From Tivat/Kotor: Whole Boka Bay Guided Cruise, Comfortable Ship

From Tivat/Kotor: Whole Boka Bay Guided Cruise, Comfortable Ship

Imagine spending a day on a comfortable three-deck ship gliding across Montenegro’s breathtaking Boka Bay, with its dramatic coastline, historical sites, and sparkling waters. For just over $40, you’ll get a 9-hour adventure that covers the highlights—from Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast to Herceg Novi—with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and learn about the area’s rich maritime culture. The tour departs from Tivat at 09:00 and from Kotor at 10:30, making it a flexible option no matter which base you prefer.

What we love about this cruise is how it balances scenic beauty with cultural insight. The guided commentary from a licensed guide brings history and local stories alive, giving context to what you’re seeing. Plus, the swimming stops—especially at Miriste lagoon—offer a refreshing break in crystal-clear waters. The visit to Our Lady of the Rocks provides a glimpse into Montenegro’s spiritual and artistic traditions, with optional museum access. The second favorite feature? Watching the sun light up the Blue Cave, creating a shimmering spectacle you’ll remember long after the trip.

One potential consideration? The Blue Cave visit isn’t included in the base price, costing an extra €10. And since the tour covers quite a bit in just one day, you’ll want to be comfortable with a busy schedule. This cruise suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and culture without the hassle of organizing multiple separate excursions. It’s especially perfect for those who value good value for money and a well-organized experience with plenty of relaxing moments.

Key Points

• Incredible scenery with panoramic views of Montenegro’s coast and islands.
• Visit iconic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast with insightful guided commentary.
• Includes swimming at Miriste lagoon and optional Blue Cave visit for a fairy-tale experience.
• Comfortable vessel with amenities such as sunbeds, showers, a bar, and a restaurant.
• Flexible departure points from Tivat and Kotor, with organized transport arrangements.
• Great value for a full day of exploration, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

An In-Depth Look at the Boka Bay Guided Cruise

The Ship and Onboard Comfort

We start with the ship itself, which is a key part of the experience. The three-deck vessel is well-equipped for comfort, with soft sunbeds for lounging, showers to rinse off after swimming, and restroom facilities. There’s a bar and restaurant onboard, making it easy to grab a cold drink or a snack without missing the views. The group size is capped at 180, so it doesn’t feel crowded, and the licensed guide ensures you’re not just sightseeing but also learning about Montenegro’s coastal history.

The Itinerary: From Coastline to Islands

The cruise kicks off with a scenic departure from Tivat or Kotor, heading toward the charming town of Perast. We love the way the boat gently glides past this picturesque seaside town—its historic buildings and church steeples framing the view. The stop here is brief but meaningful, allowing us to snap photos or take a quick stroll.

Next, you arrive at Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island featuring a religious site that has deep roots in local maritime traditions. The church is beautifully decorated, and the museum (optional €2 entrance fee) is packed with votive gifts collected over centuries. As one reviewer, Stuart, noted, “a good value relaxing full day cruise around the bay… visiting Our Lady of the Rocks island and church.”

After exploring the island, the boat heads to the Miriste Lagoon, where you can enjoy approximately 70 minutes of swimming in crystal-clear waters renowned for their transparency. It’s a true highlight—refreshing, scenic, and a perfect way to cool off. Many travelers comment on how pristine and inviting the water is, making this stop a favorite.

The Blue Cave Experience

The Blue Cave is often the highlight of this tour. The boat approaches and enters the cave, where sunlight refracts through the water, creating a magical display of light and shadow. It’s a scene straight out of a fairy tale, and the play of colors on the limestone rocks fascinates everyone. The adventure to reach the cave is part of what makes it special—the boat ride there passes by the charming fishing village of Rose, once a muse for many artists.

Note that the Blue Cave visit costs an additional €10, not included in the main price. This extra charge is worth it for many, as the shimmering blue reflections are hard to beat. Some reviews mention that the cave is a “play of light and water, shadows and bright colors,” which truly lives up to its reputation.

