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

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of exploring Montenegro’s breathtaking coastline, the Whole Boka Bay Guided Cruise on a comfortable three-deck ship might just be your perfect day out. This guided tour takes you through some of the most iconic spots in the area, from the historic towns of Kotor and Perast to the shimmering waters of Miriste lagoon and the mysterious Blue Cave. While it’s a full day filled with beauty and relaxation, it also combines practical comfort with authentic charm, which is why it’s highly popular among travelers.

One of the things we love about this experience is how well-organized it is — with a licensed guide ensuring you don’t miss any highlights and a ship equipped with sunbeds, showers, and a bar for a relaxed, enjoyable journey. The only potential downside? Because it’s a popular tour booked in advance, availability can be limited, and some stops might feel rushed if you’re eager to linger. This cruise appeals most to those looking for a scenic, hassle-free day with plenty of photo opportunities, cultural stops, and swimming chances.

If you enjoy boat trips that balance sightseeing with authentic local visits, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers who love a mix of history, nature, and leisure without the hassle of arranging multiple transport modes. Now, let’s take a detailed look at what this cruise involves and what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

• Well-organized full-day experience with a licensed guide and comfortable ship
• Visits to iconic spots like Our Lady of the Rocks, Blue Cave, and Herceg Novi
• Ample swimming opportunities in clear waters at Miriste lagoon and Blue Cave
• Authentic cultural stops with free entry to historic sites, including the church on Our Lady of the Rocks
• Scenic views and photo ops of Montenegro’s stunning coastline and fortress landmarks
• Good value for money considering the variety of stops, amenities, and guided commentary

Overview of the Tour

This full-day cruise is designed to showcase the best of Boka Bay, with a focus on scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and relaxed swimming. The journey takes you on a leisurely ride through Montenegro’s most picturesque coastal spots, all aboard a comfortable ship equipped for a day of fun and discovery. Guided by a licensed expert, you’ll get insights into the history and stories behind each landmark.

Departing from Tivat at 09:00 and Kotor at 10:30, the tour combines a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and walking excursions. By using a ship with three decks, the tour offers plenty of space, sunbeds, and amenities, making it a relaxed way to see the bay without feeling rushed or crowded.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Departure and Short Stop in Kotor

The cruise begins early in Tivat, with a 09:00 departure — you’ll want to arrive a bit earlier to settle in. If you’re starting from Kotor, a taxi or tourist bus will bring you to the port, where a short stop in Kotor itself offers a glimpse of its charming old town from the water. The guided commentary here helps you appreciate the city’s medieval architecture and fortress walls.

Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks

One of the tour’s key highlights is the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island famous for its church and votive paintings. The guided entrance, costing just 2 euros, reveals a beautifully decorated church housing a revered icon of the Virgin Mary from the 15th century. Reviewers have enjoyed wandering the museum filled with votive gifts, adding a personal touch to this sacred site.

From the boat, you’ll also admire the panoramic views of Perast, a small town known for its baroque architecture. This stop is both visually stunning and culturally rich, giving you a taste of Montenegro’s maritime traditions.

Swimming at Miriste Lagoon

Next, the boat anchors at Miriste lagoon, renowned for its crystal-clear waters. The water’s transparency is often highlighted in reviews, with travelers describing it as perfect for swimming in the open sea. You’ll have around 70 minutes here to relax on sunbeds, take a dip, or simply soak up the scenery. This stop provides a refreshing break during the day’s sightseeing.

The Blue Cave

Arguably the most magical stop, the Blue Cave is famous for its dazzling light effects created by sunlight refracting through the water and limestone rocks. The play of shadows and vibrant colors makes it feel like stepping into a fairy tale. On the way there, you pass by Rose, a fishing village that has inspired many artists, adding to the scenic beauty.

While admission isn’t included in the price, many find the experience worth the extra cost for the chance to see this natural wonder firsthand. Expect an awe-inspiring display of nature’s artistry in every shimmer and glow.

Island of Mamula and Fortress of Cape Arza

Following the Blue Cave, the boat heads towards the fortress of Mamula, a mysterious landmark with a haunting yet striking architectural presence. Its history as a fortress adds a layer of intrigue, and the landscape around it is equally arresting. Next, the boat passes by Cape Arza, home to a fortress once crucial to Montenegro’s defense system.

