Kornati National Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. Its stunning archipelago of 150 uninhabited islands and islets offers some of the most dramatic seascapes in the Adriatic. What makes these tours stand out isn’t just the scenery, but the variety of ways you can experience it — from relaxing boat rides to adventurous hikes and dolphin watching. One of our favorites is the full-day boat tour of Kornati and Telašćica, which combines natural beauty with cultural highlights, making it a well-rounded day out. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins along the way, like on the Molat Island Dolphin Watching Boat Tour. For a more private experience, the Kornati Islands Private Boat Tour offers customization and exclusive access to some of the park’s best spots.
These tours cover a range of styles and budgets, from quick sunset cruises to all-day explorations. Whether you’re after a laid-back sail, a guided nature walk, or a dolphin sighting adventure, there’s something for all. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each experience to help you decide which fits your trip best.
Here’s a quick overview of the types of tours included in our list:
- Sunset and short boat cruises, perfect for a romantic evening or sunset photo ops.
- Full-day boat trips exploring the Kornati archipelago and Telašćica Nature Park, with included meals.
- Specialized dolphin watching tours that bring you close to wildlife.
- Private boat experiences, ideal for personalized trips and family outings.
- Combination tours that include visits to iconic spots like Lojena Beach and Mana Island.
Now, let’s dive into each option with all the details you need.
1. Zadar: Sunset Cruise With 2 Stops
For around $41 per person, this sunset cruise from Zadar offers a peaceful way to end your day. Departing from Zadar’s Old Town, the tour takes you past notable sights like the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, both iconic landmarks that come alive at sunset. As the sky turns shades of orange and pink, you can relax with a drink in hand, enjoying the gentle waves and stunning coastline views.
This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a quick, relaxing excursion that offers both cultural highlights and natural beauty. Small groups and friendly guides make this a personable experience, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply unwind. Expect about three hours of calm, scenic cruising with two stops, though the specific stops vary and might include exploring nearby islands or beaches. Guests rave about the stunning scenery and the chance to see Zadar’s coastline in a different light. The relaxed pace makes it suitable for travelers of all ages, especially those wanting a mellow evening.
Bottom line: An affordable and scenic way to enjoy Zadar’s coastline at sunset, ideal for romantic couples or anyone wanting a peaceful finish to their day.
2. Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park Trip
At $59 per person, this full-day boat tour captures the essence of Kornati’s natural beauty. The trip includes a delicious breakfast and lunch served on the spacious Vagabundo boat, making it a comfortable and tasty way to explore. The Kornati archipelago is the star here — a collection of some of the most beautiful islands in the Adriatic, with dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and secluded coves.
The tour also visits Telašćica Nature Park, known for its salt lake “Mir,” which is a natural phenomenon worth seeing. Guests often describe the experience as a perfect balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The guide provides commentary in both English and Croatian, adding context to the landscape and history. This trip suits travelers who want to see a variety of sights in one day, with plenty of time to swim and snorkel in pristine waters.
Since it includes both nature and cultural highlights, it appeals to those wanting an immersive experience. The price reflects its value, considering the meals, guided commentary, and the length of the trip. Reviewers mention the stunning scenery and the well-paced itinerary.
Bottom line: A comprehensive day trip that combines natural wonders with comfort, ideal for travelers seeking a full experience of Kornati and Telašćica.
3. Molat Island Dolphin Watching Boat Tour 6 hours
For €95 per adult and €55 for children up to 10, this dolphin watching tour offers a memorable chance to encounter wild dolphins in their natural habitat. The tour cruises towards Molat, renowned for its dolphin reserve, and keeps a keen eye out for these playful creatures. The thrill of spotting dolphins breaking the surface as you cruise through the waters is hard to beat.
On the island of Molat, you get free time to swim, explore, or relax on the beach. Lunch and drinks are included, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty during your six-hour adventure. Many travelers highlight the sense of wonder that comes from seeing dolphins, with one reviewer noting, “It’s a magical experience watching them play in the wild.”
This tour is perfect for animal lovers and families wanting a fun, interactive outing. The focus on wildlife makes it a more active, dynamic experience, and the inclusion of free time on Molat adds flexibility. The cost is reasonable given the combination of wildlife viewing, island time, and lunch.
