Budva: Mariolo Boat Tours - 3.5 hours panoramic tour

A Detailed Look at the Mariolo 3.5-Hour Panoramic Boat Tour in Budva

Imagine spending a relaxed afternoon gliding along the coast of Montenegro, taking in the breathtaking sights of Budva Bay’s beaches and islands — all from the deck of a sturdy, beautifully crafted wooden boat. This 3.5-hour panoramic tour from Milocer Beach offers a chance to see all the key coastal spots, from historic sites to celebrity-studded resorts, with enough flexibility for your personal preferences.

The tour kicks off at the Budva Marina, a convenient starting point just outside the Old Town. As your friendly guide (or crew member) steers you along, you’ll get a front-row seat to sights like Sveti Stefan, the private Tito residence, and the famous Queen’s Chair on Queen’s Beach. What makes this experience stand out is the ability to customize your swimming stops — whether you want to splash in the water at Drobni Pijesak or Trsteno, or simply savor the view — and the boat’s stability. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing with some refreshing sea time.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the flexibility of swimming stops, which can be extended or shortened based on your wishes, and the beautiful, unobstructed views of the coastline that you can capture at any time — perfect for photos or videos. The boat’s solid oak construction gives a reassuring feeling of safety and quality, and the long tour duration means you get plenty of time to relax and enjoy.

A minor consideration is that the tour may be less suitable for very young children, non-swimmers, or those sensitive to seasickness, as it’s a boat-based experience with some swimming stops. Still, for anyone who enjoys being on the water, the experience offers incredible value for the time and price.

This tour really suits travelers who want to see Montenegro’s coast from a unique vantage point, appreciate local history and celebrity allure, and enjoy the flexibility to swim at their preferred spots. If you’re looking for a memorable, personalized day on the water, this is a strong contender.

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Key Points

Flexible Itinerary: You choose if and where to swim and for how long, making this tour highly customizable.
Stunning Coastal Views: From Sveti Stefan to Queen’s Beach, the scenery is spectacular and perfect for photography.
Comfortable Wooden Boat: The MARIOLO boat is built of oak and pine, offering stability and safety at sea.
Multiple Swimming Opportunities: With up to three swim breaks, you can cool off at different beaches or extend your time in the water.
Accessible Sightseeing: Stops include notable spots like Milocer Beach, Queen’s Beach, Sveti Stefan, and Trsteno Beach.
Informative and Relaxed: The guide shares interesting details about the sights, with enough free time to enjoy the surroundings.

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An In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Out at Budva Marina

The adventure begins at the main office of Marina Budva, right across from the Old Town’s last entrance. The meeting point is straightforward: right at the end of the dock, near the big yachts. The boat, named “MARIOLO,” is a stately wooden vessel made of oak and pine, built for stability and durability. Its weight and craftsmanship give a sense of confidence — you’ll appreciate this if you’re wary of unstable boats or crowded tours.

The Scenic Route: Eastern to Western Coastlines

Once aboard, your captain steers the boat eastward, hugging the coast to reveal the beaches and landmarks on both sides of Budva Bay.

Slovenska Beach, Becici, Rafailovici, Kamenovo, Przno: These beaches are famous for their fine sands and clear waters. A quick glance from the boat shows why they attract sunbathers and swimmers alike.
Queen’s Beach and Queen’s Chair: These iconic spots hold local legend, with the Queen’s Chair on the rock offering a perfect photo opportunity, especially during sunset. You’ll hear stories of Queen Marija, who once enjoyed the views from there, adding a dash of royal romance to your trip.
Milocer Beach and Tito’s Residence: Passing by the former president’s private estate, you get a sense of the area’s regal history. The lush gardens around Tito’s villa are a feast for the eyes, and you might appreciate knowing that Novak Djokovic organized his wedding here — a fun tidbit for tennis fans.

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Sveti Stefan and the Famous Islands

One of the tour’s highlights is Sveti Stefan, the tiny island resort visited by Hollywood icons like Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren. The boat circles around this luxurious site, giving you a close-up view of the island’s striking architecture and rocky connection to the mainland. This is a picture-perfect moment, especially for photography buffs.

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Swimming Breaks and Beach Stops

The tour typically includes two swimming breaks, with the possibility of a third if guests wish. The first stop at Drobni Pijesak is usually loved for its white, deep-water sands — perfect for a quick dip. The shallow water here makes it accessible for many, though non-swimmers should exercise caution.

Afterward, the boat heads around Sveti Stefan to Trsteno Beach, where many guests enjoy a second swim. The waters here tend to be calmer, and the surroundings are wild and scenic — a reminder of how unspoiled the area still is.

The Western Side and the Return Journey

On the way back, the boat passes by Ploce Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and small beach parties. Guests often enjoy a relaxed music break here, soaking in the scene. Then, the boat makes a stop at Trsteno Beach again, allowing another swim or simply a chance to unwind.

The journey ends by passing Jaz Beach, Mogren Two, and Mogren One — some of the most beautiful beaches along the Adriatic, with lush greenery and natural sands flowing from streams. As the boat approaches Budva, the view of the Old Town walls and ramparts provides a fitting conclusion — a reminder of the historic charm that makes Budva special.

Practical Details and Comfort

The duration of 3.5 hours is just right for a relaxed exploration without feeling rushed. The boat’s capacity of 43 passengers plus crew ensures you won’t feel crowded, and the crew is known for being friendly and accommodating.
Guests are encouraged to bring swimsuits, towels, and snacks, though drinks and small snacks might be available on board. You can also bring your own drinks — just avoid excessive alcohol, which could interfere with the fun and safety.

What We Loved

The personalization of the tour stands out — you tell the crew where you’d like to swim or take photos, making each experience unique. Also, the scenery is breathtaking — from rocky islands to lush gardens, plus the chance to see some of Montenegro’s most glamorous spots from the water.

Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or very young children because of the swimming stops. Seasickness-prone travelers should also consider that being on the water for this length of time may cause discomfort.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler who appreciates stunning coastal views, loves history and celebrity sites, and enjoys flexible, outdoor experiences, this tour is a wonderful choice. It’s particularly good for those who want to see a lot in a short time without feeling rushed, and who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and sea swimming.

Final Thoughts

This 3.5-hour panoramic boat tour offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and personal flexibility. The chance to see Montenegro’s coast from the water, with stops at iconic beaches and landmarks, makes it a memorable addition to any itinerary. The sturdy, classic wooden boat adds a layer of comfort and safety, ensuring you feel secure while soaking in the views.

The tour’s focus on customization means you can tailor your experience — whether you want more swimming or simply prefer to admire the scenery. It provides excellent value by combining comprehensive sightseeing with leisure, all within a manageable time frame.

For those seeking a relaxed, scenic voyage with plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to cool off in the sea, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Montenegro’s gorgeous coastline without the hassle of multiple boat transfers or complicated logistics.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The panoramic tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, giving you ample time to see all the sights and enjoy a couple of swimming stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the main office of Marina Budva, right in front of the Old Town, and ends back at the same point.

Can I choose where to swim?
Yes, you can decide if and where to take swimming breaks, how long to stay in the water, and even extend a stop if desired.

Is the boat suitable for everyone?
The boat is made of oak and pine for stability and can carry up to 43 passengers comfortably. However, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers, very young children, or those with mobility issues.

Are drinks and snacks available?
Small snacks and fruit drinks might be available, but you’re encouraged to bring your own food and drinks, avoiding strong alcoholic beverages.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera for capturing the stunning scenery. If you plan to swim, wearing a child safety seat or life jacket is recommended.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

This boat tour offers a wonderful way to explore Montenegro’s coast — combining comfort, flexibility, and unforgettable scenery in a straightforward package. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the water or an active sightseeing adventure, it’s a journey worth considering.