From Budva/Kotor: Boat Trip to Blue Cave, Kotor and More

Exploring Montenegro’s Coastal Gems by Boat: A Detailed Review

Taking a boat trip along Montenegro’s coast is one of those experiences that truly captures the soul of this spectacular country. While we haven’t personally set sail with this specific tour, based on the glowing reviews, comprehensive itinerary, and thoughtful planning, it’s clear that this adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse into Montenegro’s natural beauty and rich culture.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guidance ensures you’ll learn about Montenegro’s hidden stories and local highlights. Second, the scenic stops like the Blue Cave and historic towns promise some of the best photo opportunities on the Adriatic coast. Lastly, the onboard lunch and amenities are highlighted as a real treat, making the day both delicious and relaxing.

One possible consideration: the rougher ride during the initial cruise may not be suitable for everyone, especially those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a full-day exploration, especially those who enjoy scenic boat rides and cultural stops. If you’re after a leisurely, all-in-one day of sightseeing with plenty of time to relax and swim, this tour might be just what you need.

Good To Know

• Well-structured itinerary covers top coastal sites and hidden gems.
• Experienced guides provide insightful commentary throughout the trip.
• Multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring towns like Kotor and Herceg Novi.
• Delicious onboard lunch options available, with vegetarian and vegan choices on request.
• Value for money given the extensive itinerary, expert guidance, and included amenities.
• Flexibility with pickup options and full refunds if canceled early.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting Point and Pickup Options

The tour begins either with a convenient pickup from designated Budva locations or directly from Kotor. You can choose the option that best fits your plans, making the experience accessible whether you’re based in Budva or Kotor. The pickup service is an added comfort, ensuring you don’t have to worry about logistics before embarking on your day.

Scenic Cruise from Budva to Zanjice Beach

The adventure kicks off with an approximately 110-minute cruise past the sandy beaches of Jaz and Ploce, heading towards Zanjice Beach. This segment is a highlight for its panoramic vistas of the coastline, with reviewers noting the “breathtaking views” and the chance to relax and soak in the scenery. The boat’s large windows and spacious deck make taking photos a breeze, even in a group.

Tip: Be sure to bring sunglasses and a sun hat to shield yourself from the sun, especially during these open-water stretches. Some travelers mention that the ride can be a little choppy—if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions.

Visiting the Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is arguably the most iconic highlight of the trip. The stop lasts about 70 minutes, giving you enough time to admire the shimmering blue waters and, if you’re comfortable, to swim in the cave’s cool, clear waters. But note from reviews: swimming is only for strong swimmers, and the cave’s entrance can be narrow and busy with boats.

Many travelers mention the Blue Cave as the “main wow factor”—a must-see for its striking color and unique atmosphere. Some reviews pointed out that the boat may need to switch to a smaller vessel to get close to the cave, which adds an adventurous twist.

Insight: The Blue Cave’s beauty really depends on weather conditions and the time of day, so don’t be surprised if the sequence or timing shifts slightly. It’s a highlight that’s worth the wait and the small extra effort.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Relaxing Beach Stops and Optional Visits

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads to Zanjice Beach again and then onward to visit Mamula Island, which is a striking fortress-turned-island. Here, passengers often enjoy a swim or simply relax on deck while the crew prepares a tasty onboard lunch.

Lunch, included in the tour price, features two menu options—fish or meat—and vegetarian/vegan requests can be made in advance. Reviewers rave about the delicious, fresh meals, served directly on the boat, which helps turn the cruise into a full culinary experience as well.

The next stop is Herceg Novi, where you have about an hour to explore, relax, or swim in the inviting waters. The town’s laid-back vibe and lively atmosphere make it a favorite for many travelers. Some reviewers noted that this stop was a highlight for sampling local snacks or simply soaking up the relaxed seaside atmosphere.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast

The tour continues with a sail past Porto Novi Marina and the picturesque Verige Strait, leading to Our Lady of the Rocks. This tiny island is famous for its church and museum, with a 30-minute window for sightseeing. The island’s story and religious significance add a cultural layer to your day.

Perast, just a short cruise away, offers a stunning backdrop of baroque architecture and narrow streets. You’ll have an hour to explore this charming town, with many reviewers describing it as “picturesque” and “full of character.” It’s a perfect spot to take photos and enjoy some quiet time after the busy morning.

Exploring Kotor’s Old Town

The final destination is the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor, where you’ll have about an hour to wander its labyrinth of narrow streets, admire historic churches, and soak up the unique atmosphere. Reviewers mention that the Old Town’s charm is palpable, with many shops, cafes, and hidden corners to discover.

For those who prefer, there’s an option to stay longer or explore independently before heading back to the boat for the return cruise. The journey back is equally scenic, passing iconic sights and offering one last chance to enjoy the panorama.

Return to Budva

The day concludes with a comfortable bus transfer back to Budva, taking about an hour. This gives you a chance to relax after a full day of exploration and reflect on the stunning sights you’ve experienced.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Expert Guides and Cultural Insights

One of the common praises in reviews is the knowledgeable guides, such as Sasha and Mira, who provided detailed information in multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Serbian. Travelers appreciated their friendly attitude and the way they enriched the experience with stories and local tidbits.

Breathtaking Views and Photo Opportunities

From the boat, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coastline, charming towns, and the shimmering Blue Cave. Many reviews highlight the photographic potential of this trip, especially with the stunning natural light in the Blue Cave and the picturesque towns of Perast and Kotor.

Great Value for Money

At $70 per person for a full-day tour with multiple stops, including guided visits, a delicious onboard lunch, and transportation, this experience is considered good value. The reviews emphasize that the extensive itinerary and the quality of the guides make it a worthwhile investment.

Flexibility and Convenience

The promise of pickup options and the ability to cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund make this tour accessible and low-risk. Plus, the choice to meet directly in Kotor or be picked up in Budva offers flexibility.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, as much of the trip is outdoors.
• Swim Preparedness: If you want to swim in the Blue Cave or at beaches, bring appropriate gear and remember that swimming in the Blue Cave is only recommended for confident swimmers.
• Cash is King: Food, drinks, and Blue Cave entry fees are cash-only, so plan accordingly.
• Dress for Comfort: Light clothing, beach wear, and flip-flops or sandals are ideal for spending time in beaches and towns.
• Book in Advance: The tour gets popular, especially in the high season, so reserving early guarantees your spot.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This boat trip suits travelers who love scenic drives and cultural exploration but prefer to see many sights in a single day. It’s perfect if you’re after a mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxing swimming spots without the hassle of coordinating multiple activities separately.

However, if you’re not comfortable on boats or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit due to the boat’s layout and the nature of some stops. Also, keep in mind that some parts of the tour, like the Blue Cave, may involve narrow passages or small boats, which could be challenging for some.

FAQs

How long is the boat trip from Budva or Kotor?
The entire tour lasts about 9 hours, including stops and transportation, with the cruise segments ranging from around 40 minutes to over an hour.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, a delicious lunch is served on board as you sail through the bay, with options for fish, meat, or vegetarian/vegan meals if requested in advance. Food and drinks, as well as Blue Cave entry, are cash-only.

Can I swim at the Blue Cave?
Swimmers must be confident and strong, as swimming is only available for good swimmers and may depend on weather conditions and cave entry restrictions.

Is transportation provided?
Pickup and drop-off are included at designated locations, but there is also an option to meet directly in Kotor if preferred.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Tour timings vary, so check availability. The Blue Cave’s visibility and the overall experience depend on weather, with calm days offering the best views.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers or those with mobility impairments due to the boat layout and activity nature.

Final Thoughts

This Montenegro coast boat trip from Budva or Kotor offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and relaxing moments—all packed into a 9-hour adventure. From the shimmering Blue Cave and historic towns to the exquisite views of Boka Bay, it’s a comprehensive way to experience this stunning part of the world.

The knowledgeable guides, delicious onboard meals, and well-planned stops make it a great value for travelers eager to see a lot in one day. While the boat ride may be a bit rough for some, the overall experience promises plenty of unforgettable sights and stories.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing day on the water with a touch of Montenegro’s charm, this tour is likely to meet and even exceed your expectations. Just bring your camera, some cash, and a sense of adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: