skadar lake excursion

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10 Best Skadar Lake Boat Tours

BY SARAH PAVLOVIC  

Taking a Skadar Lake boat tour is one of my all-time favourite things to do in Montenegro. 

It's something we do at least once a year, and more often if we get the chance. 

It's so beautiful, so relaxing and something we take all our visiting friends and family to do too. 

There’s no feeling like gliding around the lake, through the lily pads, looking out for birds. Add to that the fascinating stone villages on the shoreline that can only be reached by boat and ancient monasteries – it’s a trip you’ll always remember!

A Skadar Lake boat cruise are the perfect way to kick back, relax and see the highlights of the lake in the comfort of your own traditional, Montenegrin lake boat.

Visiting in summer? This is the perfect time to take advantage of those warm lake waters and go for a dip!

When you come here there's only one family to go with. The Dabanović  family are Virpazar locals and know the lake like the back of their hands – and they’re only too happy to show you their beautiful part of Montenegro!

Local's Tip: Don't take a tour on one of the large tour boats. The only way to see the best of the lake is on a small 'traditional, shallow lake boat that can take you through the narrow canals of the lake. On a traditional wooden boat you can pick water lilies as you drift through the lily pads, see baby ducks as they hide in the reeds and feel like you've discovered a hidden world as blue butterflies and dragonflies with rainbow wings flutter around your boat.

The large tour boats can't fit through these canals and miss some of the most special places on the lake. The small boats also give you the chance to find out about the area as you chat with your skipper and guide.

These tours start from idyllic Virpazar, a tiny village on the lake. Virpazar is never overrun with tourists and you can wander along the lake shore spying frogs, turtles, birds and water snakes. 

• Cruise Itineraries
• What to Bring
• National Park Entrance Fee

Getting There

• Book a Cruise

Best Skadar Lake Boat Tours

I've put together 10 Skadar Lake boat cruise itineraries for you to choose from. There's something for everyone, whether you've got an hour or a full day to spend. You can also ask for a bespoke itinerary to be made up for you based on your interests.  Click here  to do that. All of these boat tours are private tours, so you decide what time you start and return.

Grmozur or Lesendro Island scenic Boat Cruise

There are two options on this Skadar Lake boat cruise: choose from either Grmozur Island or Lesendro Island.

Grmozur Island

This island is known as the ‘Montenegrin Alcatraz’, but today it’s home to all kinds of birds, lizards and snakes rather than prisoners. This is where the last king of Montenegro, Nikola Petrovic, liked to keep his political opponents.

Lesendro Island

This island has a fortress atop it that was built to protect Montenegro from invading Turkish armies during Bishop Petar Petrovic Njegos II’s reign. Unfortunately the Montenegrins weren’t successful and the Turks conquered the area and the island became known as Njegos’ sorrow.  

Tour Details

Start and finish point: Virpazar Duration: 1 hour Price: 1-5 people €30, 5+ people €36, 12+ people  €3 per person

Lesendro and Lake Skadar Scenic Boat Cruise

This tour takes you past Lesendro Island and then through the little channels of the lake filled with water lillies, water chestnuts and reeds. These channels are home to many of the lake’s bird and fish species and it’s the ideal spot to do a little bird watching.

The tour is rounded out by cruising around more small islands and to the entrance of the channel which leads to Rijeka Crnojevica.

Start and finish point:  Virpazar Duration:  2 hours Price:  1-5 people €60, 5+ people €72,  12+ people  €6 per person

Kom Monastery experience and Scenic Boat Cruise

My top pick.

This is our favourite Skadar Lake boat cruise. As well as cruising the lake and seeing the islands, channels and birdlife, this tour gives you the chance to get out of the boat and visit one of the historical sites on the lake – Kom Monastery. The monastery was built between 1415 and 1427 and is still a spiritual site for locals of Skadar Lake.

As well as being an interesting historical site, the monastery has a fabulous view over the lake which you can enjoy from a little seating area. You'll share the peace and tranquility with a few cats, friendly dogs, a mind-boggling array of chickens and perhaps a donkey. 

The monastery's resident priest is one of the happiest people I've ever met and is only too happy to have company. He readily invites visitors to share a toast with his homemade rakija (very potent brandy), which he keeps in a giant drum. 

When it's time to go, it's obvious that everyone would be more than happy to stay in this tranquil idyll, sipping rakija in the sun for the rest of the day. No wonder he's so happy, this place is Heaven on Earth.

Start and finish point:  Virpazar Duration:  4 hours Price:  1-5 people €120, 5+ people €144,  12+ people  €12 per person per hour

Grmozur and Radus Spring Scenic Boat Cruise

On this tour you'll discover the legends of the Grmozur, Skadar Lake's Alcatraz. The island is also known now as Bird Island and it's a great spot for some bird-spotting.

After you'll head over to the lake's deepest spot, Radus Spring. You can swim here in the lake's warm waters and enjoy the varied varied bird life and stunning scenery.

