Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Booking & Pricing
How do I book a tour?
You can book directly:
- On our website
- WhatsApp or Instagram
- In person at our stand in Virpazar
When should I reserve a tour with Boat Milica?
In summer months, tours can fill up fast, so it’s best to book a few days in advance. If it’s off-season or you’re feeling spontaneous, we’ll do our best to fit you in — even at the last minute.
What’s Boat Milica’s cancellation policy?
If you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour, we’ll refund you in full. If something last-minute comes up, get in touch — we’re a small family business, and we always try to be understanding.
Is it possible to book and pay online?
Yes, absolutely. Once you choose your tour, we can send you a secure payment link. Quick and hassle-free!
What kind of payment methods do you accept?
We accept:
- Cash in euros at the start of the tour
- Online payment
Let us know what’s most convenient for you.
How much is a boat tour at Lake Skadar?
Prices vary depending on tour type and duration:
– Group tours: €15-25€ per person
– Private tours: €35–€40 per hour for boat rental
Are there any additional fees not included in the tour price?
Yes, a €5 National Park entrance fee per person is required and must be paid in cash at the entrance.
How much is kayaking rental at Lake Skadar?
– Single kayak €5 per hour, -20€ all day rental
– Double kayak €10 per hour, -30€ all day rental
Do you offer discounts for kids?
Yes – children receive discounted prices, and kids under 3 years old can join for free. Let us know their ages when booking.
Activities on Skadar Lake
When is the best time to visit Lake Skadar?
Skadar Lake is beautiful year-round, and the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for — whether it’s boat cruising, kayaking, paddle boarding, or birdwatching.
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Spring is one of the most magical times to visit Skadar Lake National Park.
- The lake is full of birdlife, wildflowers bloom everywhere, and temperatures are mild.
- Ideal for birdwatching tours, as many migratory birds return to nest — including the iconic Dalmatian pelican, kingfisher, and herons.
- The weather is perfect for kayaking and SUP: calm waters and not too hot.
- It’s less crowded, making it a peaceful time for a boat tour through the lake’s canals.
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Summer is the high season at Lake Skadar, perfect for swimming and longer outdoor adventures.
- Best time for sunset cruises, swimming stops, and enjoying the lake in full sun.
- Water is warm, so you can easily combine a boat tour with a refreshing swim.
- It’s also the busiest time, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
- Great for stand-up paddle boarding and sunrise kayak tours for those who prefer cooler morning hours.
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Autumn brings golden colors, cooler air, and still-warm water.
- The lake is quieter after the peak season, perfect for relaxed private boat tours.
- Birdwatching is still excellent, especially for spotting cormorants, egrets, and other wetland species.
- The weather remains pleasant for kayak rentals and self-guided paddle board tours.
- Vineyards near the lake are in harvest, so it’s also a nice time for combining tours with local wine tasting.
❄️ Winter (December – February)
While fewer tourists visit in winter, the lake remains peaceful and full of life.
- Great for birdwatching enthusiasts, as migratory birds settle in the wetlands.
- While swimming and SUP are not ideal, the mood of the lake is tranquil and atmospheric, with morning mist and quiet waters.
- You can still enjoy private boat tours, especially on sunny winter days.
- Accommodation is cheaper and the area is very calm.
How do I get to Lake Skadar?
Lake Skadar is located in southern Montenegro, and the best place to start your tour is the lakeside village of Virpazar. It’s easy to reach by both public transport and private transfer, depending on your preference and schedule.
🚆 By Public Transport (Train or Bus)
From Podgorica
- Take a train from Podgorica to Virpazar (about 25 minutes).
- Trains run several times a day and tickets cost just a few euros.
- The Virpazar train station is only a 10-minute walk from the village center and our meeting point.
From Bar or Sutomore
- Trains also run from the coast (Bar, Sutomore) to Virpazar and take about 25 minutes.
- It’s an easy and scenic journey, passing through hills and vineyards.
By Bus
- Buses from Podgorica, Bar, Cetinje, and Budva sometimes stop at the main road near Virpazar (ask the driver).
- From the bus stop, it’s about a 15-minute walk into the village.
We’ll send you directions and meeting point info after you book your Skadar Lake boat tour, and we’re happy to help with timetables.
🚗 Private Transfer – Let Us Arrange It for You
If public transport doesn’t suit your schedule or you’re traveling with luggage, we can organize a private transfer directly to Virpazar.
- It’s a comfortable, flexible option, especially if you’re coming from places like Kotor, Budva, Podgorica, Tivat, or Ulcinj.
- We work with local drivers from the Skadar Lake area, supporting the community while ensuring you have a safe, friendly ride.
- Just let us know your location and time, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Where to stay at Lake Skadar?
There are many charming places to stay near Virpazar — here are two accommodations that boat Milica offers:
Vidas House –Stylish & Close to Everything
If you’re looking for peace, nature, and incredible view, Vidas House is a wonderful choice.
Located in center of Virpazar, just a second walk from the Lake Skadar.
Plamenatz Apartments – Tranquil Hideaway with Lake Views
Perfect for families or travelers looking for a quiet base with comfort and style, 5 minutes driver from the starting point of your tour with Boat Milica.
Is there parking available near the meeting point?
Yes, there are several public parking lots in Virpazar, just a short walk from our meeting point.
You can park:
- Near the old stone bridge
- By the tourist info office
- Or in front of restaurants and cafés in the village
In high season, parking can get busy, so we recommend arriving 30 minutes early to find a spot without stress. If you need help with directions, we’re happy to send you a pin or guide you!
What activities can I do on Skadar Lake?
