SURPRISE TOUR KORNATI & TELASCICA Boat Tour(po Polsku)

Taking a boat trip around Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is often a highlight for travelers—especially when it offers a chance to see untouched nature, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy local cuisine. This Surprise Tour of Kornati & Telascica from Zadar promises a full-day adventure that combines nature, comfort, and cultural insight, all for a reasonable price. It’s operated by The Best Zadar Experience j.d.o.o and has earned a solid 4.5-star rating across 20 reviews.

What really catches our eye about this excursion is the mix of scenic stops—especially the chance to explore Kornati National Park, often called the “nautical paradise,” and the stunning Telascica Bay with its salt lake. Plus, the fact that the boat is one of the least commercialized options means fewer crowded spots and more relaxed experiences.

One consideration is the long travel times at the start of the day, which some guests felt stretched a bit too long, but overall, the value and unique stops tend to outweigh this. This tour suits those who love a mix of activity and leisure, enjoy authentic local flavors, and want to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal spots without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Smaller, less crowded boat with personalized touches
• Diverse Stops: Kornati Islands, Dugi Otok, and Telascica Bay with salt lake
• Inclusion of Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, lunch, and drinks throughout
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Masks provided, plenty of time for water fun
• Flexible Group Sizes: Capacity of 65, not overly commercialized
• Cost-Effective: Reasonable price considering meals and entry fees included

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers a full 9.5 hours of exploration from Zadar, with a focus on natural beauty and authentic Croatian coastal life. The boat departs early in the morning at 8 am from Donja Riva, a charming dock in Zadar’s old town, and heads straight toward the Kornati archipelago. The route is carefully planned to maximize sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation, with stops that are well-paced to avoid feeling rushed.

Unlike some tours that visit the same spots but in large, crowded vessels, this experience emphasizes a more intimate and less commercialized atmosphere. The boat has a capacity of around 65 people, which means you’ll feel like part of a small group rather than just another ticket number.

The Experience on Board: Comfort & Atmosphere

Guests consistently mention that the staff are friendly and attentive. The tour features a bilingual guide in English and Polish, which adds value for international visitors. One reviewer even noted that the guide, who speaks Polish, made extra effort to explain the history and nature of the islands—adding an educational element to the day.

The boat is equipped with snorkeling masks, and there’s ample space for relaxing, eating, or taking photos. The onboard atmosphere balances relaxed enjoyment with a touch of adventure, punctuated by fresh drinks, wine, and a traditional Croatian aperitif.

The Itinerary: From Kornati to Telascica

Morning Departure & First Stop: Kornati National Park

Leaving Zadar, the boat cruises for about 2.4 hours to arrive at Kornati. The journey itself offers scenic views of the Croatian coast—think rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and distant islands. Once there, you’ll spend around 2 hours exploring the island of Kornat and its enchanting bay, which is often deserted during this tour, providing a peaceful setting for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking in the scenery.

Guests have praised the opportunity for a self-guided walk on Kornat, along with swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters. As one reviewer put it, “Jumping into the water from the ship and seeing fish and starfish was captivating.”

Lunch & Free Time

The on-board meal is a highlight for many—grilled fish and chicken, served with seasonal salad. The quality is often described as tasty and freshly prepared, offering good value considering it’s included in the price. Plus, the breakfast of sandwiches in the morning helps start the day off right.

Afternoon Exploration: Dugi Otok & Telascica Bay

Next, the boat heads to Dugi Otok for about 2 hours in Telascica Bay, arguably the most beautiful natural spot on the tour. The bay is famed for its Salt Lake (Slano Jezero)—a small, stunning saltwater lake separated from the sea by a narrow land barrier. Many guests find this area surreal, and snorkeling here is often described as a highlight.

Guests also enjoy a swim in Mir Bay or relaxing by the salt lake, taking in the breathtaking scenery of rugged cliffs and turquoise waters. The quiet, untouched nature of Telascica offers a tranquil escape from busier tourist spots.

