If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising across Montenegro’s breathtaking Boka Bay, this guided boat tour offers a taste of everything—stunning scenery, island visits, swimming stops, and a glimpse of local history. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve studied countless traveler reviews and gathered detailed insights to help you decide if it’s right for you.
What we love about this experience is the blend of scenic cruising and cultural stops. The chance to relax on a comfortable, purpose-built ship with amenities like a restaurant, sunbeds, and toilets makes the long day enjoyable. Plus, the stops at iconic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave promise memorable moments.
A potential consideration is the weather dependency, especially for the Blue Cave visit. If the conditions aren’t ideal, that part of the trip might be shortened or skipped. Still, the overall value and variety of activities make it a solid choice for travelers wanting a rundown of the bay’s highlights.
This tour suits those who appreciate a mix of sightseeing and relaxation, want a guided experience to enrich their understanding of local sights, and enjoy the idea of spending a full day on the water exploring Montenegro’s stunning coastline.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary offers visits to Our Lady of the Rocks, Herceg Novi, and the Blue Cave.
- All-day cruise provides plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the ship’s amenities.
- Expert guides enhance the experience with insights into Montenegro’s history and culture.
- Comfortable boat with amenities ensures a relaxing day on the water.
- Flexible options include departure from Tivat or Kotor, with early start times to avoid traffic.
- Authentic experience with multiple reviews praising the knowledgeable staff and stunning scenery.
An Honest Look at the Boka Bay Full-Day Guided Cruise
This tour offers a pretty complete day out on Montenegro’s famous bay. It’s run by KNEZ LIPOVAC SHIPS, and the vessel itself is a three-deck wooden boat equipped with all the creature comforts you’d want for a day on the water. From sunbeds to a restaurant, toilets, and showers, it’s set up for comfort—especially important when you’re planning to spend 8 to 9 hours on board.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tivat.
Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do
Starting Points and Departure
Depending on your booking, you’ll meet either at Park Slobode or Pine in Tivat, making it convenient whether you’re staying in Tivat or Kotor. The tour kicks off in the morning, with a quick hop over to Kotor if you start from there, then a short stop to pick up the guides and other guests.
Our Lady of the Rocks
A highlight for many travelers, this artificial island is famous for its church and the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary from the 15th century. The guided tour inside the church is well-organized—split by language if needed—and you’ll have some free time to explore or browse the souvenir shop. As one reviewer put it, “visiting Our Lady of the Rocks felt very special,” and it’s easy to see why.
Scenic Cruising and Photo Stops
Cruising past Perast and Mamula Island offers fantastic photo opportunities. Mamula’s fortress has a mysterious aura, and the panoramic views of the bay are stunning. You’ll also enjoy passing Rose village and Porto Montenegro, Montenegro’s luxury port, which provides a glimpse of the upscale side of the coast.
Swimming and the Blue Cave
The trip’s most talked-about feature is the swim stop at Miriste Lagoon or Blue Cave. Travelers rave about the transparent waters—“the water was deep, turquoise, and beautiful,” according to reviews. The Blue Cave often gets crowds, but the vibrant blue and green inner walls make it worth the effort.
One thing to note: swimming time is limited—usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Some reviews mentioned that with only one ladder on one side of the boat, getting in and out can be hectic, especially if many other boats are there. Bringing a float or being a confident swimmer can help. The water can smell of petrol, and weather conditions might affect the visit, so it’s good to keep expectations flexible.
Herceg Novi
The tour includes about an hour in Herceg Novi, where you can walk the old town and see its fortresses—Forte Mare, Kanli Kula, and Panjola. Travelers often wish they had more time here; one review noted, “it would be even better if we could stop for longer.” Still, the scenic walk and the views from the fortress are worthwhile.
Onboard Experience: Comfort and Convenience
Passengers frequently praise the boat itself. It’s described as spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with shaded areas. The restaurant offers a decent range of food and drinks at reasonable prices—something the reviews confirm as a notable highlight. One traveler said, “the food aboard was delicious and reasonably priced,” which is important on a day that involves so much sitting and sightseeing.
The crew consistently receives high marks for attentiveness and friendliness. A review even called the staff “super efficient and very friendly,” noting how they manage food, drinks, and assistance smoothly. The onboard toilets and showers provide extra comfort, especially after swimming, making the whole journey more pleasant.
Timing and Duration: Making It Work
The tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, which can seem long but is broken down into manageable segments. You’ll start early, around 8 or 9 am, to maximize the daylight and avoid Kotor’s traffic congestion if you’re coming by car. The itinerary is balanced—long enough to see multiple sights but with plenty of time for swimming, wandering, and relaxing.
One of the best aspects is the flexible departure point—whether from Tivat or Kotor—allowing travelers to choose the most convenient option. Many reviews mention early departures being essential to avoid traffic delays, especially in Kotor.
More Great Tours NearbyCost and Value: What Are You Getting?
The price includes the boat, guide, and access to the various stops, but some fees are extra—like the entry to Our Lady of the Rocks (€2) and the Blue Cave (€10). Food and drinks are not included but are reasonably priced, according to reviews. Several travelers mention that the overall value is high, considering the scenic beauty, cultural insights, and comforts onboard.
One reviewer summed it up: “Exceptional value for money. Great staff and guide, food was fresh and very reasonably priced.” For a full day on the water with so many highlights, the cost feels justified, especially compared to the expense of private boat rentals or separate tours.
Reviews and Real Travelers’ Insights
Feedback is mostly positive, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. Travelers love the mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. Some mention the delicious onboard food and the friendly staff as standout features.
A recurring theme is the long but worthwhile trip—one said, “The tour is very long but worth it,” while others appreciated the smooth transitions between stops. A few noted that weather conditions can affect the Blue Cave visit, sometimes leading to shorter stays or skipping it altogether.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for those who enjoy a full day of scenic cruising combined with cultural and natural highlights. It’s ideal if you value guided explanations and want to see the bay’s most famous sights in one go. The boat’s amenities make it suitable for those who prefer comfort, and the variety of stops caters to both culture and nature lovers.
If you’re seeking a relaxing way to explore Montenegro’s coastline with a knowledgeable guide, good food, and plenty of swimming, this tour hits the mark. However, if you prefer more time in individual towns or are sensitive to weather disruptions, you might want to plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For travelers wanting a comprehensive, well-organized day on the water, this cruise delivers. The combination of scenic views, cultural visits, and the chance to swim in pristine waters makes it hard to beat. The boat’s comfort and the friendly crew add to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an enjoyable, memorable day.
While it’s not perfect for those who prefer solitude or extensive exploration on land, it’s a great pick for anyone who wants a taste of Montenegro’s coast with some added comfort and guidance. The overall positive reviews highlight that many see it as a fantastic value, with some calling it the highlight of their trip.
FAQ: Quick Answers for Travelers
Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you need to make your way to the specified meeting points, either Park Slobode or Pine in Tivat, or arrange local transport if you booked from Kotor.
Can I join if I don’t swim?
Yes, swimming is optional. You can stay on the boat or explore the other stops without swimming in the Blue Cave.
How long is the swimming stop?
About 75 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the water or relax on the boat.
Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included but are available onboard at reasonable prices.
How much does entry to Our Lady of the Rocks cost?
The entry fee is €2, which covers the church and museum visit.
What’s the best time of day to start?
Morning departures are recommended to avoid traffic and make the most of daylight.
Is the boat accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and some cash for extras.
Is the Blue Cave visit guaranteed?
Not always; it depends on weather conditions and the timing of the trip.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To sum it up, this guided cruise offers a well-rounded way to experience Montenegro’s stunning Boka Bay. With its friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and cultural highlights, it’s a trip that many travelers find worth every euro. Whether you’re after a relaxing day at sea or a chance to explore the bay’s most iconic sights, this tour is worth considering for your Montenegro itinerary.
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