FAQs - there is always things to ask.
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Boat tours at Boka Bay (Kotor, Blue Cave, etc.) and Skadar Lake National Park
Is Lake Skadar worth visiting?
Certainly, the area of Skadar Lake (sometimes referred to as Lake Skadar) which is Skadersko Jezero or Скадарско језеро or Lake Shkodra, Lake Shkodër in Montenegrin Language is definitely worth visiting. This is one of the Top5 destinations in Montenegro (Kotor old Town, Boka Bay, View to Lovcen on top of Kotor Fortress, Skadar Lake, Herceg Novi Old Town).
It's a beautiful and unique destination in Montenegro, offering stunning natural scenery, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor activities. The lake is the largest in Southern Europe and is rich in biodiversity.
Here's why Lake Skadar is a great place to visit:
Natural Beauty:
Best to explore on Boat Excursions. Especially the All-over-the-Lake Tour is exceptional and only offered by these guys here.
Minimal recommendation is the Jungle Tour where at least you see the Amazon area plus Water Lilies.
Or by kayak.
The lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains, charming villages, and lush vegetation, creating a stunning landscape.
Wildlife:
Lake Skadar is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 280 bird species, including the rare Dalmatian pelican. You can also spot various other wildlife, such as tortoises and snakes.
Activities:
There are numerous activities to enjoy, including boat tours, kayaking, hiking, and swimming.
Cultural Experiences:
The area around the lake has a rich history, with monasteries, churches, and fortresses dating back centuries. Zabljak Crnojevica is from 13th century and no tourist finds it way there - what a pity: It's perfect views on the lake.
The tourist association even did not put an information next to Fort Lesendro that it is there - check it out.
Local Cuisine:
Enjoy fresh, local fish dishes and delicious wines produced in the region. Duka's cuisine is simply the best.
Off the Beaten Path:
Lake Skadar offers a more authentic and less crowded experience compared to other tourist destinations in Montenegro, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Islands!
Kom Monastery – visit Kom monastery on a by boat tour from Rijeka Crnojevica, which is my favourite tour. The monastery was built on an island between, inside you’ll see 15th and 16th century frescoes. In the centre of the church lie four gravestones of the rulers of the Crnojević Dynasty.
The monastery is a perfect place with stunning views over the lake, hear the sounds of millions of frogs and birds.
Relaxation:
Perfect for an apartment of whole renatl house just for yourself, with no traffic and full remote. You can easily find a spot to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the lake, whether it's on a beach or a boat.
What kind of boats are the boat tours on?
We have different options, depending on the area. The regular boats on Skadar Lake are fast boats and have 6 to 9 seats.
At the Adriatic it very much depends on the type of tour, mostly very fast boats of 7-12 persons are used - if this is important to you then please contact the support.
All boats are well mantained, drivers are certified and have a proven track of doing safe customer transportation.
All have sun-cover and enough space for you to bring some personal belomngings with you. Don't forget swimming clothes, towel and your camera ;-)
Especially in Skadar Lake swimming is great.
What languages are tours's explanations on?
We have different options, depending on availibility. English and Montenegrin, Serbian, Croatian is always supported. For other options like a translator please contact our support.
What should we bring for my boat tour?
In general you do not need anything. However, you might want to consider sun glasses, sun creme and something to cover you hair.
Are the experiences private? What is a shared of group tour?
Most of them are - yes. Please check for the word 'private', which means i's only your group participating.
A shared or group tour refers to an experience where we put together the participants - that is why we can make those tours very much cheaper.
Special case is outdoor tours like Rafting or Canyoning, where the group is important to help and secure each other - these tour can be private if you book for enough persons - please ask our support.
Are your excursions safe?
Yes! Our professional and well-trained staff takes care that you are absolutely safe while the transfer or on the boat, while the excursion or the activity.
We use the standard safety-gear if recommended and we care for you by heart.
Is your company registered, and are you insured for the activities you offer?
