Full-day boat trip from Zadar and Sukoan to Kornati NP

If you’re dreaming of a day out on the water in Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, a full-day boat trip to Kornati National Park offers a blend of scenic beauty, authentic maritime experiences, and a taste of local hospitality. This trip, operated by Tade-Tours, has been running for over 30 years, a testament to its popularity and reliability. It’s a great way to escape the city, explore some of Croatia’s most treasured islands, and enjoy a diverse itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural highlights.

What I love about this outing is how it combines spectacular views of the Dalmatian archipelago with the chance to hop onto a traditional Croatian pirate ship, which adds a charming, old-world feel. The second thing I appreciate is the opportunity for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters at Lojena Beach—nothing beats a refreshing dip in the middle of a busy summer day. One possible drawback? The entire schedule is packed tight, so if you’re looking for a slow, unstructured day, this might feel a bit rushed, especially the 2.5-hour stop for swimming and exploring. Still, that’s part of the adventure, and it’s all well-organized.

Key points/Takeaways

• Authentic Croatian boat experience: The Sveti Ante is a traditional Croatian logger, giving you a real taste of local maritime craftsmanship.
• Stunning island vistas: You’ll pass by Ugljan, Vela Sestrica, and other islands, offering picture-perfect moments that make the trip worthwhile.
• Active swimming and exploration: The 2.5-hour stop at Lojena Beach on Levrnaka Island allows plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the scenery.
• Local food and drinks: Lunch on board features grilled fish and chicken with Croatian wine — vegetarian and vegan options are available with prior notice.
• Cultural and scenic stops: A quick visit to Kukljica on Ugljan offers a glimpse into traditional fishing life and some great regional ice cream.
• Flexible options and reliable scheduling: Tours depart from Zadar or Sukoan, with the chance to cancel up to 24 hours ahead without penalty.

Setting Off from Zadar and Sukoan

The trip kicks off early, with departures at 8:15 a.m. from Zadar and 9:15 a.m. from Sukoan. These starting times are perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. Boarding onto the Sveti Ante feels like stepping into a small, floating Croatian museum—its wooden structure and historic vibe lend a sense of maritime authenticity that’s much appreciated.

The crew, including the captain and guides, are friendly and eager to share the story of the islands and the park. Your guide will point out notable features, like the Ugljan bridge connecting the islands, and the fish and tuna farms that dot the Middle Channel. Traveling through Velika and Mala Proversa, you’ll see some ancient remains, adding a touch of history to your scenic cruise.

Exploring Kornati and Telašćica National Parks

One of the trip’s highlights is navigating into Kornati National Park—a cluster of over 300 islands and islets. From the boat, you’ll enjoy jaw-dropping views of rugged cliffs, high sea stacks, and the seemingly endless waters. Approaching the park, you pass by Vela Sestrica lighthouse, a striking marker in the seascape.

The boat’s journey is smooth, and the atmosphere relaxed. From around 11:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., you get a well-earned break on Levrnaka Island at the stunning Lojena Beach. Here, you can swim in the turquoise waters, snorkel along rocky outcrops, or just relax on the pebble beach. Many reviews highlight this as a “beautiful place,” and it’s easy to see why—crystal-clear waters and a peaceful surrounding make it a highlight of the trip.

Afterward, a delicious Croatian-style lunch awaits on the boat, featuring grilled fish, chicken, fresh bread, and local wine. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if you request in advance, which is helpful for dietary restrictions.

Visiting Kukljica and Ugljan Island

The afternoon includes a brief stop in Kukljica on Ugljan Island, a charming fishing village with traditional boats and local crafts. You’ll have about 45 minutes here, enough to stroll the narrow streets, visit shops, and enjoy an ice cream from the famed Hajduk pastry shop—one of those “best in the region” spots noted by travelers.

This part of the trip offers a taste of local life, away from tourist crowds, and provides a relaxed atmosphere before heading back to the mainland.

Returning to Zadar and Sukoan

The boat departs Ugljan around 2:15 p.m. for the return journey. You’ll pass close to some islands and see the sea from a different perspective. The boat offers cooling watermelon, which feels like a perfect refreshment after a busy morning.

By approximately 5:25 p.m., the boat arrives in Kukljica, and around 6:20 p.m., you’re back at Zadar. That makes for a full 9-hour adventure, packed with sights, swimming, and good food.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a blend of scenic cruising, active swimming, and authentic Croatian flavors. If you enjoy being on the water, appreciate well-organized tours, and don’t mind a bit of a schedule, you’ll find this to be a worthwhile day. It’s best suited for those who can handle a boat ride and are not prone to seasickness. Families with children over 4, especially those who love beaches and exploring, will find plenty to enjoy.

Keep in mind, entrance fees to the parks aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget around 15 EURO per adult and half that for children ages 4-12. The boat offers drinks on board, so you can stay refreshed without hassle.

Price and Value

At $56 per person, including breakfast, lunch, drinks, and a guided tour, this trip offers solid value. The real benefit is in the experience—seeing spectacular islands, swimming in clear waters, and enjoying Croatian cuisine in a relaxed setting. The guides and crew are friendly, and the boat’s traditional design adds charm.

However, note that the entrance fee for the parks isn’t included, so factor that into your budget. Still, for a comprehensive day that’s both scenic and cultural, this trip delivers more than just “breeze and views”—it’s an authentic slice of Dalmatian seafaring life.

The Sum Up

This full-day Kornati adventure is perfect for travelers craving a scenic boat trip with authentic local flavor. It suits those who want to see Croatia’s famous islands without the hassle of organizing their own transport, and who enjoy mixing sightseeing with swimming and good food. While the schedule is full, the variety of stops—kaleidoscope of islands, a beautiful beach, and a quaint fishing village—means you’ll leave with a true sense of the Dalmatian coast’s natural beauty and maritime culture.

If you appreciate well-organized tours that combine picturesque views with a taste of local life, this trip is a smart choice. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and your enthusiasm for a day on Croatian waters.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
– Departures are at 8:15 a.m. from Zadar and 9:15 a.m. from Sukoan, so arrive at least 15 minutes early.

How long is the boat trip?
– The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including stops, swimming, and meals.

Is food included?
– Yes, breakfast, lunch, and drinks are part of the package. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if requested beforehand.

Do I need to pay for park entrance fees separately?
– Yes, entrance fees to the national parks are not included; expect to pay around 15 EURO per adult and 7.5 EURO for children aged 4-12.

Can I swim during the trip?
– Absolutely. The main swimming stop at Lojena Beach on Levrnaka Island lasts around 2.5 hours, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just unwinding.

Is the boat suitable for children?
– Yes, children aged 4 and up can enjoy the trip, especially if they like beaches and boat rides.

What should I bring?
– Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a snorkel mask if you’d like to explore underwater.

Is the trip wheelchair accessible?
– Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchairs, mainly due to boat design and landing options.

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

How many people generally go on this tour?
– The experience usually attracts small to medium groups, making it more intimate and manageable.

This boat trip to Kornati combines the best of Croatia’s seascapes, culinary delights, and relaxed island life. Whether you’re an active swimmer, a lover of picturesque scenery, or someone seeking a day away from crowds, it offers a well-rounded experience that’s hard to beat.