KORNATI:Full-Day Trip with drink and Lunch

Discovering Kornati: A Full-Day Croatian Island Adventure

Croatia’s Kornati National Park offers a glimpse of dramatic landscapes, shimmering waters, and rugged islands. This full-day boat trip from Zadar, operated by Zadar Travels, promises a well-organized, enjoyable experience — complete with lunch, drinks, and expert guidance. While the price includes many comforts, a cash surcharge upon boarding is an important consideration.

What I really like about this trip is how comfortable and relaxed it feels — the spacious ship, the friendly guides, and the included ham and cheese sandwiches make it feel like a special day out without the hassle of planning. Plus, being able to swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy a generous lunch onboard creates a memorable experience.

The only potential snag is the extra surcharge of €45 for adults (and half that for children), payable in cash, which might catch some guests off guard if they aren’t prepared. Bringing cash along is essential, so plan ahead. Also, if you’re after a vegetarian or special diet, you’ll want to communicate with the tour provider beforehand.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Comfortable Ship with Full Amenities: Spacious vessel with onboard food, drinks, and a friendly guide.
• All-Inclusive Value: Snacks, a hearty lunch (fish or meat), and drinks (juice or wine) included, making it a stress-free day.
• Early Start for the Best Views: Departure from Zadar at 8 a.m., perfect for taking in the scenery before the crowds.
• Cash Surcharge Reminder: €45 per adult, €22.50 for children, payable in cash at check-in.
• Flexible & Transparent Booking: Reserve without paying upfront, full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for Swimming & Snorkeling: The stop on Lavdara Island offers a long break for swimming, with season-dependent duration.

Setting Sail from Zadar: The Start of Your Kornati Journey

The trip kicks off from Obala kneza Branimira, near Zadar, at 8 a.m. It’s best to arrive a little early — the tour provider will send all the details the day before, so you’ll know exactly where to go. You’ll be greeted with a free breakfast of biscuits and drinks, which is a nice touch that sets a welcoming tone for the day.

The vessel itself is spacious, with plenty of room to stretch out, and the professional guide onboard is ready to explain the sights, answer questions, and share insights about the Kornati Islands — a place known for its rugged beauty and protected status.

The Voyage: Sights and Scenery Along the Route

Once underway, the boat follows a scenic route from Zadar, passing through the channel between Paman and Ugljan islands. The slow cruise is one of the most enjoyable parts — you’ll be surrounded by virgin nature and numerous islands, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or simply soak in the views.

The journey through Vela Proversa, a narrow strait, is a highlight for its visual drama and the chance to observe marine life or seabirds. Some reviews mention how the guides enrich the experience, sharing stories and pointing out interesting features of the islands.

Lavdara Island: The Heart of the Day

Around noon, the boat arrives at Lavdara Island, a peaceful spot perfect for a break. Depending on the season, you’ll get 1.5 to 3 hours to relax — plenty of time to explore, swim, or sunbathe. The crystalline waters here are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and many guests find the refreshment in the sea to be the day’s highlight.

In season, the longer stop allows for swimming and perhaps a quick walk to see the island’s natural landscapes. Off-season, the stop is shorter, but you still get plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.

Lunch Onboard: A Hearty Croatian Meal

Lunch is served onboard, with options between grilled fish or meat, accompanied by potato or lettuce salad. The meal is straightforward but satisfying — plenty of food to keep you energized for the return journey. A drink — either juice or wine — is included, which helps to balance the hearty flavors.

The inclusion of a ham and cheese sandwich as a snack before lunch is a thoughtful touch, especially if you’re feeling a bit hungry after the morning’s early start.

Return Journey: Relaxing and Reflecting

Post-lunch, the boat heads back through Mala Proversa, giving you a different perspective on the islands. Since the trip ends around 5 p.m., you’ll have had a full day of cruising, swimming, and sightseeing. Many reviews highlight how smoothly and comfortably the trip runs, thanks partly to the professional guides and well-organized schedule.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This trip is especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed, all-inclusive day on the water. If you enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, good food, and hearing stories from knowledgeable guides, you’ll find this a worthwhile way to experience Kornati. The shared boat experience fosters a social atmosphere, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to meet others.

However, be prepared for the cash surcharge — bringing cash is essential. Also, if you’re a vegetarian or have specific dietary preferences, it’s wise to contact the provider in advance to ensure your needs are met.

Price and Logistics: What You Need to Know

The main cost of this trip is the reservation fee, with the €45 surcharge payable in cash on the day. The advantage is that you only pay for this when boarding, so you can reserve your spot without upfront payment and cancel free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand.

The trip departs at 8 a.m., and the day includes a scenic cruise, a stop for swimming, and a delicious lunch, making it a good value considering the included food and drinks. You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and cash to cover the entry surcharge.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a laid-back day of sailing and swimming in Croatia with the convenience of an all-inclusive package, this tour hits the mark. It offers a good balance of scenic cruising, free time, and hearty Croatian food, all with expert guidance. The relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere make it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting to explore Kornati without the hassle of planning.

Keep in mind the cash surcharge and seasonal adjustments — longer stops in season mean more swimming and relaxing. If you’re after a more active or private experience, you might consider other options, but if comfort and simplicity appeal, this trip is hard to beat.

FAQ

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Obala kneza Branimira 12, near Zadar. Details are provided the day before, so you’ll know exactly where to meet.

What’s included in the price?
Your reservation covers the boat trip, onboard snacks (biscuits and a ham and cheese sandwich), lunch (fish or meat with salad), and drinks (juice or wine). Guides are also included.

How much is the cash surcharge?
It’s €45 for adults and €22.50 for children up to 7 years old, payable in cash on the day of the trip. Babies go free.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
The tour provides all meals and drinks onboard, but you should bring cash if you wish to buy additional beverages or have special dietary needs.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and the shorter or longer stops on Lavdara Island are perfect for families wanting to swim or relax.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), beachwear, cash, and a towel. The weather can be hot, so dress accordingly.

How long does the trip last?
The full-day trip departs at 8 a.m. and returns around 5 p.m., with a scenic cruise and ample time for swimming and relaxing.

Is booking flexible?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation offered up to 24 hours before the trip.

Can I request vegetarian or other special meals?
Yes, contact the tour provider the day before to discuss dietary preferences to ensure proper arrangements.

Final Thoughts

This Kornati full-day cruise from Zadar offers a comfortable and scenic way to experience Croatia’s Kornati Islands. It combines the ease of guided navigation with the freedom of swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying good Croatian food. The inclusion of drinks and a hearty lunch makes it excellent value for those who want a hassle-free day on the water.

While the cash surcharge requires some planning, the overall experience — especially with the professional guides and beautiful scenery — makes it a memorable outing. Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed day in nature, this trip is a fantastic way to see some of Croatia’s most stunning islands without the stress of organizing your own boat.

Enjoy your Kornati day trip — it’s a great mix of comfort, scenery, and authentic Croatian hospitality.