Kornati – hidden bay & Telascica from Zadar

If you’re considering a day trip to some of Croatia’s most stunning islands and coastal parks, the Kornati – hidden bay & Telascica tour from Zadar might catch your eye. This excursion promises a blend of beautiful scenery, swimming, hiking, and a traditional Croatian lunch—all aboard a charming wooden boat. While it’s a popular choice, especially for those looking to see iconic Croatian landscapes without the hassle of planning, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for before booking.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines free time for exploring Telascica’s cliffs and salt lake with a laid-back boat cruise that’s well-organized and family-friendly. Plus, the included lunch and drinks add to the overall value—especially for about $65 per person. That said, a couple of aspects are worth considering, like the crowding on some days or the short stops at certain sites. This trip suits travelers eager to see the highlights of Kornati and Telascica without venturing too far off the beaten path or spending a fortune.

Whether you’re into scenic views, snorkeling, hiking, or just relaxing with Croatian wine, this tour could be a good pick. It’s especially suitable if you want a balanced day with plenty of natural beauty and good food, but don’t mind a busy boat trip with other travelers.

Key Points

• Includes park entry fees and lunch, making it a convenient all-in-one package
• Offers ample free time at Telascica for exploring the cliffs and salt lake on your own
• Comfortable, well-equipped boat with a friendly crew, suitable for most travelers
• Crowding can be an issue in peak season, possibly affecting comfort and experience
• Good value for the price considering the landscape, food, drinks, and transportation
• Not a deep or exclusive experience—more of a scenic tour with popular stops

What to Expect from This Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want to tick off Croatia’s iconic islands and parks without the stress of organizing their own transportation or entry tickets. It runs around 10 hours, beginning early in the morning, so you’ll need to be ready for a full day of adventure. The boat, Gostilje, is described as a wooden vessel with a cozy, traditional vibe—though reviews suggest that in busy days, it can feel quite crowded with limited space for sunbathing or relaxing in peace.

Meeting point is at the Gostilje boat excursions office in Zadar, with an 8:00 am start. From there, the day unfolds with a mix of cruising, swimming, hiking, and sightseeing. The group size is usually capped at about 50 travelers, which helps keep things manageable and friendly.

The Itinerary: Breakdown of Highlights and Considerations

Stop 1: Telascica Nature Park

Your first stop is Telascica, a highlight for many. Here, you’ll have around two hours of free time. The main attraction is the spectacular cliffs, which rise sharply above the sea offering breathtaking views—perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. A must-do is visiting the salty lake Mir, located smack in the middle of the island. From reviews, visitors love walking around its picturesque edge or floating in its mineral-rich waters.

One reviewer shared, “Enjoyed swimming in the Adriatic Sea and the scenic views from the boat. The cliffs were amazing and the clear blue water was breathtaking.” The flexibility to explore at your own pace is appreciated, especially for nature lovers.

However, keep in mind that admission fees for the parks are not included (about €15 per person payable on the boat), so budget accordingly. Also, the time is somewhat limited—two hours might feel rushed if you want to hike and relax.

Stop 2: Kornat Island

Next, you’ll visit a hidden bay on Kornati Island that’s free of water, electricity, or roads—essentially a Robinson Crusoe-style spot. It’s a chance to see how people live on these remote islands or simply enjoy the unspoiled environment. This stop lasts about 1 hour and 50 minutes, including time for a delicious grilled lunch served on the boat.

Reviews note that the lunch is hearty and flavorful, with grilled meat and fish, salads, and fresh bread. Drinks, including Croatian wine and soft drinks, flow freely throughout the day, which adds to the relaxing vibe. One traveler remarked, “food was good and the soft and alcoholic drinks too. It was worth the price and the trip.”

That said, some reviews mention that the meal can be quite simple, and the experience somewhat commercialized, with many boats doing similar trips. There’s no water or electricity at the hidden bay, so don’t expect any luxury amenities—just nature and good company.

Additional Stops & Highlights

Beyond these main points, the tour includes scenic views of the Kornati islands and reefs, with plentiful chances to snap photos or go for quick swims. The boat’s upper deck offers great vantage points, and the crew tends to be friendly and organized.

What Travelers Say

While many reviews praise the scenery, guide, and overall organization, some express disappointment with the crowded boat and short stop durations. One review highlights, “the boat was crowded and no place for sunbathing, and the food was bland,” which suggests that if you’re after a more exclusive, quiet experience, this might not be the best fit.

Another reviewer pointed out that long drives between stops can make the day feel slow, especially if the weather isn’t ideal. But many found the salt lake and kornati views worth it, with one describing the salt lake as “spectacular” and “a highlight of the day.”

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price (~$65), this tour provides good value—especially since park entry fees and lunch are included. It’s perfect for those seeking a full-day adventure with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. However, crowds and the busy schedule might diminish the experience for travelers craving solitude or a more in-depth exploration.

The friendly crew and well-organized itinerary keep things moving smoothly, and the food and drinks are generally well-received. If you’re traveling with others who enjoy scenic boat trips, good food, and a taste of Croatian nature, this tour hits many of those marks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a cost-effective way to see Kornati and Telascica without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting to tick off key sights in a single day.

It’s also a good option for those who don’t mind a busier boat and shorter stops, as long as they’re prepared for a packed schedule. If you prefer hidden, secluded spots or luxurious comforts, you might find this tour a little too crowded or basic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation to the tour included?
You meet at the Gostilje boat excursions office in Zadar at 8:00 am; transportation from your accommodation isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

How long does the trip last?
The entire tour runs about 10 hours, including cruising, stops, and lunch.

Are park entry fees included?
No, you’ll need to pay approximately €15 per person on the boat for national park entry fees.

What’s the food like?
A hearty lunch featuring grilled meat and fish, salads, and bread is included. Breakfast includes ham and cheese sandwiches, and drinks (water, soda, Croatian wine) are served throughout.

Is it suitable for children?
Many reviews mention traveling with kids and finding the boat spacious enough for them, but be aware that the experience is quite busy with little shade or secluded areas on the boat.

Can I swim during the stops?
Yes, swimming is a popular activity, especially in the clear waters around Telascica.

What about crowding?
Some days can get quite busy, with reviews noting overcrowding on the boat and limited space for sunbathing or relaxing.

Is the tour flexible?
The itinerary is fixed, but the free time at Telascica allows you to explore at your own pace.

How’s the crew?
Generally described as friendly and organized, with several travelers praising the guide and crew’s efforts.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Kornati – hidden bay & Telascica tour offers a solid snapshot of Croatia’s stunning islands and coast. For around $65, you get a day packed with scenic views, swimming opportunities, and a hearty Croatian lunch—plus the chance to see famous spots like the salt lake Mir and Kornati’s reefs. While it can feel crowded, especially in peak season, the overall experience is generally well-organized and enjoyable for those who appreciate a mix of relaxation and sightseeing.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective, full-day adventure with a good balance of activity and downtime. If you’re craving peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experiences, you might want to explore other options or go for a private tour. But if your goal is to see the highlights with ease and enjoy some authentic Croatian food and wine, this is definitely worth considering.

Remember that booking in advance is recommended, and be prepared for a full day on the water. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps something to keep you comfortable if it’s a sunny, busy day. This trip provides a nice introduction to Croatia’s beautiful islands and coastlines, perfect for making the most of your time in Zadar.