Tour Details 

Start and finish point:  Virpazar Duration:  3 hours Price:  1-5 people €90, 5+ people €144,  12+ people  €9 per person per hour

Manastirska Tapija and St Nikola Monastery Scenic Boat Cruise

This tour will really appeal to keen bird-watchers. The circular trip passes the old fortress of Lesendro, Manastirska Tapija bird reserve and St Nikola, which is one of five Orthodox island monasteries on the lake.

Start and finish point:  Virpazar Duration:  4 hours Price:  1-5 people €120, 5+ people €144,12+ people  €12 per person

Dodosi and Karatuna Scenic Boat Cruise

This tour will take you through the stunning Montenegrin landscape from Virpazar to Dodosi and back.

You’ll also see the village of Karatuna and its villagers who live in the traditional Montenegrin way – fishing, farming and wine-making.

Start and finish point:  Virpazar Duration:  4 hours Price:   1-5 people €120, 5+ people €144,12+ people  €12 per person

Rijeka Crnojevica Scenic Boat Cruise

This tour takes you through stunning river scenery all the way from Virpazar to Rijeka Crnojevica, which is a town founded in the 15th Century by the ruler Ivan Crnojevic. It then became a summer destination for subsequent rulers.

Along the way you'll be sure to see lots of birds, old stone villages and some of Montenegro's most stunning scenery.

Why not take a dip in the lake too?!

Start and finish point:  Virpazar Duration:  5 hours Price:   1-5 people €150, 5+ people €180,12+ people  €15 per person

Half Day Scenic Boat Cruise

The half day tour takes you from Virpazar to Zabljak Crnojevica via Karuc and Dodosi. Along the way you’ll see the ruins of St Petar Cetinjski’s home and typical fishing villages. Not to mention the stunning lake scenery of the area!

Zabljak Crnojevica dates back to the end of the 14th Century and you’ll see the fortress town of Yabljak.

Start and finish point:  Virpazar Duration:  6 hours Price:   1-5 people €180, 5+ people €216,12+ people  €18 per person

Radus Spring and the Island Monasteries of Starcevo Gorica, Beska & Moracnik Scenic Boat Cruise

This tour takes you down to the southern shores of the lake to visit the most remote island monasteries of Starcevo Gorica, Beska and Moracnik. In the background you'll be treated to views of the Prokletije mountain range and Albania on the other side of the lake.

Tour details

Start and finish point:  Virpazar Duration:  7 hours Price:    1-5 people €210, 5+ people €252,12+ people  €21 per person

Full Day Scenic Boat Cruise

The full day tour is an 8 hour tour and departs Virpazar. It takes you past the ancient fishing villages of Seoca, Radus, Krnjice and Dracevica. You then visit Starcevo and Beska Islands which each have their own monasteries.

After visiting the islands you can freshen up with a dip in the lake from the boat or at Murici beach. The history in this area dates back to the 14th Century when the Balsics built their churches on Beska Island and at Starcevo Hill.

But your skipper will be able to tell you all about the history of the area as you go!

Start and finish point:  Virpazar Duration:  8 hours Price:   1-5 people €240, 5+ people €288,12+ people  €24 per person

Create your own cruise

Would you like a bespoke tour? You can create your own itinerary based on what you want to see! 

Pelicans, monasteries, go swimming... the choice is yours and my friends at Boat Milica will be happy to help you plan the perfect day on the lake.

Just pop your details into the booking form below and they'll create a bespoke tour designed just for you. 

What To Bring on a Skadar Lake Boat Cruise

Here's a list of things you should bring:

• Swimsuit - the water gets up to 26 C in summer, so it's great for swimming any time from May onwards
• Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen - I recommend sunscreen even if it's not hot because the sun reflects of the water. My son got burned in March and he was wearing a jacket.
• Snacks and water
• Long sleeves - it will be colder in the boat than on shore

Lake Skadar National Park Entrance Fee

Every visitor to Lake Skadar National Park must pay an entrance fee of €5. This is in addition to any activities like these boat cruises. You can buy your ticket at the tourist information offices in Virpazar and Vranjina.

All the Skadar Lake boat cruise options start in Virpazar. This is the the best location to see Lake Skadar. The little town has accommodation, restaurants and a visitor's centre. 

Book a Skadar Lake Boat Cruise

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More Things to Do on Skadar Lake

• Skadar Lake National Park
• Skadar Lake Bird Watching
• Skadar Lake Kayaking
• Skadar Lake Wine and Gastronomy
• Skadar Lake Hiking

Holidays on Skadar Lake

• Things to Do in Montenegro
• Skadar Lake Boat Cruises

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About Sarah

I'm a New Zealander who's lived in Montenegro since 2008. I love exploring this beautiful country and sharing the best of it with you!

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• Top Seller Tour!
• Browse our comprehensive selection of tours From romantic sunset cruises to playful family outings , we have something for everyone.
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• 11am - 1pm and Sunset
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• Duration: 2 hour ( Speed Boat 1h )
• Options : Group and Private Tour available
• Starting : 10am - 11am -12pm - 13pm - 14pm -15pm - 16pm - 17pm
• This is our Best Selling Tour on Skadar lake.
• Tour plan: Route is a picturesque journey that starts from Village Virpazar and takes you through...
• Tour includes complimentary refreshments
• Starting : May from 16pm - Jun from 17pm - Jul & Aug 18pm - Sep 17pm
• Explore the stunning scenery of Skadar Lake on a sunset cruise.
• Tour plan: The journey through the river Moraca will take you to the mesmerizing bird reservation, where you'll pass..

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Boat & Wine Tasting

• Duration: 2 hour Boat tour ( Speed Boat 1h ) and 1h Wine tour in local winery - guided
• Options : Private Tour available
• Starting : Starting at your convenience.
• Winery have combined a tradition of over ten generations
• Tour plan: We will take you to the mesmerizing bird reservation, where you'll pass through small lilies...
• Duration: 3 hour ( Speed Boat 1:30h )
• The monastery Kom with the church of St. Falling into sleep of Holy Mother of God is located on the small island..
• Tour plan: This tour is highly recommended. As other tours, it starts from Virpazar...
• Starting : May from 15pm - Jun from 16pm - Jul & Aug 17pm - Sep 16pm
• Sunset cruise & visit Island Ohridska Gora with panoramic view on Lake
• Tour plan: Enjoy the peace and tranquility, and in panoramic view on the Lake from Island on Sunset

Village Karuč

• Duration: 4-5 hour ( Speed Boat 2h-2:30h )
• Options : Private Tour available (availability for Lunch in local fish restaurant )
• Karuč is a small fisherman’s place situated on the banks of Skadar lake. The place is very popular during summer...
• Tour plan: On the way to Karuč, a beautiful panorama on the village will make you...
• Duration: 1 hour ( Speed Boat 30min )
• Grmožur is the closest island to Virpazar. The fortification on this island was built by the Turks in 1843 and it was..
• Tour plan: This tour starts in Virpazar, from where we will cruise through small and narrow canal...

History Tour

Island and fort Lesendro

• Lesendro is an island and fortress on Skadar lake, located near the village Vranjina. The fortress was built in the 18th century...
• Tour plan: By boat we pass under the bridge which is part of the main road Podgorica – Bar...

Bird Watching

• Duration: 2-3 hour ( early departure )
• Starting : 6am - 7am - 8am
• Bird watching on Skadar Lake with Falcon Boat is a unique and unforgettable experience. Skadar Lake is home to over 270 species
• Tour plan: On this tour, you'll depart from Virpazar early in the morning, when the birds are most active. You'll cruise through the calm waters...
• Duration: 2-3 hour ( Speed Boat 1:30h )
• Starting : 5:30am
• Sunrise tour on Skadar Lake with Falcon Boat
• Tour plan: Watch as the sky turns from black to blue to orange, and the surrounding mountains and forests come to life...

River of Crnojevica

• Duration: 6 hour ( Speed Boat 3h)
• Rijeka Crnojevica , meaning the “River of Crnojević” , is a village in Montenegro on the eponymous Crnojevica river near the coast Skadar lake. This place in...
• Tour plan: As other tours, it starts from Virpazar, continuing through small beautiful canal that leads us...

Create your own TOUR

• Duration: From 1 hour to Whole Day
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• Starting : at your convenience.
• Design your perfect Montenegro experience , combining destinations, surprises, and personalized touches.
• Choose Your Duration Handpick your destinations from a range of enticing options. Opt for a scenic cruise, a surprise location, a romantic proposal spot, or a photo-centric tour. Select multiple destinations if you desire a diverse experience.
• Falcon Kayak Tour Virpazar offer a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Skadar Lake. Paddle through the calm waters , surrounded by stunning scenery .
• Rent a kayak - This is a great way to explore the lake at your own pace and get up close to nature...

We offer you this service to simplify your stay in Montenegro and make your trip easier and more beautiful and of course more relaxed...

• 4 Boats on Skadar Lake
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• Bestselling Tour ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ Sail into serenity on our 2-hour boat tour: picturesque routes, majestic forts, bird reserves, and a refreshing swim break—experience the ultimate water adventure with complimentary drinks and a knowledgeable captain! Book now
• Speed Boat Unleash the adrenaline on our Speed Boat Thrill Ride through Skadar Lake! Roar from Virpazar to fortress Lesndro, conquer winding channels, and savor complimentary drinks with our expert captain—choose your adventure, group or private, for a heart-pounding journey like no other!
• Sunset Tours Sail into the sunset on our 2-hour tour around Skadar Lake, exploring the beauty of fortress Lesndro, a mesmerizing bird reservation, and enjoying a refreshing swim break—choose from group or private tours, complete with complimentary drinks and a knowledgeable captain for a magical experience! Book now
• Monasterie Tours Embark on a 3-hour journey to the historic Monastery Kom, departing from Virpazar at various times. Cruise through scenic canals, explore Island Kom, and enjoy complimentary drinks with a free swimming break on the open lake. Book your serene adventure now! Book now
• Bird Watching Explore the avian wonders of Skadar Lake on our Bird Watching Expedition! Departing from Virpazar, enjoy a guided cruise through bird-rich habitats with complimentary drinks. Choose your adventure – group or private. Book now for an unforgettable birdwatching experience! Book now
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Excursion Skadar Lake

