Kornati National Park Islands Mana & Kornat Tour by boat fro

Exploring Croatia’s Kornati Islands with a Smaller-Group Boat Tour

If you’re thinking about a trip to Dalmatia and want a chance to see some of Croatia’s most breathtaking islands, the Kornati National Park Islands Mana & Kornat Tour by boat is worth considering. This particular tour is known for its more intimate size, thanks to a boat that carries fewer travelers than many other excursion options. That means you’re likely to enjoy a more relaxed vibe, personalized attention, and fewer crowds — a real plus when exploring such a delicate and scenic area.

We’re especially drawn to the fact that this tour offers a blend of land and sea activities, with time to appreciate the stunning limestone terrain and vibrant underwater life. Plus, the inclusion of food and drinks, along with snorkeling equipment, makes it feel like a well-rounded day out. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include pick-up or drop-off from hotels, so you’ll need to get to the meeting point in Zadar, which is a small consideration but worth noting for planning.

This tour is best suited for those who love nature, quiet escapes, and are comfortable with a day on the water. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of light adventure and scenic relaxation, you’ll likely find this trip hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Small group size offers a more personal experience and less crowding.
• Stunning scenery of Kornati National Park, with clear waters and rugged limestone islands.
• Includes meals and drinks, offering good value and convenience.
• Snorkeling equipment provided for underwater exploration.
• Flexible cancellation policy, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Start early at 8:00 a.m. from Zadar, making the most of daylight hours for sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A closer look at the Kornati Islands tour experience

The Kornati National Park Islands Mana & Kornat Tour is designed to give you an immersive taste of Croatia’s most pristine island landscape. You’ll be boarding a boat called Plava Laguna, which is geared towards smaller groups. This isn’t a gigantic ferry packed with dozens of strangers — it’s a more intimate setting that encourages relaxed conversations, better views, and a more personal vibe.

The itinerary and what makes each stop special

The tour kicks off bright and early at 8:00 a.m., gathering at Uvala Draenica in Zadar. From there, the boat makes its way into the Kornati archipelago, a place renowned for its dramatic limestone formations and crystal-clear waters. This group of islands is the densest archipelago in the Mediterranean, with 140 islands, islets, and reefs. Because there are no permanent residents across roughly 320 square kilometers, it feels almost untouched, a true escape into nature.

The first major highlight is Island Mana. This small island offers quiet bays perfect for swimming or just soaking up the sun. Travelers often mention the calm, transparent waters here, ideal for snorkeling and relaxing. One review notes, “We loved the way the water was so clear, and it was fun to just float and look at all the fish around us.” This spot is great for a leisurely swim, and the snorkel gear included makes exploring underwater easier.

Next, the boat heads to Island Kornat, the largest in the archipelago, from which the entire area gets its name. Here, the group can enjoy a brisk walk, take in panoramic views, or simply relax on the boat. The rugged limestone formations provide a dramatic backdrop, perfect for photos and quiet contemplation. Because of the smaller group size, you’ll find it easier to ask questions and maybe even get some quick tips from the guide about local flora and fauna.

Cliff jumping and diving into the sea

One of the more adrenaline-pumping moments in this tour is the chance to jump off a cliff — an activity that seems to delight many travelers. It’s completely optional, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll love the thrill of leaping into the clear, inviting waters. The guides are experienced and safety-conscious, so you’ll be given instructions and assistance if needed.

Lunch at Suha Punta bay

After some water fun, the tour takes a break for lunch at the Captain’s house in Suha Punta bay. Here, the food is included in the tour price — a hearty meal with options for meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes, along with fresh salads. You’ll also get unlimited water and juices, plus white and red wine, which makes for a relaxing midday pause. Travelers mention that the meal is tasty and genuinely satisfying, perfect after a busy morning exploring.

More Great Tours Nearby

Underwater and land activities

Snorkeling gear is provided, and many guests enjoy seeing the underwater ecosystem. The waters around Kornati are rich with marine life, making it a highlight for snorkelers. The experience isn’t just about sightseeing from the boat — you get to dip below the surface and see marine flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

The overall vibe and group dynamic

What sets this tour apart is the smaller boat size. Many reviews mention the relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention. It’s not a rushed, touristy pack — it’s more like a day with friends who happen to be from different places. The multilingual guides (English, German, Italian, French) also help make the experience accessible and informative regardless of your language preference.

Is it worth the price?

At $120 per person, this tour seems fairly priced considering what’s included. You get tickets to the national park, a boat ride, meals, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and a guide. When you think about the value of a full-day experience that combines scenery, activities, and food, it’s competitive. Plus, the small-group setting often justifies the cost by delivering a more relaxed and less crowded experience.

Of course, there’s no hotel pick-up or drop-off included, so that’s something to consider when planning your day. You’ll need to arrive at the meeting point in Zadar by 8:00 a.m., which means some planning, but it also helps keep overall costs down.

Who should consider this tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who prioritize scenic beauty and tranquility over fast-paced adventure. It’s great for those who enjoy a mix of light activity, like snorkeling and cliff jumping, with plenty of chances to relax and take photos.

Families with older children might appreciate the manageable pace and the chance to enjoy the water safely. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups looking for a more personal experience away from large crowds. If you’re someone who values having all the essentials covered — meals, drinks, snorkeling gear — this tour ticks many boxes.

Final thoughts

All in all, this Kornati Islands tour offers a genuine chance to enjoy the wild beauty of Croatia’s deep-blue waters and rugged islands without the chaos of larger groups. The small boat size, combined with the inclusive food and drinks, creates a laid-back but engaging experience that’s hard to beat.

While it might not be the best choice if you prefer a fully guided, all-inclusive package with hotel transfers, it’s excellent for those who want to explore at their own pace and enjoy the natural scenery. For anyone who loves pristine islands, clear waters, and a touch of adventure, this tour provides a memorable taste of Croatia’s coastal charm.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include pick-up or drop-off from hotels or apartments. You’ll need to meet at the specified location in Zadar.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 8:00 a.m. from Uvala Draenica in Zadar.

How long is the tour?
While the exact duration isn’t specified here, day trips like this typically last around 8 hours, including stops for swimming, lunch, and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes entrance to Kornati National Park, the boat ride, snorkeling equipment, a breakfast snack, a full lunch with drinks (including wine), and a guide speaking multiple languages.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and the clear waters make it easy for novices to enjoy the underwater scenery.

Are there options for vegetarians or special diets?
The tour offers a vegetarian lunch option, so be sure to specify this when booking if needed.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The boat provides water and juices, but you might want extra snacks or personal items.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It can be suitable for families with older children comfortable on boats and in the water, but always check the activity specifics and your children’s comfort level with sea activities.

If you’re after a relaxed day exploring one of Europe’s most stunning island landscapes with fewer crowds and plenty of scenic beauty, this tour could be just the thing. Just remember to arrive on time, bring your camera, and enjoy Croatia’s natural wonders in a friendly, laid-back setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: