Kornati by Boat — Everything You Need to Know

The Kornati are one of the most fascinating archipelagos in the entire Mediterranean. More than 140 islands, islets and reefs in a relatively small area, with crystal-clear sea and an almost complete absence of coastal tourism — making them the perfect destination for those seeking the real, untouched Dalmatia.

What Are the Kornati?

The Kornati are a group of islands located between Šibenik and Zadar, most of which fall within the Kornati National Park, established in 1980. The islands are almost entirely uninhabited, without fresh water or electricity, giving them a unique, wild character. The exception is a handful of small taverns operating exclusively for boaters — offering some of the most authentic meals you can experience on the Adriatic.

How to Reach the Kornati by Boat?

The Kornati are accessible only by boat. The closest and most practical departure points are:

• Murter — the nearest point, just 15–20 km to the NP entrance
• Vodice — a popular departure point, ~25 km to the first Kornati islands
• Šibenik — city marina, ~35 km to the National Park
• Biograd na Moru — a southern alternative, ~20 km to Dugi otok

National Park Entry — Fees and Rules

Sailing within the boundaries of Kornati National Park is not free. A daily vignette for a vessel costs between 20 and 50 EUR depending on boat length. You can purchase it in advance online or from the park rangers' floating huts inside the NP. Sailing without a valid vignette is subject to heavy fines — park inspectors regularly check vessels.

Key rules inside NP Kornati:

• Fishing is prohibited without a special NP permit
• Anchoring is only permitted in designated anchorages
• Disposing of waste into the sea is strictly forbidden
• Maximum speed inside the park: 10 knots
• Camping on the islands is not allowed

Most Popular Anchorages and Coves in Kornati

Within the Kornati there are dozens of perfect anchorages and coves. Here are the ones sailors choose most often:

• Strižnja Cove (Kornat island) — shallow, calm, perfect for families with children
• Kravljačica Cove — deep and sheltered, excellent protection from wind
• Mala Proversa — narrow strait between Dugi otok and Kornati, an impressive passage
• Lavsa Cove — home to the legendary Opat tavern, a nautical institution
• Tomasovac Cove — untouched, no crowds, pure tranquillity
• Lojena (Levrnaka) — white pebble beach, exceptional water clarity

Sailing Tips Around the Kornati

The Kornati are beautiful but demanding — especially for sailors visiting these waters for the first time.

• Leave early — nautical traffic in July and August can be heavy, especially in well-known coves
• Bring cash — taverns inside the NP do not accept cards
• Watch out for narrow straits with strong tidal currents — especially Mala and Velika Proversa
• Weather: the bura wind can be suddenly strong, especially from October to April
• Fuel: fill up in Šibenik, Vodice or Murter — there are no fuel stations inside the park
• Overnight stays: sail to ACI marina Žut or moor at taverns with berths

Recommended Itinerary for a First Visit

The ideal day trip for first-time Kornati visitors: depart from Vodice or Murter early in the morning, swim in the coves of Lavsa or Kravljačica, have lunch at Opat tavern, explore Kornat island in the afternoon, return at sunset. With a good boat and fair weather — a day you won't forget.