KORNATI by speed boat

Exploring the Kornati by Speedboat: A Practical Review

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia and looking for a way to experience its breathtaking coastline and unique archipelago, a speedboat tour of Kornati National Park might just be what you’re after. This tour promises a full day of scenic views, swimming, and relaxing on the water, all in a relatively intimate setting. While we’ve not taken this exact trip ourselves, reviews and details from travelers suggest it offers a memorable experience—especially if you love sailing and outdoor exploration.

What really catches our eye about this tour is the high rating of 5.0 based on 37 reviews and the fact that 97% of travelers recommend it. Many appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the fantastic scenery, making this a reliable choice for those eager to see Croatia from a different perspective. On the flip side, some mention that the group size might be a bit large for those wanting a more personal experience, which is worth noting if you prefer quiet or more exclusive outings.

This tour suits active travelers who enjoy being on the water and are okay with a full day out. It’s especially great for those who love swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in some truly stunning views away from crowds. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure with a touch of adrenaline, this could be a perfect fit. But if you’re looking for a more private or leisurely experience, you might want to consider your options carefully.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and clear waters make this a visual delight.
• Guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.
• The tour is around 10 hours long, so be prepared for a full day.
• The boat capacity is limited to about 11 travelers, maintaining a relatively cozy group.
• The cost per person is roughly $180, offering a good balance of value considering the full-day experience.
• Weather-dependent, so your day could be affected by conditions.

A Closer Look at the Kornati Speedboat Tour

When considering a trip like this, we know that the devil’s in the details. So, let’s walk through what you can expect, the highlights, and the potential downsides based on traveler feedback and the provided info.

The Itinerary: What’s on Offer?

The tour kicks off at Obala doktor Franje Tumana in Ibenik at 9:00 am. From there, your vessel—likely a sleek speedboat—is ready to whisk you across the Croatian coast to the Kornati National Park. This part of Croatia is famed for its rugged islands, salt lakes, and dramatic cliffs, which you’ll get to appreciate both from the boat and ashore.

The main goal of this trip is to offer you an up-close experience with the islands’ natural beauty. You’ll have ample time to swim, walk around, or just soak up the sun on deck. The itinerary emphasizes intimate exploration of islands, sea, and salt lakes, making it perfect for travelers who love outdoor activities.

The Highlights: What Makes It Special?

The biggest draw is, without doubt, the stunning scenery of the Kornati Islands. Travelers consistently mention their appreciation for the beautiful landscapes and the excellent views from the boat. The guide’s knowledge and professionalism also receive high praise, making the experience more enriching.

Swimming is a key feature—expect to jump into crystal-clear waters and relax on beaches or rocky shores. Many reviews mention that the guide’s friendly attitude and attention to safety help make the day enjoyable.

The Experience: What You’ll Actually Do

You’ll spend about 7 hours in the national park area, with the opportunity to enjoy lunch on board (though not included in the ticket price). The boat ride itself is a highlight—riding across Croatia’s coastline at high speed—and you’ll find that the ride is both exhilarating and scenic.

Some travelers mention that the size of the boat can feel crowded. A review notes, “Too many people on the boat,” suggesting that if you prefer a more private experience, you might find the group size a bit large. The maximum of 11 travelers helps keep it manageable, but it’s still something to keep in mind.

The Price: Is It Worth It?

At around $179.84 per person, this tour offers a reasonably priced full-day experience. When you factor in transportation, sightseeing, swimming opportunities, and the guide’s expertise, it seems like decent value—especially considering the high ratings and positive reviews.

Remember, admission to the park isn’t included, which is typical for such tours. You should budget a small additional fee if you want to access specific sites. Still, most travelers find that the overall experience justifies the cost.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Book in advance—most travelers reserve about 27 days ahead, indicating high demand.
• Weather matters—the tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Bring essentials—sun protection, swimwear, water, snacks, and a camera are a must.
• Group size—limited to 11, but some found it crowded; if you’re after a quieter experience, plan accordingly.
• Timing—the tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, so plan to arrive a bit early.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer, Julie, commented that the scenery was “beautiful” and that the guide was “fantastic,” though she felt there were too many people on the boat. Another praised the beauty of the landscapes and the captain’s kindness, calling the experience professional. This mix of positive feedback suggests that with the right expectations, many will enjoy the trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic boat rides, swimming, and want to see Croatia’s coast from a different angle, this tour fits well. It’s particularly suited for those who are comfortable being on the water for several hours and appreciate guided experiences. It might not be ideal for travelers seeking seclusion or a private boat experience, given the group size.

It’s also a good choice for those who want a full day of activity without having to organize transportation or excursions themselves. If you’re interested in professional guides and stunning views, this trip is likely to meet your expectations.

The Sum Up

The Kornati by Speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to explore one of Croatia’s most striking natural areas. With comfortable group sizes, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax, it’s a solid pick for travelers wanting an active, scenic day out. The price point is reasonable for the length and quality of experience, especially given the rave reviews about scenery and guide professionalism.

While the boat capacity and weather considerations might be downsides for some, overall, this tour provides a memorable glimpse of the Kornati Islands—perfect for those who love being on the water and soaking in breathtaking views. It’s a well-reviewed, reliable choice for travelers looking to add a splash of adventure to their Croatian trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people who don’t like swimming?
Yes. Swimming is optional, and you can choose to relax on the boat and enjoy the scenery instead.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 11, which helps keep the experience intimate, though some reviews mention feeling crowded at times.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Travelers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and professionalism, making the trip more enjoyable.

How long does the tour last?
It’s about 10 hours in total, with approximately 7 hours spent exploring the Kornati Islands.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included in the ticket price, so you should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the trip.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Poor weather may lead to rescheduling or full refund.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transport, making it easy to reach.

What is the price, and is it worth it?
At about $180 per person, it offers good value considering the full-day experience, guided insights, and scenic views.

Would I recommend this for families?
While not explicitly aimed at families, active travelers or groups of friends will likely enjoy the adventure. If traveling with children, consider their comfort with boat rides and swimming.

If you’re after a day packed with stunning visuals, a bit of adventure, and the chance to escape the crowds, this Kornati speedboat tour could very well be your next Croatian highlight.