Exploring Montenegro by Boat: A Day in the Bay of Kotor
If you’re looking for a full day of scenic views, charming towns, and unique attractions, this boat tour from Tivat offers a compelling way to experience Montenegro’s coast. Starting early in the morning, you’ll hop aboard the MB Vesna, a comfortable two-floor vessel equipped with a restaurant, Wi-Fi, sunbeds, and toilets—perfect for a relaxed adventure. The trip covers Herceg Novi, Blue Cave, Anjice Beach, and Our Lady of the Rocks, making it a well-rounded day filled with natural beauty and cultural sites.
Two things we particularly appreciate about this cruise are the knowledgeable guide who adds context to each stop and the opportunity to swim and relax at Anjice Beach, which offers a refreshingly flexible break in the middle of the day. Plus, the scenic route through the Bay of Kotor is mesmerizing, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
One consideration to keep in mind is weather dependency—if the captain deems the sea conditions unsafe, some parts of the trip, like swimming at Anjice or visiting the Blue Cave, may be canceled. This is a sensible safety measure but worth factoring into your planning, especially in unpredictable weather.
This trip suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural visits, especially those who appreciate authentic boat experiences over large touristy cruises. It’s ideal for those who want flexibility in their schedule, with stops for free time and optional visits to attractions on the islands.
Key Points
- Scenic route through the Bay of Kotor offers stunning views and photo opportunities.
- Flexible itinerary with free time for swimming, exploring Herceg Novi, and visiting Our Lady of the Rocks.
- Comfortable boat with amenities like Wi-Fi, sunbeds, and onboard restaurant.
- Weather-sensitive schedule, which may affect plans to visit Blue Cave or Anjice Beach.
- Guided commentary enhances the experience by adding context and local insights.
- Great value for money considering the duration, stops, and included guide.
A Closer Look at the Experience
This tour kicks off early in the morning at either the Pine Restaurant or Hotel Pine, with pickup options designed to make getting on board straightforward. Boarding the MB Vesna at 10 am, we set off from Tivat, beginning a journey that lasts roughly nine hours. The boat itself is a two-story vessel with a restaurant on board, meaning you can enjoy a drink or snack while relishing the views—an underrated perk that keeps the experience comfortable and relaxed.
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The Tivat to Herceg Novi Journey
The first leg of the trip takes around 40 minutes, cruising along the coast toward Herceg Novi. During this stretch, you’ll notice the changing scenery of quaint seaside towns and rugged hills. Once in Herceg Novi, there’s about 80 minutes of free time—enough to stroll the waterfront, grab a coffee, or explore the small but lively town. Many travelers have praised the crew for their friendliness and attentiveness, with one reviewer calling the staff “great,” highlighting the positive vibe onboard.
Herceg Novi: A Little Coastal Charm
Herceg Novi is a delightful stop. Known for its fortresses, narrow streets, and lush botanical gardens, it offers a taste of authentic Montenegrin coastal life. While the tour doesn’t include guided sightseeing here, the free time allows you to wander at leisure. A bonus: the crew provides helpful tips on what to see and do, so you can make the most of your hour. As one reviewer noted, the crew’s friendliness and the overall atmosphere make this a memorable part of the trip.
Anjice Beach: Swimming and Blue Cave Bound
After leaving Herceg Novi, the boat heads toward Anjice Beach, a notable highlight. The journey offers plenty of stunning vistas, especially with the rugged coastline and emerald waters. Here, you’ll have about 80 minutes to swim or relax on the boat. If the weather cooperates, smaller boats ferry guests to the Blue Cave, a favorite for its brilliant colors and unique rock formations. Keep in mind, as one reviewer pointed out, the Blue Cave visit depends on sea conditions—if the captain deems it unsafe, the trip to the cave may be canceled.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Island of Our Lady of the Rocks
Next, the boat approaches the Island of Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny, man-made island with a church and museum. You’ll stop here for about 40 minutes, giving you ample time to explore or just enjoy the view. Entrance fees to the museum and church are not included, so budget accordingly if you’re interested. The island’s history and the art-filled church make it a worthwhile stop, especially if you’re interested in local culture.
