From Zadar Kornati and Telascica National Park Cruise with Lunch

An Honest Look at the Zadar Kornati and Telašćica National Park Cruise with Lunch

If you’re planning a day out on the water from Zadar, this Kornati and Telašćica National Park cruise might catch your eye. It’s a popular option for those wanting to see some of Croatia’s most scenic islands and enjoy a taste of Dalmatian cuisine—all in about a 9.5-hour trip. While it offers some truly memorable moments, it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking.

Two things we genuinely like about this cruise are the stunning views of Kornati’s islands and the included lunch featuring grilled fish and local wine. Both add authentic touches that make the trip feel special. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that some travelers find the overall experience a bit rushed and feel that certain stops don’t quite deliver the value you’d expect. It’s a tour that suits folks who appreciate scenic sailing and a relaxed social atmosphere, but not necessarily those after deep exploration or a leisurely pace.

If you’re considering this trip, think about whether you’re okay with the long transfer (about 2.5 hours each way), and whether you’re hoping for a more in-depth island experience or just some beautiful views. For travelers who love short but scenic boat rides, good food, and capturing Instagram-worthy shots, this could be a worthwhile day. But if you’re after a more immersive or relaxed island-hopping experience, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery of Kornati Islands and Telašćica Nature Park
• Includes a tasty Dalmatian lunch with local wine
• Long transfer time (about 2.5 hours each way) may feel tiring
• Mixed reviews on the value of stops, especially Kornati entrance fee
• Family-friendly elements with snorkeling gear and simple meals
• Good for those wanting a quick scenic escape from Zadar

Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour is a solid choice if you’re eager to see some iconic Croatian islands from the water without spending days on the sea. It’s operated by Adria Vista and starts early at 8:30 am, giving you a full day packed with sightseeing, swimming, and eating. The boat ride itself is the core of the experience, offering plenty of chances to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the breeze.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Telašćica Nature Park is the first stop, where you’ll spend about two hours exploring. This spot is beloved for its combination of peaceful beaches, steep cliffs, and salt lake. We liked that the park hosts a variety of flora and fauna, making it more than just a scenic spot—it’s a little slice of nature’s calm. You have the chance to swim in the salty lake or climb the cliffs for panoramic views, which many find rewarding. However, note that admission tickets are not included, and they cost around €8 for children and €16 for adults, payable in cash at the entrance.

Next up is the Kornati Islands, a highlight for many. The description calls the islands “the tears of God,” which is a poetic way to phrase their striking beauty—white rock formations scattered across the blue sea, islands that seem almost sculpted by nature’s hand. You’ll get about an hour and a half here, with a chance to swim and take photos. Nonetheless, some reviews express disappointment about the €16 entrance fee for Kornati, feeling that there’s little to see or do beyond the scenery, and that the fee isn’t justified for what’s offered.

Food and Amenities on Board

One of the tour’s stronger points is the included lunch. It features grilled fish and chicken with salad, plus vegetarian and vegan options available if you request in advance. The simple, flavorful dishes paired with a glass of local wine elevate the experience, especially for those who appreciate good food with their sightseeing. Water and juice are free throughout the day, and WiFi is available on board, which is helpful if you want to share photos or check messages.

The Sailing Experience

The boat itself appears to be comfortable and suitable for groups of around 150 travelers, making it lively but not overcrowded. Several reviews mention the crew as being knowledgeable, which helps when explaining the significance of the sights and guiding you through the day. The scenery from the boat is a major draw, with many appreciating the views of the archipelago, especially during the calm sailing segments.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From the reviews, it’s clear that opinions vary. One traveler called it a “fantastic experience,” praising how family-friendly and well-organized it was, especially for a trip with young children. On the other hand, some felt that the stops were too brief—particularly Kornati—and that the entrance fee was unjustified given the minimal sightseeing there.

A reviewer noted, “No explanation during the visit. No comment. Just a boat trip,” which might be frustrating if you’re hoping for guided insights. Conversely, others appreciated the beautiful beaches and good value for the price, especially considering the included meal and wine.

Practical Considerations

• Duration and Transfer: The entire trip lasts about 9.5 hours, with roughly 2.5 hours spent traveling each way. Be prepared for a long day if you’re coming from Zadar, but the scenery along the coast makes the journey somewhat enjoyable.
• Cost and Tickets: The €16 entrance fee for Kornati and Telašćica is paid on the spot in cash, so bring some euros if you want to skip the hassle of last-minute arrangements.
• Price-to-Value: At around $65.85 per person, the trip seems reasonably priced given the included lunch and amenities. However, the extra fees and brief stops may make some travelers feel it’s more a scenic cruise than a full exploration.
• Group Size: Expect up to 150 travelers, which can feel a bit crowded but also lively and social.
• Family Suitability: If traveling with children, the short swimming stops and simple meals make it manageable, and the boat’s facilities appear suitable for families.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a scenic, all-in-one day trip that combines sailing, some swimming, and a taste of local cuisine. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy shorter island stops with stunning views but aren’t looking for in-depth exploration or leisurely pacing. The experience is lively, the scenery is captivating, and the included food and wine add a relaxing touch.

However, if your priority is deep island exploration or avoiding long travel times, you might find this tour a bit lacking. Some travelers mention that the stops feel rushed and the entrance fees are steep for what you get. It’s best suited for travelers who want a snapshot of Croatia’s spectacular coastline without dedicating multiple days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that the boat is family-friendly, with opportunities for kids to swim and enjoy the scenery. The meal options are simple, and snorkeling gear is provided.

How long is the transfer to and from the islands?
The transfer is approximately 2.5 hours each way, so be prepared for a long journey. The ride is part of the experience and offers beautiful coastal views.

Are tickets to Kornati and Telašćica included?
No, not automatically. You’ll need to buy tickets in cash at the entrance, costing €16 for adults and €8 for children. Payment with a card is possible if arranged in advance.

What’s the main highlight of the trip?
Many travelers love the Kornati Islands for their dramatic rocky formations and crystal-clear waters. The scenery is truly eye-catching, but some feel the stop is too brief.

How is the food on board?
The included lunch features grilled fish and chicken, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request. The meal is straightforward but tasty, especially paired with local wine.

Is WiFi available during the cruise?
Yes, WiFi is provided on board, which can be handy for sharing photos or checking messages.

What are the main criticisms of this tour?
Some find the stops too short, especially Kornati, and feel the €16 entrance fee isn’t justified for what’s offered. Others mention the lack of detailed commentary during visits.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, for the entrance fees and any additional expenses at the parks. It’s advisable to carry euros.

How scenic are the boat views?
Expect plenty of stunning vistas of the islands, cliffs, and open sea—many reviews rave about the beautiful landscape visible from the boat.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, making it a flexible option if your plans shift.

In closing, this tour offers a quick, scenic escape from Zadar with tasty local food and impressive island views. It’s a good pick for travelers who enjoy riding the waves, capturing photos of striking landscapes, and savoring simple, flavorful meals. But if you’re after a slow-paced, in-depth exploration, you might want to look elsewhere. Whatever you choose, this trip will likely leave you with some beautiful memories of Croatia’s stunning coastline.