Zadar: Kornati and Telaica Nature Park with lunch & drinks

Exploring Croatia’s Natural Wonders — A Review of the Kornati and Telaica Nature Park Boat Tour from Zadar

This tour offers a scenic escape into Croatia’s breathtaking coastal landscapes, combining a boat voyage with stops at Kornati Island and Telaica Nature Park. With most travelers spending around 10 hours on this adventure, it’s a full day packed with swimming, hiking, and picture-perfect moments. The highlight? Traveling aboard the charming Moj Dragulj, a traditional wooden boat that adds a local, authentic touch to your experience.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this tour is the balance it strikes between relaxation and exploration—there’s plenty of time to swim in crystal-clear waters, enjoy a hearty Croatian lunch, and snap photos of dramatic cliffs and salt lakes. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the extra expense for park entrance fees, which aren’t included in the base price. This trip is well-suited for those who love outdoor adventures, scenic boat rides, and discovering less-visited corners of Croatia’s coastline.

If you’re after a day that offers both a taste of local culture and awe-inspiring scenery, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to maximize their time seeing Croatia’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing transport or meals themselves.

Key Points

Beautiful boat cruise: The panoramic sailing offers stunning views and a relaxing vibe.
Authentic Croatian cuisine: Enjoy a hearty grilled lunch paired with local wine or soft drinks.
Diverse stops: Swim in crystal waters at Kornat Island and in the salt lake at Telaica.
Guided experience: Knowledgeable crew and well-organized itinerary make it smooth.
Additional costs: Park entrance fees aren’t included, so budget for that.
Family-friendly: Most travelers, including children, can enjoy this adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

Your day begins bright and early at Water polo Ul. Zadarskog Mira 1358 at 8:00 am. From here, you’ll board the charming Moj Dragulj, a wooden boat that immediately sets a relaxed, authentic tone. The boat is equipped with restrooms and offers a friendly atmosphere, with plenty of space to settle in and enjoy the journey ahead. Most groups are limited to 65 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

The Panoramic Sail and First Stop: Kornat Island

The first leg of your journey involves a scenic sail, with views that are likely to impress even seasoned travelers. We loved the way the boat glided smoothly over the sea, giving a sense of freedom and adventure. As you cruise, you’ll admire the rugged coastline and perhaps spot some local wildlife.

Kornat Island is the largest in the group and the namesake of the national park. Here, you’ll have nearly two hours to explore—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking up the beautiful surroundings. The water is famously clear, making for excellent swimming opportunities. Reviewers mention the “crystal-clear seawater” as a highlight, along with the “Robinson-style lunch” that offers a relaxed, picnic vibe. The free admission ticket means you can enjoy the stunning landscape without extra costs, but keep in mind the €15 fee for the park entrance (or €7.50 for children up to 12).

Lunch: A Taste of Croatia

Midday, you’ll gather on the boat or a designated picnic spot to enjoy a grilled lunch that features Croatian flavors. The meal is served with Croatian wine or soft drinks, which adds a local touch to the experience. Several reviews praise the quality of the food, describing it as “very good” and highlighting the generous drinks on board. This is a great chance to relax, chat, and take in the scenery while indulging in some authentic cuisine.

Telaica Nature Park and Salt Lake Mir

After lunch, the adventure continues at Telaica Nature Park. The highlight here is swimming in the salt lake Mir, noted for its warmer and saltier waters compared to the sea. Many reviewers say the salt lake offers a unique swimming experience, and the opportunity to take photos of the dramatic cliffs adds to the park’s appeal.

You’ll also enjoy about two hours exploring the park’s natural phenomena. The cliffs and salt lakes provide excellent photo opportunities, especially when the sunlight hits the rugged landscape. Entrance fees for Telaica are not included in the initial price, so plan to pay the €15 fee per person if you want to access the salt lake and cliffs, or €7.50 for children up to 12.

Return and End of Tour

The boat departs back towards Zadar in the late afternoon, with plenty of time to unwind after a full day of adventure. The tour concludes at Liburnska obala, making it easy to walk to nearby restaurants, cafes, or other attractions.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently mention the stunning scenery and the high quality of the hospitality onboard. One traveler called the experience “superbe,” praising the attentive crew and the “very good” lunch. The drinks are also a big hit—most guests appreciate the all-you-can-drink aspect, especially the Croatian wine which is often highlighted as a pleasant surprise.

Some notes of caution include the extra admission fees for parks, which can add up, especially for families or groups. The timing is well-organized, but be prepared for a long day—10 hours can feel quite full, particularly for those with young children or limited stamina.

Practical Details

• Price: $59.95 per person, which offers good value considering the included meals, drinks, and guided experience.
• Duration: Approx. 10 hours, including travel time, making it a full but manageable day.
• Meeting Point: Water polo Ul. Zadarskog Mira 1358 at 8:00 am.
• End Point: Liburnska obala, Zadar.
• Group Size: Up to 65 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.
• Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, drinks, restroom on board, and a guided tour of Kornati and Telaica.
• Extras: Entrance fees for Kornati and Telaica parks are extra, at €15 per person (or €7.50 for kids under 12).

Who Would Love This Tour?

This itinerary is perfect for those who want a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and light hiking in Croatia’s stunning natural parks. It appeals to travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, like Croatian wine and hearty grilled meals. The adventure suits families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, with a relaxed pace that allows plenty of time to take photos and unwind.

It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a guided tour that takes the hassle out of organizing transportation or meals, all while offering exceptional views and authentic experiences. If you’re a nature lover who relishes options for swimming in salt lakes and crystal-clear sea, this tour checks many boxes.

The Sum Up

This Zadar-based boat tour to Kornati and Telaica Nature Park delivers a balanced blend of scenic cruising, outdoor activities, and Croatian culinary delights. While there are additional costs for parks, the overall value remains strong, especially considering the comfortable boat, friendly crew, and the chance to see Croatia’s lesser-known natural gems.

It’s best suited for those seeking a full-day escape into nature, with opportunities for swimming, hiking, and photography, all wrapped up in a traditionally charming boat ride. The inclusion of local food and drinks enhances the experience, giving travelers a taste of Croatia’s relaxed, convivial spirit.

For adventurers eager to explore Croatia’s coastline beyond the usual, this tour offers both stunning views and authentic moments, making it an experience to remember.

FAQ

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, breakfast and a grilled lunch with drinks are included in the price.

What is the cost for park entrance fees?
The admission fee for Kornati and Telaica is €15 per person, or €7.50 for children up to 12.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s relaxed pace makes it family-friendly, especially for kids who enjoy swimming.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time and stops.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and any personal items. Towels are optional, as some may prefer to sit and relax.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 65 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, intimate experience.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Water polo Ul. Zadarskog Mira 1358 at 8:00 am.

Are drinks included?
Yes, alcoholic beverages and sodas are included, with an emphasis on Croatian wine.

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

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

This boat tour from Zadar offers a beautifully curated day exploring Croatia’s natural gems, with plenty of chances for swimming, scenic views, and authentic cuisine. It’s a fantastic way to experience Croatia’s coastline with ease and comfort.