Zadar: Full-Day Sailing Trip to Kornati

Explore the Stunning Kornati Archipelago on a Full-Day Sailing Trip from Zadar

This full-day sailing adventure departs from Zadar, Croatia, offering an immersive experience through the Kornati archipelago and Telaica Nature Park for $81 per person. The tour features sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and scenic stops at some of the most captivating spots along Croatia’s coast, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day on the water.

The itinerary includes visits to Telaica Nature Park, where you can enjoy free time for swimming and snorkeling, and explore the saltwater lake of Mir. The tour also takes you past Stene, known as the “Devil’s Cliffs”, with vertical drops soaring up to 61 meters. Designed for small groups, the experience offers a personal touch, guided by knowledgeable skippers who often create a flexible route based on weather and safety considerations.

While meals and drinks are not included, the boat provides snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, and the opportunity to sunbathe and relax during the cruise. The duration is approximately 9 hours, with most of the time spent enjoying the scenery, swimming, and sailing at a leisurely pace.

This trip is especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group atmospheres, beautiful landscapes, and a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure on the water. The positive reviews highlight the friendly guides, excellent value, and scenic stops, making it a popular choice among visitors to Zadar.

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Key Points

• Full-day tour from Zadar to Kornati and Telaica Nature Park
• Cost: $81 per person with all essentials included
• Duration: Approximately 9 hours
• Highlights: Swimming, snorkeling, salt lakes, cliffs, donkey reserve
• Small group experience with personalized attention
• Skippers known for their friendly, knowledgeable approach

Departure from Zadar’s Marina Borik

This sailing trip begins at Marina Borik, located at Obala kneza Domagoja 1, directly opposite the Yachting Bar. The meeting point is straightforward, and the end point is back at the same location, making logistics simple for travelers. The skipper has the authority to adjust the route for safety reasons, ensuring a secure experience regardless of weather conditions.

What the Itinerary Offers: Telaica Nature Park and Dugi Otok

Once onboard, the sailing route takes visitors toward Dugi Otok Island’s southern coast, where Telaica Nature Park is located. The name “Telaica” comes from Latin, meaning “3 lakes”, reflecting the park’s unique saltwater lakes and bays.

The park features three smaller bays within its larger area, with Telaica harbor being the largest and most protected on the eastern Adriatic. The presence of 5 islets, including the impressive Taljuri, adds to the area’s visual appeal. Here, visitors have free time to swim and snorkel in clear waters rich in marine life, with gear provided.

A highlight inside the park is Lake Mir, a saltwater lake connected to the sea by underground canals. The salt waters create a tranquil environment, perfect for swimming or walking around. The archaeological finds in the area suggest early habitation, adding an intriguing historical dimension to the natural beauty.

Visiting the “Devil’s Cliffs” and the Salt Lake of Mir

On the trip back, travelers pass Stene, or the “Devil’s Cliffs”, towering vertical drops that reach up to 61 meters. These cliffs stretch from Mrzlovica Cape to the slopes of Veli Vrh, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.

The salt lake of Mir is a key stop, with underground canals supplying the salty waters. Visitors enjoy swimming in the salt lake, appreciating its calm, mineral-rich waters—ideal for relaxing after a morning of sailing and exploring. The combination of cliffs, salt lakes, and natural harbors makes this excursion visually stunning.

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The Sailing Experience and Skipper Expertise

The skippers are praised for their friendly and relaxed approach, sharing insights into sailing and local history. Josip, Ante, Daniel, and Dario are among the guides noted for their knowledgeable, personable style. They often create a casual atmosphere, making guests feel like they are sailing with friends.

The boat provides snorkeling and fishing equipment, allowing guests to try their hand at underwater exploration or cast a line during quieter moments. The sailing itself offers a smooth experience, with some parts powered by the engine if the wind is calm. Sailing under the sails is often a highlight, with reviews noting over an hour of actual sailing back toward Zadar.

Practical Details: Group Size, Cost, and Flexibility

Most groups are limited to 7–8 people, creating an intimate environment where guests can easily chat with the skipper and enjoy personalized service. The cost of $81 covers the boat, fuel, insurance, VAT, and equipment, with meals and beverages not included—so bringing snacks or drinks is recommended.

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What to Bring and Tips for a Smooth Trip

Guests should bring cash for extras, snacks, or souvenirs. The trip involves sailing and swimming, so comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel are advisable. Since the route might vary for safety reasons, some stops or activities could shift, but the main highlights—like the salt lake, cliffs, and snorkeling—are guaranteed.

The Value and Overall Experience

This full-day sailing trip consistently receives high marks for value for money, with many reviewers emphasizing the small-group atmosphere, friendly guides, and beautiful scenery. The longer sailing time, combined with stops at noteworthy spots, offers a balanced experience for those wanting both relaxation and adventure.

While the lunch stop on the island may be less appealing due to overpriced restaurants, many guests prefer to bring their own food for a more authentic experience. Despite occasional minor issues like meeting point confusion or calm winds limiting sailing, the overall satisfaction levels are very high.

Final Thoughts on the Kornati Full-Day Sailing Trip from Zadar

This $81 tour delivers a relaxing, scenic day on the water with small-group intimacy and expert skippers guiding the way. The stops at Telaica Nature Park, Salt Lake Mir, and the Devil’s Cliffs provide a range of natural wonders to enjoy.

The flexibility, high-quality equipment, and positive reviews suggest this experience is well-suited for travelers seeking a peaceful yet engaging day exploring Croatia’s coast. It’s especially recommended for those who want a personalized sailing adventure rather than a large, crowded boat tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The boat, skipper, fuel, insurance, VAT, snorkeling gear, and fishing equipment are included. Meals and beverages are not included.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, from departure in the morning to returning in the evening.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at Marina Borik, Obala kneza Domagoja 1, opposite the Yachting Bar.

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

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While not explicitly specified, the swimming and snorkeling activities are optional, and the environment is generally calm, making it suitable for families with supervision.

What should I bring with me?
Bring cash for extras, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Consider bringing your own snacks for the island stop.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight friendly, knowledgeable guides who share insights into sailing, local history, and the natural environment.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the tour price.

What are the main stops during the trip?
Stops include Telaica Nature Park, Salt Lake Mir, and Stene (“Devil’s Cliffs”).

What if the weather is unfavorable?
The skipper has the right to modify the route for safety reasons, prioritizing guest safety over planned stops.

Is the experience worth the cost?
Based on high review ratings, the experience offers excellent value for a full day of sailing, swimming, and scenic sightseeing in Croatia’s Kornati region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby