Herceg Novi: Bay of Kotor boat tours

If you’re seeking a way to see Montenegro’s breathtaking coastline and historic towns without the hassle of navigating yourself, this Herceg Novi: Bay of Kotor boat tour might be just what you need. Traveling with Petar boats, this roughly 8-hour cruise promises a combination of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and relaxed stops that allow you to soak in the atmosphere at each location.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love the chance to visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a serene island with a stunning church set against dramatic waters. Second, the tour offers ample time to wander through Kotor’s UNESCO-protected old town, exploring its narrow alleys and ancient walls. Third, the stop in Perast, with its picturesque waterfront and historic charm, provides a perfect photo opportunity.

However, one point to consider is that the tour’s duration can vary—sometimes stretching close to 8 hours depending on weather conditions and whether a swimming break in Stoliv is included. For travelers who prefer a tightly scheduled day, this variability might be a minor inconvenience.

This tour is best suited for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic local scenery—ideal for travelers who enjoy exploring by boat and appreciate historic towns with a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Comfortable and scenic boat journey: Travel in a relaxed environment with plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in views.
• Cultural highlights: Visit iconic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks, Kotor’s Old Town, and Perast.
• Local hospitality: The onboard guide provides insights during the trip, making the experience more meaningful.
• Included refreshments: Light snacks, fruit, olives, bread, and a shot of grape rakija add a local touch.
• Flexible schedule: Duration varies with weather and optional swimming stops, offering a laid-back experience.
• Cost-effective: Given the stops and included snacks, it’s a good value for a full-day tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Petar Boats

The adventure begins at Petar Boats, where you meet your English-speaking guide and prepare for a day on the water. The vessels are comfortable and well-equipped, designed to handle the scenic but sometimes choppy waters of the bay. The relaxed seating and shaded areas will keep you comfortable as you set off on your journey.

First Stop: Our Lady of the Rocks (30 mins)

The first highlight is Our Lady of the Rocks, an island famous for its church and tradition of building a church on a man-made island. The boat docks nearby, giving you around 30 minutes to explore. Reviewers mention the picturesque church as a true photo-op, with some describing it as “a serene spot perfect for reflection.” You can choose to visit the church (entry not included), enjoy the views, or simply sit and watch the water.

Scenic Cruising and the Kotor Old Town (1h 45min)

After leaving the island, you’ll cruise for about 50 minutes toward Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The boat ride offers stunning views of the bay’s rugged mountains and historic architecture along the shoreline.

Once docked, you’ll have approximately 105 minutes to stroll through Kotor’s labyrinth of narrow streets, admire its ancient walls, and discover sites like the formidable fortress above the town. The guided commentary, provided during the cruise and on land, helps you understand the town’s strategic importance and medieval past. Many reviewers appreciate this time as “a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation,” allowing you to wander at your own pace.

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The Charm of Perast (45 mins)

On the return leg, the boat stops in Perast, a small yet elegant town with a beautifully preserved waterfront and historic buildings. You’ll have about 45 minutes here to enjoy the peaceful ambiance, take photos of the iconic bell towers, and browse local shops.

Reviewers highlight the charming architecture and relaxed vibe as the perfect way to wind down the day. It’s an ideal spot for a quick coffee or a walk along the water’s edge.

Optional Swimming Break in Stoliv

During peak season, an additional 30-minute swimming break in Stoliv is available. This is perfect if you’re keen to cool off and enjoy some time in the water, but keep in mind that including this stop extends the overall tour length. Some travelers find this a refreshing addition to a long day of sightseeing, while others prefer to stick to the original schedule.

Practical Details

• The itinerary is flexible and depends heavily on weather conditions, which can influence the stops and timing.
• The tour’s cost offers good value, especially considering the included snacks, drinks, and guided commentary.
• The bar on board offers additional drinks for purchase if you want something stronger or more refreshment.
• The tour is suitable for a wide range of travelers, but those who prefer a more active or tightly scheduled day should be aware of the flexible timings.

The Food and Drink Experience

Onboard, you’ll enjoy a generous spread of local snacks such as watermelon, olives, and bread, plus a unique touch—a shot of grape rakija, a traditional Montenegrin spirit. The inclusion of fruit and olives adds a simple, authentic flavor, making the cruise feel more personal and connected to local customs.

While drinks from the bar are not included, the snacks and drinks provided are enough to keep you refreshed during the journey. Many guests mention the friendly service and the chance to sample local flavors as a highlight.

What Travelers Say

A recent review calls the tour “brilliant,” emphasizing the beautiful scenery and well-paced stops. One traveler appreciated the flow of the day, noting that the timing was just right to allow for exploration without feeling rushed.

Another traveler highlighted the knowledgeable guide and the quality of the boat, making the experience both educational and comfortable. The inclusion of local treats like fruit and rakija was noted as a nice touch, adding authenticity and a sense of local hospitality.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This boat tour from Herceg Novi offers a wonderful combination of scenic cruising, cultural discovery, and relaxed exploration. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a slow-paced day with plenty of opportunities for photos, wandering, and breathing in stunning views. The small-group feel and the inclusion of local snacks make it a memorable, value-packed outing.

If you’re after a day of picturesque landscapes and charming towns without the hassle of planning transportation or entry tickets, this tour provides a perfect solution. It balances guided insights with free time, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an authentic Montenegrin experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes an English-speaking onboard guide, snacks like watermelon, olives, bread, a shot of grape rakija, and fruit. Entry to the Our Lady of the Rocks museum is not included.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts around 8 hours, but the duration can vary depending on weather conditions and whether a swimming break in Stoliv is added.

Can I swim during this tour?
Yes, during peak season, there’s an optional swimming stop in Stoliv that lasts about 30 minutes, perfect for cooling off in the sea.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While suitable for most, the tour involves some walking and standing during exploration stops. It’s best for travelers comfortable with a full day on the water and walking through historic towns.

How big are the groups?
The tour offers a small-group experience with a focus on personalized service, guided by an English-speaking host.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, water, and perhaps a camera for capturing the stunning scenery. The boat provides shaded and open-air seating options.

In summary, this Herceg Novi: Bay of Kotor boat tour is a fantastic way to enjoy Montenegro’s coast with minimal stress and maximum charm. It combines natural beauty, cultural highlights, and relaxed pacing—ideal for travelers wanting a genuine taste of the region’s coastal allure.

You can check availability for your dates here: