Kornati National Park is one of the Adriatic’s most striking natural areas, famous for its maze of over 150 islands, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. Unlike many parks, Kornati is best explored by boat, allowing you to see its rugged beauty and hidden corners up close. Whether you’re after a relaxed cruise, a full-day exploration, or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, there’s a tour that fits your style. We love experiences that combine scenic cruising with standout highlights like the salt lake “Mir” and Telašćica Nature Park—both unique natural phenomena you won’t want to miss. For a taste of local flavor along with stunning scenery, these trips deliver.
In this list, we’ve gathered the best boat tours in Kornati, covering a range of durations, prices, and experiences. From budget-friendly day trips to more comprehensive, full-day explorations, each offers something special. Click through the links to learn more about each adventure, and find the one that suits your schedule and interests.
1. Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park Trip
At number one, this full-day boat tour is a fantastic way to see some of the best highlights of Kornati and Telašćica. Priced at around $59 per person, it offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, natural wonders, and the chance to relax on the spacious deck of the Vagabundo boat. The tour starts early with a breakfast on board, then takes you through the Kornati archipelago, often called the “jewel of the Adriatic” for its dramatic islands and rugged cliffs.
What makes this tour stand out is the visit to the salt lake “Mir”, a rare natural salt lake with buoyant waters and stunning surroundings. The guide, available in English and Croatian, shares local insights that enrich the experience. Guests appreciate the relaxing vibe of the boat, the quality of the included meals, and the opportunity to swim and snorkel in pristine waters. The only downside is that it’s a full-day trip, so it’s best suited for travelers with a full schedule. However, if you want a comprehensive, affordable intro to Kornati, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, budget-friendly tour offering plenty of natural highlights and relaxing time on the water.
2. Kornati National Park Telascica & Beach Lojena Tour by Boat
For those wanting a more detailed itinerary and a longer day on the water, the Kornati National Park Telascica & Beach Lojena Tour is a solid choice. Lasting about 10 hours, this trip covers a lot of ground, including a 2.5-hour sightseeing cruise in the morning, with stops at various scenic spots. The itinerary includes a guided tour of Kornati, where you can swim, snorkel, and explore the islands’ rugged coastline, followed by a lunch featuring local wines, and then an afternoon in Telašćica Nature Park.
This tour is notable for its detailed schedule, including time for photo stops, dolphin watching, and relaxing on the beach of Lojena. The tour departs from Zadar and includes a comprehensive experience with a live English-speaking guide. Guests mention the well-organized itinerary and the variety of activities as major strengths. An advantage here is the full-day immersion, perfect for travelers eager to see more than just the highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full, active day with opportunities to snorkel, photograph, and relax in nature.
3. Kornati National Park to island Mana & Kukljica & Beach Loje
If you prefer a more energetic, adrenaline-filled experience, this Kornati National Park to Island Mana & Kukljica tour offers a different take. Priced at around $120 per person, it combines visits to island Mana and the village of Kukljica, along with time at Beach Loje. The focus here is on speed and adventure, with a boat that’s designed for a quick, exhilarating ride through Kornati’s waters.
This tour emphasizes speed, allowing you to cover more ground in less time, with the chance to experience different islands and villages. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see a variety of locations and enjoy some sea kayaking, swimming, and exploring. The tour highlights the Kornati National Park‘s diverse scenery with visits to less-visited spots, making it a great choice for seasoned boaters or those wanting to combine sightseeing with a bit of thrill.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous travelers who want a high-energy trip with visits to multiple islands and villages.
How to Choose Your Kornati Tour
When choosing between these options, consider your budget, how much time you have, and whether you prefer a leisurely cruise or active exploration. The Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park Trip is perfect for a relaxed, budget-friendly day. If you want a full-day experience with detailed sightseeing, the Telascica & Beach Lojena Tour offers more activities and longer time on the water. For adventure seekers, the Island Mana & Kukljica Tour provides a fast-paced trip packed with different locations.
Pricing and duration vary, so think about how much time you want to spend, what natural features interest you most, and whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo. Booking early is advisable, especially for the most popular tours in high season.
Final Thoughts
Kornati National Park offers a variety of boat tours that cater to different kinds of travelers. For a comprehensive, laid-back introduction, the full-day trip from Zadar is hard to beat. If you’re after a detailed, activity-rich experience, the Telascica & Beach Lojena tour delivers. For fans of speed and exploring multiple islands, the Mana & Kukljica adventure provides a thrilling day out.
No matter which you choose, exploring Kornati by boat guarantees stunning views, memorable encounters with nature, and a chance to see some of Croatia’s finest seascapes. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare to see one of the most beautiful parts of the Adriatic.
Hope this helps you find the perfect Kornati adventure!