Zadar: Kornati and Telaica Cruise with Ticket Included

Zadar: Kornati and Telaica Cruise with Ticket Included — A Detailed Review

Taking a day to cruise through Croatia’s Dalmatian islands sounds like the perfect way to relax, and this tour from Zadar offers just that. With a focus on scenic beauty, delicious food, and some quality time in natural parks, it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to see the highlights of the Kornati archipelago and Telaica Bay. The tour is praised for its friendly guides, tasty onboard meals, and opportunities to swim and hike in spectacular settings.

One thing we love about this experience is the way it combines multiple activities — from sightseeing and swimming to tasting local wine and rakija — all on a comfortable boat. The stops at Levrnaka Island and Telaica Bay are especially memorable, with the latter offering the chance to swim in the warm Salt Lake Mir. A possible downside? The long transfers between stops might feel a bit tedious, especially if you’re short on patience or traveling with little ones. This tour suits those who enjoy a full, active day with plenty of scenic moments and good company.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or just seeking a scenic escape, this trip from Zadar caters well to a wide range of travelers. Just keep in mind the weather — since the tour is weather-dependent, it can be rescheduled if conditions aren’t safe. Still, for the right group, it’s an authentic and value-packed way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful corners.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: The Kornati Islands and Telaica Bay are truly breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters, rocky cliffs, and lush islands.
• Included Meals & Drinks: Enjoy a breakfast sandwich, a hearty lunch, and unlimited water, plus wine and rakija to toast the day.
• Variety of Activities: Swimming in the salt lake, hiking for panoramic views, and dolphin-spotting are highlights.
• Comfort & Guides: The boat is described as modern and comfortable, with friendly guides who keep the mood lively and informative.
• Long Transfers: Expect some lengthy boat rides between stops; bring entertainment or patience if traveling with kids.
• Weather Dependence: The tour can be rescheduled or routes altered for safety reasons, so flexibility is key.

A Closer Look at the Kornati and Telaica Experience

Start to Finish: What the Day Looks Like

The tour kicks off in Zadar, with specific meeting points depending on your booking. From there, you’ll hop aboard a well-maintained boat, with a guide ready to share insights into the islands and natural parks you’ll be visiting. The journey begins with a leisurely sail toward the Kornati National Park, often called “the stone pearls of the Mediterranean” — a fitting nickname given the striking formations of the 89 islands that make up this marine national park.

The Kornati Islands: Visual Feast and Quick Stop

Once at Kornati, the boat anchors at Levrnaka Island. Here, you can stretch your legs, go for a swim, or hike up a stone hill to soak in the expansive views — some travelers mention that the first stop might feel rushed, especially the hike, which can be shorter than preferred. Still, the scenery is spectacular, with rugged rocks, turquoise waters, and the promise of dolphin sightings, which some reviews note as a delightful bonus.

One guest, Daniel, appreciated the “amazing views” and enjoyed swimming in the “crystal blue sea” at the second stop, Telaica. While the first stop may be quick, the overall experience of exploring these islands is memorable due to their raw, untouched beauty.

Lunch & Relaxation on the Boat

Midday, you’ll enjoy a well-prepared onboard lunch featuring grilled chicken or fish, or a vegetarian pasta in tomato sauce. Reviewers like Anna mention the “very friendly and courteous staff” who make the experience smooth and enjoyable. The food is generally described as fresh and tasty, with some noting that the wine and aperitifs added a relaxing touch to the day.

The cruise atmosphere is often lively — with good music and a friendly crew, including guides like Victoria, who keep things fun and informative. Many travelers mention the value of unlimited water and the availability of drinks at the bar, which keeps everyone refreshed during the long boat rides.

Telaica Bay and Salt Lake Mir

After lunch, the boat heads toward Telaica Bay, one of the largest natural ports in the Adriatic. The towering cliffs of Dugi Otok rise dramatically above the bay, which features 25 small beaches and a unique salt lake, Lake Mir. This salt lake is warmer than the sea, making it perfect for a relaxing swim, as confirmed by reviewers like Evelin and Klaudia.

Swimmers often praise the calm, warm waters of Lake Mir, which provide a gentle contrast to the open sea. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the diverse avian population, adding an extra layer of nature appreciation.

The Long Ride Back & Final Impressions

The journey back to Zadar is a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire trip lasts around 9 hours, with about two stops of roughly 1 hour 20 minutes each — enough time for swimming, exploring, or simply soaking up the sun.

Reviewers like Laura say the trip “went above and beyond,” praising the crew’s friendliness and the “outstanding” scenery. Some note that the long transfers between stops can feel a bit tiring, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or traveling with children. Bringing entertainment or extra snacks might help pass the time comfortably.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The ticket covers the boat ride, entry fees to both the Kornati and Telaica Parks, breakfast, lunch, wine, aperitif, and unlimited water — a good deal considering the full-day experience. However, extras like hotel pickup, other drinks, or souvenirs are not included, so plan accordingly.

It’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, and baby strollers aren’t permitted on the boat. The activity is conducted in English, with flexible booking options that let you reserve now and pay later, adding convenience for planning.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Bring Sunglasses, Sun Hat, and Sunscreen: The Croatian sun can be intense, especially when spending hours on the water.
• Pack Swimwear, Towel, and Beachwear: The salt lake and beaches are the main reasons to go, so be ready to cool off.
• Wear Hiking Shoes if Planning to Hike: The hike at Levrnaka offers stunning views, but sturdy footwear is recommended.
• Cash is Handy: Some drinks and souvenirs might only be available for purchase onboard or at stops.
• Prepare for Long Transfers: If you’re traveling with kids or prefer shorter rides, this is something to keep in mind.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a satisfying mix of scenic beauty, active stops, and onboard comfort. It’s a particularly good choice for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Croatia’s islands, with plenty of opportunities to swim, hike, and relax while indulging in local food and drinks. The guides, as many reviews highlight, are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable.

The value for money is clear when considering the inclusion of meals, park entries, and multiple stops in such stunning locations. While the long boat rides between spots might not be for everyone, those who appreciate a full-day adventure with diverse activities will find this trip rewarding.

This tour is best suited for active travelers, nature lovers, and those happy to spend a relaxing day on the water in spectacular surroundings. It’s a well-organized, memorable, and affordable way to experience some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands and natural parks.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides a hearty lunch featuring grilled chicken, fish, or vegetarian pasta, all served onboard.

Can I swim in the Salt Lake Mir?
Absolutely. Many guests enjoy swimming in the warm, calm waters of Lake Mir, which is a highlight of the Telaica Bay stop.

Are drinks other than water included?
No, only wine and aperitif are included. Other drinks are available for purchase at the bar during the trip.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While families can enjoy the trip, it’s not suitable for baby strollers or those prone to seasickness. Also, the long boat transfers may be less ideal for very young children.

What should I bring with me?
Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, hiking shoes (if planning to hike), and cash for extras.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 9 hours in total, including transfers, stops, and meals.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent and might be rescheduled or routes adjusted to ensure safety.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews specifically mention friendly, courteous guides who keep the atmosphere lively and informative.

Is it worth the price?
Considering meals, park entry fees, and the variety of stops, many guests feel the experience offers great value for money.

This full-day cruise from Zadar offers an authentic taste of Croatia’s natural beauty, combined with comfort and excellent value. Whether you want scenic views, swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing on a boat with good food and wine, it’s a memorable way to explore Dalmatia’s stunning islands.