Return Journey and Final Stops

The boat then cruises back along the coast, with two more sightseeing sessions, providing additional opportunities for photos, relaxation, and enjoying the sea breeze. The journey concludes back at Donja Riva around 6 pm, after a day packed with diverse experiences.

Meals and Drinks

The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and drinks makes this tour a great value for those who want a hassle-free experience. Expect sandwiches in the morning, a hearty seafood or chicken lunch, and an open bar of wine, water, soft drinks, and grappa throughout the day. Several guests appreciated the quality of the meals and praised the availability of chilled drinks during water activities.

Entry Fees & Additional Costs

While the tour price is about $47 per person, keep in mind that entry fees for Kornati and Telascica are payable on board—30 euros for adults and 20 euros for children aged 4-12. This is a bit of a surprise for some, but it’s standard practice to pay on-site, and it covers the national park and bay access.

Group Size & Comfort

With a capacity of 65, this trip avoids the overcrowding common in larger tours. Guests noted the boat is well-maintained, with enough space for everyone to relax or move around comfortably.

Timing & Suitability

The long travel times—around 2.5 hours each way before reaching the first stop—are worth considering. Some guests mentioned the journey was a bit lengthy at the start but appreciated the scenic views. The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues or those prone to seasickness, given the boat’s movement and walking requirements.

From reviews, it’s clear that the genuine charm of this tour lies in its less commercialized approach and the focus on nature and local flavors. One guest exclaimed, “The boat was one of the least commercialized excursions,” emphasizing how this experience feels more authentic and less touristy.

The mix of water activities, scenic stops, and delicious Croatian cuisine makes this a balanced day for families, couples, or solo travelers. The trip is particularly suited for those who prioritize quality over quantity, enjoying peaceful stops and beautiful landscapes rather than fast-paced, crowded tours.

For $47, this tour packs in a lot: scenic cruising, snorkeling, swimming, a full meal, and the chance to see some of Dalmatia’s most iconic spots. The inclusion of meals and drinks means you won’t need to worry about packing snacks or extra expenses during the day. Plus, the smaller boat size and dedicated stops in Kornati and Telascica are big advantages for travelers seeking a more relaxed and less commercialized experience.

While the entry fees are extra, they are reasonable and provide access to beautiful, protected environments that are well worth it. Many guests felt the value exceeded the price, especially considering the natural beauty and quality of amenities.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that combines nature, water activities, and Croatian cuisine. It’s especially suitable if you prefer a less crowded, more authentic boat tour. Families with children over 4 will find the children’s fee reasonable, and couples or solo travelers seeking serenity and scenic beauty will also love it.

However, those with limited mobility or seasickness concerns might want to consider other options, as the journey is lengthy and requires some walking at stops.

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, a hearty lunch with grilled fish and chicken, plus seasonal salad, is included in the price.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are available upon request, so you can enjoy exploring the underwater life in the clear waters.

How much are the park entry fees?
The entry fee to Kornati and Telascica is paid on board—30 euros for adults and 20 euros for children aged 4-12.

What is the departure time?
The tour departs at 8 am from Donja Riva dock in Zadar, so aim to be on board by 7:45 am.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 4 and up can join, but expect to pay 35 euros for them. It’s best suited for kids comfortable with water activities and long boat trips.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and hat are recommended. High heels, large luggage, or fireworks are not permitted.

Is this tour overly crowded?
No, with a capacity of 65, it’s less crowded than many other excursions, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

The Kornati & Telascica boat tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, water fun, and Croatian hospitality. It’s a fantastic pick for travelers who want more than just a rushed sightseeing cruise—who value authentic moments, good food, and quiet natural spots. The focus on fewer crowds and personalized experiences makes it stand out among the many tours departing from Zadar.

If you’re looking for a balance of adventure and relaxation with the chance to explore some of Croatia’s most breathtaking coastlines, this trip provides excellent value and memorable sights—perfect for those who want to truly connect with Dalmatia’s unique landscape.