Bottom line: An engaging, wildlife-focused tour that’s great for families and anyone eager to see dolphins in their natural environment.
4. Kornati National Park, Telašćica & Beach Lojena Tour by Boat
This 10-hour comprehensive tour is ideal for travelers wanting to explore both the Kornati archipelago and Telašćica Nature Park in depth. Starting early from Zadar, the cruise includes sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and guided visits to major spots such as Salt Lake Mir and Lojena Beach. The itinerary features multiple stops for photos, relaxation, and exploration, making it a perfect full-day adventure.
Highlights include cliff jumps off Mana Island, visits to Church of Our Lady of Tarac, and a picnic lunch. The trip offers a mix of cultural sites and natural beauty, with plenty of time to swim in crystal-clear waters and snorkel amid the marine life. The guide provides engaging commentary along the way, enhancing understanding of the area’s geology and history.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a full-day, all-encompassing experience. The long day can be tiring but rewarding, especially for those interested in both sightseeing and outdoor activities. The included stops at Lojena Beach for swimming and the chance to jump off cliffs make it stand out.
Bottom line: A detailed and active day tour that balances exploration, relaxation, and adventure — perfect for those with a full day to spare.
5. Kornati National Park to Island Mana & Kukljica & Beach Loje
At $120 per person, this tour offers a full-day exploration of Kornati’s highlights, focusing on Mana Island, the village of Kukljica, and Beach Loje. The trip is designed for those who want a mix of sightseeing, beach time, and local village charm. The boat takes you to Mana Island, where you can jump from cliffs or swim in secluded coves, then visit Kukljica, a traditional fishing village with roots that stretch back centuries.
This tour strikes a good balance between active exploration and relaxation. The highlight for many is the adrenaline rush of jumping from Mana’s cliffs, combined with leisurely time on Beach Loje. The tour’s value is enhanced by the scenic boat ride and the opportunity to see less touristy spots.
It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with water activities and looking for a personalized, less crowded experience. The price reflects the full-day nature and access to multiple locations.
Bottom line: An energetic and scenic day, perfect for active travelers who want to combine adventure with local culture.
6. Zadar: Kornati Islands Private Boat Tour
For those seeking exclusivity and flexibility, this 8.5-hour private tour offers a custom experience in the Kornati Islands. You can swim in hidden coves, jump from cliffs on Mana Island, visit the Church of Our Lady of Tarac, and relax at Lojena Beach. The private boat allows you to design your day with your guide, choosing spots that interest you most.
Highlights include cliff jumping, visiting archaeological sites, and enjoying a Dalmatian-style lunch at a local restaurant — optional but highly recommended. Many travelers appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to explore at your own pace. Reviews often mention the thrill of jumping from Mana Island and the peaceful swims in untouched coves.
This is ideal for families, couples, or groups who want a private, flexible outing. The main consideration is the price, which is higher, but the custom experience often justifies it.
Bottom line: A tailored, private adventure perfect for those wanting an exclusive, flexible day exploring Kornati’s best spots.
How to Choose the Right Kornati Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your priorities. Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the sunset cruise or the full-day tour, offering great value and a mix of scenery. If wildlife encounters excite you, the dolphin watching tour is hard to beat. For a personalized experience, the private boat tour offers customization and comfort.
Consider your fitness level and interests — active types may love the Mana cliff jumps and snorkeling at Lojena Beach, while those looking for a relaxing day should opt for the full-day tour or the sunset cruise. Weather also plays a role; summer months bring clear waters, but early bookings are recommended to secure your preferred date.
Booking early often ensures availability, especially in peak season. Many tours include meals, equipment, and guides, making them quite good value when you consider the overall experience.
Final thoughts:
Kornati National Park offers diverse ways to experience its breathtaking islands and pristine waters. For a quick romantic sunset, the Zadar sunset cruise is perfect. If you want a comprehensive day exploring the natural parks, the full-day Kornati and Telašćica trip won’t disappoint. Animal lovers should consider the dolphin watching tour, while those seeking exclusivity will appreciate the private boat experience.
No matter which you choose, booking early is wise. These tours fill up fast, especially in the summer months. Whichever adventure you pick, you’ll be sure to create lasting memories of Croatia’s stunning coast.