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Final Bay Cruise and Return
The last part of the journey is a scenic 45-minute cruise through the Bay of Kotor, with panoramic views of surrounding mountains and ancient towns. It’s the perfect way to wind down a busy day before heading back to Tivat, where the tour concludes.
What to Know Before You Go
Pricing is reasonable, especially considering the included guide and the length of the trip. However, meals and entrance fees to attractions like Our Lady of the Rocks are extra, so plan for additional expenses if you wish to visit the museum or buy drinks on board.
Weather can influence the itinerary—if the captain assesses sea conditions as unsafe, certain stops might be skipped. This safety-first approach ensures a smooth experience but might change your plans slightly.
What to bring includes a towel and beachwear, especially if you plan to swim. The boat supplies some amenities, but it’s wise to be prepared for sun and water.
Language options for guides are Russian, Serbian, and English, catering to a broad range of travelers. The group size is not explicitly stated but is generally manageable, and the guide’s commentary adds context to each stop.
Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights
This cruise offers a genuine taste of Montenegrin coastal life without the hassle of driving or crowded tours. The knowledgeable guides help bring each location alive, sharing local stories you might not find in guidebooks.
Many reviews highlight the great value for money, especially given the scenic route, friendly crew, and the amenities onboard. The food and drinks on the boat are also praised, with reasonable prices for beer and cocktails. One traveler’s tip: check if the boat is doing longer or extended excursions, as some days include additional pickups or nighttime trips, offering even more variety.
The timing of free stops is well-balanced—long enough to explore, swim, or relax, without feeling rushed. The scenic cruise through the bay is a highlight, with vistas that look like they’re straight out of a postcard. This aspect makes the trip especially appealing to lovers of landscapes and photography.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exploration in a single day. It’s perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace with enough free time to enjoy each stop. If you’re on a budget but still want an authentic experience with good guides and stunning views, this tour hits the mark.
However, if you have mobility concerns or require wheelchair access, this trip may not be suitable, as the tour is not designed for wheelchair users. Also, those who want a more in-depth cultural experience might find the free time too limited, but for most, the balance of stops and scenery will be just about right.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 9 hours, starting at 10 am, with different stops and free time built in.
What is included in the price?
The boat ride and onboard guide are included. Food, drinks, and entrance fees to the museum and church are extra.
Can I swim at Anjice Beach?
Yes, there is about 80 minutes set aside for swimming and relaxing, weather permitting. The boat also offers transport to the Blue Cave if conditions allow.
What if the weather is bad?
If sea conditions are unsafe, the captain may cancel visits to the Blue Cave and Anjice Beach for safety reasons.
Are there onboard amenities?
Yes, the boat has Wi-Fi, sunbeds, a toilet, and a restaurant where you can buy drinks and snacks.
Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour offers free time for swimming and exploration, making it suitable for families, but always consider the boat’s physical environment and weather conditions.
What should I bring?
Bring a towel, beachwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat—anything to stay comfortable on the water and during free time.
Are guides available in different languages?
Yes, guides speak Russian, Serbian, and English.
How do I book or cancel?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before departure.
Final Thoughts
This Montenegrin boat tour from Tivat offers a well-rounded mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and leisure. The combination of scenic cruising, free time at the beach, and visits to charming spots like Our Lady of the Rocks makes for a memorable day, especially if you enjoy being on the water and exploring coastal towns. The onboard amenities and friendly guides add comfort and authenticity, making it a good value for travelers seeking a relaxed but engaging experience.
While weather and sea conditions can influence the itinerary, the safety measures are clear, and the crew’s professionalism shines through. This tour suits those who want an active, flexible day that balances sightseeing with downtime. If you’re after a straightforward, scenic adventure with a touch of Montenegrin charm, this cruise fits the bill nicely.
In summary, this tour is perfect for travelers who value authenticity, scenic vistas, and flexible free time, especially if they enjoy boat-based excursions. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a weather-dependent schedule and appreciate a guide who provides local insights along the way.
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