Budva: 2-Hour «Night Lights» Kayak Tour

Budva: 2-Hour «Night Lights» Kayak Tour Review

If you’re after something uniquely peaceful and visually stunning on Montenegro’s coast, the 2-hour Night Lights Kayak Tour in Budva might just catch your eye. This isn’t your typical sunset paddle — instead, it’s an enchanting evening adventure where you paddle in glow-lit waters, taking in illuminated old town walls and visiting charming spots like St. Nicholas Island.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to see Budva from a different perspective — paddling along calm waters under a starry sky really feels special. Second, the fact that you’re guided by knowledgeable instructors who not only teach you the basics but share fascinating stories about the sights you pass.

A possible consideration? The tour is weather-dependent — bad weather can mean cancellation or a less enjoyable experience. Also, it’s best suited for those comfortable around water, since it involves paddling and some swimming during the visit to St. Nicholas Island. Overall, if you’re someone who enjoys a laid-back, scenic adventure with some fun physical activity, this tour could be perfect for you.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this experience is designed to be inclusive and memorable. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour worth considering, what to expect along the way, and some honest insights to help you decide.

Key Points:

• Unique Night Experience: Paddle illuminated waters under the stars with stunning views of Budva’s coastline.
• Guided by Experts: Guides provide paddling lessons and share fascinating stories, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Visit Iconic Spots: Stop at St. Nicholas Island and enjoy a swim, and see the glowing Old Town walls.
• Photo & Video Memories: Professional shots are taken during the tour, so you can relive the moment.
• Eco-Friendly & Inclusive: Supports sustainable tourism and welcomes all, including LGBTQ+ travelers.
• Weather Sensitive: Tours may be unavailable or less enjoyable in bad weather, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the 2-Hour Night Lights Kayak Tour

What’s the Experience Like?

This adventure begins at the Watersport Center Yamaha, located in front of the Budva river with clear signage and friendly staff. From the start, you get a welcoming introduction, and if you’re new to kayaking or paddleboarding, don’t worry — the guides offer paddling lessons to boost your confidence. We appreciate this because it makes the whole experience accessible to beginners.

Once everyone’s comfortable, you’ll set off across the calm waters. Thanks to LED lighting embedded in the kayaks or SUP boards, the water beneath you glows softly, creating a surreal, almost magical, environment. It’s hard not to be captivated by the way the lights dance on the water, reflecting the moon and stars above.

Throughout the journey, guides share stories about the coast, Old Town, and St. Nicholas Island — adding context and making the experience more personal. Many reviewers praise their guides, with one mentioning, “Arthur is a good guide who coached us and observed us throughout,” and another saying, “Stefan was a great guide.” It’s clear that knowledgeable guidance elevates this experience.

Visiting St. Nicholas Island & Swimming

One of the tour highlights is stopping at St. Nicholas Island, a small, enchanting spot in the bay. Here, you can take a refreshing swim in clear, inviting water. This gives a nice break from paddling and allows for some relaxed floating or quick dips. The island itself adds a touch of storybook charm, especially with the illuminated coastline visible from the water.

Paddling & Photos

The tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, with paddling lessons provided beforehand. This means even if you’ve never kayaked or SUPed before, you’ll likely feel comfortable to enjoy the gentle glide across the water. Plus, the guides take plenty of photos and videos during the tour. Many reviews highlight how these captured memories helped prolong the magic afterwards—like the one from Rinki, who said, “Arthur is a good guide who coached us and observed us throughout,” and noted the photos and videos.

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Viewing the Old Town Walls

The final leg offers a stunning view of Budva’s Old Town walls, illuminated beautifully against the night sky. Watching these historic walls glow while you float nearby is quite a sight. The mountains behind add depth to the scenery, making for some impressive photos.

Group Size & Atmosphere

The tour typically involves small groups, which means a more intimate experience. This allows for easier interaction with guides and fellow travelers. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, suitable for singles, couples, or small groups wanting a peaceful yet visually stunning adventure.

Logistics & Practicalities

Duration & Starting Times

The tour lasts about two hours, with the exact start time depending on the day’s schedule. It’s best to check availability beforehand. The activity ends back at the original starting point, so it’s easy to plan your evening.

What’s Included?

• Fully-equipped kayaks (single/double) and SUP boards
• Guide and instructor
• Life jackets
• Waterproof bags for your valuables
• Snorkeling gear for the island stop
• Photos and videos taken during the tour

What to Bring

To make the most of your paddle under the stars, pack a hat, swimwear, towel, water, comfortable clothes, and water shoes. These essentials will keep you comfortable and ready for the swim.

What’s Not Included?

Food and drinks aren’t part of the package, so plan to grab a bite before or after. Also, transportation to the meeting point isn’t provided, so you’ll need to organize your own way there.

Weather & Accessibility

The tour is weather-dependent — rain, wind, or rough seas may postpone or cancel the activity. Also, the experience isn’t suitable for those with back problems, mobility issues, recent surgeries, or motion sickness.

Language & Cancellation Policy

Guides speak English, Russian, Serbian, and Ukrainian. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible with a “reserve now, pay later” option.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews are generally very positive, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 37 reviews. Rinki calls it “a good experience” and appreciated the coaching and attention from guides. Dominik recommends it highly, praising Stefan, and Osato calls it “a lovely adventure” that he really enjoyed.

Many mention the guides’ professionalism and the magical atmosphere created by the glowing water and illuminated coastline. The photos taken are another highlight — a great way to cherish the memories.

Cons Noted?

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers might find that weather can impact the experience. Also, those not comfortable on water or with certain health issues might want to consider other options. It’s not tailored for those with mobility challenges or recent surgeries.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This kayak tour is suitable for adventurers who enjoy scenic, peaceful settings and are open to trying paddling — no prior experience needed. It’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic, atmospheric outing; solo travelers looking for a memorable activity; or small groups of friends. Because of the gentle pace and stunning visuals, it’s a great option for those who enjoy calm waters and beautiful night scenery. However, if you’re very sensitive to weather or have mobility issues, it might be less ideal.

Final Thoughts

The Budva Night Lights Kayak Tour offers a rare chance to see Montenegro’s coast in an utterly different light — quite literally. The combination of illuminated water, historic sights, and the serene night sky creates a peaceful yet visually captivating experience. The inclusion of paddling lessons and professional photos makes it accessible and memorable.

While weather can be a factor, most visitors seem to walk away with gorgeous photos, stories, and a sense of having experienced something uniquely beautiful. It’s a wonderful pick for travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic adventure that’s a bit out of the ordinary.

If you’re after a laid-back activity that combines nature, culture, and a touch of magic, this tour deserves a spot on your Montenegro itinerary. Just be prepared for the weather and pack accordingly — and you’ll find yourself paddling under the stars, a memory to cherish long after the night ends.

FAQ

Is prior kayaking experience necessary?
No, the guides provide paddling lessons to help everyone feel confident, even if you’re a beginner.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, water, comfortable clothes, and water shoes to stay comfortable during the paddle and swim.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making your booking flexible and worry-free.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally suitable for those comfortable around water, with a focus on calm seas and short duration, making it manageable for older children or teenagers.

Will I get photos?
Absolutely! The guides take photos and videos during the trip, which you can access afterward to relive the experience.

Is the activity dependent on weather?
Yes, bad weather might lead to cancellations or less enjoyable paddling conditions. Always check the forecast and confirm the tour’s availability beforehand.

Enjoy your trip to Budva — this glow-in-the-dark kayak adventure might just be one of those memorable highlights that sticks with you long after your stay!

You can check availability for your dates here: