Kornati Islands: Small-Group Boat Trip with Lunch & Swim

Summary

Swim clear waters hike island trails share lunch under sun

You’ll cruise from Zadar through Kornati’s wild islands with a small group, swim at Lojena Beach’s clear shallows, hike rocky trails for big views, and share fresh-caught lunch on Kornat itself. Expect laughter with your guide, real local flavors, and that salty Adriatic breeze you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

Honestly, I didn’t expect the boat to feel so cozy — 22 of us, but it never felt crowded. The sea was that early morning blue you only see before coffee kicks in. Our guide, Ana, handed out strong coffee and fruit as we left Zadar behind. She joked about the wind (“bura’s in a good mood today!”), and someone’s hat nearly flew off. It set the tone: relaxed, but with this edge of excitement every time we passed another island.

The first stop was all about those wild “crowns” — the cliffs rising straight out of the water. I’d seen photos of Kornati National Park before, but standing there with salt spray hitting my face? Different story. Ana pointed out tiny fishing boats below; she knew half the captains by name. We hiked up a rocky path for a panoramic view (I slipped once — should’ve worn better shoes) and just stood there for a while, quiet except for gulls and someone munching an apple nearby.

Lojena Beach on Levrnaka Island was next — soft white pebbles underfoot and water so clear you could spot fish darting around your toes. I tried snorkeling for maybe five minutes before drifting back to shore to just watch everything happen around me. Lunch came later on Kornat itself: grilled fish, simple salad, local wine poured without fuss. People swapped stories in different languages; one Croatian guy tried to teach us how to pronounce “hvala” right (I failed). The air smelled like rosemary and seaweed mixed together.

By the end I was sunburned in weird places and tired in that good way you get after swimming all day. We cruised back to Zadar with everyone a little quieter than before — maybe thinking about their own favorite bit. I still think about that view from up top sometimes when I need some calm.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Kornati National Park islands

• Boat trip from Zadar
• View Kornati crowns panoramically
• Swim and snorkel at Lojena beach
• Hike to panoramic viewpoint
• Lunch on Kornat island

Top questions

Is breakfast included on this Kornati boat trip?

Yes, breakfast is served on board at the start of your day trip from Zadar.

How many stops are made inside Kornati?

The tour includes three stops within Kornati: panoramic viewpoint, Lojena Beach for swimming/snorkeling, and lunch on Kornat Island.

Are snorkeling equipment and lunch provided?

Yes, both snorkel gear and lunch are included in the price.

What should I bring for this day trip to Kornati?

You should bring your own bathing suit, towel, and walking shoes.

Is this suitable for families or young children?

Yes; infants and small children can join (prams/strollers allowed), plus all fitness levels are welcome.

Does the tour include national park fees?

Yes; entry fees for Kornati are covered by the tour price.

How big is the boat group?

The boat holds up to 22 people per trip.

Is there Wi-Fi available during the tour?

Yes; Wi-Fi is provided onboard during your journey through Kornati.

What’s included

Your day includes breakfast served onboard as you depart Zadar, a friendly local guide throughout the journey, national park entry fees covered for all stops within Kornati, use of snorkeling equipment at Lojena Beach, fresh fruit along the way, coffee breaks whenever needed (trust me), soft drinks or wine with your grilled fish lunch on one of the islands—and yes, Wi-Fi if you want to share it all live or just check messages between swims.