Montenegro Bay Cruise with Lunch on the Boat day trip

Discovering Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor from Dubrovnik: A Detailed Review

Travelers who love combining scenic landscapes with cultural stops will find the Montenegro Bay Cruise with Lunch on the Boat a compelling option. This full-day trip promises a mixture of breathtaking views, historic sites, and a leisurely cruise along the Adriatic coast. Starting from Dubrovnik, it’s a well-organized way to explore Montenegro’s famous fjord-like bay, complete with an island visit and a meal on board.

One of the things we particularly appreciate about this tour is the opportunity to see the dramatic scenery of the Bay of Kotor—soaring mountains, tiny islands, and deep blue waters—without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips. Plus, the inclusion of all entrance fees and a 3-course lunch makes it a good value for a full-day experience. However, potential travelers should be aware that the tour is quite lengthy, and some reviews mention cramped boats and short stops, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days of sightseeing.

This tour suits those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural exploration, and relaxation. If you’re after an authentic experience of Montenegro’s coast with a bit of guided commentary, this trip could be just the right fit. That said, if you prefer more flexibility or shorter excursions, alternative options might suit you better.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery of the Bay of Kotor, with mountains, islands, and turquoise waters
• Includes a visit to the 17th-century Our Lady of the Rocks church and Kotor Old Town
• All entrance fees covered, plus a delicious 3-course lunch on the boat
• Knowledgeable guides and live commentary enhance the experience
• Long day, with early pickup and some reviewers noting tight boats and short stops
• Great for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip from Dubrovnik with cultural and natural highlights

A Closer Look at the Montenegro Bay Cruise Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Transfer

Most travelers are picked up early, around 6:30 am, from their Dubrovnik hotel or nearby locations. The pickup service is considered smooth, with air-conditioned transport making the border crossing into Montenegro more comfortable. This part of the experience is well-reviewed, especially by those who appreciated the efficient border crossing management, like guide Marco—who stood out as “very organized” and clear during border procedures.

The transfer is a good way to set the tone for the day, as it offers glimpses into both Croatian and Montenegrin landscapes even before the boat ride begins. Expect the journey to take around an hour, during which guides often share insights about the region’s history and geography.

The Boat Ride: Navigating the Bay of Kotor

Once in Montenegro, the highlight begins with boarding your boat for the cruise through the Bay of Kotor. The vessel takes you into one of the most striking natural fjords of the Adriatic. Reviewers consistently mention the stunning views of soaring mountains and tiny islands dotting the deep-blue waters.

However, boat size and comfort varied among travelers. Some, like one reviewer, found the initial boat too small and cramped, which could be less enjoyable if you prefer spacious seating or are prone to seasickness. Expect the cruise to last about six hours, with the boat stopping at key spots.

The live commentary provided on board enriches the journey, offering context about the landscape and history of the area, making it more than just a boat ride.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

One of the tour’s main highlights is the stop at the tiny island of Our Lady of the Rocks. This is a charming spot known for its 17th-century church and 68 murals painted by Tripo Kokolja, a renowned Baroque artist. Reviewers often mention the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to explore the church and learn about its history.

The stop here lasts about 45 minutes, which is enough time to admire the artwork, take photos, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. This is a well-loved part of the trip, offering a glimpse into Montenegro’s religious and cultural heritage.

Exploring Kotor Old Town

The final major stop is the medieval city of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll have around 45 minutes to explore the narrow streets, visit the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, and check out the Maritime Museum. Reviewers highlight that the old town is a “medieval Mediterranean pearl,” with charming alleyways and historical architecture.

Some guests found their time in Kotor a bit rushed, especially if they wanted to explore more of the city’s shops and cafes. However, the guided visit ensures you see the main sights, and the short window is enough to appreciate Kotor’s beauty.

The Lunch: A Three-Course Meal on Deck

One of the standout features of this tour is the included 3-course lunch served on the boat. Reviewers describe it as “really tasty,” with some praising the good wine selection that complements the meal. The menu offers vegetarian options, which should be requested in advance.

Having a sit-down meal while enjoying the scenic views adds a layer of relaxation to the otherwise busy day. Many mention the friendly service and the ability to socialize with other travelers, making it a memorable part of the trip.

Returning to Dubrovnik

After a full day of sightseeing, the boat heads back to Montenegro’s port, then the bus takes travelers back across the border. Expect to be dropped off at your hotel or nearby in Dubrovnik by late evening. The overall flow of transportation is generally smooth, but some reviews noted the long duration—around 10 hours total—so it might be tiring for those with limited energy or traveling with young children.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $118.69 per person, this experience offers a comprehensive look at Montenegro’s Kotor Bay, combining transportation, guided commentary, cultural visits, and a meal. For travelers keen to see multiple highlights in one day and enjoy the natural beauty from the water, it’s a solid investment.

Reviewers mention it being “on the expensive side” but still “worth it,” especially considering the included entrance fees and lunch. Some felt the boat, especially the initial one, could be more comfortable, and the short time in Kotor was a bit disappointing. However, many find the scenic views and guided insights justify the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate long, full-day excursions with a mix of scenic beauty and cultural stops. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and a packed schedule, you’ll enjoy the well-organized itinerary. It’s a good fit for those who want to see the highlights of Kotor without the hassle of planning transport or entry tickets.

However, if you’re expecting a luxurious boat experience or want longer time in each location, you might find this trip a bit rushed. It’s also worth noting that the boat’s comfort levels vary, so those who prioritize spacious seating should consider that.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start? The pickup begins around 6:30 am, providing a full day of exploration.
• Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making the process hassle-free.
• How long is the entire trip? Expect roughly 10 hours from pickup to return, including border crossings.
• Are entrance fees included? Yes, all entrance fees for sites like Our Lady of the Rocks are covered.
• Is lunch vegetarian? Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.
• What language is the commentary in? Live commentary is provided on board; reviews mention that some guides, like Marco, are very organized.
• Can children participate? Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Is the boat comfortable? Some guests found the boat cramped, especially the first vessel used.
• What if the weather is bad? The tour depends on good weather—some stops, like entering the Blue Grotto, might be affected by wind or waves.
• Is this suitable for travelers with mobility issues? The tour involves walking around Kotor’s old town and some boat boarding, so consider mobility needs.

In Summary

For those longing to see Montenegro’s stunning Kotor Bay with minimal fuss, this cruise offers an all-in-one package. It combines scenic boat rides, cultural exploration, and a delicious meal, making it a good value for a full day out. The guides and the beautiful landscapes truly stand out, though some may find the day’s length and boat comfort less ideal.

If you enjoy guided tours with a mix of water, history, and scenery, and don’t mind the potential crowds or abbreviated stops, this trip should meet your expectations. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, scenic experience without the hassle of logistics.

In the end, this tour is a solid choice for travelers who want to combine breathtaking views with cultural insights, all within a full-day adventure that’s well-coordinated and enjoyable. Just pack your patience for the long hours and small boats, and you’ll find it to be a memorable journey along the beautiful Montenegrin coast.