Kornati to island Mana and Kukljica and Beach Lojena Tour by boat

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Zadar, Croatia, the Kornati to Island Mana, Kukljica, and Beach Lojena tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, it offers a classic way to experience some of the most scenic spots in the Kornati archipelago. The boat, a sizable vessel that can hold up to 120 people, promises a lively but organized atmosphere—great if you’re looking to share the experience with others.

What we particularly like about this trip are its three well-planned stops—Lojena Beach, Mana Island, and the charming fishing village of Kukljica. Each offers a different taste of the local landscape and culture, from stunning beaches to rugged cliffs and quaint village life. Plus, the included lunch with breathtaking views adds a tempting touch. Still, it’s worth mentioning that the tour’s full-day duration and group size may not suit everyone, especially those seeking a more intimate or flexible experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that you’re paying for a guided boat ride with scheduled stops, not a private or personalized tour. If you’re seeking quiet, off-the-beaten-path adventures or detailed historical insights, this might be more of a scenic day trip than an in-depth exploration. That said, it’s a good fit for travelers wanting a relaxed, straightforward way to see some highlights, especially if you enjoy social atmospheres and shared experiences.

All in all, this tour appeals most to those wanting a mix of stunning scenery, light adventure, and good food in a group setting. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a lively vibe and don’t mind the crowds, especially since the boat can accommodate a sizable number of people.

Key Points

• Stunning views of cliffs, beaches, and picturesque villages
• Inclusive lunch with spectacular scenery
• Comfortable boat with capacity for up to 120 travelers
• Three diverse stops offering beaches, cliffs, and local culture
• Scheduled timing ensures a full day of exploration
• Group experience suited to social travelers and groups

What to Expect on the Tour

This boat trip is a solid choice if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day out rather than a deep dive into local history or hidden spots. Starting early at around 8:00 am from Uvala Draanica in Zadar, the day unfolds with a blend of travel, sightseeing, and leisure.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Lojena Beach —
Located on Levrnaka Island in the Kornati archipelago, Lojena Beach is the first stop, where you’ll get about two hours to enjoy its pearly white pebbles and clear waters. The beach’s gentle slope and inviting sea make it perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing on the shore. As one reviewer noted, the beach looks like a postcard, with beautiful scenery that’s well worth the visit.

Stop 2: Mana Island —
Arriving around 1:00 pm, this is the most famous island in the Kornati group. You’ll have about an hour to explore the cliffs and the ruins, which are said to have been used for filming. From the boat, the views of the dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline are breathtaking. If you love scenery and a touch of adventure, you’ll appreciate how spectacular the approach to Mana Island looks. Keep in mind, the time here is limited, so it’s more about soaking in the atmosphere than detailed exploration.

Stop 3: Kukljica Village —
At around 4:00 pm, you’ll arrive in this peaceful fishing village. It’s a nice break from the open sea, giving you a chance to walk around, breathe in the authentic local atmosphere, and maybe snap some photos of the harbor and traditional houses. The reviews mention witnessing a different pace of life here, which can be a charming contrast to the other stops.

The Experience on Board

The boat itself is described as a lively vessel, capable of holding up to 120 passengers. This means you’ll be sharing your journey with quite a few people, which can make the experience feel more social and energetic. The tour includes Croatian grappa and a ham and cheese sandwich for breakfast, setting a casual, friendly tone for the day. Lunch is served onboard with a breathtaking view, which many find to be one of the trip’s highlights.

Timing and Group Size

The tour begins at 8:00 am and ends back at the starting point, making it a long but manageable day for most travelers. The large group size means it’s not ideal if you prefer privacy or a quiet, contemplative experience, but it works well if you’re looking to meet fellow travelers. The tour’s duration is primarily used for transportation between sites, so don’t expect a lot of guided commentary or in-depth storytelling—it’s more about the scenery and the vibe.

Price and Value

At around $122 per person, this tour is priced competitively considering the full day, multiple stops, and included lunch. When you think about what you’re getting—stunning scenery, relaxed stops, and a social boat ride—the value feels fair. It’s not a cheap day out, but considering the logistics of island hopping and the included food, it’s a straightforward way to see a lot without much planning on your part.

The Practicalities

Meeting point: Uvala Draanica, Obala kneza Trpimira 34, Zadar, Croatia.

Duration: Roughly 10 hours, from early morning till late afternoon.

Group size: Up to 120 travelers, making it a lively communal experience.

Weather dependence: The tour requires good weather—bad weather cancels or reschedules. A full refund or alternative date is offered if weather isn’t cooperating.

Accessibility: The tour is open to most travelers, and service animals are allowed, though it’s wise to consider the boat’s accessibility if you have specific needs.

The Real Traveler Perspective

One review from a Tripadvisor traveler mentions being offered the tour while on Borik Beach, with a small deposit and lunch preferences. They highlight the start with Croatian grappa and a sandwich, setting a casual tone. While we don’t have extensive reviews, the feedback suggests the experience is straightforward and mainly about enjoying the scenery with a friendly vibe.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who value scenery and social experiences over privacy or in-depth guided activities. If you enjoy group outings, beautiful coastal views, and a relaxed pace, you’ll likely find this satisfying. It’s a good pick if you want to tick off several island highlights in one day without fussing over logistics or detailed history.

Final Thoughts

The Kornati to Island Mana, Kukljica, and Beach Lojena boat tour offers a pleasant way to see some of Croatia’s most scenic spots. The combination of stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and a charming fishing village makes for a memorable day, especially if you enjoy sharing the experience with others. While it’s not a private or deeply educational tour, it’s a reliable, scenic day out that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

The included lunch and the stunning views make this trip a good value for those wanting a taste of Kornati’s natural beauty without a lot of hassle. Just be prepared for the larger group atmosphere and limited time at each stop. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it involves a full day on a boat with scheduled stops, it’s generally suitable for older children who can handle a day of travel and walking. Keep in mind the group size and pace.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear if you want to swim at Lojena Beach, a hat, and sunglasses. A camera or phone for photos is a must. Pack light, as the boat has limited space for personal items.

Can I get off the boat at any stop?
The itinerary is scheduled, so stops are fixed. You stay on the boat during the stops, and the schedule is tight, so plan accordingly.

How long is each stop?
Lojena Beach gets about 2 hours, Mana Island roughly 1 hour, and Kukljica about 1 hour. These are brief visits, designed to give you a taste of each place.

Is food included in the price?
Yes, lunch with a view and a breakfast snack are included. The reviews mention Croatian grappa and ham and cheese sandwiches as part of the onboard experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

How many people can the boat hold?
Up to 120 travelers, making it a lively, social environment rather than a quiet, intimate experience.

Is it worth the price?
Considering the scenic stops, the included lunch, and the company of fellow travelers, many find it to be good value—especially if you want a relaxed, all-in-one day on the water.

If you’re after a day of scenic island views, social vibes, and a casual exploration of Kornati’s highlights, this tour could be a good fit. Just remember it’s more about the experience and scenery than privacy or in-depth history. Happy sailing!