On this excursion, the largest freshwater lake on the Balkans Skadar Lake, welcomes you in Montenegro. You can get this excursion while being located in Ulcin, Bar, Petrovac, Tivat, Budva or Kotor almost any day of the week.

Lake Skadar is shared between two countries Albania and Montenegro and is an important historical and natural monument for Montenegrins. It has been a National Park since 1983 and was added, in 1996, to the World`s List of Wetlands of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention. Speeding out on 400skm Skadar Lake national park offers lots of activities for all nature lovers: gastronomy, bird watching (there is a large number of birds species - It is stated that 270 kinds of birds inhabit this Lake., wine country, boat cruises, and much, much more.

It is most famous for its diversity of flora and fauna and distinctive for mutual vicinity of different living areas and their chain of feeding. In the lake’s immediate vicinity is the habitat of the grapevine used for producing of famous red wine Vranac, a product Montenegrins are extremely proud of! If you are in loved with nature and amazing landscapes this Skadar lake excursion is your perfect choice to get to know the wild side of Montenegro, during your stay in this amazing country.

The history of Skadar lake will also amaze you, it was invaded by the Turks in the 13th century and occupied for five centuries. After this in the late 19th century, Skadar town Zeta) was incorporated into Albania . By the 20th century, with an Independent Montenegro, the lake returned to its rightful owners. But you will learn more about historical upraises on the excursion itself, while enjoying in the peacefulness of the lake and its numerous islands led medieval feudal lords to erect fortifications and monasteries on them, whose architecture is a true rarity today.

10:00 am Arrival in Skadar Lake National Park

Short coffee break in small fishing village of Virpazar

10:30 am Boat Ride in Skadar Lake

From the small fishing village of Virpazar we take a panoramic boat ride which reveals the numerous attractions of the lake, extraordinary birds, water lilies in bloom, secluded beaches.

12:30 pm Swimming in Skadar Lake

Or any other activities (not that they are excluded in the previous hours)

Other excursion in Montenegro:

• Excursion to Dubrovnik - Croatia

Note: Prices are valid for summer season – the 1 st of May to the 1 st of October. In the off season we organize individual excursions.

Included in price:

• Welcome drink
• Skadar Lake National Park
• Licensed guide

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Boat Milica Lake Skadar tours

Every trip is a donation!!! Explore,Enjoy and Empower : Your trip supports Bird Conservation!

About Boat Milica

What we do.

We would like to share the beauty of Lake Skadar with you through many activities such as kayaking, fishing, birdwatching and boat cruises. We take our guests to hidden bays, fjords, islands, old fishermens' houses, monasteries and even abandoned jailhouses!

Why Skadar Lake?

Lake Skadar is one of the top tourist attractions of Montenegro. Visit Lake Skadar and find answers to the question "Why is it the most beautiful of all lakes?". Learn more

Why choose us?

Because we are nature lovers. We are a small family business. We are honest. We know the area very well. Our story

Tour reservation

Please fill in the form and go next to finish reservation.

From 30€ /hr

Boat cruising

From 40€ /hr

From 35€ /hr

Birdwatching

From 5€ /hr

Read what our guests are saying about us

Relaxing and Informative Trip

I have taken multiple tours with Boat Milica and they have all been wonderful. I would highly recommend choosing Boat Milica is you wish to take a boat ride on Lake Skadar. They are the friendliest and best company offering a tour on the lake!

Wonderful individual boattrip

It was such a wonderful trip and the explanations and chats were really great. I got to know so much interesting things from these lovely people that I can just say Thank you again. I definetly recommend an overnight stay in Virpazar and a trip on the lake with boat Milica.

Awe inspiring adventure

This two hour trip was a perfect introduction for my parents in law's first trip to Montenegro and Skadar Lake. The family were welcoming, informative and really fun to be with. the highlight of my five year old's two week holiday to Montenegro was helping to steer the boat though the lily pads. We have promised to come next year and to try the 3 hour trip with traditional cuisine. Every aspect highly recommended.

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VIR TRAVEL Lake Skadar boat tours

A scenic experience.

Join us on the Lake Skadar boat tour , enjoy the untouched nature and take photos of rare birds!

