Zadar: Kornati and Telaica Nature Park with lunch & drinks

Imagine spending a day on a charming wooden boat, cruising through some of Croatia’s most breathtaking waters and rugged landscapes. That’s exactly what the Kornati and Telašćica tour offers. This 10-hour journey, operated by Gostilje boat, combines sailing, swimming, hiking, and a generous helping of local flavors — all at a very reasonable price of around $59 per person.

We’ve gathered details from those who’ve taken the trip to help you decide if it’s a fit for your Croatian adventure. What travelers love most? The stunning scenery, the relaxed pace, and the tasty Croatian wine. The one common concern? The need to budget for park entrance fees unless you want to skip some of the highlights. If you’re after an authentic day out on the water, with plenty of time for exploring and soaking up panoramic views, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Spectacular Scenery: Cruise through Kornati islands and Telašćica cliffs with panoramic views.
• Swim and Hike: Opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters and salt lakes, plus scenic hikes.
• Includes Lunch & Drinks: Enjoy a grilled meal, Croatian wine, and soft drinks on board.
• Park Fees Not Included: Expect to pay €15 for entrance fees; kids up to 12 pay €7.50.
• Group Size: The tour accommodates up to 65 travelers, ensuring a lively yet intimate experience.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

An In-Depth Review of the Zadar: Kornati and Telašćica Tour

Setting Out from Zadar

The adventure begins early at 8:00 am from the centrally located Liburnska obala. The meeting point in Zadar is easy to find, close to public transport routes, making it accessible whether you’re staying downtown or further afield. The boat, named Moj Dragulj, is a charming wooden vessel that immediately sets a relaxed tone for the day.

The group size varies but can go up to 65 people, which is ideal for those who enjoy a social atmosphere but also have space to find some quiet moments. The boat features a restroom and plenty of shaded spots to keep comfortable, and the crew seems attentive, keeping everyone’s needs in mind.

Panoramic Sailing and First Stop: Kornat Island

The cruise kicks off with panoramic sailing, allowing passengers to soak in sweeping views of Croatia’s coastline and islands. It’s the perfect way to get a sense of the archipelago’s scale and beauty before arriving at Kornat Island, the largest in the Kornati group.

Kornat Island is the namesake of the national park, and it’s easy to see why. With crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and a rugged, untouched landscape, it offers a Robinson-style experience. The review from a previous traveler highlights the tranquility: “La ballade d’iles en îles est superbe,” which translates to “the walk from island to island is superb.”

Visitors typically spend around 1 hour 50 minutes here, enough time to swim, take photos, or simply relax on the boat. While there is no entrance fee for this stop, you’ll need to pay €15 for the combined park tickets later if you wish to explore more.

Lunch with a View

One of the tour’s highlights is the lunch served on board, which features grilled Croatian-style dishes and wine or soft drinks. Reviewers often mention how tasty and filling the meal is, with one noting that the lunch is “very good” and a perfect way to refuel after swimming and exploring.

The included alcoholic beverages and soda make it a convivial occasion, with many travelers appreciating the relaxed atmosphere to chat and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Exploring Telašćica Nature Park

After lunch, the boat heads to Telašćica Nature Park, famous for its dramatic cliffs and salt lakes. The Mir Salt Lake is a major draw—warmer and saltier than the nearby sea, it offers a unique swimming experience with buoyant, mineral-rich waters. Some travelers found this spot to be “warmer and saltier than the sea,” creating a different kind of swim.

The park is also a photographer’s dream, with spectacular cliffs and rock formations that make for stunning photos. The review from mignonJeanlucneuffr praises the “superbe” island hopping and mentions the attentive staff, hinting at a generally well-organized experience.

You can expect about 2 hours here, giving you time to swim, snap photos, and perhaps take a short hike to view the cliffs from above. Entrance fees for the park are €15 per person (or €7.50 for children up to 12), so be prepared to budget that in if you want to explore fully.

The Authentic Experience

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of relaxing boat rides, natural beauty, and opportunities for active exploration. Reviewers consistently mention how well-paced the trip is, providing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. Many appreciate the authenticity—this isn’t a commercialized tourist trap but a genuine chance to see Croatia’s coastal treasures.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is affordable and offers a lot, there are a few details worth noting:

• The park entrance fees are not included in the ticket price, adding about €15 per person.
• The total duration is approximately 10 hours, including travel time, so be prepared for a full day.
• The tour operates in good weather conditions, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or reschedulable.
• Children up to 12 pay a reduced fee (€7.50), making it family-friendly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day on the water with chances to swim in pristine waters, this trip is ideal. It suits travelers who enjoy nature, light hiking, and good food, especially those who appreciate a local wine and a laid-back vibe.

It’s also perfect for small groups or families who want to explore Croatia’s islands without the hassle of organizing transport or boat rentals. However, those expecting extensive hiking or park exploration might find the time at each stop somewhat limited.

Overall, it’s a great value experience that balances adventure and relaxation, offering a wonderful way to see some of Croatia’s most iconic landscapes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a wonderfully balanced glimpse of Croatia’s natural beauty. The stunning coastal views, combined with swimming in crystal waters and enjoying local Croatian food and wine, make it a memorable outing. The price point is reasonable considering the included meals, drinks, and the opportunity to explore both Kornati and Telašćica.

It’s especially suited for nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, and those simply wanting a relaxing day on the sea. The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind, and the overall positive reviews underline its reliability and enjoyment.

If your goal is to experience Croatia’s best during a single day — with a bit of adventure and plenty of chances to unwind — this tour is a solid pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
Transportation isn’t included, but the meeting point at Liburnska obala is easy to reach by public transit or walking from central Zadar.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a camera. A light jacket or cover-up is also handy for when you’re on the boat or exploring.

Are there age restrictions or is it family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, including families with children. Kids up to 12 pay a reduced fee (€7.50).

How much do the park entrance fees cost?
The combined ticket for Kornati and Telašćica parks is €15 per person, with children up to 12 paying €7.50.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, Croatia’s weather favors this trip from late spring to early fall, with warm, calm seas.

Is there any restriction on swimming?
Swimmers should be comfortable in saltwater and aware of basic safety; the stops are in protected areas, but always swim within your limits.

Can I buy additional drinks or food?
The tour includes a delicious grilled lunch and drinks, but you can always bring extra snacks or beverages if desired.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Zadar boat tour offers a fantastic way to see and experience Croatia’s stunning coast, combining natural beauty with relaxed comfort. Whether you’re there for the scenery, the swim, or the local flavors, it’s a trip that’ll leave you with plenty of memorable moments.