The Kornati Archipelago is a popular destination that attracts visitors worldwide with its unique attractions. However, regarding paddleboarding in Kornati, it is essential to focus on the local attractions close to your accommodation due to safety reasons. Fortunately, every bay in the area boasts unique micro-attractions, and the hosts are always eager to share their insider knowledge. Nevertheless, standard features throughout the archipelago exist, such as the stunning crystal-clear, turquoise sea, secluded coves, rich cultural and historical heritage, and abundant sea life. This article will explore these typical attractions and highlight Bijela Lucica bay as an example of the unique features found in each bay.
Top 8 reasons paddleboarding in Kornati Archipelago is an adventure you can’t miss
1. Crystal Turquoise Sea
The Kornati Archipelago boasts a crystal turquoise sea that is so clear you can see the bottom. Paddleboarding on this sea is an experience, allowing you to see the entire seabed.
2. Pits on the Seabed
The Kornati Archipelago is located in a karst landscape characterized by a unique topography created by the dissolution of soluble rocks, such as limestone. The seabed in this area is dotted with numerous pits. These pits are also home to a diverse range of fish, making them a popular spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
In Bijela Lučica bay, two notable seabed pits are worth exploring during your paddleboarding adventure.
3. Shoals
The shoals are thrilling to explore as you witness the stunning seabed in all its glory. They are a hub of diverse marine life, making it a truly mesmerizing experience. The shoals are graced with a gorgeous turquoise hue, leaving you in awe.
The charming island of Tovarnjak sits just before the Bijela Lučica bay, boasting shallow waters, offering a stunning backdrop to your paddleboarding adventure. This island is even more remarkable because it is the only one in the Kornati Archipelago with an east-west direction.
4. The abundance of Sea Life
The Kornati Archipelago is a habitat for a diverse range of sea life, such as dolphins, sea turtles, and various fish species. Paddleboarding through these waters provides a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.
One should keep their eyes peeled for the stunning Mediterranean jellyfish, a sight to behold. You may even catch a glimpse of some tiny fish swimming alongside it. However, beware, as this beauty can pack a punch! We recommend not getting too close if you want to avoid a sizzling hot burn. Whether you refer to it as Mediterranean jellyfish, Mediterranean jelly, or fried egg jellyfish, it’s undoubtedly a fascinating creature.
5. Skerries/Reefs
The Kornati Archipelago is home to a dozen skerries, and paddleboarding around them offers a unique perspective of their beauty. The skerries in Kornati Archipelago may be fearful and dangerous for sailors. Still, they provide an excellent experience for paddle boarders.
The closest to Lučica Bay is a Klahatin skerry between Tovarnjak Island and Obručan Veli Island. The Kalahatin Skerry has an interesting anecdote attached to it. During World War II, the pilots of the Royal Air Force with Spitfires used the Kalahatin Skerry as a target for their machine gun practice. After their training, local fisherman Tito Ježina witnessed the skerry turn as white as snow.
6. Stunning Crowns
The Kornati Archipelago is also home to stunning cliffs locally called “the crowns.” Paddleboarding along the base of these cliffs offers a unique perspective of their grandeur. The highest “crown” in Kornati is on the island of Klobučar (82 m above sea level), and the longest is on the island of Mana (1350 m). The crowns are located on the islands of Purara, Kasela, Kolobučar, Lavsa, Mali and Veliki Škanj, Mala and Velika Panitula, Piškera, Veliki and Mali Rašip, Mana, Balun, Borovnik, Veliki and Mali Obručan, with a total length of approximately 7,500 meters.
The closest crowns to Lučica bay are Obručan Veliki and Obručan Mali. However, they are about 1.3 NM away from Lucica, so, for safety’s sake, we recommend you go there either by motor boat or kayak and only in good weather.
7. Rich Cultural and Historical Heritage
The rich cultural and historical heritage of the Kornati Archipelago dates back to ancient times. Immersing yourself in this fascinating history is possible by paddleboarding around the Tureta Fortress, drystone walls, Illyrian tomb, and sacral and archeological heritage.
Remains of the one particular Illyrian tomb at the gate of Bijela Lučica bay have a genuinely intriguing anecdote. In the late 19th century, local shepherds who were desperately poor knew that the massive pile of stones on the cape of Bijela Lucica bay was the tomb of ancient Illyrians. However, they believed that a treasure was hidden beneath it. With poverty and hunger driving them, they boldly moved the entire pile of stones a few tens of meters away and started digging. Despite their best efforts, they found nothing. Exhausted and defeated, they eventually returned all the rocks to their original position. Exploring micro-locations such as Lučica bay can reveal captivating stories from the past, like the tale of the unfortunate shepherds and their doomed quest for treasure.
8. Secluded Coves
The Kornati Archipelago has numerous secluded coves that are only accessible by water. Paddleboarding to these beaches offers a unique opportunity to enjoy their beauty and tranquility without the crowds.
Paddleboarding on Kornati island is an adventure that offers a unique and memorable experience that will leave a lasting impression. The crystal turquoise sea, pits on the seabed, shoals, the abundance of sea life, skerries, stunning cliffs, the rich cultural and historical heritage, and secluded beaches make paddleboarding in Kornati Archipelago an adventure you can’t miss. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, the Kornati Archipelago offers a challenge for all skill levels. So, grab your paddleboard and head to the Kornati Archipelago for an adventure of a lifetime!
