Zadar: Telascica and Kornati Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch

If you’re visiting Zadar and craving a day packed with breathtaking scenery, authentic Croatian flavors, and tranquil waters, this full-day boat trip to Kornati and Telašćica offers a fantastic escape. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect — and it seems well worth your time.

Three things frequently caught travelers’ attention: the spectacular views of Telašćica Nature Park, the authentic, Robinson Crusoe-style lunch on Kornat Island, and the opportunity for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. However, keep in mind that this experience is weather-dependent and might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or seasickness. It’s perfect for those who love nature, good food, and a relaxed, scenic day out.

Contents show

Key Points

Stunning scenery across Telašćica and Kornati Parks.
Authentic Croatian lunch in a Robinson-style village.
Snorkeling in turquoise waters and swimming in saltwater lakes.
Knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience.
Secluded spots like Lupeska Bay for peace and privacy.
Value for money with food, drinks, and multiple activities included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

This boat trip from Zadar offers a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty, relaxation, and local flavor. It’s designed to show you some of the most picturesque parts of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, with carefully selected stops in Telašćica Nature Park and Kornati National Park.

The trip is organized by FORUM TOURS, operating with a focus on safety, comfort, and authentic experiences. Starting from the Ravnice pier, you’ll board a well-maintained boat, often pre-WW2 styled, adding a touch of charm to the voyage. The overall atmosphere is described as relaxed and friendly, with small group sizes that make the experience intimate rather than crowded.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zadar

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Morning

The tour begins with a casual meeting at the pier, where the crew serves local Rakija to start the day with a traditional Croatian toast. Complemented by sandwiches with ham and cheese or vegetarian options, the breakfast sets a friendly tone. As the boat departs, you’re treated to spectacular views of Zadar’s coastline, with the crew sharing insights about the day’s stops.

First Stop: Lupeska Bay on Kornat Island

One of the highlights is Lupeska Bay — a secluded, castaway-style spot that feels worlds away from modern life. Here, you’ll find no electricity, no ferries, just pure peace. Reviewers mention this as a favorite: “far from the civilization, with no running water or other people — just peace and quiet in the most beautiful surroundings.”

You’ll have the chance to snorkel amongst fishes, coral, and anemones, or simply relax on the boat’s deck soaking up the sun. For the more adventurous, there’s a 15-minute hike up a steep, rocky hill to enjoy panoramic views. Comfortable shoes are recommended since flip-flops won’t cut it for the ascent.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch at the Robinson-Style Village

After some time at Lupeska Bay, it’s lunchtime. The crew prepares a mouth-watering grilled chicken or fish with fresh salad, paired with Croatian wine — a generous feast that many reviewers found to be one of the highlights. This authentic meal in a rustic setting feels like a true Croatian castaway experience.

The locals are known to spoil guests with unlimited wine, water, and juice, making this a hearty and relaxed meal. Reviewers like Áron appreciated the delicious local drinks served on a pre-WW2 boat, describing it as a comfortable, scenic ride filled with good company and stunning views.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zadar

Exploring Telašćica Nature Park

Post-lunch, the boat heads to Telašćica, famous for its spectacular cliffs and a warm saltwater lake, Lago Mir. During your two hours of free time, you can choose to hike up to the cliffs for panoramic views, stroll around the island, or take a dip in the warm, salty lake. Many travelers enjoy relaxing in the peaceful bay, swimming in the clear waters, or grabbing a coffee at a local café.

A visit to the donkey shelter is also recommended — a charming spot where you can meet an indigenous breed of donkeys unique to the area. One reviewer noted, “the local donkeys are adorable and a real highlight.”

Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat meanders back to Zadar, offering spectacular sunset views over the water. The crew keeps the mood lively with fruit, drinks, and good music, ensuring that the journey home is just as enjoyable as the day’s activities.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Croatian Flavors: The lunch on Kornat Island offers a genuine taste of local cuisine, served in an environment that feels like a castaway adventure. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food and wine, emphasizing how much it adds to the experience.

Secluded, Natural Spots: Lupeska Bay and Tenerife are less trafficked than popular beaches, offering travelers a chance to swim, snorkel, and relax in peace. The saltwater lake Lago Mir is particularly memorable — warm, calm, and perfect for a leisurely dip.

Knowledgeable and Helpful Guides: Reviewers mention guides like Ewa (not explicitly named in the data, but referenced as helpful) who provide insights and answer questions, enriching the trip beyond just the scenery.

A Well-Organized Experience: From the pickup point to the final return, the trip is described as smooth, well-paced, and friendly. The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, drinks, and snacks makes it a value-packed day.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip

Price & Value: At $65 per person, the tour offers a lot — scenic views, food, drinks, and activities. Remember to bring cash for park entry fees (€15 per adult, €7.5 for kids), which are not included.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes for hiking, and a towel if you want to swim.
Timing & Duration: The full-day trip usually lasts from morning to late afternoon, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Group Size & Atmosphere: Small groups are typical, making it easy to ask questions and form connections.
Weather & Cancellations: Tours are weather-dependent; in case of rough seas or storms, rescheduling or refunds are available.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers who want to see Croatia’s pristine coastlines without the crowds. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers alike, especially those eager to try local food and enjoy a truly peaceful escape.

It’s less suitable for individuals with mobility issues, seasickness, or animal allergies, given the boat travel and rustic stops.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and outdoor adventures. Just keep in mind the hike up the hill requires comfortable shoes.

How much does the park entry fee cost?
You should expect to pay €15 in cash per adult and €7.5 for children aged 3-12, which isn’t included in the tour price.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
The tour provides breakfast, lunch, and unlimited drinks, so bringing extra isn’t necessary. However, bringing some snacks or a water bottle might be wise for comfort.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
While the reviews mention snorkeling, it’s not explicitly stated whether equipment is provided or if you need to bring your own. Expect the waters to be clear and inviting.

What should I wear for the hike?
Wear sturdy shoes, such as sneakers, since the hill is steep and rocky. Flip-flops are not recommended.

What is the boat like?
The boat is described as a beautiful, pre-WW2 style vessel, which adds to the charm and nostalgic feel of the trip.

How long is the free time at Telašćica?
Approximately two hours allow you to relax, hike, swim, or explore the local donkeys.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly mentioned, most similar tours are best enjoyed in late spring, summer, or early autumn when the weather is warm and sea conditions are calmer.

Final Thoughts

The Zadar: Telascica and Kornati Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, authentic Croatian cuisine, and peaceful coastal stops. You’ll love the chance to snorkel in turquoise waters, hike for panoramic views, and feast on local food in a setting that feels like a private island adventure.

This tour suits travelers eager for a relaxed, scenic day that combines nature, culture, and good company. Whether you’re a solo explorer, part of a family, or a couple seeking a romantic escape, it’s a trip that delivers plenty of memorable moments at a reasonable price.

If you value authentic experiences, stunning landscapes, and delicious food, this boat trip offers a genuine taste of Croatia’s coastal charm – well worth adding to your itinerary.