We offer:
- Boat tours (group and private)
- Kayak tours and rentals
- Stand up paddle board (SUP) tours and rentals
- Birdwatching & sightseeing
- Sunset cruises
Which tour is best: boat, kayak, or SUP?
– Boat tour: Relaxed, ideal for families & couples
– Kayak: Active adventure, great for narrow channels
– SUP: Best for balance and peaceful paddling
Can I rent a boat, kayak, or paddle board without a guide?
Yes! We offer self-guided kayak and SUP rentals and private boat tours with a skipper.
Can I customize a boat tour for my preferences or special occasions?
Absolutely! Whether it’s a birthday, romantic moment, or photography session—we’ll tailor it to you.
Can I bring food and beverages on the boat during the tour?
Yes! You’re welcome to bring snacks and drinks. We also provide water, juice, and local wine. Picnic baskets are available for private tours for additional charge.
Can we swim in Skadar Lake?
Yes – most of our tours include a stop for swimming in clear, calm water. Don’t forget your towel and swimwear.
Is it beginner-friendly?
Yes – perfect for beginners. We provide instructions and most routes are calm and shallow.
Wildlife & Nature
What birds can I see on Skadar Lake?
Skadar Lake is home to over 280 bird species, including:
– Dalmatian pelican
– Grey heron
– Kingfisher
– Pygmy & Great cormorants
– Egrets, marsh harriers, and gulls
Are there any endangered or protected species around Lake Skadar?
Yes! The Dalmatian pelican is a globally vulnerable species and one of the lake’s highlights. Other protected birds include the pygmy cormorant and the ferruginous duck. Our tours are designed to observe wildlife respectfully without disturbing their habitats.
When is the best time of year to see the most wildlife with Boat Milica?
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for bird migration, so you’ll see the greatest variety of species. Summer is great for nesting birds and active wildlife, while winter offers sightings of overwintering waterfowl.
Do you provide binoculars or spotting scopes for wildlife viewing?
Yes, we provide binoculars on board to enhance your birdwatching experience. Feel free to bring your own if you have them!
How boat Milica ensures the wildlife is not disturbed during the tours?
We follow strict eco-friendly guidelines, keeping a respectful distance from animals, avoiding loud noises, and sticking to designated routes to protect the habitats of sensitive species.
Can I take photos of the wildlife during the tour?
Definitely! We encourage you to capture your wildlife moments, but please avoid using flash photography as it can disturb the animals.
Tour Details & Safety
Where do the tours start from?
All tours start in Virpazar. Head toward the bridge, turn right before crossing—between the tourist office and the boat-restaurant Silistria. Look for the Boat Milica sign.
How long do the boat tours last?
– 1-hour: Quick and scenic
– 2-hour: Swimming and birdwatching
– 3–4 hours: Extended exploration
– Morning and sunset tours also available
Are tours available in English?
Yes – our guides speak English. Other languages are available on request.
Are your boats safe?
Yes – fully licensed and insured. All boats have life jackets, sunshade, and safety gear.
Are there restroom facilities available on the boats?
Our boats do not have toilets, but public restrooms are available in Virpazar before/after the tour. Longer private tours can include stops.
Is your company registered, and are you insured for the activities you offer?
Yes – Boat Milica is fully registered and insured according to Montenegrin law and National Park requirements.
Can I bring a drone?
Yes! Skadar Lake looks stunning from above.
Extras & Policies
What if the weather is bad?
If it’s rainy or windy, we may cancel or reschedule for safety. You’ll receive a refund or choose a new date.
Do you provide food or drinks?
Yes – water, juice, and local wine are included. Picnic baskets available on request.
Is Boat Milica pet friendly?
Yes – we are most definitely pet friendly!
Is there Wi-Fi nearby?
There’s no Wi-Fi on the lake, but Virpazar has mobile coverage and local cafés offer free Wi-Fi.
Why Choose Boat Milica
Why choose Boat Milica?
- Family-owned with generations of local knowledge
- Personalized tours through Amazon-like canals
- Peaceful, nature-friendly experiences
- Amazing wildlife and photo opportunities
- Top guest reviews
What makes Boat Milica different from other boat tours on Lake Skadar?
Boat Milica is a family-run business with deep roots in Virpazar. We’re one of the first boat operators on the lake, and our tours are built on generations of local knowledge — from fishing to guiding. You won’t just take a boat ride; you’ll experience Lake Skadar through the eyes of those who’ve lived here all their lives.
Are your tours more personal than larger group excursions?
Yes! We specialize in small group and private tours. That means more space, more peace, and more personal attention. Our guests often tell us it feels like touring with a local friend, not just a guide.
Do your tours include expert knowledge about the lake and wildlife?
Absolutely. All our guides speak English and know the lake inside out. You’ll hear stories about local culture, history, hidden spots, and the many bird and animal species that call Skadar Lake home.
What kind of boats do you use?
Our boats are comfortable, clean, and perfect for exploring both the wide lake and narrow, Amazonian-like canals. Some are traditional wooden boats, others more modern — but all are safe, well-maintained, and operated by licensed skippers.
Is Boat Milica eco-conscious?
We deeply respect the lake and its ecosystem. That’s why we avoid overcrowded tours, follow quiet routes, and always leave nature as we found it. We believe in slow, responsible tourism that benefits both our guests and the environment.
What do other travelers say about you?
Our reviews speak for themselves. Guests praise the relaxed atmosphere, stunning views, friendly crew, and the feeling of truly connecting with nature and local culture. Many come back or recommend us to friends and family.
Can you help plan a custom or special occasion tour?
Of course! Whether it’s a romantic sunset cruise, a photography tour, or a quiet family morning on the lake — we’re happy to help plan something special. Just contact us and tell us what you’re dreaming of.
