SURPRISE TOUR KORNATI & TELASCICA Boat Tour

A detailed look at the Kornati & Telascica boat tour — a full-day adventure from Zadar that combines natural beauty, good food, and a relaxed pace.
This tour promises to take you into the heart of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, visiting the famed Kornati National Park and the breathtaking bay of Telascica. What makes this experience stand out is its focus on authentic, uncrowded spots — notably, the boat’s exclusive stop at a secluded bay on Kornat, where you’re the only boat around. That’s a rare treat for anyone wanting private, quiet time in nature.

Two things I especially love about this trip are the knowledgeable guides — who speak English and Polish and know the area well — and the quality of the food and drinks served onboard. From a hearty breakfast of sandwiches and an aperitif to a grilled fish or chicken lunch, the meal options are surprisingly good for a boat tour. Plus, the plentiful drinks, from wine and water to spirits, make the day feel more festive.

One possible consideration is the duration and physicality — with stops totaling about four hours for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring, you should be prepared for a fair bit of movement and some rocky terrain, especially at the viewpoints. The boat capacity of 65 people means it’s a fairly sizable group, but reviews suggest it’s well-managed and not overly crowded, especially at the quieter stops.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Exclusive Stop at Kornat: The tour’s highlight is an unshared, 2-hour window in Kornat’s stunning bay, perfect for swimming and relaxing without other boats around.
• Expert English & Polish Guides: Guides know the area well and make the trip informative and fun, with reviews praising their helpfulness.
• Quality Food & Drinks Included: Breakfast sandwiches and a generous lunch of grilled fish or chicken, plus wine, water, and spirits, add real value.
• Unique Stops at Telascica & Salt Lake: The visit to Telascica’s salt lake and bay offers some of the most beautiful scenery, with fewer boats than other tours.
• Flexible & Easy Booking: The tour lasts around 9.5 hours, starting early at 8 am with boarding by 7:45 am, ideal for a full-day experience.
• Appropriate for Active Travelers: Expect some walking, snorkeling, and rocky terrains, so comfortable shoes and swimwear are a must.

Setting Off from Zadar’s Donja Riva: What to Expect

Most boat trips from Zadar leave from Donja Riva, the old town’s prominent dock with great views of the islands. The departure at 8 am means you’ll want to arrive by 7:45 am — a small early start for a full day of exploration. The boat itself is described as an “old wood boat,” which adds a charming, traditional touch, but it’s well-equipped and insured, with legal safety gear onboard.

This trip is a significant time investment — about 9.5 hours — but it’s well worth it if you’re eager to see some of the most beautiful natural spots of Dalmatia without the crowds. It’s not a luxury cruise, but it strikes a good balance between comfort, adventure, and affordability at roughly $62 per person.

The Itinerary Breakdown — What You’ll Experience

First stop: Kornat’s private bay — for about two hours, you can swim, snorkel, or simply unwind on the boat. The waters are described as crystal-clear, making it perfect for a quick dip or underwater exploration. One reviewer mentioned the advice to wear sneakers or sports shoes rather than flip flops because of rocky terrain — a useful tip for the viewpoint or walking around.

Next, the guides will suggest exploring the island of Kornat itself — walking around the island or relaxing in its natural beauty. This is a rare chance to step onto a practically untouched island, with the landscape described as pristine and peaceful.

Lunch is served on the boat’s terrace — with grilled fish, chicken, and seasonal salad. The reviewers consistently praise the quality and generous portions, with one noting they had seconds. The drinks flow freely, including wine, spirits, and soft drinks, greatly enhancing the relaxed atmosphere.

The journey then continues to Dugi Otok — with a focus on Telascica Bay. You’ll spend about two hours here, exploring the stunning bay and its features, like Mir Bay and the famous Salt Lake (Slano Jezero). Several travelers highlight Telascica as one of the most beautiful Adriatic bays — a natural wonder with less boat traffic, making it feel like your own private paradise.

Finally, the trip wraps up with a return to Zadar, arriving back at the original meeting point in the late afternoon.

The Magic of Telascica & Salt Lake

Telascica is often described as the star of this tour. Its dramatic cliffs, quiet bays, and salt lake create a landscape unlike many others in the area. Some reviewers mention that arriving here when most other boats have already left makes the experience even more special, with fewer crowds and more space to enjoy the scenery quietly.

The Salt Lake, or Slano Jezero, is a unique feature — a small natural wonder where saltwater meets freshwater, and you can walk along the shore or swim in the calm waters. The guides often recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking around the salt lake or viewpoints to maximize your experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic nature, good food, and relaxed pacing, this trip is a winner. It’s ideal for those who want to see some of Croatia’s best coastal scenery without the hassle of self-organized transport. Because of the physical aspects — swimming, walking, and rocky terrain — it’s better suited for active, mobile guests who enjoy outdoor activities.

It’s also a good pick for families, provided children are comfortable with boat trips and walking. The inclusive drinks and hearty lunch add to the value, making it a good deal for those who want a full day of exploration and relaxation.

Pricing & Value Analysis

At $62 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering the stops, food, drinks, and guides included. Unlike many tours that just provide transportation, this one emphasizes authentic experiences — secluded beaches, natural parks, and good company. The entrance fees for the parks are paid on board, adding about €20 for adults and €10 for children, which is reasonable considering it covers access to pristine natural areas.

The small group size and personalized touches, like the guides’ helpfulness and the quality of the food, elevate this trip above more crowded or generic options. Reviewers repeatedly mention the helpful guides and the stunning scenery, which are the true highlights.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

Since the tour is flexible and allows “reserve now & pay later,” it’s easy to secure your spot early. Just remember to arrive at Donja Riva by 7:45 am. Wear comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring a towel and snorkeling masks if you want to explore underwater.

Note that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, wheelchairs, or anyone prone to seasickness. Also, large luggage or non-folding wheelchairs are discouraged on board.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Trip for You?

This Kornati & Telascica boat tour offers a well-paced, scenic, and filling adventure that combines natural beauty, delicious food, and friendly guides. It’s perfect if you want to see Croatia’s coastal highlights from the water without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, the mixture of swimming, walking, and relaxing makes for a balanced day.

While the boat is somewhat traditional and the itinerary packed, the experience’s highlight — the unshared, peaceful bay at Kornat and the quiet, stunning Telascica bay — makes it worthwhile. Plus, the inclusions of food, drinks, and a knowledgeable guide make it good value for the price.

If you’re looking for an authentic, less commercialized way to enjoy Croatia’s coast and nature, this trip delivers. It’s a solid choice for those who want a mix of adventure and relaxation in a spectacular setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable with boat trips, swimming, and walking should enjoy it. Just note the rocky terrain and active nature of some stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. Snorkeling masks are available if you ask.

Is food included?
Yes, breakfast sandwiches and a grilled fish or chicken lunch are served onboard, along with drinks including wine and spirits.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, you need to pay the park entrance fees on board: 20 euros for adults and 10 euros for children, cash only.

How long is the trip?
The entire tour lasts about 9.5 hours, starting at 8 am, with the boat returning around late afternoon.

What’s the capacity of the boat?
The boat holds up to 65 passengers, but reviews suggest the stops are quite peaceful, especially at Telascica.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour bilingual?
Guides speak English and Polish, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

In summary, if you’re seeking a full-day experience that mixes spectacular scenery, good food, and a laid-back atmosphere, this Kornati & Telascica boat tour from Zadar is a smart pick. It offers a taste of Croatia’s natural treasures with the added bonus of fewer crowds and a friendly, knowledgeable crew.