Day cruise to Kornati & Telašćica from Zadar — swim, hike and lunch on a wooden boat
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short swims and a 10–30 minute uneven uphill walk of modest elevation at Telašćica.
Overview
Spend a day aboard Moj Dragulj exploring Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park from Zadar. Swim in sapphire coves, hike to cliff viewpoints, and enjoy a grilled lunch with local wine on an unhurried Adriatic cruise.
Day cruise to Kornati & Telašćica from Zadar — swim, hike and lunch on a wooden boat
Select participants and date
The wooden hull of Moj Dragulj glides away from Zadar’s old-town pier and the city shrinks into a fan of red roofs and stone. Salt airs lift off the channel as the first coffee and pastries are passed around the deck; ahead, the Kornati archipelago unspools — a cluster of limestone ribs and sheltered coves carved by wind, waves and time.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early for calmer seas
Morning departures usually have gentler winds and clearer water for swimming and photos.
Wear reef shoes
Many landings are on rock or pebble beaches—reef shoes protect feet and make water entry easier.
Bring a towel and quick-dry change
Towels may not be provided and a dry layer helps for the afternoon sail back when breeze increases.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
The parks are protected—mineral sunscreens reduce chemical runoff that can harm marine life.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)
History
The Kornati islands have long supported small-scale shepherding and seafaring; the sparse stone shelters and terraced plots reflect centuries of human adaptation to karst conditions.
Conservation
Both Kornati and Telašćica are protected areas with rules on anchoring and fishing; stick to marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife and use reef-safe products to limit impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Zadar
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef shoes
Protect feet on rocky landings and when entering the water.
summer specific
Light wind shell
Useful for cool, windy sails—Adriatic breezes can pick up unexpectedly.
spring specific
Dry bag (small)
Keeps phone, wallet and spare clothes dry while you swim or during spray.
summer specific
Biodegradable sunscreen and hat
Protects skin while minimizing impact on marine ecosystems.
summer specific