Herceg Novi: Bay of Kotor boat tours

This boat tour from Herceg Novi offers a full day of scenic beauty, historic charm, and leisurely exploration of the Bay of Kotor’s most iconic spots. Whether you’re cruising past medieval walls or floating by quaint towns, this experience promises a memorable mix of nature and history. I’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out and what travelers like you can expect, so you can decide if it’s worth your time.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour are the expertly guided visits to Our Lady of the Rocks—a tiny, storybook island with a stunning church—and the chance to stroll through Kotor’s UNESCO-listed old town without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a charming stop in Perast, with its elegant waterfront and quiet alleyways, adds a touch of authenticity and relaxation. Plus, the chance to enjoy local snacks and drinks on board makes the journey more enjoyable.

A potential consideration is the tour’s duration—up to 8 hours—meaning it’s a full day that requires some patience. The schedule can fluctuate depending on weather conditions and whether the stop for swimming in Stoliv is included during peak season. Also, if you’re more interested in museums or detailed cultural visits, note that the entry fee to Our Lady of the Rocks isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Key points / Takeaways

• Beautiful Stops: You’ll visit Our Lady of the Rocks, Kotor, and Perast, each offering distinct scenery and history.
• Flexible Duration: The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, depending on weather and optional swimming breaks, giving you plenty of time to enjoy without feeling rushed.
• Guided Experience: An English-speaking guide is onboard during the boat journey, helping you understand the sights and local stories.
• Snacks and Drinks: The tour includes local delicacies like watermelon, olives, and a shot of grape rakija, enhancing the authentic experience.
• Optional Swimming: During peak season, you can take a swimming break in Stoliv, adding a relaxing element to your day.
• Value for Money: While the bar drinks aren’t included, the comprehensive itinerary, guide, and snacks make it a good deal for exploring the bay in comfort.

Starting Point: Petar Boats

The journey begins at Petar Boats in Herceg Novi, a convenient and familiar spot. From here, your boat ride will take you through some of the most scenic waters in Montenegro. The departure times vary, so be sure to check availability when booking—it’s a full-day outing, so plan your morning accordingly.

The First Stop: Our Lady of the Rocks

Our first destination is the tiny island of Our Lady of the Rocks, renowned for its picturesque church built atop a man-made island. This stop is around 30 minutes, giving you enough time to step ashore, admire the church’s interior, and enjoy the views. The setting is idyllic—bright blue waters, a peaceful atmosphere, and a chance to take some memorable photos. If you’re interested, you might find the entry to the museum here is separate and costs extra, so plan accordingly.

I love the way this stop captures the poetic side of Montenegro—an island built on centuries of tradition and local legend. The guide often shares stories about how the island was created by local sailors, which adds a layer of storytelling to your visit.

Cruising to Kotor: A UNESCO Treasure

After about 50 minutes of cruising, the boat arrives at the old town of Kotor—an absolute highlight. This UNESCO-protected city is encircled by formidable walls and mountain scenery, making it one of the most visually striking spots in the region. You’ll have approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to wander its narrow alleyways, explore historic squares, and marvel at medieval architecture.

Many visitors rave about the vivid contrast between the town’s ancient stone buildings and the looming peaks above. It’s a lively place with cafes and shops tucked into every corner. I recommend walking up to the fortress walls if you’re feeling energetic—views from the top are well worth the climb. Remember, the guides are there to offer insights, but you’ll be free to explore at your own pace.

Perast: Quiet Charm on the Water

The third main stop is the charming town of Perast, where the boat docks for about 45 minutes. Known for its elegant bell towers and quiet cobblestone streets, Perast offers a peaceful retreat from the busier Kotor. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll and a chance to soak in the atmosphere of a true Montenegrin seaside village.

Many travelers mention the beautiful waterfront views and the chance to admire historic buildings that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. It’s a good spot to enjoy a coffee or just breathe in the calm seaside air. During the return journey, the boat passes by Perast’s impressive architecture, which often prompts admiration.