Yes, our company is fully registered and legally compliant.
We take pride in operating within the bounds of the law and ensuring that all our activities adhere to regulatory standards. Same applies to all our partners certainly.
Is there Wi-Fi nearby?
Yes, we’ve got you covered in the offices.
As well in the boats on the bays.
While you’re out exploring the tranquil beauty of Lake Skadar, there is mostly no onboard Wi-Fi.
What does our boat look like?
We take pride in offering a diverse fleet of boats to ensure your Lake Skadar and Bay tour experience is exceptional.
If the descriptions of the tours need more explanation and you want more details about the boats our support happily sends you more information.
Since the fleet of ourt partners changes regularly the exact boats can not be shown but always we can show you the types and the general details.
What kind of cars are the tours on if there is transfer included?
We have different options, depending on availability.
Typically we use modern and certainly greatly mantained cars such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen or Skoda.
All our cars are air-conditioned and certainly top-maintained.
All drivers are certified and drive carefully and have a long and proven track of doing customer transport for long.
How do I go to Lake Skadar?
If you go to mass-tourism destination VIrpazar:
Buses are a popular and cost-effective way to reach Lake Skadar, especially if you're coming from major cities like Podgorica, Ulcinj, or Bar. Here's what you need to know: From Podgorica to Virpazar: Approximately 10 daily buses make this journey, ensuring you always have a convenient option.
If you want to see real Montenegro in the cozy, traditional Rijeka Crnojevica:
Take a rental car or a taxi contact our support to find you a taxi from your destination)
Is it safe to swim in Lake Skadar?
Since there are no crocodiles (except those at the beach kiosk for our small princesses) it's absolutely safe to swim in whole regards animals.
In Skadar Lake there is not any dangerous animal nor current or other dangerous things. Water is pretty warm with usually 25 degreese - come to Rijeka Crnojevica and swim even in the river of Crnojevica, and later in the lake as well.
Activity details: Prices, Where to meet & What to wear?
How much is a boat tour at Lake Skadar?
The cost of a boat tour at Lake Skadar can vary depending on the duration of your tour and whether you choose a shared or private option.
Shared tours typically offer more economical options, ranging from around 12 euros per person for a 1-hour kayak experience or approximately 22 Euros for a short tour like the Canyon Tour etc.
Private tours typically start from around 55 Euros like the private Canyon Tour.
How much costs the cheapest boat tours at the Adriatic Sea like Kotor or Budva or Boka Bay?
The cost of a boat tour at the Adriatic Sea or the bays can vary depending on the duration of your tour and whether you choose a shared or private option.
Shared tours typically offer more economical options, ranging from around 40 euros per person for a 3-hours Blue Cave tour (which is a Must See!)
Private tours at Kotor typically start from around 230 Euros like the private Boka Bay Tour.
Meeting point: Where do we meet exactly?
You will find details in the booking ticket.
There is always a public road to come to the meeting point, or at least very near in case of historic old towns.
Be aware, parking is limited in high season.
Ask our support if needed.
Are there any additional fees not included in the tour price, especially in National parks?
While our tour prices cover most of your experience on Lake Skadar, there is one additional fee not included in the tour price.
As Lake Skadar is a national park, visitors must pay an entrance fee to access the park’s pristine natural surroundings. The entrance tickets cost 5 euros per person for individuals aged 15 and older (as of 2025).
At Boka bay there are no National Park fees but the Islands Our lady of the rocks has fees, sometimes...
All fees are mentioned in the descriptions.
Please do not apologize if the change because it is not up to us to manage those fess since they are from the public state organizations.
Hint: there is an annual National Park Ticket for all National parks for the price of 13.50 Euro. You can buy it at every national park hut or in the internet (at least sometime if the website is working ;-)
Are your tours suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely! Our tours are well-suited for solo travellers looking to explore the beauty of Lake Skadar.
If you are on a budget we have e.g. shared tours for boating Skadar Lake or Boka Bay'S blue cave tours
Are the tours pet friendly?
Yes, they are pet-friendly, very mostly!
We understand that pets are an essential part of your family and your travel experience. That’s why we welcome well-behaved pets onboard our boat tours. It's always the better option to book a private tour if you bring a pet.
And we kindly ask you to inform us before booking.
Is it possible to customized the boat tours on Skadar alake or Boka bay, or the other experiences, to our needs?
Yes, absolutely! We understand that every traveller has their unique preferences and special occasions, and we’re happy to accommodate them. All our tours can be customized to suit your needs and wishes.
Please contact our support before booking.
We can always make special variations if you tell us what you wish.
Can I bring food and beverages on the boat during the tour?
Of course!
We encourage guests to bring their food and beverages onboard during the tours, in small amounts.
The guides or captains have always the right to restrict alcohol due to safety or regulations.
What kind of boats are the boat tours on?
We have different options, depending on the area. The regular boats on Skadar Lake are fast and have 6 to 9 seats.
At Boka Bay it very much depends on the type of tour, mostly very fast boats of 7-12 persons are used - if this is important to you then please contact the support.
Are there restroom facilities available on the boats?
For more extended boat tours, restroom facilities are sometimes available onboard. However, for shorter tours lasting up to 2-3 hours, we typically utilize smaller boats that may not have restroom facilities onboard. The turs are planned according to the typical needs of our guests.
Please be aware that Montenegro might not have the same standards as other countries.
Just ask the support for details.
What should I wear on my Lake Skadar or other areas cruise?
When preparing for your boat cruise, it’s essential to consider the fluctuating weather conditions and the activities you plan to engage in. We recommend dressing in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Additionally, it’s crucial to protect yourself from the sun’s rays, so be sure to bring biodegradable sunscreen and a sun hat to shield yourself from the sun.
Is there an entrance for the national Parks of Montenegro?
Yes.
The parks cost between 3 and 5 Euro per day, to be bought directly at the huts when you enter the park. If there is no hut or noone there just see if someone asks you later and pay then.
But: there is an annual National Park Ticket for all National parks for the price of 13.50 Euro. You can buy it at every national park hut or in the internet (at least sometime if the website is working ;-)
Where can I buy the annual ticket entrance for all the national Parks of Montenegro?
The parks cost between 3 and 5 Euro per day, to be bought directly at the huts when you enter the park. If there is no hut or noone there just see if someone asks you later and pay then.
But: there is an annual National Park Ticket for all National parks for the price of 13.50 Euro. You can buy it at every national park hut or in the internet (at least sometime if the website is working ;-)
https://nparkovi.me/sections/1/online-tickets
Booking process: Payment options & Cancellation policies
Sounds fantastic! How can I book?
Booking your adventure with us is simple. To get started, browse through our selection of tours and choose the one that best suits your preferences and interests. Once you’ve identified the perfect tour, book directly through the product page to secure your spot.
Online booking helps you to get all details easily and before all is booked out.
We always send you an email with the tickets and all details needed, such as support contact and meeting point.
As well we contact you shortly before the experience to remind you.
For emergencies or changing weather conditions which might need replanning, we request you telephone number.
That is why we need personal contact details - rest assured: we do not give these dta away if they are not absolutely mandatory for delivering you a hassle free and safe experience. See our privacy policy for that.
Ask our contact if you wich more details.
Can I book and pay for the tour online?
You can reserve or directly pay your spot for our tours online through our website.
The options depend on the partner and type of tour.
Since no-shows heavily increase the calulated prices for us, we sometimes might ask for a deposit.
More details are shown while the booking process.
All your payments are safe!
In addition we offer very good Cancellation policies, so we try by heart to make the whole experience perfect and fun for you.
If I must cancel: Do i get my money back?
We want you to be flexibel. That is why we have a very friendly cancellation policy. Please see the details in the product and when booking.
Usually you can cancel even the day before and get a full refund - rest assured!
Please contact our support if anything is unclear. We are happy to help you.
How can I pay, which are the payment options?
Usually we accept online payment via standard credits card, or cash or credit card payment at arrival, often a small deposit is requested.
However, this depends on the type of the product and the booking, please see while booking.
If you wish special options such as Paypal: Please contact us in advance and we make it possible.
Is Paypal supported?
If you wish special options such as Paypal: Please contact us in advance and we make it possible.
Do you offer discounts for kids?
Yes, in most cases we offer discounts for kids to make our boat tours more accessible for families. Children under four years old can join our tours for free.
Please see the description for the details.
What happens in case of bad weather?
In the event of bad weather, we have contingency plans in place to ensure your experience remains enjoyable and safe. Depending on the severity of the weather conditions, we may switch to larger and more stable boats that offer enhanced safety features. Alternatively, if the weather poses significant risks, we may need to cancel the tour altogether -in this case you get a refund or voucher.
How far in advance should I book a tour?
While we understand that last-minute plans can sometimes be the most exciting, we recommend booking your tour with us a few days in advance.
This helps us to plan for a low price and as well helps you to secure your slot.
Especially in high seasons the experiences are often outbooked.
All descriptions include the so called cut off time after which booking is not possible anymore.
Hint: in many cases, early bird booking gives you better prices.
Airport transfer, transfer to the experience
Do you offer safe and reliable airport transfer to or from our hotel or accommodation?
Exactly!
We have a great set of options for Airport Transfer from or to
If you use our transfer or pick-up you can enjoy 100% without any hassle.
If there is no option displayed: Contact our support and we offer one of our taxi partners for a better than the street price.
Do we get a transfer from our hotel or accommodation?
For many tours we may offer you options for picking you up and returning you to your accommodation.
Usually we offer an optional transfer because many guests have a rental car. We always recommend to be plan well ahead because the parking situation is very bad especially in high season - if you use our transfer or pick-up you can enjoy 100% without any hassle.
If there is no option displayed: Contact our support and we offer one of our taxi partners for a better than the street price.
Car rental
Do I need a car to visit Lake Skadar National Park?
You don’t need a car to visit National Park Lake Skadar!
Various alternative transportation options are available based on your starting point and preferences.
As well we can organize pick up and drop off, please contact our support for this.
Do you offer car rental options like pick up in Podgorica Airport or Tivat Airport?
Yes.
We have that in planning and it will be available soon.
Prices will be below Hertz or ADAC or Europcar or Sixt. And offer the same quality of cars. We simply use our direct partner, which is offer the same like the 'big' companies use, but those add a surcharge certainly...
Until we have that implemented on Montenegro-Portal.me we kindly ask you to contact our support for an inquiery.
Skadar Lake region
Lake Skadar: Should I visit? How & When? Is Lake Skadar worth visiting?
Lake Skadar is more than just a destination; it’s an unforgettable experience waiting to unfold, and you should not miss your chance! With its rich natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and cultural significance, a visit to Lake Skadar promises to captivate your senses.
How do I get to Lake Skadar?
Getting to Lake Skadar largely depends on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation. Several routes are available, whether you’re coming from coastal towns like Budva or Bar, the inland city of Podgorica, or elsewhere.
The main gateway to Lake Skadar: Rijeka Crnojevića
Virpazar is the main gateway to Lake Skadar and the most easily accessible location. Public transportation services typically extend only as far as Virpazar, making it convenient for travellers without private vehicles.
However, Rijeka Crnojevića is much nicer and has no mass-tourism - so its much more authentic and cosier.
Below are some tips for reaching Lake Skadar using public transportation, depending on your starting point:
- How to get from Ulcinj to Lake Skadar? Take a direct bus from Ulcinj to Virpazar or travel via bus to Bar and then by train to Virpazar.
