Shared Cruise to St.Naum Monastery

Discover the Scenic Shared Cruise to St. Naum Monastery

The Shared Cruise to St. Naum Monastery offers an affordable and leisurely way to explore Lake Ohrid’s stunning scenery and historical sites. Priced at just $23.22 per person, this approximately 7-hour trip is popular among visitors who want a relaxed day on the water, complete with scenic views, cultural stops, and onboard comfort. The tour departs from the Boat Armada Port of Ohrid and includes pick-up services and a mobile ticket option, making planning straightforward.

What makes this tour appealing is the combination of a comfortable boat ride with visits to notable sites like the Bay of the Bones Museum and the St. Naum Monastery. The cruise is especially attractive for those who enjoy onboard Wi-Fi, music, and drinks from the bar. While the tour is suitable for most travelers, those expecting detailed guided commentary might find the experience more flexible and self-paced rather than fully guided.

Key Points

• Affordable price of around $23 per person for a full day on the lake
• Approximate 7-hour duration with stops at Bay of the Bones and St. Naum Monastery
• Comfortable boat with Wi-Fi, music, and onboard drinks
• Flexible exploration of the monastery and surrounding springs
• Easy booking with pickup options and mobile tickets
• Good reviews, averaging 4.7/5, with many praising value and scenery

Scenic Boat Ride Across Lake Ohrid

This tour kicks off with a relaxing boat ride across Lake Ohrid from the Port of Ohrid. The vessel is designed for comfort, featuring plush cushions and ample seating, which reviewers highlight as a step above other boat trips. The onboard Wi-Fi and music create a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for soaking up the views or chatting with fellow travelers.

The duration of the boat ride allows enough time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters, and the friendly crew helps the experience run smoothly. Drinks and cocktails are available for purchase, with many noting the reasonably priced beverages, making it easy to unwind as the boat glides across the lake. The size of the boat means it can host up to 50 travelers, balancing a lively group with enough space for comfort.

Visiting the Bay of the Bones Museum

The Bay of the Bones Museum is the first stop on the tour, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life around Lake Ohrid. The site features a replica of ancient wooden pile-dwellings that date back around 3000 years. Visitors can walk around the wooden structures and learn about early settlements and lake life during that period.

The museum’s 20-minute visit provides a quick yet informative look at the archaeological site. However, some reviews mention that the ticket does not include admission, and the limited time can make it difficult to explore thoroughly. The site also features a Roman fortress remains nearby, which can be seen from the area, adding to the historical appeal.

Exploring St. Naum Monastery and Its Springs

The main highlight of the tour is the St. Naum Monastery, a 10th-century church built on the southern shores of Lake Ohrid. The church is notable not only for its age but also because it was once the region’s first hospital, founded by St. Naum himself. The original grave of St. Naum remains at the site, and legend suggests visitors can hear his heartbeat from the grave.

Around the monastery, visitors find the Crn Drim springs, known for their crystal-clear waters flowing from Lake Prespa. The area features small rowing boats for water tours, providing a peaceful way to experience the springs. Nearby, there are restaurants and a beach area where visitors can swim and sunbathe, adding leisure options to the visit.

The approximate 3-hour stay at the monastery allows enough time for sightseeing, dining, and enjoying the natural springs. Many reviewers appreciate the beautiful views, the friendly staff at the restaurant, and the opportunity for photo-worthy moments. Some note that this stop is longer than necessary for some, suggesting a 2-hour visit might suffice if pressed for time.

Meeting Point and Ease of Access

The tour departs from the Boat Armada Port of Ohrid, a central and accessible location near public transportation. The pickup option simplifies logistics for visitors staying in Ohrid, with confirmation received immediately upon booking. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, maintaining a comfortable environment without feeling crowded.

The return is to the same starting point, making the day’s logistics straightforward. The location and booking process are praised for their simplicity and clarity, allowing travelers to focus on the fun and exploration.

Food, Drinks, and Onboard Amenities

The onboard bar offers a range of drinks and cocktails, with many reviews mentioning reasonable prices. The staff are friendly and helpful, ensuring a smooth service experience. Some reviewers highlight that they appreciated being able to relax with a drink while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

At the monastery, there are restaurant options where visitors can purchase lunch. The restaurant next to the monastery receives positive remarks for quality and pricing, though some note that it can be pricier than local options in Ohrid. Ice cream and drinks are accessible at the lakeside, adding to the leisurely atmosphere.

Pacing, Crowd Levels, and Overall Comfort

Many reviews mention that the boat is comfortable, with plenty of seating and a relaxing atmosphere. The group size generally remains manageable, allowing for a quiet, enjoyable experience. The pacing is seen as balanced, with enough time allocated for each stop without feeling rushed.

Some reviews mention longer stays at the monastery might lead to boredom, especially if not accompanied by a guided tour. Others praise the well-organized schedule, noting that everything runs on time, which contributes to the day feeling seamless.

Highlights and Notable Criticisms

The stunning views of Lake Ohrid and St. Naum Monastery are consistently praised, with many describing the scenery as beautiful and crystal-clear. The comfortable boat and onboard amenities earn high marks, especially compared to other boat trips in the area.

Critical comments mainly focus on limited time at the Bay of the Bones Museum, with some visitors wishing for a longer visit. Plus, a few mention that drinks onboard may sometimes be not perfectly prepared, but this is not a common complaint.

Who Should Book This Tour

This shared cruise suits those looking for value for money and a relaxed day on Lake Ohrid. It’s ideal for visitors who want scenic views, cultural stops, and easy logistics. Families, couples, and solo travelers will find the comfortable environment and flexible exploration appealing.

However, travelers seeking a full guided tour with detailed commentary** may find this experience more self-directed. The timing constraints at each stop mean it’s best for those comfortable with a structured yet flexible schedule.

Final Thoughts on the Shared Cruise to St. Naum Monastery

The $23.22 price point offers great value for a journey that combines lake scenery, historic sites, and leisurely stops. The comfortable boat with wifi and drinks ensures a relaxing atmosphere, while the stops provide meaningful sights like the Bay of the Bones and St. Naum Monastery.

While some may wish for more time at certain stops, the overall experience is well-organized and enjoyable. This tour is especially suitable for those wanting to combine sightseeing with relaxation on a beautiful lake with minimal hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a guide onboard during the stops?
No, the tour allows for self-guided exploration at the monastery and museum, giving visitors flexibility in pacing.

Can I buy drinks on the boat?
Yes, the onboard bar offers a variety of drinks and cocktails at reasonable prices. Some reviews note that drinks are well-prepared and helpful staff are available.

How long do I stay at each stop?
The Bay of the Bones Museum is typically visited for 20 minutes, while the St. Naum Monastery is around 3 hours, providing enough time for sightseeing and lunch.

Is the trip suitable for children or elderly?
Yes, the comfortable seating and flat water make it accessible for most age groups. However, the longer stops may require some mobility considerations for the elderly.

What should I bring on the tour?
A camera for photos, sun protection, and cash or card for drinks and lunch are recommended. The boat has restrooms and Wi-Fi, but it’s wise to bring water and personal essentials.

This Shared Cruise to St. Naum Monastery provides a balanced mix of scenic cruising, cultural sites, and leisure, making it a worthwhile choice for those visiting Ohrid.