KORNATI:Full-Day Trip with drink and Lunch

KORNATI: Full-Day Trip with Drink and Lunch — A Practical Review

Imagine cruising through Croatia’s stunning Kornati archipelago, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and rugged islands, all from the comfort of a spacious boat. That’s what this full-day tour promises—and from the numerous reviews and details available, it seems to deliver a balanced mix of comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic experiences.

What we particularly love about this trip is the inclusive nature: food and drinks are on the house, the ship is large enough to avoid feeling cramped, and the guided commentary adds a layer of insight about this extraordinary part of Dalmatia. Another bonus is the leisurely pace, with multiple stops that allow for swimming, relaxing, and truly soaking in the scenery.

However, one point to keep in mind is the cash surcharge of 45 EUR per adult (and half that for children) payable upon boarding—so planning ahead with cash is a good idea. This fee covers the entrance to Kornati National Park and is essential for the full experience.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy boating, nature, and a laid-back day out, especially those looking for a hassle-free way to explore the Kornati Islands without worrying about logistics. It’s perfect for groups, families, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Croatia’s stunning maritime landscape with some comfort and convenience.

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Key Points

All-inclusive experience: Food, drinks, and guided commentary make for a smooth day.
Comfortable boat: Spacious, with amenities and fresh food onboard.
Scenic itinerary: Stops at Lavdara Island and Mala Proversa for swimming and relaxation.
Flexible options: Out-of-season trips may involve a different stop (Sali) and slightly shorter durations.
Cash surcharge: An important additional cost to remember.
Ideal for relaxed travelers: Great for those who prefer scenic cruising rather than physical activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Kornati Full-Day Trip

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How the tour begins and what the journey looks like

The adventure kicks off early, with the boat departing from Obala kneza Branimira 12 around 8 a.m. It’s helpful to arrive a little earlier to get settled, enjoy a complimentary snack (ham and cheese sandwiches, biscuits, and drinks), and prepare for the day ahead. The meeting point is straightforward, and details are shared the day before, which helps avoid last-minute surprises.

As you step aboard, you’ll notice the spaciousness of the ship—a key factor that makes this trip comfortable, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or just prefer plenty of room to stretch out. The crew is described as professional and helpful, with a guide onboard to explain points of interest and answer questions, adding a layer of value often missing from more generic boat tours.

The cruise route and why it’s special

Departing from Zadar, the route takes you through the channel between Paman and Ugljan islands, then through Vela Proversa, revealing stunning views of the Kornati islands—an area famed for its rugged beauty and untouched nature. The cruise’s slow pace is perfect for appreciating the scenery, spotting local wildlife, and taking photos.

Reviewers mention how enjoyable it is to simply watch the islands drift by, with one noting that the route offers a “perfect balance of cruising and relaxation.” The calm waters and clear skies contribute significantly to the overall quality of the day.

Main stops and what to expect

Lavdara Island (Seasonal: in-season lasts about three hours, out-of-season around 90 minutes)

This stop is the highlight for many. In season, you get roughly three hours on Lavdara Island, which includes time for swimming, sunbathing, or just wandering around the quaint village. Out of season, the stop is shorter, but you still get to enjoy the crystal-clear sea and some downtime.

Travelers have shared that the swimming in the pristine waters is truly memorable, and the quiet island provides a peaceful break from the boat. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature.

Mala Proversa and other navigational highlights

On the return journey, passing through Mala Proversa, the scenery continues to impress. The route is carefully chosen for its beauty, and the slow navigation allows everyone to take in the sights at leisure.

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Lunch and onboard amenities

A major selling point is the included lunch, served around noon. You’ll be treated to either grilled fish or meat, accompanied by sides like potato or lettuce salad, and a drink—either juice or wine. The quality of the food is generally considered good, especially given the setting, with reviewers noting the simple but tasty meal.

A free ham and cheese sandwich and biscuits in the morning, plus drinks, keep travelers refreshed throughout the day. Additional drinks outside of wine and juice can be purchased separately if desired.

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Additional considerations and reviews insights

Some reviewers have pointed out that the surcharge fee must be paid in cash upon boarding, which is an important detail to prepare for. The fee helps cover the entry to the national park, making it a necessary expense rather than an extra add-on.

One traveler mentioned that out-of-season trips may involve a different destination (Sali), which offers a slightly different experience—more of a local fishing village vibe and less swimming, but still worth it if you’re after a quieter day.

The overall experience and value

Considering costs, the tour offers good value for money when you factor in the included food, drinks, and guide service. The reservation process is flexible, allowing cancelation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind.

While the trip is not overly strenuous, travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, beachwear, and cash for the surcharge. The provided equipment and onboard facilities make the day enjoyable and hassle-free.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is a solid pick for those who love scenic boat journeys, want a relaxed day exploring Kornati, and appreciate the convenience of all-inclusive amenities. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a manageable, well-organized day out. If you’re after a more active or adventurous experience, you might want to explore other options, but for a laid-back, scenic cruise, this ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is there a surcharge I need to pay?
Yes, there’s a cash surcharge of 45 EUR per adult (22.50 EUR for children up to 7 years old) paid upon boarding. It covers the entry to Kornati National Park, so be sure to bring enough cash.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers your reservation, onboard food (ham and cheese sandwich, lunch, biscuits), drinks (juice or wine), and a professional guide. You’re only responsible for the surcharge and optional extra drinks.

Can I book a vegetarian meal?
If you want a special meal such as vegetarian options, it’s recommended to contact the operator the day before to ensure those supplies are available.

What is the itinerary like?
The trip starts from Zadar, cruising through scenic channels and islands, with a key stop at Lavdara Island, where you can swim and relax. The trip concludes back in Zadar around 5 p.m., giving you a full day of adventure.

How long is the stop at Lavdara Island?
In season, it lasts about three hours, enough time for swimming, exploring, and unwinding. Out of season, the stop is shorter—approximately 90 minutes.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and babies go free. Just remember the surcharge for children up to 7 years old, and bring appropriate beach gear for swimming.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Kornati tour from Zadar combines comfort, scenic beauty, and ease, making it a strong choice for travelers looking to explore Croatia’s beloved archipelago without the fuss. The boat’s spacious setup, inclusive meal and drinks, and guided commentary make for a relaxed yet immersive experience.

While the cash surcharge is an unavoidable extra, it’s well worth it for the chance to see Kornati’s stunning islands and enjoy a delicious onboard meal. The flexible booking policy and the beautiful, tranquil stops ensure that you get a good balance of sightseeing and downtime.

In short, if you’re after a hassle-free, scenic cruise with authentic Croatian flavors and plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments—an experience that’s best suited for those who prefer gentle exploration over adrenaline-fueled adventures.