Discovery/Day Tours

Mamula Fortress - The Prison Island

Discover the ruins and history of Mamula Island as you explore the large inhabited island, which is sure to fascinate. During both World Wars the fortress was used as a prison. In World War II it was on 30th May 1942 was taken over by Italian fascist Benito Mussolini who converted the island into the concentration camp famous for torture and cruelty to prisoners. It has since been used as a set numerous times for horror films. This historic island is located at the entrance to the Bay, between Lustica and Herceg Novi. About 80% of the island occupies a fortress, which was built in the mid 19th century by Austro-Hungarian general Lazar Mamula, Mamula continues to be an abandoned island completely untouched and raw, a favourite summer getaway for anyone looking for something different and frozen in time. Get lost in time and discover what is hidden behind Mamula’s great walls!

What is the duration?

There are 3 options: Panoramic Tour (2h); Half Day Tour (4h) and Full Day Tour (8h).

Where does it start?

The tour begins from Tivat – Porto Montenegro – Pier 1. However we are happy to collect you anywhere on the Kotor Bay (extra charges may apply depending on time and distance).

What can I expect?

Panoramic tour

45 minute boat ride along the Lustica/ Herceg Novi coastline with views of the WW2 Submarine Caves and Forte Rose Captains Village
30 minute walk around Mamula Island with an option of swimming around the island
45 minutes cruise and scenic coastline of Herceg Novi back to Tivat

Half day tour

boat ride along the Lustica/Herceg Novi coastline
stop at the WW2 Submarine Caves with the option of cliff jumping
30 minute walk around Mamula Island with an option of swimming from the boat to the island
stop at the Blue Caves with the option of snorkelling
45 minutes cruise and scenic coastline of Herceg Novi back to Tivat
optional: stop for coffee at Ribarsko Selo (Fishing Village) or Forte Rose and walk around Old Captains Village

Full day tour

45 minute boat ride along the Lustica/Herceg Novi coastline
stop at the WW2 Submarine Caves with the option of cliff jumping
30 minute walk around Mamula Island with an option of swimming from the boat to the island
stop at the Blue Caves with the option of snorkeling
stop for lunch
walk around Old Town in Herceg Novi
45 minute cruise and scenic coastline of Herceg Novi back to Tivat

Which restaurants can we stop for lunch during the tour?

There are many restaurants all over the coastline with great food, breath-taking views and pleasant and unique atmosphere. Our recommended restaurants in that area are Ribarsko Selo – The Fishing Village, Forte Rose – The Old Captains village and Admiral Stari Grad in the Old Town of Herceg Novi, or pick a more lively option and stop at a Beach club for a cocktail at Almara in Lustica or Sunset drinks and good music at ONNA in Krasici, Tivat.

What other sites can I see if we extend the tour?

Visit the Submarine Hideout Tunnels with the option of swimming and cliff jumping; swim and snorkel in the famous Blue Caves; walk around Forte Rose Old Village; walk around Herceg Novi Old Town; swim around Gospa od Vavedenja Island; hire from the MWT office wakeboards, wake surf, water-ski or donuts and take full advantage of the boat on the practice some water sports. (Available for Half and Full Day Tours with additional charges for water sports equipment and fuel.)

What should I bring?

Swimwear if you would like to swim or go cliff diving should be worn before departure as there is nowhere to change on the boat. Flip-flops or shoes are a must when you are exploring the island. Food can also be catered on board the boat. Sea Urchins are common in these areas and it is recommended if you plan to climb rocks or explore to wear appropriate footwear for swimming. This can be ordered from the MWT office or purchased in town.

What else do I need to know?

Docking on the island is difficult as it remains in a raw state and if you have problems getting on and off the boat, we do not recommend getting off on the island. Depending on the weather we may not be able to doc near the Mamula Island, if the tide is too low. or visit the caves when the tide is high, or swell (big waves). Boating is an active entertainment and there is always a chance you may get wet. We are happy to provide waterproof ponchos if needed.

What is the best time to visit?

Blue caves are busy with tourist boats in the morning and midday. We recommend to visit the island of Mamula in the morning and stop for lunch, save the caves for the afternoon. Sunset is spectacular from the boat or stop at Forte Rose or Onna Beach club for sunset drinks on the way back.

PRICE:

Tour price depends on number of people and which boat you book. For more info and a quotation please contact us via email or info line.

Included: 2 bottles of local wine or Prosecco, glasses, a traditional cheese and ham plate and/or fruit plate for every two persons and towels upon request.

Not Included: Additional choice of champagne, beer and wine. A full list of champagne, wine or other catering options are available upon request.

If you wish to extend the tour to lunch or dinner, it is not included in the price of the tour. Lunch or dinner packages are available at selected restaurants upon request.

Additional Costs:

The Fishing Village or The Captains Village, Rose – there is no additional transfer cost, waiting time is billed at 35€ per hour
Admiral Restaurant, Herceg Novi Old Town – additional transfer cost 70€ and waiting time is billed at 35€ per hour
Tour Guide: 45€ (1 hour); 60€ (2 hours) 80€ (up to 4 hours - Half Day); 150€ (up to 8 hours - Full Day) – there maybe an additional charge of waiting time or transport cost for the guide if the tour is extended. Please inquire for further information.

Notes: All our tour guides are Local Licensed Guides specializing in the region of Boka Bay and the country of Montenegro.