From Kotor, Budva, Tivat: Skadar Lake Boat Tour & Wine

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with scenic views, cultural charm, and a splash of local wine, this Skadar Lake Boat Tour from Montenegro’s coast is worth considering. This full-day experience whisks you from the lively coastal towns of Kotor, Budva, or Tivat into the tranquil wilderness of Lake Skadar—Europe’s largest lake and a national treasure. Along the way, you’ll enjoy picturesque stops, a relaxing boat cruise, and a tasting session at a top local winery.

What we love about this tour is its balance of nature, culture, and flavor—it offers a genuine taste of Montenegro beyond the bustling coast. The scenic drive with viewpoints of Sveti Stefan and Budva’s coastline sets the tone for the day, while the boat ride gives you a close-up view of the lake’s birdlife and pristine waters. A highlight for many is the wine tasting at Plantae, where high-quality local wines like Vranac are featured.

However, one consideration is the timing. Reviewers have noted that the pickup can sometimes be delayed—Dina, for example, mentioned her driver picked them up 1.5 hours later than planned. That said, most agree the rest of the day more than makes up for this inconvenience and the experience remains highly worthwhile.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love nature, wine, and scenic drives, and those looking for an authentic Montenegro experience that combines outdoor beauty with cultural insights. It’s especially suited for those with a day to spare, who want a relaxed yet enriching adventure.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenic Stops: Viewpoints of Sveti Stefan and Budva offer stunning photo opportunities.
• Authentic Lake Experience: A 1.5-hour boat cruise on Skadar Lake reveals abundant wildlife and peaceful waters.
• Cultural Charm: Virpazar’s village and stone bridges provide a glimpse into Montenegro’s rural life and history.
• Wine Tasting: Visit the Plantae winery for a chance to savor locally unique wines, especially the Vranac grape.
• All-Inclusive Feel: The tour includes private transportation, entrance fees, boat ride, wine tasting, and lunch—offering good value for a full-day outing.
• Timing Flexibility: From pickup to drop-off, the overall experience is designed for comfort and convenience, even with minor delays.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Points and Transfers

The tour begins with pickups from Kotor, Budva, or Tivat, making it easy to tailor the day to your location. The transportation is private and air-conditioned, which means you’ll travel comfortably through Montenegro’s scenic coastal and inland routes. The driver acts as your guide, speaking either English or Serbian, and provides a friendly, informative touch.

The journey kicks off with two quick photo stops—first at the Vidikovac viewpoint over Budva, offering sweeping views of the coast, and then at Sveti Stefan, the iconic island resort that looks like a fairy-tale castle rising from the blue waters. These stops are brief but give a perfect teaser of the stunning scenery to come.

The Village of Virpazar

Next, you arrive at Virpazar, a charming, almost storybook fishing village at the crossroads of historic roads. This spot is a magnet for boaters, and it’s easy to see why. The village features three stone bridges—illuminated in folk songs and local stories—and a collection of rustic, rural architecture. It’s the ideal place to soak in local atmosphere and get a sense of Montenegro’s rural charm. From here, you board your boat for the main event.

Scenic Boat Cruise on Lake Skadar

The highlight for many is the 1.5-hour cruise on Lake Skadar. As we glide across the expansive waters, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. We loved the way the lake’s surface reflects the lush greenery and the distant hills. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, and if luck is on your side, you might glimpse a pelican nesting on these waters—a rare sight that adds a special touch to the trip.

The boat ride provides ample opportunities for photography and quiet reflection. The peaceful waters and abundant birdlife remind you why this lake is a protected national park. The guide offers insights into the lake’s ecosystem and history, making the experience both scenic and educational.

Visiting Plantae Winery

After the boat cruise, the tour continues inland to the Plantae winery, known for its high-quality wines and exclusive access to Vranac grapes unique to this area. The winery tour includes a tasting session where you get to sample a selection of local wines, and the guide—who’s well-versed and friendly—shares stories about each variety.

The wines here are notably good, especially considering the price point. Many reviews highlight the remarkable tastes and the chance to try wines that grow only in this region. If you’re a wine enthusiast, this visit offers a genuine taste of Montenegro’s vinicultural heritage.

Lunch and Free Time

Following the tasting, you’ll enjoy a lunch—likely featuring local specialties such as lake fish and traditional Montenegrin dishes. The specific menu can vary, but most reviews agree that the food is fresh and flavorful, complementing the day’s experiences.

The latter part of the day is free for relaxing or exploring further before the drive back to the coast. The total duration of the tour is about 7 hours, making it a compact but fulfilling day out.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

Transportation and Timing

The tour operates with private, air-conditioned vehicles that pick you up from your hotel or designated location. The schedule is flexible, but the initial pickups can sometimes be delayed—as one reviewer noted, her driver arrived 1.5 hours late. It’s advisable to confirm pickup times and be ready a bit earlier to avoid missing out on any part of the day.

Group Size and Guides

This is a private group experience, which means you’ll have personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere. Guides are fluent in English and Serbian, and they are generally knowledgeable, sharing interesting insights into the sites and wines.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t listed here, the tour includes many features—private transport, boat cruise, entrance fees, wine tasting, and lunch—making it a comprehensive package. For travelers wanting a full day of varied experiences without multiple bookings, this offers excellent value.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, mostly due to the nature of boat rides and walking around village areas. Remember to bring your passport or ID card, and note that smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed during the tour for safety and comfort reasons.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour offers an authentic taste of Montenegro’s natural beauty and cultural highlights. The scenic drives, especially the viewpoints over Sveti Stefan and Budva, help set the mood for the day. The boat cruise on Skadar Lake is a peaceful, wildlife-rich highlight, giving you a chance to observe the lake’s birdlife in a tranquil setting.

The visit to Virpazar provides a glimpse into traditional Montenegrin life—stone bridges, rural architecture, and a quiet village atmosphere—far from tourist crowds. And the winery experience not only introduces you to regional wines but also offers a chance to learn about local viticulture, which is quite special given the exclusive Vranac grape.

Most reviewers agree that the highlights are the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenic views, and excellent wine tasting. One guest remarked that the driver was friendly and informative, while others appreciated the smooth organization and the chance to relax while traveling comfortably.

On the flip side, some minor delays in pickup times have been noted, but for most, it doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment. The experience is well-rounded—ideal for those wanting an immersive taste of Montenegro outside the coast, especially if you appreciate wildlife, rural charm, and local flavors.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This is a fantastic choice if you’re after a balanced day of nature, culture, and food. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see Montenegro’s inland beauty without sacrificing comfort. Wine lovers will appreciate the tasting session at Plantae, and nature enthusiasts will enjoy the birdwatching opportunities on Lake Skadar.

Because it’s a full-day experience with private transport, it suits those who prefer a personalized, flexible approach rather than large-group tours. If you’re visiting Kotor, Budva, or Tivat and want to explore beyond the coast, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Montenegro experience.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including pickups, drives, the boat cruise, wine tasting, and lunch.

What are the pickup locations?
You can choose from Kotor, Budva, or Tivat, with private transportation included.

Are there any dress code requirements?
While not explicitly stated, comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities and weather conditions are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best for those without mobility impairments, as some walking and boat rides are involved.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, sunglasses, and sunscreen for outdoor stops.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Wine tasting and lunch are included, but additional drinks and snacks purchased during the tour are extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide during the boat cruise?
The guide onboard provides insights, and the tour includes an English or Serbian-speaking driver/guide for the whole day.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers find the boat cruise on Lake Skadar and the wine tasting at Plantae to be the most memorable parts.

Is this tour private or group?
It is a private experience, offering personalized attention and flexibility.

To sum it up, this tour provides a well-balanced day exploring Montenegro’s stunning landscapes, charming villages, and exceptional wines. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and tasting local flavors in a relaxed setting. While minor delays can occur, the overall experience delivers excellent value, comfort, and authentic insights into Montenegro’s natural and cultural treasures. Whether you’re a nature lover, a wine enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable day outside the coast, this adventure offers a genuine taste of what Montenegro has to offer.