Herceg Novi and Old Town Walk

The final major stop is Herceg Novi, known as the city of rocks and mimosas. Here, you’ll explore three famous fortresses — Forte Mare, Kanli Kula, and Panjola — and enjoy a guided walk through the historic Old Town. The city’s lively port, notably the largest for mega yachts in southern Europe, adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

Reviewers have appreciated the guide’s local knowledge, making this walk informative and engaging. It’s a great way to get a sense of Montenegro’s coastal culture before heading back to Tivat.

Return to Tivat

The cruise concludes with a scenic ride back, offering view after view of Montenegro’s rugged coastline and lush hills. From Porto Montenegro, a paid taxi or tourist bus will take you back to Kotor, wrapping up a full day of beautiful sights and relaxing moments.

What to Expect on the Ship

The three-deck vessel provides a comfortable setting for the journey. Expect plenty of sunbeds for lounging, with showers and a WC available for convenience. The onboard bar makes it easy to sip refreshments while enjoying the views, and the guided commentary ensures you’re well-informed about each stop’s history and significance.

The tour is designed for up to 180 travelers, which means it’s lively but not overcrowded. Most travelers found the organization smooth, with reviews highlighting the well-managed schedule and the presence of a licensed guide who kept everyone engaged.

The Experience from a Traveller’s Perspective

Based on reviews, many travelers found the value for money to be quite good, especially considering the multiple stops, guided insights, and the amenities on board. One reviewer mentioned that the cruise was “a good value relaxing full-day cruise around the bay,” praising the scenery and the chance to visit the iconic island and church.

Swimmers particularly appreciated the opportunity to cool off in clear, pure waters at Miriste lagoon and the Blue Cave, both of which are often highlighted as unforgettable highlights. Others enjoyed the cultural aspect, with the free entry to Our Lady of the Rocks adding a meaningful touch to the day.

While some suggested that the food options could be improved, overall, most found the experience well-organized and enjoyable. The tour operates on a balance of sightseeing and leisure, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed but rundown of Boka Bay.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This guided cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s coastal beauty, combining scenic views, cultural sites, and swimming spots in one day. The comfortable ship, guided commentary, and variety of stops make it ideal for travelers who want a stress-free, informative experience without worrying about logistics or navigation.

It’s especially great if you’re interested in seeing iconic landmarks like Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave, or simply love relaxing on a boat with stunning scenery all around. The inclusion of swimming breaks adds a fun, refreshing element, making it perfect for those who want a bit of adventure mixed with relaxation.

However, if your priority is a more in-depth exploration of specific sites or culinary experiences, you might find the tour somewhat rushed or limited in food options. It’s best suited for visitors seeking a balanced, scenic overview rather than an immersive cultural or gastronomic tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire cruise lasts about 9 hours, from departure in Tivat or Kotor until the return.

What time does the tour start?
Departures are at 09:00 from Tivat and 10:30 from Kotor.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families, provided children enjoy boat rides and swimming.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there is a bar onboard for refreshments. Food options can be limited, so consider bringing snacks if needed.

How much does the Blue Cave tour cost?
The boat tour to the Blue Cave costs an extra 10 euros, not included in the main price.

What’s the admission fee for Our Lady of the Rocks?
The church and museum cost approximately 2 euros per person, payable on-site.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming at Miriste lagoon and the Blue Cave is part of the experience.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the vessel is equipped with sunbeds, showers, and a WC, making it suitable for a full day at sea.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about a week in advance to secure their spot, as the tour is popular.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather – if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Sum Up

The Whole Boka Bay Guided Cruise is a fantastic way to experience Montenegro’s stunning coastline without the hassle of arranging multiple transport options or navigating unfamiliar waters. It offers a good balance of sightseeing, cultural stops, and swimming in crystal-clear waters, all aboard a comfortable vessel with a knowledgeable guide.

This tour delivers real value for travelers who want a laid-back day immersed in natural beauty and local charm. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy scenic boat trips, want to learn about Montenegro’s maritime history, or simply love relaxing in the sun with spectacular views around every bend. While not ideal for those seeking gourmet dining or in-depth site exploration, its mix of attractions and ease of access makes it a memorable option for most visitors.

If you’re after a scenic, hassle-free day with friendly guides and authentic experiences, this cruise ticks all the boxes. Pack your swimwear, bring a camera, and prepare for a day of incredible views, charming towns, and tranquil waters.

Note: Always check availability and weather conditions when booking, and consider making your reservation a few days in advance to secure your spot on this popular tour.