SURPRISE TOUR KORNATI & TELASCICA Boat Tour

Travelers looking to soak up Croatia’s natural beauty often find themselves captivated by its crystalline waters and rugged islands. The Surprise Tour Kornati & Telascica Boat Tour from Zadar offers a full day of scenic cruising, island exploring, and swimming—delivered with a good dose of local charm and knowledgeable guides. This experience earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars from past participants.

What we love about this trip is how it combines the serenity of untouched nature with the comfort of a well-organized boat journey. The boat itself, described as one of the least commercialized excursions with a capacity of 65 people, creates a more intimate atmosphere than some of the larger, busier tours out there. The stunning scenery, especially the quiet, exclusive stops in Kornati’s bays and the breathtaking Telascica bay, is truly something special. Plus, the inclusion of great food and drinks on board makes it feel like a full, relaxing day rather than just sightseeing.

However, one thing potential travelers should consider is the physical aspect—there’s rocky terrain at some viewpoints, so comfortable footwear is advised. Also, the tour’s timing, starting early at 8 a.m., means an early wake-up call, but this ensures you get the most out of the day’s calm waters and fewer crowds.

This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenery, and good company. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Croatia traveler, you’ll appreciate the authentic, relaxed vibe and the chance to see some of Croatia’s most iconic bays without the hassle of crowded boats or overly commercial settings.

Good To Know

• Unique access to the less crowded, pristine bays of Kornati and Telascica.
• Inclusive meals and drinks, including breakfast, lunch, and local wine.
• Guided commentary in English and Polish, enhancing the experience with local insights.
• Flexible options for snorkeling equipment and free time on islands.
• Early departure ensures quieter, more peaceful scenery.
• Limited small group size offers a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off early from Donja Riva, the main dock in Zadar’s old town—an ideal starting point, close to many accommodations and easy to find. Boarding at 7:45 a.m., you’ll set off at 8 a.m. into a day filled with scenic cruising, island stops, and plenty of opportunities to relax.

The first major stop is the island of Kornat, the largest in the archipelago, where you’ll spend about 2 hours. Here, the boat anchors in a beautiful bay—at a time when most other boats have already moved on—according to reviews. This means you’ll enjoy a sense of solitude, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun. Reviewers mention that the crew, including a Polish-speaking guide and an English-speaking guide, take good care of guests, sharing interesting tidbits about the islands’ history and geology—making the experience both scenic and educational.

Swimming and Snorkeling in Kornati

Expect to spend around two hours on Kornat, where the crystal-clear waters invite you to swim or snorkel (masks provided if requested). Past guests, like Anna, appreciated the “stunning views” and the helpful guides who make sure everyone feels comfortable. The rocky terrain at viewpoints is a common note—so comfortable shoes are recommended for exploration.

The Lunch Break

Midday, you’ll enjoy a delicious onboard lunch of grilled fish and chicken, served alongside seasonal salad. The food is freshly prepared, with guests noting the generous portions and quality. Accompanying drinks include water, soft drinks, wine, and even grappa—perfect for unwinding after the morning’s adventures. The lunch takes place in a beautiful bay, adding to the relaxed, scenic atmosphere.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Telascica Bay and Salt Lake

After lunch, the boat heads to Dugi Otok and the Telascica Bay, often regarded as one of the most breathtaking spots in the Adriatic. The bay is famous for its steep cliffs, lush surroundings, and the Salt Lake (Slano Jezero)—a natural wonder that many reviews highlight as a favorite stop. Here, you get around 2 hours for swimming, walking, and snapping photos of this stunning landscape. Past guests mention arriving when the crowds have thinned, making for a peaceful experience.

The Final Stretch and Return

After exploring Telascica, the boat retraces its course back to Zadar, arriving around late afternoon. The journey back is relaxed, with plenty of opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the remaining drinks and snacks on board.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Access to Less Visited Bays

Unlike some tours that rush through popular spots, this trip’s exclusive stops in Kornati and Telascica provide a more peaceful and intimate experience. The boat’s capacity of 65 means it’s not overly crowded, and reviewers consistently mention how this adds to the enjoyment.

The Guides and Food

Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, especially the multilingual support that makes the trip accessible for Polish, English, and Croatian speakers. The meals—including breakfast sandwiches, grilled fish, and chicken—are well-reviewed, with travelers noting the plentiful drinks and the quality of the food.

The Natural Beauty

From the crystal waters perfect for snorkeling to the towering cliffs and salt lake, the scenery is genuinely impressive. The quiet nature of the stops at Kornati and Telascica means you can truly appreciate Croatia’s rugged coastline without the noise of larger tourist groups.

Value for the Price

At $62 per person, this tour offers a lot—good food, guided commentary, multiple stops, and plenty of swimming time. Considering the all-day length (around 9.5 hours), it’s an affordable way to experience Croatia’s iconic islands and bays in comfort.

Practical Tips and Considerations

What to bring: Pack comfortable shoes for walking on rocky terrain, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. The early start requires planning—be on board by 7:45 a.m.

What’s not included: Entrance fees for Kornati National Park and Telascica are paid on board—about 20 euros for adults and 10 euros for children. Bring cash for this.

Physical considerations: The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or large luggage. Seasickness can be an issue for some, so consider your tolerance before booking.

Timing: The early start is key to avoiding crowds and enjoying peaceful stops. The tour finishes back in Zadar around late afternoon.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with some swimming, good food, and expert guides, this tour hits the mark. Its smaller group size and exclusive stops make it ideal for travelers seeking a more authentic, less commercialized experience. Nature lovers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a good mix of adventure and relaxation will find plenty to love here.

Keep in mind, this is best suited for those comfortable with boat travel and rocky terrain. Families with kids over age 4, active seniors, and couples looking for a peaceful escape will find it a satisfying choice.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 4 are welcome, but keep in mind the early start and rocky terrain. Bring appropriate footwear and be prepared for a full day on the water.

How much does the entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee for Kornati and Telascica is paid on board and is 20 euros for adults and 10 euros for children, cash only.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
The provided menu includes grilled fish and chicken, but it’s worth asking the crew beforehand if you need vegetarian options—we found the meals to be quite hearty and satisfying.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear, and a hat are recommended. Sunscreen is essential, especially for the midday sun.

Can I snorkel during the stops?
Yes, snorkeling masks are available if requested. Many guests take advantage of the clear waters to explore underwater life.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Most trips go ahead regardless of weather, but if conditions are unsafe, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. Check with the provider for updates.

The Surprise Tour Kornati & Telascica Boat Tour offers an excellent way to experience Croatia’s iconic islands without the crowds or commercialization. It balances scenic beauty, relaxing swims, and delicious local cuisine, all guided by knowledgeable staff. While early mornings and rocky terrain might be considerations, those who enjoy a day on the water, stunning scenery, and authentic moments will find this trip a worthwhile investment. Perfect for adventurous travelers and nature lovers alike, it’s a memorable journey through Croatia’s breathtaking coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: