From Zadar/Bibinje: Kornati National Park Cruise with Lunch

Planning a trip to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast? If so, a boat cruise to the Kornati National Park might be on your list. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve looked into what it offers and talked with travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand. This cruise promises a scenic day filled with swimming, tasty local cuisine, and beautiful island-hopping, all in the company of friendly guides.

What draws me to this experience is how it combines the natural beauty of the Kornati islands with the comfort of a well-organized boat trip. The chance to relax by swimming in clear waters and enjoy Croatian dishes in a gorgeous setting really appeals. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the islands can feel crowded at times, and the boat itself isn’t the newest. Still, if you’re someone who loves a day on the water, soaking in scenic views and local flavors, this trip might be just right.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for an accessible, all-in-one day trip that balances sightseeing, swimming, and good food. It’s also a good pick if you want a guided experience that handles logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery without stressing about transport or planning. Keep in mind, if you’re seeking an ultra-exclusive or very long exploration of the parks, this might feel a bit limited in scope. But for a manageable, enjoyable day out, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Comfortable and well-organized boat trip from Zadar or Bibinje makes exploring easy.
• Includes breakfast and a hearty Dalmatian lunch, with free drinks, offering good value.
• Two swimming stops allow ample time for relaxing in the crystal blue waters.
• Guides are knowledgeable and speak multiple languages, making the experience accessible.
• The boat isn’t the newest model, but it’s reportedly full without being overcrowded.
• Ideal for travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local cuisine on a single trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Off from Zadar or Bibinje

Most trips depart early in the morning—around 8:15 from Zadar and 9:00 from Bibinje—giving you a full day to explore. The journey begins with a warm welcome, some light breakfast, and an introductory talk from the guide. The relaxed start helps set the tone for a leisure-focused day where you can just unwind and let the scenery roll by.

Travelers consistently mention the friendly crew as a highlight. As Beatrice notes, “welcoming crew, nice stops.” It’s clear they take care of guests, offering water, juice, and unlimited drinks in addition to the included wine during lunch.

Telaica Nature Park: A Peaceful Oasis

One of the first stops is Telaica, a lush nature park with a salty lake, steep cliffs, and peaceful beaches. The area receives around 2500 hours of sunshine a year, making it an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the tranquility. Roman appreciated the time spent here, mentioning “both islands offered great swimming places,” though it’s worth noting that some travelers find certain spots crowded, especially in peak season.

Telaica is a lovely contrast to the rocky islands, with forests gently meeting rocky shores. You can climb cliffs or just float in the salty lake—ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a leisurely escape from the crowds.

Croatian Cuisine Onboard

If there’s one thing that stands out about this tour, it’s the delicious food. Lunch is a highlight—simple, well-prepared grilled fish and chicken, served with fresh salad and a glass of local wine. Sara described it as “wonderful,” and Lic mentioned the “decent” lunch with a “bottle of wine per table,” which is a pretty good deal considering the price point.

The onboard dining experience is a special part of the trip. Many reviews mention how good the food is, making the day more memorable. Be aware that the menu isn’t fancy gourmet, but it captures the essence of Dalmatian flavors—fresh, straightforward, and satisfying.

The Marvels of Kornati Islands

The main attraction is Kornati National Park itself—an archipelago of 89 islands, islets, and reefs. Often called “The tears of God,” these islands are scattered like white pearls across the sea. The scenery is striking: jagged rocks, clear waters, and an almost untouched feel. Jure called the experience “fantastic,” and others like Lisa recommend the trip for “beautiful places” and “delicious lunch.”

While the islands are stunning, some reviews note that the swimming spots can get crowded. However, many guests walk further away from the main beaches to find quieter areas, which can be a good tip if you prefer less crowded waters.

The boat typically stops for about two hours on one island and 1.5 hours on another, giving enough time to swim, explore, or just relax by the water. Roman mentioned that the schedule was “as advertised,” which suggests the timing is reliable.

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Practical Details

The trip lasts roughly from 8:15 or 9:00 a.m. until about 5:15 or 6:00 p.m., depending on whether you start from Bibinje or Zadar. The early departures mean you’ll get a full day on the water, but it also requires an early start from your accommodation.

The boat itself is described as “comfortable,” but not brand-new. Some guests note it’s a bit older and slightly crowded, especially at the front where seating can be limited during stops. Still, it’s not overly cramped, and the crew manages the group well.

The cost is around $52 per person, which seems reasonable considering the included breakfast, lunch, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and guided commentary. But remember, the entrance tickets to Kornati and Telaica cost extra—16 kuna for adults and 8 kuna for children aged 4-12. Be sure to bring cash for these.

What’s Included and What You Need to Know

Included are breakfast, lunch (with free wine), welcome drinks, unlimited water and juice, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary in multiple languages. The tour doesn’t include the entrance fees to the parks, so budget for that separately.

The tour is flexible in terms of booking—reserving now allows you to pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. Pets are allowed onboard, which is a nice touch if you travel with furry friends.

What to bring? Swimwear, a towel, beachwear, and cash for entrance fees are recommended. The weather can influence the trip—bad weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling—so check the forecast before heading out.

Authentic Traveler Insights

The reviews paint a picture of a well-liked trip. Beatrice appreciated the “welcoming crew” and the stops, though she suggested maybe longer time at Kornati to explore more. Lajos called the tour “really good,” and Roman valued the punctuality and well-organized schedule. Sara summed it up as “an overall amazing experience,” highlighting how attentive the crew was.

The most praised aspects? Knowledgeable guides, the opportunity to swim and relax, and the tasty, plentiful food and drinks. While the boat isn’t the newest, the overall atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, making it a good option for those who want a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a hassle-free way to see the Kornati islands without the stress of planning. It suits travelers who enjoy swimming, good food, and scenic views, and who appreciate guided commentary. It’s also a flexible choice for those with limited time but wanting to experience Croatia’s stunning coastline.

If you’re traveling with family or seeking a peaceful day in nature, this might work well, especially with the water equipment provided. However, if you’re after more secluded or longer explorations, you might find the schedule a bit limiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The trip generally lasts from about 8:15 or 9:00 in the morning until approximately 5:15 or 6:00 in the evening, giving you a full day on the water.

What’s included in the price?
You get breakfast, a hearty lunch with wine, welcome drinks, unlimited water and juice, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary in English and other languages.

Are park entrance tickets included?
No, they’re paid separately—16 kuna for adults and 8 kuna for children 4-12. Make sure to bring cash for these.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Yes, typically about two hours on one island and 1.5 hours on another, which should be enough for swimming, exploring, or relaxing.

Can I bring pets?
Yes, pets are allowed onboard and no extra payment is needed.

Do I need to bring anything?
Swimwear, towels, beachwear, and cash for entrance fees are recommended. Also, consider sun protection—Croatian sun can be strong.

Final Thoughts

A boat cruise from Zadar or Bibinje to the Kornati National Park offers a relaxing way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings. The mix of swimming, local food, and scenic views keeps most travelers satisfied. While the boat isn’t the newest and the islands can get crowded, the experience’s overall charm comes from the friendly guides, tasty Dalmatian cuisine, and stunning landscapes.

This trip is especially suitable for those who want a guided, value-packed day that combines nature, culture, and comfort. It’s less about deep exploration and more about enjoying a scenic, laid-back adventure with good company and plenty of opportunities to unwind.

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to tick off the Kornati Islands and enjoy Croatian hospitality, this tour could be just the ticket.

You can check availability for your dates here: