Full Description & Details
Mamula is a small, circular islet about 200 m in diameter, sitting at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor between the Prevlaka and Lustica peninsulas. It lies roughly 3.4 NM from Herceg Novi and less than 500 m from the Lustica headland. The island is dominated by a mid-19th century Austro-Hungarian fortress built by General Lazar Mamula, later used as an Italian prison during WWII.
Today most of the island is a private luxury hotel, so public access is limited to a small beach on the sheltered eastern side. The anchorage south of the island is open to any boat, and the perimeter swim is allowed. The island's beaches are pleasant, and the water here is noted as clean.
In July you might share the anchorage with only a few other boats, making it noticeably quieter than comparable spots in Croatia.
How to get there
Mamula sits at the mouth of the Bay of Kotor, where the outer bay opens toward the Adriatic. From Tivat, head west past Krasici and the Lustica coast, roughly 4 NM to the bay mouth; from Herceg Novi it is about 3.4 NM. The island is less than 500 m from the Lustica Peninsula headland, and the channel between them is the approach.
Open Adriatic conditions can apply outside the bay, so check wind and swell before committing. There is no dedicated harbour; anchor south of the island in the open roadstead. The Blue Cave (Plava Spilja) lies nearby under the western tip of Lustica and is often combined with a Mamula stop.
No VHF channel is published for the island; the nearest marina facilities are at Porto Montenegro in Tivat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I anchor at Mamula Island?
Yes, the anchorage south of Mamula Island is open to any boat. There is no prohibition on mooring at or swimming at the small public beach on the sheltered eastern side.
Can I go ashore on Mamula Island?
Public access is restricted to the small beach on the eastern side. The fortress interior and most of the island are private hotel grounds, and non-guests cannot walk the island freely.
Is there a marina or berth at Mamula?
No. Mamula has no marina or dedicated berths; you anchor off the island. The nearest full marina facilities are at Porto Montenegro in Tivat, about 4 NM away.
What is the best time to visit Mamula?
The Blue Cave nearby is best in late morning when sunlight turns the water electric blue. Summer months offer the calmest conditions, though open Adriatic swell can affect the anchorage outside the bay.
How much does a boat tour to Mamula cost?
Mamula is included in most outer-bay boat tours from Herceg Novi or Tivat, typically costing around EUR 25-40 per person. Private charters are also available from Tivat.
Routes from Mamula
View all Montenegro routesExplore Montenegro
Best Time for Yacht Charter in Montenegro: Month-by-Month Guide
Discover the best time for yacht charter in Montenegro. Explore weather, sailing seasons, costs, and insider tips for the ideal Montenegro sailing experience.
Montenegro Sailing Holiday Guide: Routes, Costs & Top Tips
Plan your Montenegro sailing holiday with expert advice on routes, charter options, costs, marinas, and must-see destinations for an unforgettable Adriatic adventure.
More sailing guides
Bareboat Sailing in Spain: Requirements and Licences
Everything you need to bareboat charter in Spain: accepted licences, flag-state rules, VHF requirements, and what to do if yours isn't accepted.
Yacht Charter Cost in Spain: What to Expect and How to Save
Real yacht charter costs in Spain by boat type, season, and region, plus what's included, hidden fees, and practical ways to cut the price.
How to Charter a Yacht in Spain: A Step-by-Step Guide
A step-by-step guide to chartering a yacht in Spain: choosing a charter type, budgeting, licences, booking, and what to expect once you're aboard.
Yacht Charter Provisioning Guide: Expert Tips & Checklists
Plan your sailing holiday like a pro with our yacht charter provisioning guide—food lists, meal planning, local market tips, and essential advice for every itinerary.
Best Yacht Type for Group Charters: How to Choose
Discover the best yacht types for group charters, from family reunions to corporate events. Compare sailing yacht options, capacity, cost, amenities, and legal limits.
What Information Is Needed to Book a Sailing Yacht Charter?
Discover the key information, documents, and requirements needed to book a sailing yacht charter. Learn what details charter companies need for a smooth reservation.
Yacht Charter Deposit Insurance: What It Covers & Why You Need It
Understand yacht charter deposit insurance: what it covers, costs, differences from security deposits, and how it protects your sailing holiday or commercial charter.
Related places
Porto Montenegro
Buljarica
Dobra luka
Mirišta
Airport Marina Tivat
Bigova
Bijela
D-Marin Portonovi
Dobrota
