Blue Cave, Islands, Kotor, Herceg Novi: Boat Trip From Budva

Exploring Montenegro’s coastline through this boat trip from Budva offers travelers a chance to see some of the country’s most spectacular sights while enjoying the comfort of a well-organized tour. With over 10 years of experience behind this operation, the tour is designed to strike a balance between scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and relaxing moments on the water. From the famous Blue Cave to the historic streets of Kotor, this cruise promises a memorable day along the Adriatic in a friendly, professional setting.

What I really like about this experience is how much it offers for the money. The inclusion of lunch on board, the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, and free time in Herceg Novi make it feel like good value, especially considering the variety of stops. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner, adding depth to what could otherwise be a cookie-cutter tour. However, it’s worth noting that weather can sometimes shuffle the route, and some may find the full day a bit long if they prefer more leisurely or less packed itineraries.

One thing to keep in mind is the physical aspect: the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues, and swimmers should be comfortable in open water. Also, as the tour involves multiple stops and boat rides, bringing cash for extras like souvenirs or additional drinks is a smart move. Overall, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances scenic beauty with cultural insights—perfect for those eager to explore Montenegro’s coast without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides Make a Difference: The guides, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, provide interesting stories and facts about Montenegro that add context and charm.
• Beautiful Stops with Practical Flexibility: From the Blue Cave to Kotor’s Old Town, each stop offers enough time for sightseeing, swimming, or just soaking up the views.
• All-Inclusive Feel at a Fair Price: Lunch on board is included, with reasonable food and drink prices, which adds value for a full-day tour.
• Weather and Route Variability: The itinerary may shift depending on weather, sometimes starting from Kotor by bus, which could affect the experience.
• Comfortable Transportation: The journey includes a comfortable bus ride, helping you relax before the boat cruise begins.
• Authentic Local Experience: Visiting Herceg Novi and Our Lady of the Rocks adds cultural depth seldom found in typical coastal trips.

This boat tour offers a deep dive into Montenegro’s most photogenic spots, all wrapped into a single, well-organized day. From the moment you’re picked up in Budva, you’re transported into a world of rugged coastlines, historic towns, and secluded islands. What sets this experience apart is how it combines scenic cruising with cultural visits, all guided by knowledgeable locals who are eager to share stories and tips.

Starting with the Scenic Cruise and Blue Cave Visit

Your journey begins with a transfer from your hotel in Budva, often via a comfortable bus ride that sets the tone for a hassle-free day. Once on the boat, the views start immediately. Passing beaches like Jaz and Ploce, I love how the boat gently moves along the water, giving you plenty of chances to snap photos or just breathe in the salty air. The highlight early on is the Blue Cave, famous for its shimmering blue waters and the way sunlight filters through the rocks—an absolute must-see for nature lovers. Reviewers like Sofia appreciated the “good conditions” and the “beautiful places” along the route, which makes waiting for the Blue Cave well worth it.

Exploring Zanjice Beach and Swimming Opportunities

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads toward Zanjice Beach, a perfect spot to take a swim in clear, inviting waters. You might also visit Ploce or Jaz Beach for additional dips or just relaxing on deck. The opportunity to swim in pristine waters is a highlight, especially during the warm summer months. Many reviews mention how well the timing works, giving enough time for a quick dip without feeling rushed, as Artem noted, “we got a lot of information while sunbathing or sitting in the shadow.” Don’t forget your sun hat and sunscreen—Montenegro’s sun can be quite unforgiving.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast

Hopping over to Our Lady of the Rocks is a unique experience. You’ll visit the tiny island’s church and museum, learning about its intriguing history—something the guides are skilled at explaining. In Artem’s words, “I got lots of information about Kotor, its surroundings, and Montenegro,” which enhances the visit beyond just photos. Then, a quick cruise takes you to the charming town of Perast, with its peaceful streets and stunning views. Here, you’re free to explore, shop, or relax, with some guests choosing to grab a coffee or a snack before rejoining the boat.

Herceg Novi and the Cultural Charm of the Coast

Next stop is Herceg Novi, a lively town with a laid-back vibe. The tour includes about an hour here, which many reviewers, like Sofia, found perfect for savoring the local atmosphere or grabbing a leisurely lunch at a restaurant. The tour’s flexibility allows for this kind of personal time—an appreciated feature. As Josie pointed out, “food on board was freshly cooked,” but some travelers prefer dining ashore, especially if they want more local flavor.

Kotor and Its Storied Old Town

The final stretch takes you past the Porto Novi Marina and the impressive Verige Strait before arriving in Kotor. The old town is a maze of narrow streets, historic churches, and old city walls—perfect for wandering and absorbing history. You’ll have an hour here, which I think works well, giving enough time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Many reviews mention how this part of the trip was a highlight, with Artem noting the “good and flat skin tan and lots of impressions.”

Returning and Reflection

After exploring Kotor, the tour concludes with a scenic boat ride back along Boka Bay, passing by Perast once more before heading to the pickup point. The return bus ride to Budva offers a chance to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen—and perhaps plan your next Montenegro adventure.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is ideal if you love a mix of scenic boat rides, cultural visits, and swimming in beautiful waters. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours but also value some free time. The tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired or wheelchair users, and non-swimmers should be cautious. The inclusion of lunch and multiple stops makes it a good value, especially considering the knowledgeable guides—reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and insight.

Why Choose This Tour?

Because it offers a comprehensive look at Montenegro’s coast without the hassle of organizing transport, boat rides, and entry tickets separately. It’s a full-day adventure that balances structured sightseeing with relaxed moments, making it perfect for those wanting an active yet comfortable experience.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Arrive at your chosen pickup point on time; the tour only stops at pre-booked locations.
• Bring cash for souvenirs, extra drinks, or tips—although food and drinks on board are reasonably priced.
• Pack essentials like sunglasses, sunhat, swimwear, sunscreen, and beachwear.
• If you prefer vegetarian or vegan lunch options, inform the tour provider in advance.
• Be aware that weather conditions can modify the route or departure points, so stay flexible.
• The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, Russian, and optionally Montenegrin and Italian, making it accessible for diverse groups.

FAQs about the Montenegro Coastal Boat Tour

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the same location, a guided boat cruise with stops at key sites, and a freshly cooked lunch on board. Entry fees for Our Lady of the Rocks and the Old Town of Kotor are not included.

Can I go swimming during the tour?
Yes, swimming is encouraged at places like Zanjice Beach and near Blue Cave. Bring your swimwear and towel, and remember, non-swimmers should exercise caution in open water.

What should I bring with me?
Sunglasses, sunhat, sunscreen, swimwear, beachwear, and cash for extras. The boat tour doesn’t allow bringing outside food or drinks, but you can buy reasonably priced lunch onboard.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While children can enjoy the scenery and stops, the tour isn’t ideal for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues due to boat rides and walking in historic towns.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Weather conditions may cause some route adjustments, but the main highlights like Blue Cave, Kotor, and Our Lady of the Rocks are reliably included. Some departures start with a bus ride to Kotor, then return by boat, offering flexibility.

What is the typical duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time at stops. Starting times vary, so check availability when booking.

To sum it up, this boat trip from Budva is a well-rounded way to experience Montenegro’s coast. It’s perfect for travelers who want a blend of scenic cruising, cultural discovery, and relaxation—all packed into a single day. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful stops, and good value for money, it offers a practical and memorable introduction to Montenegro’s seaside treasures. Just come prepared for a full day, enjoy the views, and soak up the local charm—this tour has all the ingredients for a rewarding adventure.