- How to get from Bar to Lake Skadar? Travel by train or bus directly from Bar to Virpazar.
- How to get from Budva and Kotor to Lake Skadar? Begin with a direct bus line from Budva/Kotor to Sutomore. From there, opt for either a train or bus to Virpazar.
- How to get from Podgorica to Lake Skadar? Travel by train or bus directly from Podgorica to Virpazar.
When is the best time to visit Lake Skadar?
Determining the best time of year for your Lake Skadar journey depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience. Spring and early summer (April to June) offer mild weather, blossoming flora, and abundant birdlife. Alternatively, late summer and early autumn (September to October) provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. July and August bring warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making them popular months for visitors to explore Lake Skadar.
Is it safe to swim in National Park Lake Skadar?
Swimming in Lake Skadar is safe and a must if you ask all of our previous guests! Swimming breaks during our boat tours are conducted in the middle of the lake, as it’s considered the safest area for swimming.
Do a boat excursion on Lake Skadar and we will show you the Lake do swim!
Are there mosquitoes on Lake Skadar?
While Lake Skadar is generally not plagued by abundant mosquitoes, it’s always wise to be prepared, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas.
With our boat excursions on Skadar Lake National Park we are faster than any mosquito ;-)
Parking in Rijeka Crnojevića and Virpazar: Is free parking near the departure point available? or
Yes, free parking is available near the departure point. All parking facilities in Rijeka Crnojevića are free of charge as of 2025.
However, parking situation is stressed in high season. We do the Boat tours with our Partner Skadar Lake Family Resort & Boat Tours so can park at the big Hotel parking and will be brought to the harbor.
What is there to do in Lake Skadar?
So many things that you can fill your whole vacation with it!
Be aware: the north-west part (north from the road between Bar and Podgorica) is where you go, ideally start from Rijeka Crnojevica because there is no mass-tourism like in VIrpazar and all boat tours go along the marvellous river bend, that's 30km boat excursion at least.
The east part is an open lake, still very wide but not as interesting as the north-west part.
We have the most stunning nature and wild life in the whole Balkans.
Read this blog post from our friends of Skadar Lake Family Resort & Boat Tours.
We have stunning boat excursions. From 30 minutes to 4 hours sunset tours.
Pavlova Strana View point is the number 2 Top Views in Montenegro (first is the view towards the bay on top of Kotor Fortress).
It's a 180 degree bend in the river and simply stunning.
Kayaking is best in whole Montenegro.
Hiking is superb and you'll see remote nature far away from the masses.
Wine and food is excellent - visit Montenegro-wide known Duka Jovicevic in his Skadar Lake Family Resort. No one cooks traditional fish food better.
As well there are several great wineries (no, wine of Plantaze wine is for the masses and we have really good wine in Skadar Lake region).
Relaxation:
We have appartments and rental houses directly at the water front with full privacy.
Fishing:
Perfect here! Rent your own ponton boat and escape over your fisherman's weekend.
Kotor region
Why is Kotor so magical?
Kotor is famous for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, the stunning bay, ancient city walls to walk on, day trips, and scenic hikes to the Kotor Fortress. Whenever you expect an italian stlye in Montenegro: Here it is.
When is the best time to visit Kotor?
Best time visiting Kotor is between May and end of September, when the weather is warm and perfect for walking tours, boat trips, and hiking and simply enjoing.
What currency is used in Montenegro and thus in Kotor?
Montenegro uses the Euro (€) as its official currency, even though it is not part of the EU.
Which day trips from Kotor to nearby towns can I take?
It's perffect starting point.
Popular day trips include Perast, Budva, Lovćen National Park, and even Dubrovnik.
The best are the boat tours to e.g. Blue Cave.
Are there guided tours available in Kotor?
Yes, here you’ll find walking tours of Kotor and Old Town, boat tours around the bay, and day tours to surrounding attractions.
