From Budva/Kotor: Boat Trip to Blue Cave, Kotor and More

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Discover Montenegro’s Coast on a Boat Trip from Budva or Kotor

A boat trip along Montenegro’s coast offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical sights, and relaxed seaside vibes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that’s both scenic and enriching.

What stands out most are the breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor, the unique Blue Cave, and the chance to explore charming towns like Herceg Novi and Perast. We also appreciate how the tour is well-organized, with a knowledgeable guide, making it a good choice for those wanting both sightseeing and cultural insights.

One consideration is the seasickness risk for some passengers, especially during the boat rides. The boat’s seating and the ride’s nature might not suit everyone, particularly those sensitive to rough waters or with mobility issues.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and enjoy Montenegro’s coastal charm.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Experienced guides provide deep insights into Montenegro’s history and culture.
Scenic boat rides take you to iconic attractions like the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and more.
Flexible stops allow for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring towns like Kotor and Herceg Novi.
Delicious onboard lunch options make the day enjoyable and satisfying.
Good value for money with a comprehensive itinerary, knowledgeable crew, and stunning scenery.
Weather and sea conditions can influence the order of stops and overall experience.

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The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting from Budva or Kotor: A Scenic Departure

Most tours begin either from Budva or Kotor, with options for pickup and drop-off in Budva or boarding directly in Kotor. The journey kicks off with a cruise past Jaz and Ploce beaches, setting a relaxing tone for the day. This part of the trip is a chance to enjoy the gentle sea breeze and observe the coast’s natural beauty.

Traveling along Montenegro’s coastline, you’ll appreciate the contrast between vibrant beaches and rugged landscapes. Reviewers mention the ride to the first stop can be a bit choppy, so packing seasickness remedies might be wise if you’re prone to feeling unwell.

Zanjice Beach and Blue Cave

Your first stop is Zanjice Beach, famous for its crystal-clear waters—perfect for swimming or just floating with a good book. From here, an optional boat ride takes some visitors to the Blue Cave, a highlight for many. As one reviewer noted, “swimming in the Blue Cave is only for good swimmers”, so if you’re not comfortable in open water or feeling seasick, this might be a moment to sit back and enjoy the scenery.

The Blue Cave’s captivating blue glow is worth the effort, and many travelers consider this a true highlight. Entry costs extra (€10), payable in cash, and the cave visit can be somewhat dependent on weather conditions.

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Mamula Island and Herceg Novi

Next, the boat heads toward Mamula Island, known for its fortress and history. While some reviews mention the vibe is more relaxed and geared toward older travelers, this stop is still a charming photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs.

Following this, the tour often includes a stop in Herceg Novi, where you can explore independently or relax on the beach. Many reviewers loved the lunch on board—a real plus, with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian meals if arranged in advance. The onboard service is described as fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented, adding a gourmet touch to the day.

There's plenty more to explore in Budva

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks and Porto Novi

Continuing along, you’ll visit the famous island of Our Lady of the Rocks—a small island with a church and museum, offering insight into local legends and history. A visit here is often highlighted as a must-see for its unique charm.

Passing Porto Novi Marina and the Verige Strait, you’ll take in stunning views of the bay before arriving at Perast, a picturesque town filled with baroque architecture and narrow streets. Reviewers say that exploring Kotor’s Old Town after the boat ride is a perfect way to wind down, with its maze of alleys, historical sites, and lively atmosphere.

Final Stretch: Kotor and Return

The trip concludes with a scenic boat ride through the bay, passing Perast again before arriving in Kotor. Here, you’re free to wander the old town, soak up the ambiance, and take in the stunning mountain-backdrop. Many reviewers praise the balance of sightseeing and free time, allowing you to soak up the atmosphere at your own pace.

The return to Budva by bus wraps up the day, with some options for direct embarkation in Kotor if preferred.

Why Choose This Tour?

Value for Money and Well-Organized

At $69 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the variety of sights, the delicious onboard lunch, and the knowledgeable guide. Reviewers like Sofya and Maria highlight the professional organization and high-quality service, which make the day run smoothly.

Scenic Views and Unique Experiences

From the Blue Cave’s mesmerizing glow to the panoramic views of Kotor’s medieval walls, the scenery is undeniably a major draw. Many mention how the boat ride offers a different perspective of Montenegro’s coastline, making it a memorable way to experience the region.

Expert Guides and Local Insights

The guides are praised for their warmth, professionalism, and ability to share interesting stories, adding depth beyond just sightseeing. As one reviewer said, “the guide Sasha gave exceptional info and guidance”, enhancing the overall experience.

Comfort and Convenience

With pickup and drop-off options, the tour is straightforward to join. The boat itself is described as comfortable, and the onboard service is attentive—factors that make the long day much more enjoyable.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers note that the ride to the first stop can be rough, which might not be ideal if you are prone to seasickness. Also, the boat’s relatively simple setup means that swimming in open water isn’t always straightforward, especially for those who aren’t confident swimmers or are looking for a more modern vessel with amenities like life jackets.

Weather conditions can also influence the sequence of stops, occasionally requiring a bus transfer from Budva to Kotor or vice versa, which might extend the overall travel time.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see Montenegro’s coast from the water, especially those who enjoy scenic boat rides and picturesque stops. It’s also perfect for history and culture buffs interested in visiting iconic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks and Kotor’s Old Town.

Families with older children, couples, and groups of friends will find it offers a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to swim or explore. However, not ideal for mobility-impaired or non-swimmers, given the boat’s nature and the water-based stops.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately a full day, typically with a combination of boat rides, sightseeing stops, and free time in towns.

Is the price of $69 per person all-inclusive?
No, the ticket price covers the boat tour, guide, and onboard lunch. Additional costs include entry fees for Our Lady of the Rocks (€1) and the Blue Cave (€10), payable in cash, and optional visits to the church and museum.

Are there options without pickup and drop-off?
Yes, you can choose a route that departs directly from Kotor and ends in Budva, without the included transportation.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for optional expenses and entrance fees.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s suitable for many, it’s not ideal for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues, and younger children should be supervised at all times around water.

How is the scenery?
Stunning. From rugged cliffs and historic towns to shimmering caves and panoramic bay views, the scenery is what makes this tour stand out.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, but only if you’re a confident swimmer. The Blue Cave visit involves a small boat transfer from the main vessel, and swimming is optional.

What’s the food like?
The onboard lunch is generally described as delicious, fresh, and nicely presented. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if arranged in advance.

How is the guide’s knowledge?
Reviewers frequently praise the guides for their helpfulness, storytelling, and local insights, adding depth to the experience.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather conditions can affect the itinerary, potentially altering stops or the order of the day.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Budva or Kotor offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s stunning coast, combining natural beauty, cultural sights, and excellent service. The scenery alone makes it worth considering, especially the Blue Cave, which is often highlighted as a top highlight.

The included lunch and knowledgeable guides add value, making it suitable for travelers who want more than just a boat ride—they want an experience.

While it may not be perfect for everyone—particularly those seeking modern comforts or with mobility issues—it remains a fantastic way to explore Montenegro’s coastal gems with a relaxed, fun vibe.

Whether you’re after iconic photo spots, a splash in the Blue Cave, or simply a scenic day out, this tour hits many of the right notes for a memorable day along the Adriatic.