Through the Tourist Office in Biograd Na Moru we learned about Captain Niko and his unique offering: a boat trip through the Kornati, including stops allowing you to go swimming/snorkeling, enjoy good food and drinks, and maybe ... spot some dolphins.
We were enjoying our family vacation with friends and family; in ages ranging from 15 to 54. Everyone had a great time. Even the family dog was welcome on board. And best of all: we had the boat and crew all to ourselves (9 passengers in total).
Captain Niko, his youngest son, and a friend of the family made sure we felt at home, immediately from embarking in the Biograd harbor. From there we sailed out into the Kornati national park. We were welcomed with drinks and while we left the port of Biograd, Captain Niko explained what we could expect using the sea map. He asked what we would like to see and made some proposals.
Our first stop was in the heart of the Kornati, in a lagoon with the clearest blue water. As friends of ours were sailing north from Dubrovnik to Istria, we could meet them there. Captain Niko and his crew accommodated this spontaneous meeting very well.
From there we sailed out to the open sea and we could see the steep cliffs of the Kornati from up close. On the way, we saw different organized boat trips as well: they enjoyed the same view, but from further away, and with >90 people on one boat. Having a boat to yourself really is a luxury and an experience we will cherish for the rest of our lives.
We made a second stop in a deserted lagoon, away from the busy sea routes: the water was shallow and the boat could get where others (bigger tourist boats) cannot sail. We enjoyed more snorkeling and foods. The whole day, whenever you needed anything, you could just ask the crew and it would be done.
We sailed on to the spot where Captain Niko made us a fresh dinner with meat and fish. The fish was cleaned by his son, while we were enjoying the sun and water - all food was so fresh and tasteful, it was great. The crew is good company, with many stories about Croatioa, the Kornati, and its islands and lagoons.
From there, we sailed back and were lucky enough to spot some dolphins. Captain Niko stopped and even made a turn, so we could enjoy this magnificent and enchanting sight as long as possible. When the dolphins ultimately disappeared, we sailed back to Biograd, with a beautiful sunset to close off the day.
We have seen and done a lot while staying in Biograd (including a visit to Plitviĉka lakes and waterfalls, a mountain bike trail around lake Vransko, and a scuba dive) but the chartered private boat trip with all amenities truly was the highlight of our holiday!
So, highly recommended by two Dutch families with teenage kids and a dog for sure - don't hesitate, just book and treat yourself. It will be worth it!
And a BIG thanks to Captain Niko and crew
Wir waren mit Freunden auf dem Boot. Tolles Essen, Getränke ohne Ende und ein super Service. Die Buchten zum schwimmen mit kristallklarem Wasser wären anders nicht erreichbar gewesen. Ein rundum perfekter Tag.
Very good day with Niko and his sons!
We sailed between the Kornati Islands, stopped to swim several times and ate some really nice grilled meat and fish freshly caught by Niko's son Jure with a harpoon and enough white wine for everyone to be satisfied! ;) We even got to see delphins! A magical experience that we will remember from our trip, thank you!