Legendary Fortresses and Herceg Novi

Traveling further along the coast, the boat passes the fortress Mamula, a mysterious, architecturally intriguing landmark. The fortress’s story adds a layer of intrigue to the scenic views. Then, the vessel stops in Herceg Novi, a town famous for rocks and mimosas—a phrase that perfectly captures its rugged charm.

Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore the Old Town guided by a local, and see three notable fortresses: Forte Mare and Kanli Kula. The town’s architecture and fortifications reflect centuries of military history, which you can appreciate while wandering narrow streets and soaking in coastal vistas. The views of Porto Montenegro from here add a modern contrast to the historic battlements.

The Return Journey

As the cruise nears its end, the vessel heads back toward Tivat, passing by the impressive Porto Montenegro—a luxury port for mega yachts—and offering one last chance to enjoy the scenery. The organized transfer from Tivat or Kotor makes the logistics smooth, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

What Past Travelers Say

The general consensus is that this tour offers great value. Stuart described it as a “relaxing full day cruise,” appreciating the fantastic scenery and well-organized schedule. Meanwhile, Martine raved about the friendly team, delicious drinks, and the beauty of the bay, calling it a “beautiful day.”

Many reviewers highlighted how knowledgeable guides made the experience more engaging, and the swimming spots were consistently praised for their clarity and tranquility. The visit to Our Lady of the Rocks was singled out as a meaningful cultural highlight, with the optional museum visit adding depth.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Pros:
– Excellent value for a full day of sightseeing and relaxation.
– Diverse stops that combine natural beauty with cultural sites.
– Comfortable ship with onboard amenities.
– Knowledgeable guided commentary enhances understanding of the area.
– Swimming opportunities allow for a refreshing break.

Cons:
– The Blue Cave visit isn’t included in the base price, costing an extra €10.
– The schedule is tight, so some may find it a bit rushed, especially if they want more time at each stop.
– Food options on the boat could be improved, according to a review.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to see Montenegro’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. It suits those interested in history, culture, and natural beauty alike. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy relaxed sightseeing combined with swimming will find it especially satisfying. If you’re on a budget but want a comprehensive experience, this tour provides a lot of value in one package.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Works Well

In our experience, the well-organized itinerary, comfortable vessel, and insightful guide make this cruise stand out. It’s a great way to enjoy Montenegro’s stunning coastline in comfort and style. The stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Herceg Novi offer memorable cultural insights, while the swimming and Blue Cave add that touch of magic.

The price point is reasonable for a full day’s adventure, especially considering the included amenities like sunbeds and showers. The optional Blue Cave visit adds a bit more excitement, though it requires a small extra fee. This tour balances relaxation with discovery—perfect for those who want to see a lot without rushing.

Who Would Enjoy It Most?

If you’re eager to combine scenic views, cultural stops, and swimming in pristine waters, this cruise will suit you perfectly. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure and aren’t bothered by a full schedule. It’s also a great choice if you want logistical ease—departures from Tivat or Kotor are straightforward, and the boat provides a comfortable base for the day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is generally family-friendly. Just keep in mind the schedule involves some walking and swimming, so young children should be supervised.

How long is each stop?
The Our Lady of the Rocks stop is around 35 minutes, Miriste lagoon swim about 70 minutes, and Herceg Novi around 60 minutes. The Blue Cave visit is approximately 1 hour, but it’s an optional add-on.

What should I bring for swimming?
Swimmers should bring towels, swimwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof case for valuables. The boat provides showers, so you can rinse off afterward.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but the boat has a restaurant and bar if you want to purchase snacks or drinks onboard.

Can I visit the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks?
Yes, the museum is accessible for €2, and the guided entrance to the church and museum is included in the overall experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In sum, this guided cruise offers a fantastic way to explore Montenegro’s coastline with minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment. Whether you’re after scenic beauty, cultural insights, or a refreshing swim, you’ll find plenty to love—just be prepared for a full, memorable day.