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Taking a boat trip through the Kornati Islands and Telascica Nature Park from Vodice offers a glimpse into some of Croatia’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. While we haven’t personally experienced this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect: stunning scenery, well-organized stops, and a packed itinerary that balances sightseeing with relaxation.
What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic water views with cultural stops, like visiting the Our Lady of Tarac church and Tureta fortress—giving you a taste of history amid nature’s beauty. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and swimming opportunities makes it a well-rounded day.
On the flip side, one potential consideration is that the tour’s coverage of the islands is quite broad, which means you might see some barren or less dramatic islands, especially if your expectations lean toward lush greenery or more vibrant scenery. Still, for those wanting to see a wide swath of the Kornati archipelago, this is a good option.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy spectacular water vistas, cultural sites, and time for swimming—perfect if you’re after an active, picturesque day out on the sea.
Key Points
- Stunning Water Views: Cruise beneath cliffs and spot landmarks like the highest cliff, Klobuar.
- Cultural Highlights: Visit Our Lady of Tarac Church and Byzantine fortifications like Tureta.
- Flexible Swimming & Relaxation: Time at Telascica’s salt lake and beaches provides opportunities for leisure.
- Inclusive Meal: Enjoy a freshly served lunch on board, with options like fish or chicken.
- Efficient Itinerary: The full-day schedule packs in multiple stops, offering a broad view of the islands.
- Good Value: At around $95, the trip combines sightseeing, meals, and transportation, which can be a cost-effective way to explore.
A Deep Dive into the Journey
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Pickup and Departure from Vodice
The adventure begins at the Destina Boat Excursions meeting point in Vodice, with departures at 9:00 am. The process seems straightforward—most reviews mention the ease of pickup, sometimes even with hotel pick-up options, making this a hassle-free start. The group size can go up to 70 travelers, which means you’ll be sharing the boat with a lively crowd but not so crowded that you can’t find a quiet corner.
The Cruise: Spectacle from the Water
Once underway, you’ll cruise through the Kornati National Park, passing under towering cliffs and spotting notable landmarks. Travelers have praised the magnificent views of the cliffs, especially the dramatic Klobuar, the highest of the cliffs. The boat’s route takes you beneath these towering formations, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
One reviewer described the cruise as a “bliss” to sit in the shade, sip coffee, and watch the coastline drift by. The captain and crew are generally appreciated for their organization and friendliness, with some reviews noting the crew as knowledgeable and patient, explaining the sites and history along the way.
Cultural and Historical Stops
The tour includes some intriguing historical sites such as Our Lady of Tarac Church on the island of Kornat. Built on the remains of an early Christian basilica, the church gives visitors a sense of the long human history intertwined with these islands. Another highlight is the Byzantine fortress of Tureta, dating back to the 6th century during Justinian’s reign. It’s well preserved and offers a tangible connection to Croatia’s past, even if it’s seen from the water.
A reviewer mentioned that the fortress was “the best-preserved of the Byzantine fortifications,” and others appreciated the chance to see Roman-era archaeological remains during the route. It’s these cultural touches that elevate the experience beyond just a scenic cruise.
Lunch and Relaxation Time
By around 11:15 am, the boat enters the middle channel, where a lunch buffet is served onboard. The menu features fresh fish like hake or chicken, complemented by wine and juice—reviews highlight the quality and freshness of the food. The onboard lunch, often described as generous and tasty, is a key part of the value here, giving you fuel for the rest of the day.
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Telascica Nature Park: Salt Lake & Stunning Views
At noon, the boat docks at Telascica, where you’ll get about three hours to unwind. The salt lake here is a favorite among travelers—some take a dip in its briny waters, which many find to be a unique experience. The viewpoint on the cliffs offers spectacular panoramas, and reviewers often mention the opportunity to buy souvenirs or enjoy a meal at the local restaurants, adding a relaxed, local flavor.
The salt lake and surrounding beaches provide ample chances for swimming and soaking up the sun. Many appreciate that this stop is flexible—some choose to relax on the boat while others explore the shoreline or climb the cliffs for better views.
Return Route: Exploring More Islands
The cruise back to Vodice takes you through the Mala Proversa passage, known for Roman archaeological remains, adding a historical layer to the journey. The route along the Upper Kornati islands offers more unspoiled views, with some reviewers mentioning the sight of small ports and scattered houses, which, while less lush, give an authentic feel.
Departure from Telascica occurs around 2:45 pm, with the journey taking approximately 8.5 hours in total. This length seems to be a point of balance for most travelers—long enough to see many sights but not so lengthy as to become tiring.
The Experience from Reviews: Authentic Traveler Insights
Reviews reveal that this tour is generally well-received, with many praising the scenery, the food, and the crew’s friendliness. Sue_J, who called it a “fantastic boat trip,” appreciated how well-organized the crew was, highlighting the ship’s suitability for both young and old. She also enjoyed sitting in the shade, sipping coffee, and watching the coastline.
Rachel_B was impressed by the informative and patient staff, emphasizing the quality of the onboard meal. Other travelers, like Helmut_T, appreciated the spectacular cliffs and salt lake, though he pointed out that the boat’s announcements could be a bit louder—a small detail but worth noting if you’re sensitive to sound.
Several reviewers found the trip to be a “great experience”, with some mentioning that the scenery might not be as lush or green as expected, but still offering a beautiful and scenic water journey. The inclusion of archeological remains and historical sites was also appreciated, providing more than just a boat ride.
Practical Details and Value
At $94.72 per person, the tour offers a fair balance of value, considering the included meals, transportation, and multiple stops. It’s suited for travelers who want a full-day adventure with plenty of photo opportunities, swimming, and some cultural exposure without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.
The group size, with a maximum of 70 travelers, ensures a lively atmosphere but also allows for some personal space on the boat. The return around 2:45 pm means you get a full 8.5 hours, making it a comprehensive way to explore the islands without needing additional travel plans.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip is ideal for nature lovers and those interested in Croatian culture. If you’re drawn to spectacular cliffs, historical sites, and salt lakes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also perfect if you prefer a mix of sightseeing and relaxation, with time for swimming and enjoying local food.
While some may find the scenery less lush than expected—particularly if you’re after lush islands with dense greenery—the expansive views and variety of stops compensate. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the manageable pace and friendly crew.
It’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent—poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling—so it’s best to plan for good conditions.
FAQs about the Kornati & Telascica Boat Tour
How early do I need to arrive at the meeting point?
The tour departs at 9:00 am, so arriving at least 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start. Most reviews mention the pickup is straightforward, especially if booked with hotel transfer options.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection. Swimsuits, towels, and snorkeling gear are advisable if you want to swim at Telascica. A camera or phone for photos is a must.
Is the lunch vegetarian or vegan-friendly?
The menu features fish (hake) or chicken, with beverages like wine and juice. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s best to inquire beforehand, but reviews focus on the quality of the offered food.
How long is the total cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours 30 minutes, from departure in Vodice to return, including multiple stops and lunch.
Will I see lush, green islands?
Not necessarily. Some reviewers noted that the islands appear more barren and rocky, with small ports or scattered houses. The appeal is in the water views, cliffs, and cultural sites.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if mobility is a concern.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling will be offered.
Final Thoughts
This boat tour offers a well-rounded Croatian experience—combining dramatic sea cliffs, cultural landmarks, and relaxing stops at Telascica’s salt lake. The value for the price is solid, especially considering the included meal, scenic cruising, and multiple stops.
It’s most suitable for travelers who enjoy spectacular views, history, and swimming, and who don’t mind a busy, full-day schedule on the water. While the scenery may sometimes be more rocky than lush, the variety of sites and the friendly crew make it an enjoyable way to see Croatia’s islands from a different perspective.
If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to check the weather forecast, pack your essentials, and set your camera to capture some truly memorable Croatian vistas.
In summary, this cruise is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, engaging day exploring Croatia’s iconic islands and coastlines—especially if you value good food, scenic views, and cultural stops.