Optional Swimming Break in Stoliv

In peak season, the tour offers a 30-minute swimming stop in Stoliv, a small village with accessible waters. If you love jumping into the sea, this is a relaxing way to cool off and enjoy the outdoor experience. Keep in mind, this stop is weather dependent and might be skipped if conditions aren’t ideal.

Return to Herceg Novi

The journey wraps up after about 80 minutes on the water, returning you to the starting point at Petar Boats. It’s a leisurely ride back, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights and take in the scenic views one last time.

This boat tour offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed pace. The inclusion of local snacks like watermelon, olives, and a shot of grape rakija adds a friendly, authentic touch. The tour is well-designed for those who want to see the most iconic spots without the hassle of planning individual transport.

The guides on board are experts in the local lore and history, helping you appreciate the significance of each stop. The flexibility to include or skip swimming during peak season makes it adaptable to your mood and weather. Plus, the overall value—considering the length, guided insights, and included snacks—is quite good for a full-day experience.

Many travelers, including a recent review calling it “brilliant,” have found this tour to be a highlight of their Montenegro trip. The careful pacing, beautiful scenery, and knowledgeable guides create a well-rounded, enjoyable day.

This experience is ideal for history and scenery lovers who want a comfortable way to explore the Bay of Kotor’s top sights without the hassle of driving or navigating on their own. It suits travelers who appreciate small group guided tours with a relaxed schedule, allowing time to wander and absorb the atmosphere.

It’s also perfect for those seeking authentic local flavor—snacks, stories, and a chance to swim if conditions allow. If you’re short on time but want to see a good portion of Montenegro’s coast, this tour packs a lot into a manageable day.

However, if you prefer active walking tours or museum visits, this might not be your best choice. It’s more about leisurely cruising, scenic stops, and soaking in the views.

While the exact price isn’t listed here, this tour offers good value considering the duration, guided commentary, and included snacks. Remember, entry to Our Lady of the Rocks museum isn’t included, so budget for that separately if you’re interested. The tour runs 8 hours, and availability varies, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred time.

Transportation is straightforward—departing from Herceg Novi with a friendly boat operator, Petar Boats, known for their reliable service. A full-day boat tour like this is an excellent way to see Montenegro’s coast from a different perspective, combining natural beauty with historic charm.

This boat tour from Herceg Novi to the Bay of Kotor offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, cultural stops, and relaxed exploration. It’s suited for travelers wanting a hassle-free way to see key highlights like Our Lady of the Rocks, Kotor, and Perast, without overloading your day.

The guided commentary, authentic snacks, and optional swimming break make for a well-rounded adventure. While it’s a full day, the pace is gentle, and the scenery is mesmerizing. It’s a good choice for anyone looking to enjoy Montenegro’s coast in comfort, with plenty of opportunities for photos and free time.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and culturally enriching experience that captures the essence of the Bay of Kotor, this tour is worth considering.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, depending on weather conditions and whether the swimming stop in Stoliv is included.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Petar Boats in Herceg Novi, a convenient location to begin your day.

What’s included in the tour?
You get an English-speaking guide during the boat journey, snacks such as watermelon, olives, bread, and a shot of grape rakija. The entry to Our Lady of the Rocks museum is not included.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, during peak season, a 30-minute swimming break in Stoliv is offered, weather permitting.

Is there a guide on the boat?
Yes, an English-speaking guide is present to help explain sites and share interesting stories.

Do I need to pay extra for food or drinks?
Drinks from the bar are not included, so if you want alcohol or additional beverages, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the slow pace and scenic stops make it a good choice for families, especially those interested in relaxed sightseeing and cultural stops.

In the end, this boat trip offers a lovely way to see Montenegro’s coast with a balance of comfort, authenticity, and scenic beauty. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a relaxing and visually rewarding experience that captures the best of the Bay of Kotor.