Zadar: Lojena Beach, Kornati Islands and Telascica Boat Trip

If you’re dreaming of exploring Croatia’s renowned islands, this full-day boat tour from Zadar promises a blend of scenic beauty, relaxing swimming spots, and tasty local cuisine. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it offers quite a compelling experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its coverage of two key natural parks—the Kornati archipelago and Telašćica—giving you a taste of some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Dalmatia. Second, onboard meals like breakfast and lunch are included, making it a convenient all-in-one day out. Third, the friendly guides and knowledgeable crew are often highlighted as a major plus, making navigation and storytelling both engaging and informative.

However, a potential consideration is the timing of stops, which some travelers felt could be a bit rushed, especially if you’re keen on longer beach relaxations. It’s best suited for those who enjoy sightseeing with a good dose of swimming, scenic views, and a touch of Croatian culinary flair.

This tour tends to attract visitors looking for an easy, well-organized day of island hopping and nature discovery—perfect for first-timers to Croatia or anyone wanting a taste of the Dalmatian coast without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Visits to both Kornati and Telašćica parks in one day.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Includes several stops, scenic cruising, swimming, and short walks.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and wine help fuel your adventure.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Engaging commentary enriches the journey.
• Stunning Views: Especially from Levrnaka Island and Telašćica Bay lookout.
• Crowd & Comfort: Some reviews mention the boat can be crowded, with limited time at certain stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

This boat trip kicks off early in Zadar’s city harbor, where you meet the friendly crew of Montana Line d.o.o. and board a comfortable vessel. The day is carefully structured, weaving together sightseeing, swimming, and plenty of opportunities to snap photos of Croatia’s rugged coastline and clear waters.

Starting Point and First Stops

The tour begins with a cruise past Ugljan Island, stopping briefly at Draenica and Preko ports. These serve as a warm-up for the day ahead, with onboard drinks and sandwiches to energize you. The crew, including guides like Valentina, are praised for their friendly attitude and wealth of local knowledge, making sure everyone feels welcomed and informed from the start.

Kornati Archipelago

Soon, the boat heads toward the Kornati Islands, famed for their dramatic cliffs and rocky landscapes. The guide offers fascinating stories about the area’s geology and history, making the scenery come alive.

The highlight here is the stop at Levrnaka Island, where you get approximately an hour and a half of free time. Reviewers rave about the crystal-clear waters of Lojena Cove—perfect for swimming and snorkeling. One guest noted, “Loved swimming in the sea and island hopping,” capturing the casual, joyful vibe of the day. For those looking for a bit of adventure, some choose to hike to the island’s top for panoramic views.

Telašćica Nature Park

The afternoon’s focus shifts to Telašćica, a protected area renowned for its spectacular cliffs, salt lake (Lake Mir), and lush surroundings. The boat docks here for about 1.5 hours, giving visitors a chance to explore the park, walk to the 150-meter-high lookout, or relax with a cold drink.

Reviewers like Amber mention that Valentina and Captain Nevona made the experience memorable with their friendly explanations and interactive approach. Notably, the salt lake is a welcome splash of unusual scenery, and many find the opportunity to swim in Lake Mir a real treat.

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Return Journey

After a leisurely stop in Telašćica, the boat begins its three-hour cruise back to Zadar, passing scenic islands and rugged coastline. The crew often makes optional stops at Draenica and Preko again, ensuring a smooth end to the day.

What to Expect on the Day

Expect a relaxed, well-paced tour that balances cruising, exploring, and swimming. The onboard meals are a big plus—breakfast sandwiches in the morning (ham and cheese), a delicious lunch featuring grilled fish or vegetarian pasta with fresh salad, and local wine served alongside.

Swim stops are a highlight, with reviewers noting the crystal clear waters at Lojena Cove and Lake Mir. The **guides* are praised for their friendly demeanor and wealth of information, enhancing the overall experience.

Timing can be a bit tight—some reviewers mention that the stops could be longer, especially at Levrnaka, where an hour and a half might feel short if you’re keen to explore or relax more. Still, most agree the day offers excellent value, especially considering the included meals and park entry fees.

Practicalities and Logistics

Meeting point is at Arbiana Cruises, with straightforward directions and parking nearby. The boat can accommodate around 70 people, so expect a lively atmosphere but also some crowding, especially at popular stops.

The tour lasts about 9.5 hours, with starting times varying by day; check availability when booking. Children aged 3-12 pay half-price, and the parks’ entry fee is €16 per person. Bring cash for extras from the onboard bar, as some reviewers note limited drink options—mainly wine and soft drinks.

Weather dependency is worth considering. The trip is subject to weather conditions, and cancellations are possible for safety reasons. If canceled, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Comfort tips: Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and cash. Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and large luggage or strollers are not permitted onboard.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Many guests highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew as making the trip memorable. For example, Amber appreciated Valentina’s detailed explanations and her helpfulness, especially when she found a guest’s lost phone. Others mention that the food and wine were good quality, with some wishing for coffee or juice to be included during breakfast, which would have been a nice touch.

Travelers also appreciated the timed stops—”not rushing around” was a common phrase—giving a relaxed pace to enjoy each location. One guest pointed out that two hours in Telašćica is a good length to swim, walk, or just unwind.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, snorkeling, and relaxing stops with tasty meals, making it ideal for travelers who want an easy but comprehensive day out in Dalmatia. If you love stunning views, friendly guides, and a touch of Croatian cuisine, this tour checks all the boxes.

It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors to Croatia wanting a hassle-free way to see the best of Kornati and Telašćica without worrying about logistics or local transportation. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a comfortable, well-organized adventure will find plenty to enjoy here.

Bear in mind, if you prefer longer beach days and fewer crowds, some stops might feel a bit rushed. Also, if you’re traveling with mobility challenges or large baggage, this might not be the best fit.

This boat trip from Zadar offers a memorable day of natural beauty, delicious food, and friendly company—highlighting why so many reviewers rate it around 4 stars.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3-12 pay half-price, making it family-friendly. However, the trip’s length and boat environment might be better suited for older kids.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours, with multiple stops and cruising segments.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and wine are included onboard. You’ll enjoy ham and cheese sandwiches in the morning and grilled fish or vegetarian pasta at lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for additional drinks, sunscreen, swimwear, towels, and perhaps a hat. Avoid large luggage or strollers, as they are not permitted onboard.

Is the trip weather-dependent?
Yes, it can be canceled if weather conditions are unsafe. You can reschedule or get a full refund if that happens.

How crowded does the boat get?
The vessel accommodates around 70 guests, so expect a lively atmosphere. Some reviews mention the boat can feel crowded, especially at popular stops.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Valentina and Captain Nevona for their friendly attitude and informative commentary.

How much does the park entry fee cost?
It’s €16 per person, with discounts for children. This fee is not included in the tour price.

Can I extend my time at the stops?
Most stops are about 1.5 to 2 hours, which many find sufficient, though some wish for longer. It’s best to plan ahead.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility challenges due to the boat setup and walking requirements at stops.

Whether you’re after stunning scenery, a taste of traditional Croatian cuisine, or simply a relaxing day on the water, this Zadar boat trip offers a well-rounded experience. It’s a popular choice for visitors eager to explore Croatia’s natural wonders with the comfort of guided logistics and included meals.

You can check availability for your dates here: