Experience Review: From Tivat – Blue Cave, Herceg Novi, Lady of the Rocks
Travelers looking for a scenic day out in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor will find this cruise offers a charming combination of natural beauty, charming towns, and iconic sights. While it’s been running since 1981, the tour remains popular for its classic route and relaxed vibe. We love how the trip balances sightseeing with free time, giving you space to enjoy or explore at your own pace.
Three things that stand out? The stunning views of the Blue Cave and Bay of Kotor, the friendly and knowledgeable crew, and the value-packed onboard experience that includes a restaurant, WiFi, and sunbeds. A possible drawback? The weather-dependent nature of some stops, especially the Blue Cave and Anjice Beach, which can be canceled if seas are rough. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, easy excursions, and a relaxed day admiring Montenegro’s coast.
Key Points
- Classic Bay of Kotor route: Perfect for first-timers wanting a rundown of Montenegro’s coast.
- Comfort onboard: Two-floor boat with restaurant, WiFi, sunbeds, and toilet — a surprisingly comfy way to spend a day.
- Flexible itinerary: Includes stops at Herceg Novi, Anjice Beach, and the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks, with plenty of free time.
- Weather dependence: The Blue Cave and beach visits might be canceled for safety, so flexible plans are a good idea.
- Good value: Price includes boat rides and guided commentary, with optional extras like drinks on deck.
- Authentic experience: You’ll enjoy lively crew interactions and scenic views that make for memorable photos and stories.
A Thorough Breakdown of the Experience
Looking for more options in Tivat? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point and Departure
The tour begins in the morning from either Pine or Tivat, with pickup options that suit most travelers staying in those areas. Boarding the MB Vesna, a comfortable two-floor vessel equipped with onboard amenities, sets a relaxed tone for the day. The boat departs Tivat at around 10 a.m., giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the views.
The Route’s Highlights
First leg to Herceg Novi: After about 45 minutes on the water, the boat docks in Herceg Novi, a charming coastal town famous for its winding streets and historic fortresses. Here, you’ll get about 60 minutes of free time to explore, grab a coffee, or browse local shops. According to reviews, the crew is friendly and the guide provides insightful commentary, making this stop more enriching.
Anjice Beach: Next, the boat heads toward Anjice Beach, where you’ll enjoy 90 minutes of free time. This stop is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing with a drink. The highlight is the chance to take a smaller boat to the Blue Cave, a natural wonder famed for its glowing blue waters. Several guests praised the scenic boat ride here, although it’s weather-dependent; if seas are rough, this part might be skipped for safety reasons.
Our Lady of the Rocks: The trip continues to the island of Our Lady, which is home to a historic church and museum. You’ll have about 40 minutes to explore or simply enjoy the views. Visitors often find this a peaceful, picturesque spot, with the added bonus of a small entrance fee (not included in the tour price). The guide’s commentary makes this stop even more meaningful.
Final leg through the Bay of Kotor: The cruise circles back along the bay for the last 45 minutes, giving you ample opportunity to admire the dramatic cliffs, quaint villages, and stunning scenery that make this area so beloved.
Onboard Experience
The boat itself is well-equipped with WiFi, sunbeds, and toilets, which add comfort and convenience. The onboard restaurant serves simple but tasty snacks and drinks, with prices like €3.50 for a beer and around €7 for an Aperol Spritz, according to reviews. The crew is described as friendly, with many reviewers noting the lively atmosphere and good music, making the trip feel both relaxed and fun.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details
The tour is 9 hours long, with precise start times depending on the day. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers should bring a towel and beachwear for swimming. Be aware that if the weather is bad, the captain can decide to cancel stops to the Blue Cave and Anjice Beach, which may impact the full experience.
Pricing and Value
The cost covers the boat ride and guide, making this an affordable way to experience Montenegro’s coast. Extras like lunch or entrance fees to sites are paid separately. Many reviews highlight the good value for money, especially considering the scenic routes, friendly crew, and onboard amenities.
What Past Travelers Say
Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides who offer interesting commentary, often in multiple languages like Russian, Serbian, and English. Miodrag, one reviewer, praised the staff for creating a great vibe with music and food onboard, while Eleonora appreciated the scenic route and friendly crew.
Some guests, like Mae-Ann, pointed out minor inconveniences such as waiting to change clothes after swimming, but overall, the tour’s relaxed atmosphere makes up for such small issues. The flexibility of free time at each stop allows you to tailor the experience—whether you want to relax, explore, or swim.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of free time and stunning views. It suits those who enjoy boat journeys, easy sightseeing stops, and a lively onboard atmosphere. If you’re keen on visiting Blue Cave and exploring historic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks, this tour offers a good balance of highlights.
However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth cultural experience or prefer independent exploration, some of the stops might feel brief. It’s also worth noting that weather plays a crucial role—bad conditions can shorten or alter the plan.
The Sum Up
This Montenegro boat tour provides a great value way to see some of the most famous sights in the Bay of Kotor. The combination of scenic cruising, charming stops, and a lively onboard vibe makes it a popular choice for many travelers. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, guided experience with the flexibility to enjoy swimming, sightseeing, and socializing.
The crew’s friendliness, the comfort onboard, and the opportunity to see the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks make this tour stand out as a memorable day out. While weather can impact the full itinerary, the core stops and scenic routes ensure you’ll leave with plenty of beautiful photos and stories to tell.
If you’re after an authentic, affordable way to enjoy Montenegro’s coast with a touch of adventure, this cruise is a solid pick—just don’t forget your swimwear!
FAQ
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, with departure around 10 a.m., depending on the day.
What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the boat ride and a guide on board. Extras like lunch, entrance fees, or boat trips to the Blue Cave are paid separately.
Where does the tour start?
It departs from Pine or Tivat, with pickup options available at these locations.
Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, the boat offers WiFi, allowing you to share photos or stay connected during the trip.
Can I swim at Anjice Beach?
Absolutely. The stop includes free time for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing on the beach.
What if the weather is bad?
The captain can decide to cancel stops at the Blue Cave or Anjice Beach for safety. The rest of the trip may proceed as planned.
Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The experience is generally family-friendly, but the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users and involves some boat transfers, so plan accordingly.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fees for the museum and church on Our Lady of the Rocks are not included, nor is lunch.
How do I pay for drinks or snacks onboard?
Prices are reasonable; you can buy drinks like beer or Aperol Spritz onboard, with reviews mentioning good value and friendly staff.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if weather or plans change.
This detailed review should help you decide whether this popular cruise meets your expectations and fit your travel style. Montenegro’s coast is truly special, and a day on the water offers a fantastic way to experience it.
You can check availability for your dates here: