboard — a highlight for many. You can opt for grilled fish, chicken, or a vegetarian pasta with tomato sauce, all accompanied by local wine. The quality of the food is generally appreciated, making the long boat ride more enjoyable.

Once at Telašćica, you’ll have about an hour to explore. Many visitors enjoy wandering along the dramatic cliffs, visiting the famous Salt Lake Mir, or simply relaxing at a local café. One reviewer pointed out that “after lunch, you have free time to explore Telašćica on your own,” which allows for some flexibility in how you spend it.

Final Stop: Kornati National Park (1 hour)

The highlight for many is the Kornati National Park, a protected area famous for its rugged islands and clear waters. It’s a quick visit with opportunities for pictures, short walks, swimming, or just soaking in the scenery. One guest said, “Beautiful islands and landscapes,” which sums up the visual impact of this part of the trip.

Return Journey and Drop-off

After a full day, the boat heads back to Zadar, with optional drop-offs at Draenica or Preko if needed. The return cruise is about two hours, giving you more time to relax and reflect on the day’s sights.

What’s Included, and What’s Not

Included in the tour are the boat cruise, a friendly tour guide, breakfast (ham and cheese sandwich), a full lunch with drinks (either grilled fish or chicken with salad and bread), and water. This all adds significant value, especially considering the cost of similar excursions in the region.

Extras to consider are the national park entry fee (16 EUR per person), which is paid separately and is mandatory for entry. You’ll also want to bring extra cash for additional drinks at the onboard cash bar or for souvenirs. Gratuities are optional but appreciated for the friendly guides.

The Experience and Overall Value

This tour is priced to include most essentials — meals, guide, and sightseeing — making it a convenient choice. While the boat ride can be lengthy, many appreciate the chance to relax and enjoy the scenery, with reviews indicating the views are stunning.

Travelers also highlighted the quality of the food and wine, making the experience feel more indulgent than just a sightseeing cruise. The stops at Lojena and Telašćica have a good balance of relaxation and exploration, though some wished for more time on each island.

The tour operates weather-dependent, and cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t ideal. This is common for boat trips, so flexible plans and a willingness to reschedule or accept a refund are wise.

Final Thoughts

For nature lovers, this tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Croatia’s most iconic islands and parks without the hassle of organizing transport and logistics. The combination of scenic cruising, swimming stops, and delicious local food, all wrapped up in one day, makes it an excellent value.

Solo travelers, couples, and small groups will find this experience both relaxing and visually stunning. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a leisurely pace, beautiful landscapes, and good company with knowledgeable guides.

However, if you’re keen to spend more time exploring the islands or prefer a shorter boat ride, this might feel a bit long in transit. Still, for most, the balance of activities and sights is just right.

FAQ

Is there a pickup service for this tour?
Yes, the tour begins at Arbiana Cruises in Zadar harbor, with optional pickup stops at Draenica in Borik and Preko on Ugljan Island, making it accessible from different locations.

How long is the boat ride?
The total duration is about 9.5 hours, with approximately 2.5 hours of cruising on the way to and from the parks, giving plenty of time for sightseeing and stops.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring cash for optional extras and park entry fees. Pack sun protection, swimwear, and comfortable shoes for exploring. Baby strollers are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children can enjoy the stops and swimming, but the short duration in the parks and the boat ride may be less ideal for very young kids or those sensitive to long boat trips.

Does the price include entry to the parks?
No, the entrance fee (€16 for adults, €8 for children aged 3-12) is paid separately. It’s a mandatory fee for visiting Kornati National Park.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if weather conditions or plans change.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges, as the tour involves walking and uneven terrain during stops.

In summary, this boat tour from Zadar offers a comprehensive and scenic introduction to Croatia’s stunning islands and parks. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to enjoy nature, good food, and a relaxing day on the water — all wrapped up in a well-organized package that balances adventure with comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: