From Zadar: Kornati National Park & Telaica Boat Tour

Discovering the Kornati & Telaica Boat Tour from Zadar: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day trip from Zadar to explore Croatia’s famous archipelago, this tour to Kornati National Park and Telaica offers a solid way to see some of the area’s most beautiful spots. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems to tick a lot of boxes for those seeking a relaxing, scenic day on the water.

One thing we really like about this experience is its combination of guidance and free time—you get the benefit of knowledgeable guides, but also enough flexibility to swim, relax, or take photos at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of local Dalmatian cuisine and wine onboard is a lovely touch, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.

However, a potential consideration is that the trip can be quite long—around six hours on the boat—so if you’re prone to sea-sickness or prefer shorter excursions, it might be worth thinking about. Also, the salt lake stop may not be everyone’s favorite, as some reviews mention it’s not as pristine as expected.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love water-based activities, stunning island vistas, and are comfortable spending several hours on a boat. It’s particularly good if you’d like a balanced experience of sightseeing, swimming, and good food, without too much hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and clear waters make for memorable photos and relaxing moments.
• Guides are praised for being friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience.
• Includes food and drinks, adding value and making the day more enjoyable.
• Two swimming stops provide ample opportunity for cooling off or snorkeling.
• Salt Lake Mir is a unique highlight, though some find it less pristine than other spots.
• Long day on the water means plenty of time to unwind but might be tiring for some.

A Deep Dive Into What You Can Expect

Starting Out: Early Morning Departure and First Impressions

The trip kicks off at around 8:30 AM from Liburnska Obala, just next to the bridge connecting to Zadar’s old town. The early start means you’ll be underway as the city wakes up, and there’s something special about leaving the harbor as the sun rises. The guides are there to greet you with a warm welcome, offering a breakfast and an aperitif—simple, but a nice touch to set the tone for the day.

The morning’s vibe is relaxed, with a gentle breeze and plenty of sunshine expected—perfect for a boat ride in Croatia’s warm climate. If you’re packing, don’t forget your sunglasses, sunscreen, and camera, as you’ll want to capture the stunning views ahead.

Telaica Nature Park: Calm Beaches and Rugged Cliffs

Your first stop is Telaica Nature Park, a lush area teeming with flora and fauna. Here, you’ll experience a landscape that combines quiet beaches with dramatic cliffs and thick forests. The highlight? Spending about two hours in this tranquil setting, where you can swim in Salt Lake Mir, hike the cliffs, or simply soak up the sunshine.

The reviews frequently mention how beautiful Telaica is, with one traveler noting, “the scenery and sandy waters at Telaica were their favorite part.” Just a heads-up: bring watershoes if you plan to walk on the beaches, as some reviews point out they’re rocky.

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Salt Lake Mir: A Unique, if Occasionally Controversial, Stop

Salt Lake Mir is an interesting feature of the trip. It offers a chance to float and swim in a mineral-rich lake that looks surreal, especially with the surrounding cliffs. However, a few reviews mention that the salt lake can be somewhat dirty or less pristine than expected. Still, most seem to enjoy the novelty and the opportunity to cool off.

If you’re keen on snorkeling, you’ll find equipment available at the bar during the stops—just ask to get geared up. Many reviews praise how snorkeling here adds a fun layer to the trip.

Lunch Onboard: Simple, Yet Satisfying

Midway through the day, you’ll stop for a traditional Dalmatian lunch. The onboard menu features grilled fish and chicken, served with fresh salad, and complemented by a glass of local white wine. Reviewers frequently mention how enjoyable the meal is—simple but tasty, with good-quality ingredients that give you a taste of regional flavors.

The wine, in particular, gets high praise, with many reviewers saying it was a highlight of the day. This makes the entire experience feel more authentic and relaxed—dining with a sea view while sipping local wine is hard to beat.

Kornati National Park: The Jewel of the Trip

After lunch, the boat sails to the star attraction: Kornati National Park. Known as “The Tears of God” among locals, these 89 islands, reefs, and islets are scattered across the sea like a string of pearls.

The scene here is breathtaking—rugged rocks contrasting sharply with the crystal-clear waters. The guides will share insights about the islands, but most visitors agree the real reward is simply the spectacular visuals. One review describes Kornati as “like the pictures,” emphasizing how it’s exactly as you’d hope—stunning, rugged, and very scenic.

Snorkeling, Swimming, and Relaxing

Two swimming stops are built into the itinerary, giving you ample time to snorkel or float around. Many reviewers loved the opportunity to explore under the water—one even mentioned dolphins being seen, which adds a touch of magic.

The water here is praised for being clear and inviting—ideal for swimming and taking photos. If you bring your watershoes or other beach gear, you’ll enjoy your time more—some beaches are rocky, and a towel or beachwear is essential.

The Return Journey: Sunsets and Final Views

As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Zadar, passing by Telaica and Kornati one last time. If you’re on the boat during sunset, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the day’s highlights and snap some memorable shots. Most travelers find the entire experience relaxing and scenic, though a few mention the return trip can be a bit long—about 6 hours total.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers breakfast, lunch, water, juice, and unlimited wine during the meal, plus snorkeling equipment and two swimming stops. Guides are available to help onboard, and pets are welcome too, which is a nice perk.

However, you’ll need to purchase the tickets to the national parks separately—€16 for adults and €8 for children. Be sure to bring cash for these, as card payments are not mentioned.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early and plan for 3-hour parking if you’re driving—there are several nearby lots, including free options about 10-15 minutes walk away.
• Pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel.
• Remember that tours may be canceled in bad weather—check the forecast if possible.
• If you want to snorkel, ask at the bar during the stops to get equipment.

The Real Traveler Experience: What People Are Saying

Reviews paint a largely positive picture. Many highlight friendly guides, stunning scenery, and delicious onboard food. For example, one traveler called it a “fantastic trip” with “great value for money,” while another appreciated the “breath-taking views” and “plenty of free time” to enjoy the beaches.

Some small critiques include the trip feeling “a bit too long” for those less inclined to long boat rides or crowded spaces. Others mentioned that the salt lake wasn’t as pristine as hoped, and more guidance on the sites would have been appreciated.

Overall, most reviews are four or five stars, emphasizing that this is a reliable, scenic, and relaxed way to see some of Croatia’s best islands and waters.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour Good For?

This boat tour from Zadar is a good choice if you’re looking to combine sightseeing, swimming, and good local food without too much hassle. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy water activities and want a guided experience to see Kornati’s highlights.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who don’t mind a long day on the water, this trip offers a nice balance of relaxation and adventure. Just keep in mind that it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or those seeking a very quick trip.

While it may not be perfect for travelers craving a personalized or highly detailed guided tour, the overall vibe is friendly, scenic, and laid-back—perfect for unwinding while soaking in the beauty of Croatia’s coast.

FAQ About the Kornati & Telaica Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children between 4 and 12 pay a reduced price, and pets are welcome onboard, making it a family-friendly option if your kids enjoy the water and boat trips.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about six hours, including stops for swimming, lunch, and sightseeing. Be prepared for a full day on the water.

Do I need to buy entrance tickets separately?
Yes, the national park tickets (€16 for adults, €8 for children) are not included. Bring cash for these, as card payments are not specified.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and beachwear. Watershoes are recommended for rocky beaches, and don’t forget your cash.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides are friendly and helpful, enhancing the experience with good English and local insights.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkelling equipment is available—just ask at the bar during stops. Many enjoy exploring underwater life in the clear waters.

If you’re looking for a scenic, well-organized day on the water with plenty of swimming, good eats, and stunning island views, this tour from Zadar offers a solid way to experience Croatia’s maritime beauty. Just be prepared for a lengthy day and some rocky beaches, and you’ll likely come away with some beautiful memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: