George Bernard Shaw once wrote: "On the last day of Creation God desired to crown His work, and thus created the Kornati Islands out of tears, stars and breath."Whether you are a nature lover, a geology enthusiast, or just someone looking for the perfect swim stop, the Kornati archipelago offers a landscape unlike anywhere else in the Mediterranean.
Quick Facts
- Established: 1980
- Area: 217 km²
- Islands: 89 (in the park)
- Location: Northern Dalmatia
Geography: The Densest Archipelago
The Kornati National Park covers the larger part of the Kornati maritime zone. It is the densest archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. The name comes from the Latin word "corona" (crown), referring to the vertical cliffs that face the open sea.
Contrary to popular belief, the islands are not entirely barren desert. While deforestation and sheep farming have stripped much of the oak forests, the islands are home to over 537 plant species. The underwater world is even richer, hosting 353 species of algae and vast fields of Posidonia seagrass, which are the lungs of the Adriatic.
The "Crowns" (Vertical Cliffs)
The most striking phenomenon of the park is the vertical cliffs, locally known as crowns (kruna). These massive tectonic fault lines face the open sea and plunge deep into the ocean.
- Highest Point: The highest cliff rises 82 meters above sea level on the island of Klobučar.
- Deepest Point: The cliffs extend underwater, reaching depths of over 100 meters, creating a spectacular wall for divers.
Park Rules & Regulations
Kornati is a protected area. To preserve its beauty, strict rules apply to all visitors.
Strictly Prohibited
- Lighting fires anywhere on the islands
- Picking plants or disturbing wildlife
- Recreational fishing (without a special permit)
- Camping outside authorized zones
Allowed Activities
- Swimming and snorkeling
- Hiking on marked trails
- Photography
- Boating (with valid ticket)
How to Visit Kornati from Biograd
Since there are no ferries connecting the mainland to the Kornati islands, the only way to visit is by boat. You generally have two options: renting a private boat (which requires a skipper license and purchasing an entrance ticket separately) or joining an organized day trip.
The Easiest Way: All-Inclusive Boat Tour
For most travelers, an organized excursion is the most stress-free and cost-effective way to see the park. On the Kanela, we handle everything:
- Skipper & Navigation
- Park Entrance Tickets
- Lunch & Unlimited Wine
- Guaranteed Seats