From Dubrovnik: Montenegro Boat Tour from Perast to Kotor

Traveling from Dubrovnik to Montenegro on a day trip promises spectacular scenery, charming towns, and a taste of the Adriatic’s hidden gems. This tour offers a combination of boat rides, historic exploration, and beautiful coastal views—all for a very reasonable price of around $68 per person. If you’re craving a mix of history, stunning landscapes, and a bit of adventure, this trip could be just right.

We particularly love how this tour balances organized activities with free time, letting you soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. The boat cruise around Kotor Bay and the visit to Our Lady of The Rocks are real highlights, providing memorable scenery and photo opportunities. One possible consideration is the border crossing, which might involve some wait times, but travelers say it’s worth the patience.

This experience works best for those who appreciate scenic views, historic towns, and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect if you’re staying in Dubrovnik and want a hassle-free way to explore Montenegro’s coast without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. Just be aware that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and you’ll need a valid passport or ID card.

This experience made our article of Top 12 Cruises And Boat Tours In Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of Kotor Bay, often described as a fjord, which is truly one of the most beautiful sights in the region.
• Authentic Towns: Wander through Perast and Kotor, both UNESCO sites with centuries of Venetian influence, Baroque architecture, and charming streets.
• Boat Ride Highlights: The cruise around Boka Kotorska Bay and the visit to Our Lady of The Rocks are truly memorable, especially for photography lovers.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Passengers consistently praise guides for their friendliness, insight, and ability to make history come alive.
• Good Value: For $68, you receive transport, a cruise, and guided exploration—many reviewers say it’s a worthwhile investment for a full day of discovery.
• Border Crossings: Be prepared for some wait times at customs, which can extend the day but are generally manageable, especially on less busy days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Montenegro Boat Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

The trip kicks off early, with hotel pickup if you choose that option, or you’ll be directed to meet your guide at a designated spot. The transportation is by air-conditioned bus, which makes the long ride more comfortable—crucial when crossing borders and traveling through scenic yet sometimes hot regions. With modern, spacious coaches, the ride is not just about getting from A to B but about enjoying the anticipation of what’s ahead.

Our impression from various reviews is that the bus drivers are cautious and professional, ensuring a safe journey, even along winding coastal roads. The group size varies but tends to be manageable, fostering a friendly atmosphere where you can chat with fellow travelers.

Crossing the Border: A Little Patience Needed

One common note from travelers is the border crossing—while many report it’s quick, others mention waiting times up to an hour or more. This is outside the control of the tour provider, but it’s good to keep in mind. The reviews indicate that on less busy days, the border process speeds up, especially if traveling on a Sunday.

The Boat Cruise: A Highlight of the Day

Once across the border, the tour transitions smoothly into the boat cruise around Kotor Bay and the island of Our Lady of The Rocks. Here’s where the scenery really impresses. The water is calm, the views sweeping, and the landscape dramatic—fjords, rugged cliffs, and centuries-old fortifications lining the coast. Passengers often describe the boat ride as a peaceful, breezy experience that’s perfect for taking photos.

Most reviews agree that the boat ride is a key highlight, with many saying it’s relaxing and offers some of the best views of the bay. The boat trip also leads to the small island of Our Lady of The Rocks, an artificial island with a church and a museum. Visitors can explore the site, take photos, and enjoy the tranquility of the water.

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Exploring Kotor: The UNESCO Treasure

After the boat, you’ll have about 30 minutes with a local guide in Kotor. This old port city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famed for its fortress walls, medieval architecture, and vibrant town square. Many reviewers rave about Kotor’s charm, describing it as a maze of narrow alleys, hidden courtyards, and historic buildings.

You can choose to wander independently, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping photos of the church spires and city walls. The guides provide a quick overview, sharing stories of Venetian rule and local legends, enriching your visit.

The Charm of Perast and Lunch Break

Next, the boat takes you to Perast, a small, picturesque town known for its baroque palaces and Orthodox churches. It’s a quieter, more relaxed spot than Kotor, and many appreciate the free time here to explore at their leisure.

A visit to Our Lady of The Rocks on this trip involves a short boat ride to the artificial island, notable for its church and museum. Visitors often find the site peaceful and scenic. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a moment of reflection.

Some travelers opt to have lunch in Perast’s charming town center, finding local restaurants with reasonably priced food and good views. The reviews note that the free time in Perast is a highlight, with some wishing for a bit more time to explore the shops and streets.

Returning to Dubrovnik

After a full day of sightseeing, the group boards the bus for the return trip. Expect to face similar border crossing delays on the way back, but most travelers agree that the experience is well worth the effort. The journey home is sometimes less comfortable if the bus’s air conditioning isn’t adequate or if the heat is high, so dress accordingly and bring water.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a largely positive picture of this tour. Many mention how knowledgeable guides made the experience engaging, with some describing their guides as “amazing” and “full of stories.” Several reviewers highlight the stunning scenery, with comments like “the landscapes are breathtaking” and “Kotor’s fjord-like views are unforgettable.”

The boat ride, in particular, gets high marks for its peacefulness and photo opportunities. Reviewers also appreciate the free time to wander, shop, and enjoy the towns at their own speed. Many mention how Perast, in particular, was the “highlight” and how they enjoyed exploring its quiet streets and baroque architecture.

Some minor drawbacks are noted, primarily the border wait times and the limited time in each town, which some feel could be extended. A few reviewers also suggest that a newer coach or better air conditioning would improve comfort, especially during hot days.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a stress-free way to see Montenegro’s coast and charming towns without worrying about logistics. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy scenic boat rides, exploring historic towns, and learning about local culture from knowledgeable guides. If you’re prepared for some border formalities and appreciate a relaxed pace, this tour offers great value and memorable sights.

The Sum Up

This Montenegro boat tour from Dubrovnik offers a well-rounded experience packed with spectacular scenery, historic towns, and engaging guides. For around $68, you’re getting a full day of exploration, including transport, a cruise, and free time in Perast and Kotor. Many find it’s a fantastic way to tick Montenegro off your travel list with minimal fuss.

If your idea of travel involves stunning views, authentic towns, and a bit of maritime adventure, this tour delivers. It’s especially perfect for those staying in Dubrovnik who want an easy, organized day trip that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

While border wait times can be unpredictable, most say it’s a small price to pay for the chance to see this beautiful corner of Europe. The combination of scenic boat rides, UNESCO sites, and friendly guides makes it worthwhile for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
You might need a visa depending on your nationality. It’s best to check if your passport is valid for crossing into Montenegro before booking.

Are the transportation and boat rides comfortable?
Yes, the bus is air-conditioned, and the boat cruise is generally breezy and relaxing, offering excellent views. Some reviews suggest bringing a fan or extra water on hot days.

How much free time do I get in Kotor and Perast?
You’ll have about 30 minutes in Kotor and additional free time in Perast, which many find sufficient to explore the towns, take photos, and enjoy a quick snack.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, water, and perhaps a camera. Remember, pets are not allowed, and if you’re an EU citizen, your ID is usually enough.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but it’s not recommended for wheelchair users due to the nature of the sites and transport.

What about border crossing wait times?
Border queues can vary from quick to lengthy; reviewers note wait times of up to an hour or more on busy days. Planning for potential delays is wise.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s a flexible option if your plans are not yet set in stone.

This Montenegro boat tour from Dubrovnik is a delightful way to experience some of the most scenic and historic parts of the coast without the hassle of organizing it yourself. Its combination of beautiful views, charming towns, and friendly guides makes it a worthwhile addition to any travel itinerary in the region.

You can check availability for your dates here: