Deluxe excursion from Budva: Blue Cave tour

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of Montenegro’s coast, your boat slicing through the waves, heading towards one of the most Instagram-worthy sights—the Blue Cave. This 3-hour excursion, offered by DOO MONTENEGRO CRUISING, promises a blend of scenic beauty, unique natural formations, and fun swimming opportunities, all while experiencing the coast’s highlights in style and comfort. Since 1981, this tour has been delighting travelers, and its strong ratings (a solid 4.6 out of 5 from 36 reviews) speak volumes about its popularity and consistent quality.

What really makes this tour stand out is the direct visit to the Blue Cave—a feature not always guaranteed on other boat trips. The speed boat adds a sense of adventure and speed, making the journey feel dynamic rather than just a leisurely cruise. Our favorite aspect? The excellent guides, often praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and safety-conscious approach, which makes the experience accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

That said, one aspect to consider is the price point—at $73 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, but many reviewers feel the value is justified, especially given the inclusion of guide service and the exclusive access to the Blue Cave. This tour suits travelers looking for a compact, authentic, and visually stunning experience with some swimming breaks, but it may be less suitable for very young children, wheelchair users, or older travelers over 70.

Key Points

• Direct access to the Blue Cave makes this tour particularly special.
• The speed boat adds excitement and quick access to multiple scenic spots.
• Experienced guides ensure safety and enrich the experience with local knowledge.
• Several stops like St. Nikole Church and Trsteno Beach offer diverse sights and swimming options.
• The tour is around 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.
• Price reflects the exclusive nature and guided experience, viewed as worthwhile by many travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Blue Cave Tour from Budva

Starting the Journey: From Budva’s Old Town to the Coast

The tour kicks off in Budva, one of Montenegro’s most vibrant seaside towns, with a quick departure past the historic walls and bustling streets of the Old Town. As the speed boat accelerates away from the marina, you’ll enjoy a welcome drink, setting a relaxed tone for the adventure. We loved how the boat cruise offers a chance to see the famous Mogren Beach and the iconic ballerina statue from a different perspective—something many travelers find photo-worthy.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder

The main event, of course, is the visit to the Blue Cave, situated on the Lutica Peninsula in Boka Kotorska. This spot is widely regarded as one of Montenegro’s most beautiful natural features. The cave’s interior is famous for the way sunlight filtering through the water creates a glowing, almost otherworldly blue effect—an image many travelers seek to capture.

Travelers can expect roughly 20 minutes swimming inside the cave, an opportunity that many find unforgettable. The water here is typically crystal-clear, inviting you to take a dip and enjoy the cool refreshment after the boat ride. Several reviews mention that guides are attentive, ensuring everyone feels safe during the swim, and some even offer snorkeling masks, enhancing the underwater experience.

Scenic Stops Along the Coastline

After the Blue Cave, the boat sails towards the church of St. Nikole, perched on a cliff near Krimovica village. This is a sight only visible from the sea, and the short 20-minute stop provides a chance to admire the view and take photos. Some visitors mentioned that the view from here is breathtaking, with rugged cliffs and the shimmering sea below.

Next, the boat heads to Trsteno Beach, one of Montenegro’s most attractive sandy beaches, nestled between two capes. Here, you’ll get another 20-minute swimming break, perfect for relaxing in the turquoise waters or donning diving masks to explore beneath the surface. Reviewers appreciated the generous swimming time and the opportunity to snorkel with provided gear, making this a highlight for water lovers.

The Return Journey

After soaking up the sun at Trsteno Beach, the boat makes its way back past Ploe and Jaz beaches—famous for their beauty—before returning to Budva’s marina. Many reviews note that the return trip offers equally stunning coastal views, making the entire experience feel like a scenic voyage rather than just a series of stops.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $73 covers the speed boat, the guides on board, and the swimming stops. It does not include lunch, so if you’re hungry after the trip, plan to grab a bite onshore. The tour is suitable for travelers who enjoy water activities, scenic boat rides, and exploring natural sights.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel to maximize comfort.
• Be aware that alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the boat for safety reasons.
• Check the weather forecast—bad weather may cancel or modify the trip, especially the Blue Cave visit.
• This tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, wheelchair users, or those over 70, mainly due to boat safety and physical activity levels.

Authentic Experiences and Tour Quality

From the positive reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides play a big role in making this tour memorable. Travelers consistently mention guides like “friendly” and “accurate,” emphasizing their professionalism and safety consciousness. The small group size and new, well-equipped boat also contribute to a comfortable experience.

Many reviewers note the superior quality of swimming and snorkeling opportunities, with some describing the water as “beautiful” and “crystal clear,” making the stops at Trsteno Beach and inside the Blue Cave particularly enjoyable.

Genuine Feedback and Tips

One reviewer from the Netherlands appreciated the “delightful boat ride” and the “fantastic weather,” which combined to make the trip even more special. Another from Israel pointed out the professionalism and courteousness of the guides, which helped build confidence during the swim stops.

Some travelers did mention that the price might be a little steep for the duration, but most agree that the quality of the boat, guides, and exclusive Blue Cave visit justify the expense.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Blue Cave excursion from Budva offers a well-rounded, scenic, and adventure-filled experience perfect for those who want a quick but memorable taste of Montenegro’s coast. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, water-based activities, and guided tours led by knowledgeable professionals. The direct access to the Blue Cave and the opportunity to swim in pristine waters are major draws, making it a worthwhile outing if you’re after something both fun and visually stunning.

If you’re traveling with children over 5, don’t mind the price, and enjoy scenic boat rides with multiple stops, this tour could become a highlight of your Montenegro trip. Conversely, if you’re looking for a more relaxed or longer experience, or are concerned about accessibility, you might want to explore other options.

This tour offers excellent value for the quality and uniqueness of sights visited, with many travelers leaving with unforgettable memories of Montenegro’s coast. For anyone eager to see the Blue Cave and explore the coastline in style, it’s a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Cave tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 5 years old can participate, but younger children or those with mobility issues may find it less suitable due to boat safety and swim stops.

How long is the overall tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including all stops and travel time.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to plan to eat before or after the trip.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Russian, English, and Serbian, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps some water-proof sunscreen. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The captain assesses safety and may cancel or alter the trip if the weather conditions are unsafe for sailing to the Blue Cave.

Can I snorkel during the stops?
Yes, snorkeling masks are provided, and many reviewers enjoyed exploring underwater during the swimming breaks.

Is the boat comfortable and well-equipped?
Travelers describe the boat as new, pleasant, and well-equipped, adding to the comfort of the experience.

How many people are usually on the boat?
The tour is designed for small groups, which many reviews say enhances the overall experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The direct visit to the Blue Cave and the professional guides are often highlighted as key advantages, providing a safe, scenic, and memorable trip.

This Blue Cave tour from Budva strikes a fine balance between adventure and comfort, offering travelers a chance to see one of Montenegro’s most stunning natural sights while enjoying a well-organized, guided boat trip. Whether you’re seeking memorable swims, breathtaking scenery, or just a fun day on the water, this excursion delivers on many counts.