What is the Blue Cave Tour near Kotor, is it worth visiting, and how do I get there?
The Blue Cave tour is one of the most popular natural attractions near Kotor and in the bay area.
It’s located on the Lustica Peninsula and is known for its glowing blue waters. You can visit the cave on a boat tour from all cities as well from Kotor, combined with stops at Mamula Island and Our Lady of the Rocks. The entire trip typically takes 3 hours and is perfect for swimming and sightseeing.
AOB travel related
I’m planning a one week trip in Montenegro. Is there any eSIM that works?
Telekom ME and Mtel are good options.
Buy an eSIM in the internet. With their apps you can even topup and prolongue later.
Initial price is same but next month is cheaper for Telekom with €7.50 versus Mtel €12
Physical SIMs are avilable in both kiosks in the airport, left and right. Just need to give your passport andf they will register it immediately for you
Can i use a mobile phone contract with roaming?
All west balkan countries have a roaming agrteement so typically you buy an SIM and get around 10-15 GB roming data elsewhere in:
Bosnia-Hercegovina
Montenegro
Albania
Madeconia
Serbia
Kosovo
If i have an mobile phone contract from European Union EU, can i use that in the balkans like in Montenegro?
Sure you can but it is godamn expansive.
Better buy an "Tourist SIM card" which is €15 for 2 weeks, €20 for a month
I heard that EU mobile phone contracts will soon be roamable in Balkans?
That's right but so far roaming between EU and Balkan is expansive. They announced that in mid 2026 it will be included between EU and Montenegro though.
In October or later, What is the perfect plan to see the major highlights of Montenegro in 8 days?
Must see in October and later until April:
Kotor view from Top of Serpentines. Combine it with a short Cetinje visit (monastery is nice), then go to Lovcen's top and take a coffee are soup in the great but cheap resto Vladika at top (Mausoleum is not worth it) https://maps.app.goo.gl/vJoxYoqPBAxNjQn8A and then go to Kotor via serpentines.
Blue Cave boat tour because shared its just €40 for 3 hours driving the bays, they will asks you if you want to stop in Perast for some minutes (which is enough honestly) https://www.montenegro-portal.com/montenegro-crystal-blue-water
Skadar Lake Boat tour and Pavlona Strana Viewpoint https://skadarlake.me/book-skadar-lake-boat-tours-the-all-over-the-lake-tour-tour-details/
This tour is absolute unique because in three hours will will see what you will never been shown from mass-tourism Virpazar. Pavlova Strana's river bend is awesome and simply the second best view in this country!
Wander along the beaches starting in Przno then Queens beach then Milovcer and then Sveti Stefan (longest sunset in Budva Riviera) - there is nice resto (Aman) at the north side of the beach
Visit Ulcinj Fortress which is most unknown and most beautiful like mini Dubrovnik and then Velika plaza 12km sand beach. Its windy there but perfect for a great long walk on the super nice sand (don't do Ada boyana since it's tourist trap)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/DJknriGUHxtoCjhg6
Vucje Tourist centar for the real feeling what Montenegro still is: perfect and remote nature with great food https://vucje.me/en/tourist-center-vucje/
Rent a car for around 25€ day then
In summer:
From Niksic to Pluzine and then up to Durmitor road to Zabljak . This is up to 2000 meter with top stunning views
Plavi Horizonti Plaža on Lustica half-island for greatest sand and half-moon beach setting
https://maps.app.goo.gl/pTCHZHKoxXRcLRVp7
Sveti Stefan view point https://maps.app.goo.gl/WjVUMCn32ReAgxGCA
Hidden gemn: 14th century fortress Žabljak Crnojevića which is the most unknown but super-interesting old fortress with best views on the Skadar Lake area. After go to Bisevina and eat and swim (either via dandy gravel road via Ponari's north or send the owner a whatsapp from Žabljak Crnojevića and they send a boat for free)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/BAUmGg7wtZrdSoFaA
Still have a question?
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