Thinking about exploring Montenegro’s dazzling coast? This 3-hour boat tour from Budva offers a chance to see some of the most picturesque spots along the Herceg Novi coastline, including the famous Blue Cave, the secluded church of St. Nikole, and the inviting sands of Trsteno Beach. With a small group setup and a friendly guide, it promises a relaxed yet memorable experience.
What we really like about this tour is how it combines stunning sea views with unique attractions—the chance to swim in a cave, enjoy panoramic vistas, and unwind on a sandy beach. Plus, it’s a great way to see the coast without the hassle of arranging your own transport or boat. However, potential travelers should consider that the trip lasts only three hours, so it’s more of a quick, scenic escape rather than a full-day adventure.
This experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic outing—especially if you’re comfortable on boats, enjoy swimming, and love discovering hidden coastal gems. Non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness should weigh the effort before booking, as this trip involves some open water exposure.
Good To Know
- Stunning coastal views from the sea, including Prominent landmarks and beaches
- Swim in the Blue Cave‘s crystal-clear waters, a must-see highlight
- Visit the church of St. Nikole, accessible only by sea, offering a peaceful detour
- Relax and swim at Trsteno Beach, known for its inviting sands and turquoise waters
- Small group size (limited to 15), making it intimate and personalized
- Includes a welcome drink and diving mask for exploring underwater
- Duration of 3 hours makes it ideal for a quick, scenic break
- Weather conditions can impact sailing; storms may delay or cancel
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
Starting Point and Departure
The tour kicks off from Budva’s old town, an area brimming with charm and history. As the boat departs, you’ll immediately notice how the captain’s boat offers comfortable seating with good visibility, perfect for snapping photos of the rugged coastline. Guests are welcomed with a refreshing drink, setting a friendly tone for the journey ahead.
Cruising Past Budva’s Highlights
Within minutes, the boat sail past Mogren Beach and the famous ballerina statue, giving an initial taste of Montenegro’s coastal allure. Many reviews mention how the views from the water are spectacular, with “the coast stretching endlessly, dotted with villas, lush greenery, and dramatic cliffs.” This perspective often beats the typical land-based sightseeing because you get to see the coast’s true scale and rugged beauty from the sea.
The Blue Cave – A Natural Wonder
The centerpiece of this trip is the Blue Cave, located along the Lutica Peninsula in Boka Kotorska Bay. It’s recognized for its intense blue waters and impressive size. The guide will point out that swimming inside the cave lasts about 20 minutes—long enough to take a quick dip, snap some photos, and marvel at the crystal-clear water. Reviewers frequently mention how striking the water is, describing it as “like swimming in a dream,” with some noting the cave’s walls reflecting a vibrant blue that’s hard to describe unless you see it yourself.
Travelers often appreciate that the boat approaches the cave smoothly, and the captain generally provides enough time for everyone to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. We note that, as one reviewer said, “the blue in the cave is mesmerizing, and being in there with just a few others makes it feel exclusive.”
More Great Thing To Do NearbyVisiting St. Nikole Church
Next, the boat takes you to the church of St. Nikole, perched on a cliff near Krimovica village. This church is only visible from the sea, making it a special photo opportunity. The stop here is brief—about 20 minutes—but enough for guests to admire the spectacular views of the coast and take in the peaceful surroundings. Several reviews highlight how serene this spot feels, away from the busier tourist areas on land.
Relaxing at Trsteno Beach
The final stop is Trsteno Beach, known for its golden sands and turquoise waters. This is where you can take a dip, relax on the beach, or explore underwater with the provided diving masks. The reviews suggest that Trsteno is one of Montenegro’s more attractive beaches, with calm waters ideal for swimming. Many guests express appreciation that they had enough time here—about 20 minutes—to enjoy the water or lounge on the sand.
Return Journey and Views
As the boat heads back to Budva, you’ll pass by Ploe and Jaz beaches, both famous for their lively atmospheres and beautiful settings. From the water, the coastline’s varied landscape is more apparent, with rocky cliffs meeting lush greenery. The trip ends back at the old town marina, leaving guests with a sense of having experienced something authentic and scenic.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s $73 price offers good value considering the highlights, especially the visits to the Blue Cave and Trsteno Beach. It includes the welcome drink, visit to the Blue Cave, St. Nikole church, Trsteno Beach, and the use of a diving mask for underwater exploration.
However, food and additional drinks are not included, so bring your own snacks or purchase them beforehand. The small group size (max 15 guests) helps keep the experience intimate, and having a live guide in English and Russian makes it accessible to a diverse crowd.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen — the sun can be intense, and the water inviting.
- The trip lasts around 3 hours, so plan accordingly if you have other activities.
- Be aware that weather conditions can influence sailing; storms may lead to delays or cancellations.
- This tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, as it involves open water crossings and swimming.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see Montenegro’s coast from a different angle. If you love natural wonders like caves and want to combine sightseeing with a quick swim, this will suit you well. Its small group format ensures a relaxed, personal experience, ideal for couples or small groups.
Those seeking easy-paced, scenic excursions that don’t take up a full day will find this a great fit. However, if you’re looking for a long, full-day adventure or aren’t comfortable on boats, you might want to consider other options.
Final Thoughts
This 3-hour boat tour from Budva offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s beautiful coastline, balancing scenic views, unique stops, and opportunities for swimming. The Blue Cave alone makes it worth considering, but the addition of St. Nikole and Trsteno Beach adds depth to the experience. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a quick, memorable escape on the water without breaking the bank.
The small group setting, friendly guides, and stunning scenery create a relaxing and visually rewarding adventure. Just remember to plan around the weather and bring essentials like sunscreen and swim gear to make the most of this picturesque journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect quick escape for scenic views and swimming.
What is included in the price?
The price covers a welcome drink, visit to the Blue Cave, St. Nikole church, Trsteno Beach, and diving masks for underwater exploration.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and additional drinks are not included, so bring your own snacks or purchase them locally.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s not ideal for non-swimmers since swimming in the Blue Cave and at Trsteno Beach is part of the experience.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a camera for photos.
What if the weather is bad?
The captain may decide not to sail if there’s a storm, so check the weather forecast before your trip.
How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a small, personal experience.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, making it accessible to a range of travelers.
This tour combines the thrill of swimming in a famous cave with the serenity of ancient coastal sights—all within a compact, well-priced package. Whether you’re after fantastic photos, a quick adventure, or just a relaxing day on the water, it’s a solid choice for exploring Montenegro’s stunning coast.
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