Zadar: National Park Kornati Tour with Eufemija boat

Discovering Kornati National Park: An Honest Review of the Eufemija Boat Tour from Zadar

Taking a boat trip to Kornati National Park is a classic Croatian experience, but not all tours are created equal. This particular excursion with Eufemija offers an engaging mix of scenic sailing, island swimming, and cultural sightseeing, all wrapped up in a 10-hour adventure. We’ve looked into the details—and what makes this tour stand out, and where it might fall short—so you can decide if it’s right for your Croatian itinerary.

What we love about this tour is its speedy boat, which maximizes your time on the water and at each stop, ensuring you get the most out of your day. The three well-chosen stops for swimming and sightseeing promise a mix of relaxation and exploration, and the inclusive food and drinks elevate the experience, removing the hassle of extra expenses. A potential caveat is the long day, which might feel tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions. This tour suits those who appreciate scenic sailing, a lively group atmosphere, and authentic island experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Fast boat allows more time on the water and at destinations.
• Three stops for swimming, sightseeing, and panoramic views provide variety.
• Inclusive meals and drinks add value and convenience.
• Guided experience offers insights into the Kornati archipelago’s landscape.
• Flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind.
• Ideal for active travelers who enjoy a full day of adventure and relaxation.

An In-Depth Look at the Kornati National Park Tour

Starting from Zadar: What to Expect on the Journey

The tour departs from central Zadar, with two convenient pickup points, including Obala kneza Trpimira and Obala kralja Petra Kreimira IV. The morning begins early—around 8:00 AM—so packing light and arriving on time will help you start the day smoothly. The experience kicks off with a light breakfast of fresh pastries and beverages, a nice touch that sets a casual tone for the day.

The boat used for this trip is described as the fastest available for Kornati excursions, which translates into more time exploring rather than just traveling. The cruise itself takes around 5 hours of panoramic sailing, where you can sit back and enjoy the views of Croatia’s stunning coastline, hoping to spot dolphins playing nearby, as some reviews mention. This part is particularly praised for the stunning vistas and the chance to relax on deck.

The First Stop: Lojena Beach

Around 10:20 AM, the boat pulls into Lojena Beach, a fairly hidden gem with crystal-clear waters and soft sands. Reviewers say it’s a perfect spot for swimming and underwater exploration—a highlight for those eager to snorkel or just float in tranquil waters. The shallow bays are calm and provide safe environments for all ages, making it attractive for families or less confident swimmers too.

Guests have noted that the beach’s seclusion offers a peaceful retreat, often away from larger crowds, which enhances the feeling of discovering a secret spot. The brief stop allows plenty of time for photos, relaxing, or a quick dip before heading back onto the boat.

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Mana Island: Seclusion and Serenity

At around 1:00 PM, the boat reaches Mana Island. This island is described as a secluded paradise, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the beach. The reviews highlight the beautiful surroundings and the clear waters, which are perfect for spotting small marine life. A detailed quote from a reviewer mentions enjoying “the most beautiful snorkeling experience” here, thanks to the calm waters and vibrant underwater flora.

This stop also provides a chance to unwind, take photos, and soak in the natural beauty of the Kornati Islands from a different angle. The timing around 2:00 PM allows for a leisurely exploration before the next leg of the journey.

Scenic Tour of Kornati Archipelago

From 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the boat cruises through the stunning Kornati Archipelago. Expect to see rugged cliffs, deep coves, and ancient stone walls that tell stories of past inhabitants and traditional ways of life. The guided commentary enriches this experience, helping you understand the significance of each landscape feature.

Guests often comment on the dramatic scenery and how the landscape’s raw beauty makes for memorable photos. The guide shared insights into the geology and history of the islands, which adds depth to what might otherwise be just a pretty view.

Kukljica: Charming Fishing Village

The final stop, around 5:00 PM, is Kukljica, a quaint fishing village on Ugljan Island. Here, you can wander streets filled with traditional architecture, browse local shops, or enjoy a seafood meal (if you choose to dine ashore). The hour-long visit is enough to soak in the village’s charm, take some last photos, or enjoy a quick swim before heading back.

Guests mention the village’s authentic atmosphere, making it a fitting end to a day full of natural beauty and cultural touches.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What You Should Know

This tour offers a comprehensive package—including boat rides, guided commentary, and meals—making it a good value for those wanting a hassle-free day. The price of $62 per person covers most essentials, with additional costs for the Kornati National Park entrance ticket (8€) payable on the boat.

You’ll enjoy appetizers, a hearty fish/meat/vegetarian lunch, and unlimited soft drinks plus wine during lunch, which keeps everyone refreshed and happy. The guide is bilingual (English and Croatian), ensuring smooth communication and interesting insights.

What to bring is straightforward: sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water shoes, and a change of clothes. The tour runs for about 10 hours, so packing comfortably and being prepared for a full day outdoors is key.

The Experience’s Highlights

• The speed of the boat means you spend less time in transit and more time enjoying each stop.
• The three swimming stops are well-spaced to balance activity and rest.
• The lunch and drinks are considered good quality, especially with unlimited wine, which many reviews appreciate.
• The guided tour enhances your understanding of the islands’ natural and cultural significance.
• The flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind in case your plans change.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the length of the day—for some, 10 hours might feel exhausting, especially if you’re not accustomed to full-day excursions or if the weather is particularly warm. Also, the cost for park tickets is not included in the initial price, adding a small extra expense.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This Kornati National Park trip is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to explore multiple islands with a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. It suits those who appreciate good value, as the included meals and drinks add convenience and quality. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning scenery and local insights, while anyone seeking a full-day escape from city life will find this a satisfying experience.

If you prefer shorter excursions or are traveling with very young children, you might find the long duration a bit tiring. But overall, this tour balances active moments with relaxation, making it a well-rounded choice.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $62, this tour offers a rewarding day of sailing, swimming, and scenic exploration in one of Croatia’s most beautiful areas. The combination of fast boat travel, three swimming stops, and delicious food and wine makes it a solid pick for those wanting to see many islands without the hassle of planning each step.

The guided commentary enriches your understanding of the landscape, and the inclusivity of meals and drinks simplifies planning. While it’s a long day, most travelers find the balance of activity and leisure worth it, especially given the stunning views and authentic island experience.

This trip is best suited for active, curious travelers who love a full-day adventure and want to soak up the natural beauty of Kornati with comfort and ease.

FAQs

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as the fastest available for Kornati trips, generally comfortable for a full day out, with plenty of space for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

Do I need to buy tickets to Kornati National Park separately?
Yes, the park entrance fee (8€ per person) is paid on the boat. The tour guides will assist you with purchasing the ticket.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water shoes. A change of clothes is also recommended for after swimming.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, appetizers, a main lunch (fish, meat, or vegetarian), and unlimited soft drinks and wine during lunch.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts roughly 10 hours, with starting times depending on availability. Check the schedule when booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving travelers flexibility to adjust plans.

In sum, this Kornati tour with Eufemija offers a fantastic way to see a stunning part of Croatia with minimal fuss. Whether you’re after scenic sailing, perfect swimming spots, or a taste of local culture, it’s a trip that promises memorable moments on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: