Budva’s coastline is a highlight in Montenegro, famous for its rugged cliffs, clear waters, and lively boat scene. Unlike many seaside spots where you’re stuck on land, Budva makes it easy to get out on the water to see the coast from a different angle. Whether you want a guided day cruise to explore Boka Bay, a private snorkeling trip with a local guide, or a fishing excursion with friends, the options are as varied as the scenery. We especially enjoy the From Budva: Day Cruise to Boka Bay for its comprehensive itinerary and Private Boat Tour Adventure in Budva for its intimacy and knowledge-sharing. For an authentic taste of Montenegro’s marine life, the Budva Bay: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Sightseeing also earns high marks.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a broad spectrum of boat experiences in Budva. You’ll find full-day excursions like the Montenegro Highlights Tour & Lake Cruise, which combines cultural highlights with a scenic lake boat ride. There’s also the day trip to Boka Bay, which offers a lengthy, immersive experience exploring multiple islands, old towns, and caves (From Budva: Day Cruise to Boka Bay). If you prefer a shorter, more personalized outing, the Private Boat Tour Adventure or Snorkeling in Budva Bay are perfect options. For those interested in fishing or custom rentals, we include trips that let you set your own pace and destinations (Private Boat Tour and Fishing, Rent a boat in Marina Bar). Now, let’s dive into each experience!
1. From Budva: Day Cruise to Boka Bay
Starting us off, the Day Cruise to Boka Bay is a full 9-hour adventure that’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Montenegro’s coast. For around $70, you’ll visit Our Lady of the Rocks, explore Kotor Old Town, and relax at Zanjice Beach or the Blue Cave. The cruise departs from five different locations, so flexibility is key. The itinerary includes multiple sightseeing stops, free time in Herceg Novi, and optional swimming at stunning spots like Mamula Island.
What makes this tour shine is the balance of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural discovery. You’ll enjoy a delicious onboard lunch with panoramic views, making it a well-rounded day. With a 4.6/5 rating from 437 reviews, it’s clear many travelers appreciate the mix of scenic beauty and culture. The highlight for many is the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, an iconic island with a fascinating history.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for travelers who want a full day on the water, combining sightseeing, swimming, and local history. It’s especially good if you prefer a guided experience that covers a lot of ground in one trip.
2. Private Boat Tour Adventure In Budva – Sightseeing & Snorkeling
If you’re looking for a personalized experience, the Private Boat Tour Adventure in Budva is a top choice—rated 5.0/5 by 40 reviews. For approximately $100.72 per person, you’ll enjoy around two hours exploring lesser-known spots, swimming, snorkeling, and caves, all with a local guide. This tour is perfect for small groups, families, or couples wanting a tailored experience with flexibility.
Guests rave about the laid-back vibe and the guide’s deep knowledge of local history and hidden coves. Many mention the guided snorkeling as a highlight, along with discovering parts of the coast that aren’t often visited. Balsa, the guide, is praised for his friendly, accommodating attitude, and the wooden boat adds to the authentic feel.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a private, relaxed outing that emphasizes snorkeling and discovering secluded spots, this is a superb choice. It’s less structured but highly appreciated for its intimacy and local insights.
3. Montenegro Highlights Tour & Lake Cruise
For travelers craving a mix of scenic beauty and cultural history, the Montenegro Highlights Tour & Lake Cruise is a standout. This full-day private tour costs around $113 and lasts 8-10 hours. It includes a boat ride on Lake Skadar, a visit to Rijeka Crnojevica, and stops in Cetinje—the former royal capital.
What makes this tour special is the combination of lake cruising and historical sightseeing, with free time at key locations and scenic viewpoints like Pavlova Strana. The boat ride on Lake Skadar is peaceful and photogenic, and the guide shares interesting insights about Montenegro’s past. Guests appreciate the hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, making the experience smooth and stress-free.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and nature lovers who want an in-depth day exploring Montenegro’s lakes and towns with a touch of local flavor.
4. Budva Bay: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Sightseeing
The Budva Bay: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Sightseeing is a compact, two-hour adventure rated 4.9/5. Starting from Cetinje Municipality, it covers the islands and beaches of Budva Bay, with snorkeling stops to enjoy marine wildlife and underwater scenery.
This tour is perfect if you’re pressed for time but still want to experience the sea’s beauty. The guide keeps it lively and informative, and guests love the snorkeling, caves, and drinks onboard. Many mention the experience as a lovely way to relax and see local spots without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: Great for families or travelers with limited time who want an active, fun way to explore Budva’s coastal waters.
5. Private Boat Tour and Fishing Experience in Montenegro
For those who want more than sightseeing, the Private Boat Tour with Fishing is an excellent choice. Costing about $520 for a group of up to four, this 4-hour trip takes you on a fishing cruise along Montenegro’s coast. The focus is on relaxation and catching fish, but there’s also plenty of scenic coast to enjoy.
Guests describe the experience as memorable, thanks to the guide’s friendly attitude and the beautiful, calm waters. The focus on fishing makes it different from typical sightseeing tours, appealing to friends or families who enjoy a hands-on day on the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for fishing enthusiasts or travelers wanting a private, flexible outing with scenic views and some sport.
6. Budva: Exploring Caves & Private Boat Tour
The Caves & Lagoon Private Boat Tour offers a 3-hour journey into Budva’s hidden caves and lagoons. Rated 4.8/5, it focuses on discovering the coast’s secret spots with a local guide. The tour emphasizes adventure and discovery, with visits to caves and wild beaches accessible only by boat.
Guests love the personalized touch, mentioning how the guide shares stories and makes the trip engaging. The tour is ideal for those who want to explore Montenegro’s natural beauty with flexibility and a small group setting. The cave visits are a standout feature, along with the untouched beaches.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers and those interested in exploring secluded natural sites with a knowledgeable guide.
7. Montenegro Private Tour – Customized for Cruise Passengers
This customizable private tour lasts about 3 hours and costs $161 per person. It’s designed specifically for cruise visitors, starting with a visit to an olive grove to learn about local olive oil production before heading to nearby villages and viewpoints. It offers a personalized experience with snacks, tastings, and local stories.
Reviews highlight its intimate atmosphere and the guide’s warm approach. It’s suited for travelers wanting an authentic, relaxed experience that combines culture and scenery.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise passengers or travelers short on time who want a tailored, culturally-rich experience.
$161.12 per person
8. Rent a boat in Marina Bar Montenegro
If you prefer independence, rent a boat in Marina Bar for around $463.44 per group (up to 8). With a captain to guide you, you can explore at your own pace. The rental allows access to the coastline’s best spots, beaches, and hidden caves, with the flexibility to decide your route.
Guests mention the professional service and the freedom to customize their day. It’s ideal for groups wanting a private, self-directed adventure with scenic cruising.
Bottom Line: Great for confident boaters or groups looking to create their own itinerary without a tour guide.
$463.44 per group (up to 8)
9. Boat Rental in Marina Bar Montenegro
For a shorter and more flexible experience, the Boat Rental option lets you rent a boat for 2 to 9 hours for about $174.47 for groups up to six. This option is perfect for families or couples wanting to explore beaches, snorkel, or just relax on the water, with snacks and drinks provided.
Reviewers note the convenience and friendliness of the service, with the chance to anchor near a pebble beach for a swim. It’s an excellent way to enjoy Montenegro’s coast on your own schedule.
Bottom Line: Ideal for independent travelers or small groups seeking a flexible, fun day on the water.
$174.47 per group (up to 6)
10. Boat Tour to Budva
This scenic full-day boat tour to Budva departs from Podgorica and Sutomore. For $42 per person, it includes six stops for swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing along the coast, with food and drinks included. It’s a straightforward, scenic way to see multiple beaches and small islands in a day.
It’s best suited for travelers who want an all-day, easygoing cruise with plenty of swimming opportunities and a lively atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget travelers or those wanting a relaxed day on the water with friends.
$42 per person
11. Budva: Full-Day Boat Tour to Petrovac with Swimming Stops
This full-day excursion covers Petrovac and Sveti Stefan, with stops for swimming and sightseeing. Many reviews rate it 5/5, praising the stunning coastline and the opportunity to see Montenegro’s coast from the sea. The tour includes stops at Pržno and the Queen’s Beach, plus free time in Petrovac.
It’s ideal for travelers who want to explore the coastline’s highlights without rushing, and enjoy swimming at pristine beaches.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a full-day, relaxed exploration of Montenegro’s coastal towns and beaches.
12. Budva: Private 5 Hour Boat Trip – Beach Hopping Tour
For a shorter but packed experience, the Beach Hopping Private Tour lasts five hours and explores hidden caves, cliffs, and beaches. Rated 5/5, it’s perfect for those wanting a mix of relaxation and adventure, including visits to St. Nicholas Island.
Guests love the stories shared by the guide and the chance to swim and snorkel at several beaches along the coast. It’s suitable for families and friends wanting a private, customizable trip.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a tailored, mid-length adventure to explore Montenegro’s natural coastal beauty.
13. Evening Boka Bay cruise: Kotor and Porto Montenegro
Finally, the Evening Boka Bay cruise offers a 5-hour experience with professional guides and licensed service. Although reviews are more modest (3.9/5), it’s a good option if you prefer a sunset cruise with the chance to see Kotor and Porto Montenegro in a relaxed setting.
Ideal for travelers seeking a scenic, less crowded experience later in the day—perfect for a romantic or peaceful end to your trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who enjoy scenic sunset views and a laid-back atmosphere with expert guides.
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour
When selecting a boat experience in Budva, consider your budget, the time you have available, and what interests you most. If you want a full-day immersion with cultural and scenic highlights, the Montenegro Highlights Tour & Lake Cruise is hard to beat. For those craving a personalized, relaxed outing with snorkeling, the Private Boat Tour Adventure is ideal. Budget travelers or groups who want flexibility should look into boat rentals like Rent a boat in Marina Bar.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to ensure availability. Consider the duration of the tour—half-day trips are perfect for a quick escape, while full-day tours suit those with more time and curiosity. For a romantic sunset cruise, the Evening Boka Bay cruise offers a memorable experience.
Final Thoughts
From short snorkeling adventures to extensive day cruises exploring multiple islands and towns, Budva offers a wide range of boat tours suited for every taste. Those seeking a guided day trip should favor the From Budva: Day Cruise to Boka Bay, while families and couples might love the intimacy of a private tour like the Adventure in Budva. Budget travelers can get a taste of the coast with a full-day boat trip from Podgorica, and adventurers will appreciate the caves and lagoon tours.
Whatever your style, booking early and choosing a tour aligned with your interests will ensure you enjoy Montenegro’s stunning coast to the fullest. Happy sailing!