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

Exploring Montenegro’s stunning coast by boat offers a mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and relaxed swimming spots. The “Whole Boka Bay Guided Cruise” with Knez Lipovac Excursions provides a 9-hour journey on a comfortable, three-deck ship that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local history for around $40.33 per person. Departing from Tivat and Kotor, this tour gains a solid reputation for its friendly guides, smooth organization, and incredible views — all while offering a good value for travelers seeking an authentic experience on the water.

What truly makes this cruise stand out are two standout features. First, the inclusion of visits to iconic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks, with its beautifully decorated church and votive gift museum, offers a taste of local maritime spirituality and craftsmanship. Second, the chance to swim in the pristine Miriste lagoon and marvel at the Blue Cave’s play of light provides memorable moments of leisure and wonder. However, one aspect to keep in mind: the Blue Cave tour to see the famous limestone formation costs an extra €10 and isn’t included in the base price — a small extra expense but worth planning for.

The experience is designed to deliver a relaxed, scenic, and culturally interesting day, balanced with opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and learning about the area. The only caution is that the lunch options on board are noted as perhaps needing improvement, so if you’re a foodie, you might want to bring some snacks along. Still, the pleasant guides and beautiful stops make this a worthwhile choice for most travelers wanting to see Boka Bay without the hassle of self-navigation.

• Great value for a full-day boat trip—priced around $40 with plenty included.
• Guided stops at highlights like Our Lady of the Rocks and Herceg Novi deepen your understanding of local culture and history.
• Comfortable, well-equipped ship with sunbeds, showers, and a bar makes the cruise enjoyable even on warm days.
• Memorable swimming spots at Miriste lagoon and the Blue Cave include crystal-clear waters and stunning light displays.
• Flexible itinerary with optional boat trip to Blue Cave for €10 allows for tailored experiences.
• Overall positive reviews emphasize friendly guides and organized service, making it suitable for most travelers.

If you’re looking for a way to see the best of Boka Bay without the hassle of organizing your own boat, this tour definitely merits consideration. The journey on a three-deck ship offers sweeping views, amenities, and the companionship of a licensed guide who will help illuminate what you’re seeing and provide some local stories.

Starting from Tivat or Kotor, the cruise begins around 09:00 or 10:30 respectively, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery. The ship departs with a soft hum of conversation and the promise of a day filled with diverse sights. The first notable stop is a short visit to Kotor itself, allowing for a quick stroll before hitting the water. From there, the cruise continues past the charming town of Perast, known for its baroque architecture and tranquil atmosphere, which the guide will point out from the deck — a great chance to appreciate Montenegro’s seaside elegance.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

Perhaps the most iconic stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island in the Adriatic with a church that’s as photogenic as it is historically intriguing. For just €2, you can step inside to see the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary from the 15th century and admire the votive gifts donated by sailors over centuries. The guided visit is short but worthwhile, especially for those interested in maritime traditions and religious art.

Swimming at Miriste Lagoon and the Blue Cave

One of the highlights is swimming in Miriste’s transparent waters. The lagoon is renowned for its clarity, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. It’s about an hour and ten minutes of free time, during which you can relax on deck or hop into the sea. This stop offers a genuine feeling of escaping the crowds and diving into natural beauty.

Just off the coast, you’ll find the famous Blue Cave — a stunning limestone cavern where sunlight creates a dazzling display of blue tones. The guide will likely suggest an optional €10 boat trip to access it (not included in the base fee), which many find well worth the extra. The play of light and water inside the cave truly feels like stepping into a fairy tale, and it’s a perfect photo opportunity.

The Fortress of Mamula and Herceg Novi

Next, the cruise passes by the fortress Mamula, an unmistakable historical landmark with a notorious past as a military prison and now a boutique hotel. The ship’s vantage point offers fantastic views of this architectural oddity. Traveling further south, you arrive at Herceg Novi, often called “the city of rocks and mimosas.” Here, you get about an hour to explore the old town with its fortresses — Forte Mare, Kanli Kula, and Panjola — each a piece of Montenegro’s coastal defense history.

Final Views and Return

As the day winds down, you’ll pass Porto Montenegro, known for its luxury yachts, and head back toward Tivat. The trip concludes with some helpful tips from your guide, and most travelers finish feeling they’ve gotten a comprehensive snapshot of Boka Bay’s best.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exposure without the hassle of doing it all independently. The comfortable ship equipped with sunbeds, showers, and a bar means you can relax and enjoy the scenery in style. The friendly, licensed guide enhances the experience by providing insights, making it especially appealing to those who appreciate informative commentary rather than just photo stops.

It’s excellent for those with a limited time who still want to see multiple highlights, and for families or groups seeking a leisurely day on the water. Keep in mind, if you’re passionate about gastronomy, you might find the on-board lunch options less inspiring — bringing a snack or two could be a good idea. Also, the Blue Cave trip costs extra, so plan for that if you’re eager to see it.

For around $40, this guided boat trip offers a memorable and visually stunning adventure along Montenegro’s coast. The combination of well-chosen stops like Our Lady of the Rocks, Miriste lagoon, and Herceg Novi makes it a immersive experience that balances natural beauty with cultural interest. The organized nature and attentive guides make it welcoming for first-time visitors or those who prefer a curated approach to exploration.

While the lunch may not wow the gourmand, the scenery, swim stops, and historical insights more than make up for it. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a hassle-free, scenic, and culturally enriching day out on the water, beautifully showcasing Montenegro’s coastal charm.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, giving plenty of time for sightseeing, swimming, and exploring.

What are the departure times?
Departures are from Tivat at 09:00 and from Kotor at 10:30, so plan your day accordingly.

Is there a guide on the boat?
Yes, a licensed guide accompanies the tour, providing commentary and helping you understand what you’re seeing.

What’s included in the price?
The full-day cruise, soft sunbeds, showers, WC, and the guide are included. The Blue Cave trip is extra (€10), and lunch is not included.

Can I visit Our Lady of the Rocks church?
Yes, for €2 you can visit the church and museum, which is decorated with votive offerings and contains a revered 15th-century icon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the stops for swimming and sightseeing make it family-friendly. Just consider children’s comfort with boat rides and walking.

This guided cruise strikes a fine balance between relaxation, sightseeing, and cultural insight. It’s suited for travelers who want a well-organized day with opportunities to swim, explore, and enjoy the stunning views of Montenegro’s coast.