Zadar: Private Full-Day Escape to Kornati &Dalmatian Islands

Discover the Kornati & Dalmatian Islands on a Private Speedboat

This 9-hour private tour departs from Zadar and offers a personalized way to explore the stunning Kornati National Park and the Zadar archipelago. Led by a knowledgeable skipper, the trip combines scenic cruising, hidden swimming spots, and visits to less crowded islands, making it ideal for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The tour features secluded coves for swimming and snorkeling, visits to Lojena Beach, the only natural pebble beach in Kornati, and exploration of Mana Island with options for more cliff jumping. The entire experience is flexible and private, with a focus on comfort and discovering less-touristy corners of Dalmatia.

While the tour offers plenty of time in beautiful locations, it’s best suited for swimmers and those comfortable on boats. It also provides a quieter, more intimate alternative to larger group excursions, perfect for travelers wanting a tailored day on the water.

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Key Points

• Private full-day speedboat tour from Zadar lasting 9 hours.
• Visit Kornati National Park, known for its dramatic cliffs and minimalist landscapes.
• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear, turquoise coves far from crowds.
• Explore the Serene Lojena Beach, the only natural pebble beach in the Kornati Islands.
• Stops include Levrnaka Island, Mana Island, and a scenic cruise through the Zadar archipelago.
• Supervised cliff jumping available in selected spots for thrill-seekers.

Starting Point in Foa and the Speedboat Journey

The tour begins at Foa, where the skipper awaits with a boat bearing the Lantana logo. After a brief safety briefing, travelers board a comfortable speedboat for the day’s adventure. The first leg is a 20-minute cruise through the archipelago, offering panoramic views of small islands, reefs, and lush green islets.

This initial journey sets the tone, offering spectacular scenery while heading toward the hidden gems that await. The speedboat provides a swift and exciting way to cover the distance between Zadar and the Kornati Islands, ensuring maximum time in the main attractions.

Swimming and Snorkeling in Secluded Coves

One of the key highlights is the opportunity for swimming and snorkeling in carefully selected coves. These spots are far from tourist crowds, offering a peaceful setting to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic. The water’s turquoise hue makes it perfect for snorkeling, and the shallow sandy bottoms and rocky formations provide excellent underwater scenery.

In some bays, cliff jumping is possible, and it’s supervised by the skipper for safety. This adds an exciting element for those looking for a bit of adrenaline amid the calm waters. The 30-minute stops in these coves are perfect for relaxing, taking photos, and soaking in the natural beauty.

Exploring Kornati National Park’s Iconic Cliffs

Entering Kornati National Park reveals dramatic white limestone cliffs and minimalist landscapes typical of this protected area. The largest island, Kornat, is a focal point, offering stunning views from its white cliffs that rise above the sea. These formations provide perfect photo opportunities and showcase the raw beauty of the sea’s most prominent group of islands.

The two-hour free time here allows visitors to walk around, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the silence and scenic vistas. The serene atmosphere in this part of the park contrasts sharply with busier tourist spots, making it an ideal place for peaceful reflection and photography.

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Lojena Beach on Levrnaka Island: Croatia’s Natural Pebble Paradise

A visit to Lojena Beach offers a highlight for many: it’s the only natural pebble beach in the Kornati Islands. Known for its white pebbles and crystal-clear waters, Lojena evokes a Caribbean-like vibe. The shallow waters and calm environment make it perfect for swimming and relaxing in a natural setting.

This beach is one of the most beautiful swimming spots in Croatia, drawing admiration for its pristine natural surroundings. Visitors often spend around 30 minutes here, enjoying the tranquility before heading to explore more islands.

Mana Island: The Hidden Escape

Mana Island provides a peaceful retreat between the Kornati and surrounding islets. Here, travelers can swim in calm coves, explore rugged rocky coastlines, or opt for more cliff jumping, depending on their adventurous spirit. The 45-minute stop allows for exploration in a tranquil environment, away from the busier tourist areas.

The island’s untouched nature and calm waters make it a perfect place to unwind. Its hidden location highlights the tour’s focus on discovering less crowded, untouched spots in the Dalmatian archipelago.

Scenic Return Cruise through the Zadar Archipelago

On the way back, the boat cruises through the remaining part of the Zadar archipelago, passing charming fishing villages, lush green islands, and emerald channels between the islets. This scenic cruise provides a relaxed, picturesque conclusion to the day, with plenty of opportunities for photos of traditional Dalmatian coastal life.

The final stop at Kukljica on Ugljan Island offers a one-hour window for a stroll along the waterfront, browsing local shops, or enjoying a refreshing drink. This laid-back ending captures the peaceful vibe of island life before returning to Foa.

Logistical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from Foa, where the skipper waits with a boat marked with the Lantana logo. The journey is private, with no large groups, ensuring a customized experience. Travelers should bring sunglasses, hats, swimwear, towels, cameras, sunscreen, and water for the day.

This private setup is designed for comfort and flexibility, emphasizing personalized stops and a relaxed pace. The tour does not accommodate bikes or baby carriages, and it’s best suited for swimmers comfortable on boats and in open water.

The Route and Stops: A Well-Paced Adventure

The itinerary includes a 20-minute initial cruise, 30-minute swimming/snorkeling stop, a 15-minute cruise, a 1-hour stop at Kukljica, a 45-minute cruise, 2 hours exploring Kornati, 15-minute cruise to Mana Island, 45-minute visit there, 80-minute swimming/snorkeling stop, and a 75-minute return cruise.

This structured yet flexible schedule balances active exploration with relaxation, ensuring that each location receives ample time for enjoyment while maintaining a steady pace perfect for a day-long adventure.

The Value of a Private Tour Experience

Being a private tour, this experience offers complete freedom to customize the day. The skipper provides an intimate setting, tailoring stops based on preferences and weather conditions. It’s an excellent choice for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized, scenic day on the water.

The full-day experience is priced with the advantages of privacy and exclusivity, giving visitors a chance to explore the Dalmatian coast with comfort and flexibility.

The Sum Up: An Authentic and Scenic Dalmatian Sea Journey

This private speedboat tour from Zadar to Kornati and the Dalmatian Islands provides a balanced mix of scenic cruising, secluded swimming, and island exploration. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a personalized experience and enjoy water-based adventures.

With highlights like Lojena Beach, Mana Island, and the dramatic cliffs of Kornati, the tour emphasizes natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. The supervised cliff jumps and flexible schedule allow for a bit of adrenaline amid serene landscapes.

While it is not ideal for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, it remains an excellent way to discover Dalmatia’s less crowded, untouched islands in comfort and style. This tour offers a memorable day on the water for those seeking a quieter, more intimate experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 9 hours in total, starting from Foa and returning there.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Foa, with the skipper waiting at the coordinates 44.1114349, 15.2279682.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this experience is designed for private groups, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towels, a camera, sunscreen, and water.

Are cliff jumps supervised?
Yes, cliff jumping is supervised by the skipper to ensure safety.

Can non-swimmers join this tour?
This tour is not suitable for non-swimmers due to the swimming and snorkeling activities.

Is there any food included?
The provided information does not specify food or drinks, but stops at charming villages may allow for purchases.

What locations are visited during the tour?
Stops include Kornati National Park, Lojena Beach on Levrnaka Island, Mana Island, and a scenic cruise through the Zadar archipelago with a final visit to Kukljica on Ugljan Island.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for guided commentary?
The tour offers guidance in multiple languages, including English, Croatian, Czech, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, Serbian, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish, Turkish, Bosnian.

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