If you’re eyeing a full-day adventure in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, this cruise from Tivat offers a chance to see some of the most iconic sights from the water. While it’s not a private boat tour, it provides a comfortable, guided way to experience the coast’s highlights — with room to swim, explore, and relax.
What we love about this trip: First, the scenic route that takes you through the heart of Boka Bay, showcasing the rugged coastline and charming towns. Second, the knowledgeable onboard guide makes all the difference — sharing stories and tips that add depth to each stop. On the flip side, a potential snag is the weather-dependent nature of some stops — if the sea’s not playing along, you might miss out on the Blue Cave or Anjice Beach.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxing day on the water, those who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and a leisurely pace. It’s also a good option if you’re traveling with friends or family and want a guided, all-in-one experience without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets separately.
Key Points
- Beautiful coastal scenery and iconic spots like Our Lady of the Rocks make it a visually stunning experience.
- Flexible swimming time at Anjice Beach offers a chance to cool off or simply lounge on the boat.
- Comfortable boat with amenities like WiFi, sunbeds, a restaurant, and toilets ensure a relaxed day.
- Good value for money, especially considering the guide’s insights and the overall itinerary.
- Weather can impact plans, so it’s good to be flexible and keep an eye on the forecast.
- Authentic stops like Herceg Novi and the island of Our Lady give a taste of the local charm and history.
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tivat.
Starting Point and Departure
Your adventure begins in Tivat, where you’ll board the MB Vesna, a two-floor vessel that’s well-equipped for comfort and fun. The trip kicks off around 10 a.m., providing a full 9 hours of exploration, scenery, and relaxation.
The boat’s layout — with a restaurant, WiFi, sunbeds, and a toilet — means you’ll be comfortable whether you’re soaking up the sun, enjoying a snack, or taking a quick break. The group size remains manageable, allowing for a more intimate experience, and the friendly crew adds a personal touch.
First Stop: Herceg Novi
After about 45 minutes of cruising, you’ll arrive in Herceg Novi, a charming seaside town. Here, you get approximately 60 minutes to wander or just soak up the atmosphere. This stop is ideal for stretching your legs, grabbing a quick coffee, or snapping some photos of the fortified old town and vibrant promenade.
Reviews praise the crew and guides for their friendliness, and many mention that the knowledgeable guide adds insight to the stops, making the visit more meaningful beyond just sightseeing.
Anjice Beach: Swim and Explore
Next, the boat heads toward Anjice Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. You’ll have roughly 80 minutes to dip into the clear waters or relax on the boat’s sunbeds. The calm, welcoming waters are perfect for a refreshing break, especially if you’re traveling during the warmer months.
A notable feature here is the boat’s shuttle service to the Blue Cave — small boats transport guests to this natural attraction. This flexibility allows you to decide whether to swim or explore the cave, depending on the weather and your preference.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting the Blue Cave
The Blue Cave is one of Montenegro’s must-see natural wonders, with its shimmering blue water caused by sunlight filtering through an underwater opening. However, this part of the trip is weather-dependent; on days with rough seas, the captain may decide not to sail to the cave for safety reasons.
Guests have raved about the experience when it’s available, describing it as “breathtaking” and iconic. If the blue waters aren’t accessible, the crew communicates this clearly, and you can focus on other parts of the trip.
The Island of Our Lady of the Rocks
After the swimming break, the boat makes a longer stop at Our Lady of the Rocks — about 40 minutes. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the small island with its picturesque church and museum. Entrance fees aren’t included, but the stop offers a window into local religious traditions and history.
Visitors often mention the beautiful views and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a highlight for many. The guide’s commentary adds context, which helps appreciate the island’s significance beyond just its stunning appearance.
Final Stretch: A Scenic Cruise Through Boka Bay
The last leg involves a 45-minute cruise along the scenic bay, offering panoramic views of the rugged coast, historic towns, and fortress walls. It’s a relaxing way to end the day, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Return to Tivat
By late afternoon, the boat returns to Tivat, completing a full and varied day. The trip’s structure allows you to see many highlights without feeling rushed, and the inclusion of stops at both natural and cultural sites gives a well-rounded experience.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour covers the boat ride and guide, making it a straightforward and hassle-free way to see the bay. However, lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food onshore. The shuttle to the Blue Cave costs about 10 euros, and entrance fees to the museum and church on Our Lady of the Rocks are extra.
Guests have noted that the prices onboard are reasonable — with beers around 3.5 euros and Aperol Spritz just over 7 euros — making it easy to enjoy a drink while taking in the views.
Weather and Safety Considerations
One important note is that bad weather can impact the itinerary. If the captain deems the sea unsafe, certain stops like the Blue Cave or Anjice Beach might be skipped. Flexibility and patience are key — the crew generally communicates this clearly.
Authenticity and Value
Many reviews mention the value for money — especially with the friendly crew, insightful guide, and scenic stops. The boat’s amenities ensure comfort throughout the day, and the stop durations allow enough time to explore without feeling rushed.
The trip is suited for those who want a rundown of the bay’s highlights without booking multiple excursions or transporting themselves. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors wanting a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This cruise appeals to travelers looking for a guided, all-in-one day trip with good comfort and authentic spots. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups who enjoy scenic views, light swimming, and cultural visits. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider the weather forecast, as some parts involve open-sea cruising.
It’s less suitable for wheelchair users, given the boat’s layout and the nature of certain stops. If you want a more intimate or tailored experience, a private boat might suit better, but for most, this tour offers excellent value and fun.
Final Thoughts: The Practical Takeaway
This tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into Montenegro’s spectacular coast and islands. The boat’s comfort, combined with the knowledgeable guide, makes it a worthwhile option if you’re seeking a relaxed yet informative day out. The stops at Herceg Novi, Anjice Beach, Blue Cave, and Our Lady of the Rocks cover natural beauty, local history, and cultural depth.
While weather can affect certain parts, the crew’s professionalism and the flexible itinerary help ensure a memorable experience. The overall rating of 3.8 out of 5 reflects that most travelers find this trip enjoyable and good value — and the glowing reviews about staff, vibe, and scenery highlight what really makes it special.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The entire cruise lasts approximately 9 hours, with departure from Tivat around 10 a.m. and returning in the late afternoon.
What’s included in the price?
The fare covers the boat ride and an onboard guide. It does not include lunch, transport to the Blue Cave, or entrance fees to the museum and church on Our Lady of the Rocks.
Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, there’s about 80 minutes allocated for swimming at Anjice Beach. You can also choose to stay on the boat or enjoy some sunbathing on deck.
Is the Blue Cave visit guaranteed?
Not necessarily. If weather conditions are poor, the captain may decide not to sail to the Blue Cave for safety reasons. You’ll be informed if that’s the case.
Are the stops at Herceg Novi and Our Lady of the Rocks worth it?
Absolutely. Herceg Novi offers a charming town experience, while Our Lady of the Rocks provides a picturesque and cultural stop, both praised by travelers.
Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most likely, yes, but consider mobility limitations and the weather. The boat is not fully wheelchair accessible, and some stops involve walking or standing.
This cruise offers a solid, scenic, and culturally enriching way to experience Montenegro’s coastline. Whether you’re after iconic sights, relaxing on deck, or a bit of both, it’s a trip that’s likely to leave you with plenty of memorable moments.
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