Ulcinj: Crystal Beach & Old Ulcinj Day Tour with Lunch offers a wonderful blend of scenic boat rides, secluded beaches, and authentic local flavors. For roughly 7 hours, you’ll cruise along the coast, visit hidden beaches only accessible by water, and enjoy a delicious fish picnic on a private stretch of sand. Guided by friendly local experts, this tour is designed for travelers craving genuine Montenegrin coast experiences without the crowds.
What we love most about this tour is the chance to see Ulcinj from the water, giving you a fresh perspective on this charming town’s coastline. The other highlight is the freshly caught barbecue lunch served right on a secluded beach—an authentic touch that truly feels like a special treat. The only potential downside? This tour is weather-dependent, so if the sea is rough or storms are forecasted, it might be canceled or rescheduled.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxing scenery, local culture, and outdoor adventure. It’s especially ideal for those who love seafood, picturesque views, and a more intimate, less touristy atmosphere. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike have found this tour to be a highlight of their Montenegro trip.
Key Points
- Stunning Coastal Views: Experience the beauty of the Ulcinj coast from the water, including spots only accessible by boat.
- Authentic Fish Picnic: Enjoy a freshly prepared barbecue lunch featuring local fish, served on a private, secluded beach.
- Local Knowledge: Guides are friendly and fluent in multiple languages, adding insight and ease to your journey.
- Unique Access: Visit beaches only reachable by sea, steeped in local myths and untouched by mass tourism.
- Balanced Experience: Combines sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with mouthwatering food.
- Weather Flexibility: Tour might be canceled or modified in case of heavy weather warnings.
An In-Depth Look at the Ulcinj Boat Tour
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The Starting Point and How You Get There
You’ll meet your guides at the Plan B Pub in Old Town Ulcinj, a lively spot to gather before heading out. From there, your adventure begins with a scenic boat ride along the coast. The boat itself is well-equipped, insured, and led by experienced local guides who speak English, German, Serbian, and Albanian.
This shared boat ride lasts about 7 hours, which allows plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The departure is typically in the morning or early afternoon, but checking availability for specific times is recommended.
The Coastal Journey: Limans and Modern Hotels
As you cruise out of the marina, your eyes will be drawn to the Limans, small rocky beaches dotted along the coast, often overlooked by travelers. We loved the way the guides pointed out the newly built hotels just a few feet from the water—these modern structures contrast sharply with the pristine, untouched beaches that follow.
The boat ride offers a fantastic perspective on the Ulcinj coastline, especially as you catch the refreshing sea breeze. Passengers frequently mention how the scenery feels both dramatic and peaceful, with the turquoise water and white rocks creating a picture-perfect backdrop.
The Hidden Beaches and Myths
One of the biggest draws of this tour is visiting beaches that are only accessible by sea. These secluded spots are known mainly to locals, and the guides often share intriguing myths and stories about them—adding a layer of local flavor to your trip.
Expect to see crystal-clear water and white rocks, which make these beaches look like they belong in a travel magazine. As one reviewer noted, “The blue water will make you think you arrived in Paradise.” Many travelers mention how quiet and untouched these beaches are, making them perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyKristalna Plaza and the Old Island of Ulcinj
The highlight for many is visiting Kristalna Plaza, a beach accessible only by boat. The water here is so clear it feels like swimming in a giant swimming pool. While swimming, your guides will prepare and serve a BBQ lunch featuring freshly caught fish, along with drinks—making the whole experience feel delightfully authentic.
The Old Island of Ulcinj, visible from the boat, adds historical charm, and guides often provide snippets of local history or legends, giving you a deeper appreciation of the area.
Lunch on a Secluded Beach
The fish picnic is a major highlight according to reviews. It’s cooked on-site, with the guides catching the fish earlier in the day—freshness is guaranteed. This is not a typical buffet but a personalized, local-style meal that many find memorable. Guests rave about the quality of the fish and the relaxed, natural setting.
Swimming, Relaxing, and Returning
After lunch, you can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The boat ride back to the marina is equally scenic, often filled with laughter, swimming, or even jumping off the boat into the water—an activity that keeps both kids and adults entertained.
The return journey is the same route, offering one last chance to admire the rugged coastline and take photos. The tour typically ends back at the Old Town marina, where you can continue exploring Ulcinj’s charming streets or relax at the local cafes.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour includes a visit to Kristalna Plaza, a fish picnic on a private beach, and a tour of the Old Ulcinj Island. All food and drinks are covered, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
However, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point in Old Town. The tours tend to be small and intimate, with friendly guides making sure everyone feels comfortable.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Bring beachwear and water shoes—the rocks can be sharp. The weather can influence the trip, so check weather alerts before booking. The boat is fully insured but keep in mind that any damage, injuries, or items lost during the boat ride are not covered by insurance.
Since the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, those with mobility issues might want to consider other options.
Authentic Experiences and the Value for Money
While the price might seem modest for an all-day boat trip with food, the value lies in the exclusive access to hidden beaches, the quality of the seafood lunch, and the personal touch of local guides. Past travelers consistently mention how the guides’ friendliness and local knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just a boat ride.
The reviews are nearly unanimous, with a 4.6 overall rating from 34 travelers who praise the relaxing atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and delicious food. Guests often describe it as a “perfect activity for relaxation, especially with children” or “an experience that makes you feel like you’ve had a taste of true Montenegro.”
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re seeking a relaxed day on the water, surrounded by stunning natural scenery, and craving authentic local food, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind a bit of boat time and are comfortable with a group experience. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate both scenic beauty and good food will find this tour rewarding.
FAQs
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts around 7 hours, with departure times available based on the day’s schedule. Be sure to check availability.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Yes, bring beachwear and water shoes—the rocks on some beaches can be sharp. Sun protection, such as sunscreen and a hat, is also recommended.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that children enjoy swimming and jumping off the boat. It’s a relaxing, family-friendly activity, though it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Are meals included?
Yes, the fish picnic and drinks are included in the price, with the lunch typically featuring freshly caught fish cooked on-site.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or modified due to weather alerts, like Red or Yellow Weather Alarms. Always check the forecast before booking.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.
Is there a limit to group size?
While not specified, small-group tours tend to be the norm, ensuring a more personal experience.
Final Thoughts
The Ulcinj: Crystal Beach & Old Ulcinj Day Tour with Lunch offers a beautifully balanced day of scenic beauty, local flavor, and relaxation. The chance to visit secluded beaches, enjoy fresh fish prepared right before your eyes, and see Ulcinj from the water makes it a memorable experience for anyone wanting to glimpse the quieter side of Montenegro’s coast.
If you’re after authentic sights, delicious food, and a laid-back atmosphere, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for those who love a good story, great scenery, and a tasty meal in a natural setting—perfect for creating lasting vacation memories.
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