Ohrid: East Coast and St. Naum Monastery Full-Day Boat Tour

The Ohrid: East Coast and St. Naum Monastery Full-Day Boat Tour offers a memorable way to explore North Macedonia’s stunning Lake Ohrid. Priced at a competitive rate, the tour lasts 7 hours and includes a scenic boat journey along with visits to key sites, making it ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural experiences in a single day.

This tour departs from front of the restaurant Belvedere and features a knowledgeable captain guiding you through 50 kilometers of lake scenery. It features snorkeling stops, a visit to Bay of Bones Museum on Water, and the famous St. Naum Monastery, all complemented by wine, music, and swimming. The tour is praised for its friendly guide and flexible stop options, especially for swimming and exploring at each location. The only potential limitation is that tickets to Bay of Bones are not included, and lunch is not part of the package, giving you the freedom to choose your own meals.

Key Points

• Includes a full 7-hour boat journey with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
• Visit the Bay of Bones Museum and the Mother Mary at Zaum Church, both accessible only by boat.
• Tour guided by experienced captains, ensuring safety and local knowledge.
• Final stop at St. Naum Monastery, with two hours to explore and relax on the sandy beach.
• Wine and bottled water included, along with music on board for a lively atmosphere.
• Flexible stopovers allow for personalized swimming and sightseeing options.

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Scenic Departure from Ohrid Old Town and the Presidential Residence

The tour begins in front of Belvedere restaurant, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The boat cruise covers a scenic route through Ohrid’s historic sites, including a view of Tito’s presidential residence. As you leave the town behind, the landscape opens into stunning views of traditional villages such as Peshtani and Trpejca, often called the “St. Tropez of Ohrid” for its charming waterside vibe.

The boat ride lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes each way, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery, music, and company. The experienced captain shares stories and insights along the way, making the journey both relaxing and informative.

Visiting the Bay of Bones Museum on Water

The Bay of Bones is a unique archeological park on water that showcases reconstructed prehistoric lake dwellings. You’ll stop here for about 30 minutes, enough time to explore the exhibits and learn about the area’s ancient history. Since entry tickets are not included, travelers should plan for an additional purchase if they wish to visit the museum interior.

Snorkeling and Swimming in Crystal-Clear Waters

One of the tour’s highlights is the frequent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The lake’s water is famously clear, making it perfect for these activities. Many stops are at hidden spots where you can float, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Ohrid.

Visiting the Mother Mary at Zaum Church and the Beach

Access to the 14th-century Church of Mother Mary at Zaum is a special feature of this tour. Only reachable by boat, this site offers breathtaking views and is considered the most beautiful virgin beach on the lake. The 30-minute stop here includes a chance to visit the church and swim in the calm waters. The golden-yellow sands at the final stop near St. Naum Monastery provide a seaside feel that many find appealing.

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The Monastery of Saint Naum: The Final Highlight

The most famous site on the trip is the St. Naum Monastery, where you get around two hours to explore. The monastery’s main features include its picturesque setting, crystal-clear springs feeding Lake Ohrid, and beautiful surroundings. The beach here is the only sandy beach along the lake, offering a perfect spot for relaxation and photos.

Onboard Experience: Wine, Music, and Flexibility

The tour includes a bottle of white wine, bottled water, and music onboard to enhance the experience. These small touches create a convivial atmosphere, making the cruise lively yet relaxed. The guide’s local knowledge and friendly manner, praised in reviews, add to the overall enjoyment of the day.

Practicalities: Group Size, Meeting Point, and Flexibility

The tour operates as a private group, giving a more personalized experience. Reservations can be made with pay later options, adding convenience for flexible planning. The meeting point is in front of Belvedere restaurant, and the tour ends back at the same location. The tour is not suitable for those with pre-existing medical conditions, so travelers with health concerns should consider this.

Cost and Additional Expenses

While the tour covers bottled water, wine, and music, entry to the Museum on Water (Bay of Bones) is at an additional cost. Lunch is not included, allowing guests to choose from nearby restaurants or bring their own food. The value lies in the comprehensive experience, combining sightseeing, swimming, and cultural visits in a single trip.

Reviews and Strengths

This tour receives a perfect 5 out of 5 rating from ten reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides like Nikola, who excels at storytelling and local insights. Reviewers highlight the flexibility for swim stops, fantastic scenery, and the quality of wine served onboard. The personalized approach, especially the guide’s willingness to arrange restaurant bookings and wine tastings, makes this a standout experience.

Limitations to Consider

The main limitation is the additional cost for Bay of Bones tickets, which travelers should plan for. Since lunch is not included, guests seeking a full meal should plan accordingly. Also, the tour’s physical demands are moderate, requiring comfort with boat travel and walking at stops.

The Perfect Day on Lake Ohrid: An Excursion for Curious Explorers

The Ohrid East Coast and St. Naum Monastery Full-Day Boat Tour offers a well-rounded experience combining scenic boat rides, cultural visits, and leisure activities. The expert captain and friendly guide ensure a smooth, informative journey. The stunning views, snorkeling opportunities, and cultural sites make this tour appealing for those who want to see Lake Ohrid from a different perspective.

Most travelers will appreciate the flexibility for swimming and exploring, along with the quality of the onboard amenities like wine and music. The tour’s small group format ensures a personalized touch, allowing for spontaneous stops and customized experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat ride each way?
The boat journey covers about 2 hours and 30 minutes each way, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and onboard amenities.

What sites are included in the itinerary?
You visit Ohrid Old Town, the Bay of Bones Museum, Zaum Church, and St. Naum Monastery, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing at each location.

Is the entrance to Bay of Bones included?
No, entry tickets are not included; you will need to purchase them separately if you wish to explore the Museum on Water.

Can I bring my own lunch?
Yes, lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to dine at local restaurants or bring your own food.

What is the group size?
The tour operates as a private group, providing a more intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with health issues?
It is not suitable for people with pre-existing medical conditions, so check your health before booking.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if plans change.

Are drinks served onboard?
Yes, a bottle of white wine and bottled water are included, along with music to set a lively mood.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made with the option to pay later, giving you flexibility to plan your trip without immediate payment.

Is this tour guided in multiple languages?
The live guide speaks English, Serbo-Croatian, and Macedonian, ensuring a smooth experience for most visitors.

This full-day boat tour combines scenic views, cultural highlights, and relaxation opportunities that suit travelers seeking a well-organized, enjoyable day on Lake Ohrid.

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