Kornati National Park is one of Croatia’s most striking maritime landscapes, famous for its maze of 89 islands and islets, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. Unlike many other destinations, the park offers an array of tours and experiences that let you get up close and personal with its rugged beauty — from quick half-day trips to full-day private escapes. We particularly like the All-Inclusive Island Hooping from Zadar for its relaxed vibe and snorkeling gear, perfect for a stress-free morning. For those craving a full immersion, the Kornati & Telašćica boat tour offers a complete day exploring both parks, with swimming, salt lakes, and local flavor.
Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of each tour option, helping you pick the best experience based on your time, budget, and interests.
1. Zadar: All Inclusive Island Hooping with Snorkeling Gear
Starting from Zadar, this 4-hour trip is perfect for anyone who wants a quick, relaxing escape to explore unexplored nature and swim in crystal-clear waters. The tour features visits to hidden beaches, snorkeling with provided gear, and enjoying fresh fruit, cold drinks, and music of your choice. The boat is designed for comfort, and the crew focuses on creating a laid-back atmosphere.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on getting to the best spots quickly, leaving you plenty of time to swim, relax, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The reviews highlight the friendly guides, with one saying, “Our guide was perfect, very friendly and attentive,” and another noting it as “the perfect stress-free morning adventure.” It’s ideal for travelers who want a brief but authentic taste of Kornati’s waters without a complicated schedule.
Bottom line: If your goal is a short, stress-free introduction to Kornati’s bays and beaches, this tour offers excellent value and a relaxed vibe.
2. ZADAR & KORNATI SPEEDBOAT DAY TOUR
For those wanting to see as much as possible in a single day, the 8-hour speedboat tour offers a whirlwind visit to Kornati’s most famous spots, with stops on islands like Kornat, Levrnaka, and Mana. This full-day trip is ideal for travelers eager to experience the archipelago’s dramatic cliffs, hidden bays, and opportunities for snorkeling or cliff jumping. The fast pace of the trip means you’ll cover a lot of ground, but it also means you’ll need to be comfortable with a busy schedule.
Starting and ending at Brodska benzinska pumpa INA, this tour is well-suited for active travelers who enjoy swimming, exploring, and a bit of adrenaline with cliff jumping. The itinerary offers multiple stops for swimming and exploring, with a focus on snorkeling and discovering secluded spots that larger boats can’t access. The reviews may not specify ratings, but the detailed itinerary and manageable length make it a popular choice for a quick but comprehensive Kornati experience.
Bottom line: If you want to maximize your island visits in one day and don’t mind the speed, this tour packs the highlights into 8 hours and is well worth considering.
3. Zadar: Kornati Islands Private Boat Tour with Lunch
If your idea of a perfect day is exploring Kornati’s stunning islands with privacy and flexibility, this private boat tour is a standout. For about $1,892, your group can enjoy a customized itinerary onboard a private vessel, with up to 10 people. It features a delicious breakfast, including fresh fish, cheese, and bread, and a lunch of grilled sea bass and vegetables, all served onboard while cruising.
This tour is special because it offers a panoramic view of the national park and whispers of secret spots, including a rock shaped like a skull known only to local fishermen. Guests have the flexibility to swim in secluded bays, explore at their own pace, and enjoy a personalized experience that larger group tours can’t match. The quality of the experience hinges on your group’s preferences, making it perfect for families or couples seeking exclusivity.
Bottom line: For a luxurious, private experience with personalized service and local culinary delights, this tour delivers a memorable day with fewer crowds.
4. Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park Trip
This full-day boat tour combines two of Croatia’s most beautiful parks: Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park. Starting at just $59 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to see the diversity of the Dalmatian coast. The Vagabundo boat takes you through the striking Kornati archipelago, with stops for swimming and exploring, then heads to Telašćica, famous for its salt lake “Mir” and scenic walks.
Guided in English and Croatian, the tour balances relaxation and sightseeing. The highlight is the chance to relax on the boat’s spacious deck with a refreshing drink, and the salt lake visit is a favorite among travelers. With 14 reviews rating it 4.5/5, it’s clear that this tour offers good value for the price.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive, budget-friendly day exploring both Kornati and Telašćica, this tour hits the spot.
5. Zadar: Kornati & Telašćica boat tour with Lunch & Drinks
For a full-day adventure with good value, this popular tour at $46 per person offers an in-depth look at the Kornati archipelago and Telašćica Park. With 9.5 hours on the water, it includes breakfast, lunch, and plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. You’ll cruise past Dugi Otok’s cliffs and stop at Katina island, a natural paradise perfect for swimming.
The highlight is the authentic fisherman’s restaurant lunch, featuring local dishes, and the chance to swim in the salt lake of Telašćica. The itinerary includes multiple stops for free time, making it flexible for individual exploration. With 132 reviews rated 4.7/5, this tour offers excellent value and a well-rounded experience tailored for those who want a full day of activity and scenic beauty.
Bottom line: If you want a longer, immersive day with good food and plenty of swimming, this tour balances value and experience exceptionally well.
6. Zadar: Full Day Tour Kornati National Park Private Escape
This private escape offers a 9-hour day exploring Kornati’s most scenic spots, including swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and discovering hidden coves. Starting from Put Klementa, your group can enjoy a tailored experience with a speedboat tour that includes stops at Lojena, Tureta fortress, and local stories about the history of the islands.
For around $945 per group, up to 7 people, this experience provides a more intimate, flexible option for travelers wanting exclusivity. The focus is on stunning islands and quiet coves—perfect for those who prefer a more private, relaxed pace. Though reviews aren’t specified, the itinerary suggests a personalized, memorable day out.
Bottom line: Best suited for small groups seeking privacy, custom itineraries, and a relaxed pace in Kornati’s best spots.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Kornati
When selecting your Kornati experience, consider your budget, available time, and personal interests. If you prefer a quick, laid-back introduction, the All-Inclusive Island Hooping might be perfect. For full immersion, the Kornati & Telašćica boat tour offers a rich, comprehensive day. Families or groups wanting exclusivity should look into the private boat tour with lunch, while budget travelers will appreciate the cost-effective full-day tour.
Booking early is wise, especially during the busy summer months, as these tours can fill quickly. Think about whether you prefer a relaxed, scenic day or an active adventure with snorkeling and cliff jumping. And remember, some tours include lunch, drinks, or private options, so match the experience to your style.
Kornati National Park offers a wide range of options, from quick escapes to full-day private cruises. If you’re pressed for time, the island hooping is a great choice to get a taste of the islands. For those with a full day, the Kornati & Telašćica boat tour provides a comprehensive experience with scenic stops and local flavors. And if privacy and personalized service are your priorities, the private boat tour offers a luxurious, flexible way to explore.
Whatever your style, early booking and clear priorities will help you make the most of your Kornati adventure.