From Budva: Day Cruise to Boka Bay

Discovering Boka Bay from Budva: A Cruise Worth Your Time

This comprehensive review explores the popular Day Cruise to Boka Bay departing from Budva, a journey that promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, historical sights, and relaxing beach stops. The trip has an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars from 437 reviews, and considering the price of around $70 per person for 9 hours, it offers very good value for those eager to explore Montenegro’s coast without the hassle of multiple bookings.

What we love about this experience is the seamless combination of boat and bus transportation, making it easy to cover so many highlights in one day. The expert guides, many of whom are multilingual, make the trip informative and engaging, adding layers of context to each stop. Plus, the onboard lunch—with options like fish and meat—keeps you fueled while you take in the stunning views.

A potential consideration? The crowds at the Blue Cave can be quite thick, as some reviews point out, which might mean less time to enjoy the crystal waters. And since the tour involves quite a bit of movement and sightseeing, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a busy schedule. This tour is perfect for those seeking a well-rounded, authentic taste of Montenegro’s coast in a single day.

Who should book this? It’s ideal if you love scenic boat rides, want an immersive cultural experience, and prefer a packed itinerary that hits all the highlights with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers main sights like Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, Kotor, and Herceg Novi.
• Excellent value for money given the duration, stops, and included transportation.
• Expert guides provide engaging, multilingual commentary, enhancing the experience.
• Multiple stops allow for swimming, exploring, and relaxing, with enough time at each location.
• Onboard lunch offers a tasty meal with scenic views, but cash payments are required.
• Crowds at Blue Cave can be high, impacting the swimming experience for some.

A Close Look at the Boka Bay Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins early from five different pick-up options throughout Budva, including locations like Rafailovici, St. Stefan, and Slavija Bus Station. This flexibility means you can choose a convenient meeting point, which is a big plus in busy tourist areas.

Once onboard, you’ll spend about 110 minutes cruising along Montenegro’s stunning coast, with the opportunity to relax on the boat’s upper deck—often the best spot for panoramic photos and soaking up the sun. The boat’s size tends to be sufficient for comfort, and reviewers frequently mention how helpful and friendly the crew is, making it a pleasure to be on.

Zanjice Beach and the Blue Cave

The first stop takes you along the coastline to Zanjice Beach, a favorite among travelers for its crystal-clear waters and scenic backdrop. Many reviewers praise the swimming opportunities here, with one describing it as a “refreshing dip” in waters so clear you can see the bottom.

Following this, the Blue Cave visit lasts approximately 70 minutes, giving enough time to marvel at the glowing waters caused by the sunlight filtering through the cave’s opening. However, some reviewers mention the crowd levels here—if you’re after a quiet swim, it might be challenging due to the high number of boats competing for space. A reviewer from Hungary mentioned, “Too many boats in the Blue Cave in one time,” which is a common sentiment.

Mamula Island and Herceg Novi

Next, the cruise passes Mamula Island, a former military fortress turned hotel and restaurant, offering incredible photo opportunities. Many travelers find this spot striking, and it’s a great chance for photos or a quick exploration.

Then, the boat docks in Herceg Novi for about an hour of free time. Visitors usually enjoy strolling through the charming streets, with some noting the town’s less touristy atmosphere—a perfect break from busier spots like Kotor. One reviewer called it a “really charming” place to relax and soak in local life.

Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast

The highlight for many is the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island featuring a centuries-old church and museum. The $2 entry fee is quite reasonable considering the legend and history attached to this site. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, enough to explore the church, admire the architecture, and learn about local legends.

Subsequently, the cruise takes you past Perast, a picturesque town with stunning old buildings and calm waters. Many reviewers mention the beautiful scenery here, often noting how peaceful and authentic it feels.

Kotor Old Town

Finally, you arrive in Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With about an hour to explore, you can wander through its narrow streets, admire medieval architecture, and soak in the atmosphere. Reviewers consistently mention the beautiful squares and landmarks, and many find this a fitting end to a full day of discovery.

