Exploring Montenegro’s Kotor Bay by boat is high on many travelers’ wish list, and this full-day catamaran cruise promises a relaxed, scenic experience packed with swimming, sightseeing, and local flavor. Offered by 360 Monte, the tour has earned a glowing reputation with a 4.8-star rating from nearly 600 reviews, making it clear that most guests find it well worth the price.
What makes this trip stand out are two key things we love: first, the immersive natural beauty of the bay, highlighted by multiple swimming and photo stops, and second, the knowledgeable guides who bring the area’s history alive with engaging commentary. A potential consideration is that weather conditions can impact some activities, especially the Blue Cave visit, which might be canceled if the sea isn’t safe. This cruise suits travelers who enjoy a mix of leisurely sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insight—perfect for those who want a relaxed yet enriching day out on the water.
Key Points
- Balanced itinerary with scenic stops, swimming, and cultural visits
- Expert guides providing engaging stories and historical context
- Comfortable boat with plenty of space and amenities for a relaxed experience
- Good value considering the inclusive features like drinks, fruit, and entrance fees
- Flexible options for private groups and flexible cancellation policies
- Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing
An Authentic Look at the Full-Day Kotor Bay Catamaran Cruise
If you’re considering a day on the water in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, this cruise offers a compelling way to see the highlights without feeling rushed or crowded. The tour lasts around 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to unwind while covering key sights—an ideal length for those who want a thorough experience but not a full-blown multi-day adventure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kotor Municipality.
Starting Point and Group Size
The tour begins from Kotor, Budva, or Tivat, depending on your booking preference. The group size tends to be quite manageable, with reviews mentioning roughly 20 people on board, which balances social atmosphere with privacy and space. Pickup and drop-off are included from select locations, making it easy to start your day without extra fuss.
The Journey Begins: Scenic Cruising and First Swim
Your first stop is at Bijela, a charming spot where you can swim in the crystalline waters, often described as refreshing and perfect for cooling off. The boat itself is modern and well-equipped, with plenty of comfortable seating. The guides are quick to make sure everyone feels included and informed—“Thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend,” notes a reviewer.
From here, you’ll cruise along the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor, passing by Our Lady of the Rocks—a tiny, man-made island topped with a church and museum. The guides provide insights into its unique history, adding depth to the scenery. Many reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable commentary, which makes the views more meaningful.
Mamula Island and the Former Prison
Next, you’ll see Mamula, a former military fortress that’s now a notable landmark with a dark past as a prison and concentration camp. The boat circles the island, offering opportunities for photos and learning about its history. Reviews frequently mention the fascinating mix of nature and history here—“wild interlace of history and nature” as one reviewer put it.
More Great Tours NearbySwimming in the Blue Cave
The highlight for many is the Blue Cave, which the tour visits weather permitting. The natural beauty of the cave’s brilliant blue waters is often described as breathtaking. Travelers can take a swim inside, an experience that many find to be a once-in-a-lifetime moment, especially with the chance to wear life jackets if you’re not a confident swimmer.
However, several reviews caution that if sea conditions are rough, this part of the trip might be canceled or replaced with an alternative activity. It’s worth keeping the weather in mind when booking, but even on days with calm seas, the Blue Cave is a must-see.
Lunch and Porto Montenegro
After the morning’s activities, the boat docks at Porto Montenegro for a lunch break. Guests rave about the excellent lunch options—the tour provides time to explore this picturesque marina and enjoy local cuisine. The setting is modern yet charming, with plenty of cafes and shops to browse.
The reviews mention “great lunch in Tivat” and “fantastic views along the bay”, making the stop not just about eating but also about soaking in the scenery.
Return Journey: Our Lady of the Rocks and More Swimming
In the afternoon, the boat heads back toward Kotor, with a second swimming stop in the bay’s deep waters. This gives you another chance to relax, float, or just soak up the sun. Then, the tour visits Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island with a church and museum—“a highlight,” according to many guests. The entrance fees are included, and the guides make sure you get the most out of the visit.
Throughout the return trip, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of mountains, caves, beaches, and historic sites. Several reviews mention how “leisurely and unrushed” the trip feels, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery without feeling hurried.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included in the tour are boat transportation, a professional English-speaking guide, entrance fees, fresh fruit, champagne, and rakija shots—a traditional Montenegrin spirit. Pickup and drop-off from designated locations are also provided, adding convenience.
What’s not included are additional food and drinks beyond the provided refreshments, and towels (so bring your own if you plan to swim). Reviewers suggest bringing sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the spectacular sights.
Customer Feedback: Authentic Voices
Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and knowledgeable guides who make the day special. Many say it’s the best day of their trip, with comments like “Great trip, friendly staff and great guide” and “the best way to see the Boka area.” Others highlight the well-paced itinerary and the quality of the boat, which allows for lounging in comfort.
Some reviewers mention minor logistical hiccups, such as meeting point confusion or late arrivals, but overall, the experience remains highly regarded. The small group size and careful planning help prevent the feeling of overcrowding.
Value for Money
Considering the full-day experience, the inclusive drinks, fruit, entrance fees, and the variety of stops, many guests feel they received excellent value. The tour offers a nice balance between relaxation and sightseeing, with enough swimming and cultural stops to keep everyone engaged.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming in beautiful waters, and learning quick facts about the region. It suits those who appreciate a relaxed pace but want to see the main sights without rushing. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it appealing—especially given the small group setting and flexible options like private tours.
If you’re someone who values authentic experiences, good value, and engaging guides, this trip checks all those boxes. Keep in mind the weather can impact certain activities, so flexibility might be necessary, but with so many highlights, you’re likely to have a memorable day regardless.
Summary: Why You Should Consider This Cruise
This full-day catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor—combining spectacular scenery, historical insight, and refreshing swims. Guests consistently praise the friendly crew, beautiful stops, and value for money. The experience is especially suited to those seeking a laid-back but informative way to explore the coast.
From the Blue Cave swim to the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, it’s a day filled with wonder and relaxation. You’ll leave feeling you’ve seen a good slice of Montenegro’s natural beauty while enjoying some well-earned leisure time on the water.
FAQ
- What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
- Where does the tour start?
It begins from Kotor, Budva, or Tivat, depending on your booking, with pickup included from designated locations.
- Is there a maximum group size?
The typical group is around 20 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and comfortable.
- What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, camera, and sunscreen. Towels are not included, so bring your own if swimming.
- Can the Blue Cave visit be canceled?
Yes, if weather conditions are unsafe, the Blue Cave stop might be canceled or replaced with another activity. The guides will inform you on the day.
- Are drinks and food included?
Drinks like champagne, rakija, and fresh fruit are included, but additional food and drinks are not. There are plenty of lunch options at Porto Montenegro.
This cruise offers a fantastic way to spend a day in Montenegro. It balances sightseeing, swimming, and cultural stops with a relaxed pace that appeals to many travelers. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and good value for money makes it a worthwhile option—especially if you want a memorable, stress-free day exploring the stunning Bay of Kotor. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family, you’ll likely find this tour a highlight of your trip to Montenegro.
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