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OUR BOAT TOURS  ON LAKE SKADAR

GROUP BOAT TOURS

For those who are happy to share their boat with other travelers, we have some fantastic special offers that allow you to experience the very best of the lake Skadar and its stunning surroundings. Our carefully curated boat tours offer incredible value for money without compromising on quality, ensuring that you get the most out of your Lake Skadar boat adventure. Come and enjoy the best boat tours on Lake Skadar.

BIRDWATCHING

Join us in exploring the amazing paradise of Skadar Lake , home to a diverse range of wildlife and breathtaking sights! With over 280 species of birds, Skadar Lake is a bird lover’s paradise . You can indulge in bird watching at three protected areas on the lake: Pancevo oka, Crni zar, and Manastirska tapija. Lake Skadar is the perfect place to spend your vacation if you are a passionate bird lover.

ORGANIZED TOURS

Accommodating larger groups of people is something we’re thrilled to do, whether it’s with agencies/companies or individuals. Our fleet of boats , capable of holding up to 60 passengers, is at the ready to guide you through the natural wonders of Lake Skadar. From the many species of birds to the islands, monasteries, and forts dotting the lake, we’re excited to show you all that this beautiful region has to offer.

ENJOY YOUR PRIVACY WHILE VISITING SKADAR LAKE PRIVATE BOAT TOURS

IF YOU’RE SEEKING AN EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE ON LAKE SKADAR, OUR PRIVATE TOURS ARE THE IDEAL CHOICE. WITH THIS OPTION, YOU’LL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE A TRADITIONAL WOODEN BOAT ALL TO YOURSELF, GIVING YOU THE ULTIMATE PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a romantic getaway, or simply seeking an intimate adventure with friends or family, our private tours offer the perfect solution. You’ll have the flexibility to choose your own itinerary, set your own pace, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So why wait? Book your private tour today and experience the beauty of Lake Skadar like never before!

Boat Tours on Lake Skadar

Sightseeing cruise to the river of crnojevića.

• Sightseeing boat trip from Virpazar to Rijeka Crnojevića, with a 1 hour stop in Rijeka (your free time).
• Trying local wine and traditional Montenegrin breakfast – doughnuts with honey.

Scenic boat tour through the nature of Lake Skadar

• Sightseeing boat trip from Virpazar through the beautiful nature of Lake Skadar
• Trying local wine, which this area is widely known for

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Ultimate Lake Skadar Boat Trip Packing Guide: Sail into Adventure!

Lake Skadar Activities: The Ultimate Vacation Destination in Montenegro

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Our exciting tour includes: 3 hours of cruising , bird watching , a unique opportunity to spot various bird species inhabiting the lake’s rich ecosystem. A visit to the medieval Kom Monastery and swimming on the beach.

Only 19.99€ per person!

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Lake Skadar boat tour – Unforgettable Relax Experience

We are going on a lake skadar boat tour – do not miss this piece of paradise.

The beauty of the untouched nature of the Skadar Lake National Park should be experienced. If you are wondering what paradise looks like, you will find the answer while discovering the largest lake in the Balkans.

Let’s relax on the boat trip!!!

Travel agency AVE tours takes you on cruises where we get to know the most beautiful parts of Lake Skadar.

The first encounter with the lake awakes enthusiasm. Every next one – the desire and need to discover more. No matter how many times you have been to Lake Skadar, you have not seen everything.

It is an inexhaustible richness of beauty and diversity – fairytale water fields of water lilies and colorful reeds, flocks of birds, islands with medieval monasteries, small fishing villages, beaches, lake cruises with breaks for swimming…. It will leave you speechless.

Lake Skadar boat tour organized by the travel agency AVE tours

What else is great on Lake Skadar? – The seasons give this space different shades and new pleasures. We spend spring, summer, autumn on Lake Skadar and every season has its own charm.

This gem of Montenegro should be seen and experienced, but also you should discover all its sights through historical and interesting stories of a licensed tourist guide of AVE tours. They know how to evoke the events of the past in this area, as well as the culture, customs, life and habits of the local population.

Skadar Lake National park- through the seasons

During this excursion, we will visit the Visitor Center on Lake Skadar , where the contents of all five national parks of Montenegro, which make up about 10% of the territory of the smallest country in the Balkans, are presented in an authentic way. National parks are areas of special beauty, significant and rare natural phenomena.

The differences and contrasts of protected areas of Montenegro will satisfy different tastes – Lovćen massif descends to the sea shore, across the swampy shores of Skadar Lake, north we reach the rainforest of Biogradska Gora, Durmitor lakes and deep canyons, all the way to the heights of Prokletije.

Lake Skadar National Park has been protected as a Ramsar site since December 25, 1995, when it was inscribed on the Wetland List of International Importance, especially as waterfowl habitat.

Visitor Center – Five National Parks of Montenegro

Lake Skadar boat tour – discover reachness of beauty and diversity

Lake Skadar boat tour is an adventure you will want to repeat.

During the cruise we take a break for swimming.  After the great boat trip, we will have lunch in a national restaurant that offers local food from this area, and we definitely recommend that you try some of the Montenegrin wines with fish. Lake Skadar National Park is an attractive destination, and the only task for the visitor is to enjoy what the views in front of him, indulge in the pleasures of the senses of sight, smell, taste…

After the Lake Skadar boat tour, before returning to the coast, we take a break in Virpazar, a small town on the shores of Lake Skadar where the history of brave people of Montenegro is written.

Virpazar is the center of Crmnica, a rural area in the hinterland of Bar, where small family wineries produce great quality Vranac wine.

On Lake Skadar – local specialties in the national restaurant

Make the most of your free time, in the right way! We are going on a Lake Skadar boat tour!!! Indulge all your senses…

Details & Itinerary

1. Meeting of the group at the agreed location, departure to the Lake Skadar National Park.

2. Arrival in Vranjina, tour of the Visitor Center.

3. Skadar Lake Cruise, swimming in the lake (about 2 h).

4. Lunch in a national restaurant on Lake Skadar.

5. After lunch, continuation of the cruise and arrival in Virpazar.

6. Free time in Virpazar.

7. Return in Bar.

8. End of a journey.

The excursion lasts about 7 hours

Private tours available

Group tours available

Note – we realize this excursion from Ulcinj, Sutomore, Petrovac, Sveti Stefan and Budva depending on where the tourists are located. For all additional information, contact us – your pleasure is our ultimate goal.

Beauty of Lake Skadar

Price information

Private Tour

Check the price list for private tours

2  persons    2  x  110€    = 220€ 3  persons    3  x     85€    = 255€ 4  persons    4  x     75€    = 300€ 5  persons    5  x     70€    = 350€ 6  persons    6  x     65€    = 390€

55€ per person

A minimum of 6 people is required for realisation.

Costs included in the price

• Travel by car, van or bus of high tourist class
• A licensed travel guide in the language of the group
• Cruise on the Lake Skadar ( around 2 h )
• Complimentary drink on board
• Parking services and tolls
• Organizational costs

The price does not include

• The entrance for National park Lake Skadar
• Individual costs

14 Comments

A wonderful trip on Lake Skadar – cozy boat, delicious food (breakfast and lunch), a pleasant guide – unforgettable emotions! Thanks a lot!

Greetings =) 1)My question is, if u can walk/hike a bit through the national park or overall area at the lake. 2)There also kayaks/paddle boards offered there. Is it possible to take a ride?

Or are you generell bound?

Me and my friend went to this tour today and it was very nice! We had a long tour on the boat including snacks and wine and afterwards, time to swim in the lake and some local food directly at the lake. Very nice guide! I can totally recommend 🙂

Thanks for the comment. Lake Skadar is a National Park that enchants both tourists and the AVE Tours team with its beauty and facilities, so every trip there is a great pleasure. 🙂

Thank you AVE Tours for an unforgettable day discovering so much more than Lake Skadar. Emil our guide was great, knowlegeable, with a great sense of humour. He picked us up near our hotel and we were lucky to be the only 2 guests in the tour, so we had him as a private guide and learnt so much from him about the politics, economy, history and geography of Montenegro. The boat trip was very pleasant and we received some local specialities on board to eat. Sadly we did not see any pelicans, as this depends on the time of the day, so Emil told us. The fish lunch was an experience – a whole fish grilled in a salt crust, it was delicious! Everywhere people knew Emil so we got to meet locals at every stop. I can recommend this tour which was well organised.

Dear Tanja,

Thank you very much for your positive feedback. We are glad that you enjoyed the beauty of the Skadar Lake National Park and that you had a great time with Emil. We hope to see you again on a new trip.

We enjoyed our Skadar Lake tour! The tour started with a journey through the museum where we had a wonderful guide who explained all the National Parks of Montenegro–it was very informative! Next, we boarded a boat and spent a couple of hours cruising around the lake seeing the beautiful birds and plants. Duško and Ivana told us if we were lucky we might see Pelicans. And we were lucky! We saw many Pelicans and were able to watch them swim and fly. Beautiful! After that we went to a restaurant and beach only accessible by boat where we relaxed, swam, and were able to eat the wonderful fish meal prepared there.

Thank you AVE Tours for a wonderful trip!

Dear Mr. Ramey, we try to organize a holiday for our guests that will be remembered for the best impressions🍀 for that AVE tours agency has been working for 14 years … we think about every detail.

We would like to thank the organizers of the tour, everything went great. We liked everything, We had a great day at the lakes. Special thanks to our transfers and escorted guide Duško, he is a wonderful person.

Dear Tetiana and Mykhaylo,

Thank you on behalf of the organizers and Dusko’s name. We are expecting you again in Montenegro and we are ready to show you many more beautiful places.

Thank you for the great day with wonderful views of Skadar lake! Perfect organisation, everything was like in the schedule!

Dear Anna, Thank you for being our guests. We try to discover and present the beauties of Montenegro and the gastronomic offer to tourists.

I was picked up at the place agreed in right time. We visited the interesting visitor center at Skadar lake and after that we had a wonderful boat tour. There was much more to see and experience than I had ever tought there would be and we even saw pelicans! During the tour we had delicious priganice with honey and cheese, wine and juice. After the tour we went to a restaurant by the lake where we could swim, relax or have some wine or beer before the really delicious fishmeal. The tour was overall great and the driver/guide was really nice and cared about everybody in the group. A wonderful day to remember 😊

Dear Anna, Thank you for the kind words. We are glad you enjoyed it. A cruise on Lake Skadar is a place where you can really relax and enjoy the beautiful nature of the National Park. We hope to see you on a new trip.

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Enjoy A Great Lake Experience

Explore skadar lake by boat or kayak.

We organize boat and kayak tours on Skadar lake starting from Virpazar.

contact us and book the tour of your dreams

Enjoy amazing tours on skadar lake with a great team of expert guides..

Welcome to our family business! We are a young couple passionate about sharing the beauty of Skadar Lake with visitors from all around the world.

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Boat Cruising

Accomodation

We provide boat cruising, kayaking and accommodation.

Our boat & kayak tours are designed to showcase the natural beauty of Skadar Lake, with abundant wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

boat cruising

A full-day kayak tour on Lake Skadar is an amazing way to explore the natural beauty of this stunning destination.

Boat Crusing

This tour starts in Virpazar, from where we will cruise through small and narrow canal that leads us to open lake.

Accommodation

Accommodation offer guests the opportunity to experience the authentic culture and natural beauty of Montenegro

We Provide Boat tours, Kayaking and Accommodation

What to do in Virpazar in National park Skadar lake

Virpazar history Vir was first mentioned in 1242 and in the 15th century it was capitalized by the Turks who built the Besac castle above the village.  At the

Practical Tips for Kayaking on Skadar Lake

Nestled between Montenegro and Albania, lies a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike: Skadar Lake.  This sprawling freshwater oasis, also known as Lake

Why Eagle Is The Perfect Choice?

As locals and someone who spent all life in Virpazar, we can give you helpful tips what to do and where to stay while you are in Montenegro.

Experienced team

All our tours are carefully planed by our experienced team. Instead of worrying about logistics, you can focus on having the experience of a lifetime.

Small groups

Our groups are small enough to feel like you are exploring a destination independently, but big enough to create a good social vibe.

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GROUP BOAT TOUR

Kayaking on this astounding lake – the Balkans’ largest – is not an experience you should miss! Paddling in silence, far from the crowds, you will see some of the most spectacular natural and cultural sites Montenegro has to offer, lead by experienced, dual language guides. Tours take place on set days of the week. If you would like to take a particular trip on a different day, please contact us first – this option is sometimes available, but only to groups of 4px+.

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“A perfect day on the water – Ben was such a fountain of information which made the trip interesting as well as fun. The pace was perfect for us. We saw Pelicans! Lunch was friendly and delicious. Thank you.”  Judy A, July 2021

Privacy Overview

Lake Skadar

Lake Skadar is a wild wonder waiting to be explored. A vast freshwater lake straddling the borders of Montenegro and Albania and surrounded by dramatic karst mountains, its mirrored waters, rocky shores and wetlands play host to a myriad of wildlife with more than 260 species of birds, traditional fishing villages, island monasteries and pristine beaches.

Home to some of the most celebrated panoramas in a country renowned for its wild, natural beauty, Lake Skadar has been a protected  National Park  since 1983 and was added, in 1996, to the World’s List of Wetlands of International Importance by the  Ramsar  Convention. Many Montenegrins regard this area as their country’s heart and soul. It was here that the former Montenegrin royal family chose to summer, where Turkish invaders sought to conquer, and where some of the best wines and organic food in Montenegro can be found, cultivated by the local producers of Crmnica and Godinje valleys. Scroll on down for more detailed information!

As the Ottoman Empire collapsed, the Turks were expelled and the 1875 Congress of Berlin confirmed the borders of independent Montenegro. Skadar town itself (once the capital of Zeta) was incorporated into Albania while several Albanian villages on the southern shores such as Ostros and Donji-Murici became part of Montenegro. To this day these villages retain a strong Albanian character with mosques and residents bilingual in Albanian and Serbian.

While the Turks conquered the southern shores and the town of Virpazar, placing fortresses at Lessendro, Besac and Grmožur, the north-west wetlands provided a bastion for the Montenegrin rulers. From their ruling seat at Žabljak Crnojevića they launched a series of bloody, retaliatory attacks until they were forced to move their capital to Cetinje in 1482.

Even in the 19th and early 20th century, with the royal seat based in Cetinje, the summer court of King Nikola was set up at the attractive lake town of Rijeka Crnojevića.

In WW2 it was time for Lake Skadar to make history again as Virpazar provided the scene of the first Partisan uprising in Montenegro. A monument in town pays tribute to their bravery.

While legend has it that a young bride, excited by the prospect of her husband’s return, forgot to turn off a fountain tap (overnight producing the lake’s sweet waters), the true story of Lake Skadar’s creation is just as incredible. A violent thunderstorm in 1858 sent the river Drina into a frenzy, creating such a build up at the mouth of the river Bojana that its course was shifted, flooding an existing pool and producing the largest lake in the Balkans.

Fed by the Morača river and and a series of underwater springs, the lake’s circumference expands from 370 square kilometres in summer to a massive 530 square kilometres in winter.

On average it is 44km long, 10km wide and 8 metres deep, although its deepest point, a spring at Raduš, is a crypto-depression (below sea level) at more than 60 metres depth.

A birders’ paradise, with more than 260 different species including the rare Dalmatian Pelican and Pygmy Cormorant, you will find storks, herons, egrets and ibises perched on reeds while falcons and eagles scour the rocky shores for a tasty snack.

It’s not just about the birds, however. The mountains are home to an abundance of wild tortoises, brilliantly coloured lizards and amphibians and even snakes (don’t worry, we know which ones to look out for!). If you’re lucky, you may even catch sight of wild boar and even a wolf or two in winter.

Every path and pasture is full of the medicinal herbs for which the area is famous, and wild orchids grow among them. In summer, water lilies line the surface of the lake. In winter, as the lake swells by over 100 square kilometres, pike, perch, trout and carp join the estimated 50,000 birds wintering in the region.

The lake’s waters are home to over 30 species of fresh-water fish, among them succulent trout, meaty saran and the local speciality, carp, all of which can be caught, bought, cooked and eaten the very same day. We will share the secrets with you of the very best local restaurants. Hint: they’re not the sort that advertise!

Best of all are the renowned wines of the Zeta plains and Crmnica Valley. The red  vranac  and white  krstač grapes are not just famous throughout the former Yugoslav republics – the wines they produce are international award-winners in their own right. The nearby Plantaže vineyard is one of the largest in the whole world, whilst the smoothest gold medalists are to be found in Crmnica, where a handful of local vintners maintain a proud tradition of wine-growing excellence.

Whether you’re hiking, biking, kayaking or just relaxing on one of our Lake Skadar adventures , you’re never far away from the best organic produce Montenegro has to offer.

Watch our Lake Skadar video!

7 Day Activity Holiday at Lake Skadar

7 Day Kayak & Bushcraft: Lake Skadar, Montenegro

7 Day Cross-Border Kayaking: Montenegro to Albania

Privacy overview.

• Montenegrin

Kayak Adventure: 3 hours

Travel along the calm waters of Lake Skadar on a 3-hour long, self-guided kayak adventure. Discover the lake's wildlife from a different perspective and enjoy breathtaking views that can't be seen from the shore. Find yourself in the middle of a water lily field, where you can observe the birds as they soar through the sky or dive deep to catch their lunch. Take a refreshing swim in one of Europe's largest lakes!

About this activity

• Reserve now & pay upon arrival

Keep your travel plans flexible and pay for everything upon arrival.

• Cash & Card payment available

Choose your preferred payment option.

• Duration: 3 hours

Check availability to see different departure times.

If you enjoy being close to wildlife and want to spend quality time in nature, kayaking on Lake Skadar offers a unique opportunity. This experience will take you to a different world where time stops and everything seems still, bringing you peace and harmony.

Start your adventure by paddling through the narrow river channel that connects Virpazar to the open waters of Lake Skadar. Continue under the bridge and near the island called Lesendro. Find a once-mighty fortress worn down by the ravages of time. You will surely be captivated by its unique charm.

You will move to the three famous islets once you cross the river channel and glimpse Lesendro and its bird visitants. As you navigate them, discover breathtaking canals decorated with water lilies and reeds. Take in the lovely scenery of mountain ranges, rugged coastlines, and vast lake.

On your way back, stop at one of the beaches to swim in the deep blue waters of Lake Skadar.

• Complete equipment (including waterproof bags, safety jackets, and paddles)
• Guidance, helpful tips and safety briefing
• A map with stories from the Lake Skadar area
• On-call assistance throughout the tour, both online and offline
• National park fee (5€ per person, free for children under 15)
• Guide during the tour

Meeting point & other important information

• Meeting point

Join us at the Kingfisher information desk near the central bridge in Virpazar 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Click here for the exact location. 

It is important to note that the information desk is the designated meeting point, and you should arrive there only after you have parked and are ready to start the tour.

If you are running late and unable to reach the meeting point at the predetermined time, please get in touch with us immediately using the emergency phone number provided.

• What to bring
• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Know before you go

Please note that this tour is subject to cancellation due to weather conditions. We will contact you promptly in the event of any changes to your booking.

For any other questions, please check our FAQ page.

Private tour to Skadar lake in Montenegro

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