Return Journey

After the busy day of sightseeing, the return involves a bus ride back to Budva. While some find this part long, the chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy scenic views makes it worthwhile.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides round-trip bus transport, a licensed guide, and a boat cruise from Budva to Kotor and surrounding spots. This mix ensures you’re not only sightseeing but also traveling comfortably.

However, there are a few extras to keep in mind. Entry fees for Our Lady of the Rocks (€2) and the tourist tax for Kotor are not included, and the Blue Cave entry fee (€10) is paid in cash on-site. Lunch, while delicious and served with a view, is also paid separately (cash only), with vegetarian or vegan options available if you specify in advance. Drinks are available for purchase onboard, often at very reasonable prices, with some reviews praising the quality of Montenegrin wines and beers.

Timing and Pacing

The 9-hour duration makes for a full day, but the itinerary is well-paced. Each stop offers enough time for exploration, swimming, or relaxing. Reviewers frequently mention how “there was enough time in each stop,” but some have expressed a desire for slightly longer at Blue Cave to beat the crowds.

Guides and Language

The tour guides are notably knowledgeable, providing details about the history, legends, and geography of Montenegro. Guides speak English, Russian, and Montenegrin, making the trip accessible to a wide range of travelers. Many reviews praise guides like Sasha for being informative, friendly, and engaging.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

Pack your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes—especially if you plan to swim in the Blue Cave or Zanjice Beach. Be aware that food and drinks on the boat are cash only, so carry enough euros or local currency.

If you’re a non-swimmer or have mobility issues, this trip might not be suitable, as it involves some walking and swimming in open water. Also, crowds at the Blue Cave can be intense, so manage expectations if you’re after a tranquil experience there.

The tour operates in English, Russian, and Montenegrin, and starting times vary depending on the booked option. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot on the boat, especially on the top deck.

Authentic Experiences from Fellow Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly staff and delicious onboard meals—many praise the fish options and the value for money. Comments like “tasty fish on board” and “reasonable prices for drinks” reflect the quality of hospitality. The knowledgeable guides add another layer of richness, with many travelers noting how much they learned about Montenegro’s history and legends.

The scenery is a common highlight—stunning coastlines, charming towns, and the fascinating Blue Cave. Several reviews mention the peaceful boat ride as a serene way to see Montenegro’s coastline, with a few noting that the guided commentary made each stop even more meaningful.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re seeking a full-day adventure that combines scenic boat rides, cultural highlights, and relaxing beach stops, then this cruise offers an excellent way to see the best of Boka Bay. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience that covers multiple attractions without needing to organize transport or entry tickets themselves.

The value for money is notable, especially considering the variety of stops and the expert guides’ insights. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic local sites like Our Lady of the Rocks and enjoy beautiful maritime scenery.

However, it’s important to be comfortable with a busy schedule, crowds at the Blue Cave, and paying some expenses in cash. If you prefer more relaxed, less crowded experiences, you might want to consider visiting some of these sights independently or at quieter times.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip bus transport is included, starting and ending at specified locations in Budva.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise itself lasts about 110 minutes per leg, with additional stops and sightseeing, totaling approximately 9 hours.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Zanjice Beach, Blue Cave, Herceg Novi, Our Lady of the Rocks, Perast, and Kotor Old Town.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees?
Yes, entry to Our Lady of the Rocks costs about €2, and the Blue Cave entry fee is €10, paid in cash.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is purchased on board at reasonable prices. You can choose fish or meat, and vegetarian options are available if booked in advance.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is possible at Zanjice Beach and in the Blue Cave, though crowds may limit the experience at the cave.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, towels, beachwear, a change of clothes, and cash for extra expenses.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues, as swimming and walking are involved.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English, Russian, and Montenegrin.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary might be adjusted based on weather conditions, but the tour generally proceeds unless safety is compromised.

In summary, this Day Cruise to Boka Bay from Budva offers a well-organized, immersive way to experience Montenegro’s coast. With its mixture of scenic boat rides, historic sites, and relaxing stops, it provides a memorable day for those eager to explore while enjoying the comforts of guided travel. Perfect for adventure lovers, culture seekers, and anyone wanting to see Montenegro’s spectacular coastline in one go.