Kornati Islands: Small Group Boat Day Trip from Zadar

Summary

Swim clear waters taste grilled fish hear island stories with locals

You’ll join Captain Davor for a relaxed day trip from Zadar through the Kornati islands by small boat—swimming off Katina and Pinizelić, tasting grilled fish at a local tavern on Suha Punta, and hearing real stories from locals along the way. Expect laughter, salt on your skin, and moments that linger long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

“If you see dolphins, make a wish,” Captain Davor grinned as we left Zadar’s harbor, his sun-creased face half hidden under a faded cap. I didn’t really expect dolphins (spoiler: we saw one, but too quick for a photo). The boat felt just right — not too packed, just enough people to swap stories but still stretch out and let the sea air hit your face. There was this faint salty tang in the breeze, and someone’s sunscreen mixed in. We stopped at Katina first; the water looked impossibly clear, like glass over pebbles. I hesitated before jumping in (cold!) but it woke me up more than coffee ever could.

Davor knew every rock and curve of these Kornati islands — he pointed out old stone walls and told us how shepherds used to live here all year. At Mrtovac, those cliffs actually made me stop talking for once; there’s something about sheer rock meeting sea that makes you feel small in a good way. We drifted close enough that you could hear gulls arguing overhead and smell the thyme growing wild somewhere up above. Lunch at Suha Punta was simple: grilled fish (or meat if you wanted), salad, bread that tasted smoky from the fire. The woman running the tavern winked when she poured us wine — “Dalmatian style,” she said. I tried to say thank you in Croatian and got a laugh out of her.

Pinizelić was our last swim stop — by then my hair felt crunchy with salt and I’d stopped caring what time it was. Some folks napped on deck while others traded travel tips over sodas and snacks Davor handed around. He changed our route a little because of wind picking up (“safety first,” he shrugged), which honestly made me trust him more. On the way back to Zadar, everyone got quiet for a bit — sun-tired, maybe thinking about cliffs or fish or their own wishes. I still think about that blue water sometimes when I’m stuck in city noise.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kornati National Park boat trip and hike

• Swim stop at Katina island
• View cliffs near Mrtovac island
• Lunch break at Suha Punta tavern
• Swim stop at Pinizelić island
• Hike and sightseeing at Tarac bay
• Visit Lady of Tarac Church
• See Tureta Fort views

Top questions

How many people are on this Kornati day trip boat?

The group is limited to 12 guests maximum per boat.

Is lunch included on the Kornati Islands tour?

Yes, lunch at a local tavern is included—choose grilled fish or meat with salad and side dish.

Where does the tour depart from in Zadar?

The boat departs at 8:00 a.m. from Punta Bajlo in Zadar (free parking available).

Are swimming stops guaranteed?

Swimming stops depend on weather conditions; Captain may adjust route for safety.

What time does the Kornati day trip return to Zadar?

The return is between 17:30 and 18:00 p.m.

Are drinks provided during the trip?

Aperitif, wine, bottled water, soda/pop are included along with snacks and sandwiches.

Is there hiking or sightseeing involved?

In pre- and post-season trips visit Tarac bay for hiking to Lady of Tarac Church and Tureta Fort.

Is this tour suitable for families with infants?

Yes, but infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the journey.

What’s included

Your day includes morning departure from Zadar’s Punta Bajlo with free parking, all fees and taxes covered, swimming stops at Katina or Lavdara and Pinizelić (weather permitting), sandwiches and snacks onboard plus drinks like wine or soda, lunch at Suha Punta’s local tavern where you can choose between grilled fish or meat with sides and salad—and return transport back to Zadar by early evening.