From Budva/Kotor: Boat Trip to Blue Cave, Kotor and More

Traveling along Montenegro’s coast offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Mediterranean, and this boat tour from Budva or Kotor promises a well-rounded experience with plenty of highlights. With over 10 years of experience behind this company, Atlantix Travel has crafted an itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and delicious food—all aboard a comfortable vessel.

What really stands out about this tour is the variety of stops—from hidden beaches and sea caves to historical towns—giving you a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. The guide’s knowledge is another highlight, with reviews praising their stories and insights that add depth to the journey.

The main consideration? The tour is quite full and can be a bit long for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or are less comfortable on boats. Also, some stops, like the Blue Cave, involve switching to smaller boats—something to keep in mind if you’re prone to seasickness or traveling with non-swimmers.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love a combination of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and good value—a full day packed with stunning views and memorable moments in Montenegro’s coast.

Key Points

• Experienced guides offer engaging and informative commentary throughout the day.
• Scenic boat rides provide exceptional views of Montenegro’s coastline and bays.
• Multiple stops including beaches, caves, and historic towns give a well-balanced trip.
• Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, with delicious options and reasonable prices.
• The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues.
• The value for money is high, with many reviewers highlighting the quality of the sights and service at the price point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Montenegro Coastal Experience

If you’re considering a full-day adventure along Montenegro’s coast, this boat tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, history, and local flavor. The tour is designed to hit the main highlights while giving you enough time to relax and take in the scenery, making it perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive taste of Boka Bay.

Starting Point and Itinerary Flexibility

Depending on whether you choose the pick-up option, you’ll be collected from a central location in Budva, with convenient drop-offs afterward. Alternatively, there’s also an option to start directly from Kotor, with the tour ending back in Budva—offering flexibility for your travel plans.

The full itinerary spans about 9 hours, packed with stops and cruising segments. The sequence might change depending on weather or sea conditions, but the core sites remain the same. This flexibility is practical, especially if you’re visiting during variable weather.

The Scenic Boat Ride & Coastal Views

As you depart from Budva, you’ll cruise past Jaz and Ploce beaches—perfect for snapping photos and enjoying the sea breeze. The boat’s capacity and comfort are praised in reviews, with many travelers noting the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. You’ll love the way the boat glides past rugged cliffs, small islands, and shimmering bays, setting the tone for a day of scenic exploration.

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave. It’s a brief but unforgettable experience—visiting this luminous sea cave involves a small boat transfer, and only the strongest swimmers can venture inside, according to some reviews. The cave’s glowing blue waters are truly something to see, and the boat crew’s coordination makes the process smooth.

Beach Visits and Swimming Stops

The tour includes multiple beaches, like Zanjice Beach, where you’re encouraged to swim in the clear waters or just relax on the sand. Some guests, like Andreea, mentioned that the rides to the swimming stops can be a bit rough, especially for those prone to seasickness. It’s worth preparing with seasickness remedies if needed.

The opportunity to swim in open water is a big draw for many travelers, though some found the vessel not quite as modern or equipped as they expected—no life jackets on the boat, for example. Still, the reviews indicate the crew is attentive, and the experience remains enjoyable, especially if you value authentic, less-commercialized trips.

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Visiting the Blue Cave

The Blue Cave stop is perhaps the most talked-about part of this tour. You’ll switch to a smaller boat to access it, which can be a bit rushed due to limited space, but many found it worth the effort. The cave’s striking blue waters and the play of sunlight make it a standout sight. Note that there’s an entrance fee (around $10) payable in cash, and the cave visit is limited to about 70 minutes.

Herceg Novi and Our Lady of the Rocks

Next, the boat heads towards Herceg Novi, where you’ll have about an hour to explore or relax. The reviews mention enjoying the local atmosphere and the chance to swim or simply soak up the ambience. The optional lunch on board is well-received, with options including fish, meat, or vegetarian dishes—delicious, freshly prepared, and reasonably priced.

The visit to Our Lady of the Rocks offers a glimpse into local maritime legend and a chance to explore the small museum and church. Although you don’t need to book in advance, the 30-minute free time here is enough to get a sense of the island’s charm.

Exploring Kotor’s Old Town

The final stop is the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor. With about an hour to wander, you can stroll its narrow streets, admire medieval architecture, and take in views of the fortress walls. Reviews highlight that the free time is well-spent, and many recommend climbing the fortress for panoramic views.

The boat cruise back to Kotor offers more stunning vistas, and the entire experience wraps up with a comfortable bus ride back to Budva. The journey is well-organized, and the scenery from the bus is a fitting end to a day full of memorable sights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the itinerary, it’s the attention to detail that impresses. The guides’ knowledge, often praised as engaging and informative, adds significant value. They share stories and facts about Montenegro’s history and culture, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Many reviewers also appreciate the high quality of service—friendly crew, smooth organization, and a relaxed atmosphere. The food, especially the options for lunch, received particular praise for being delicious and made with care.

Pricing at $70 per person offers excellent value considering the number of locations visited, the quality of views, and included features like the Blue Cave visit and the free time to explore towns. Though some extras, like entrance fees and food, are paid separately, most travelers find the overall cost justified.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy boat rides and exploring multiple sites in one day. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic views, historical sites, and a good balance of activity and relaxation. Given the boat’s setup, it’s not designed for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues, and the seas can be a bit choppy.

Families with older children or teenagers tend to enjoy the mix of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural visits. Solo travelers and groups find it a convenient, organized way to see Montenegro’s coast without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

Final Thoughts

This 9-hour boat tour from Budva or Kotor offers an authentic, value-packed way to experience Montenegro’s stunning coastline. The combination of scenic cruising, unique stops like the Blue Cave, and visits to charming towns makes it a comprehensive day out. The knowledgeable guides, delicious onboard lunch, and breathtaking views elevate the experience, ensuring you leave with plenty of memorable moments.

While it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those needing wheelchair access, most travelers who enjoy a full-day adventure on the water will find this tour to be a highlight of their Montenegro trip. It’s perfect for those seeking a balance of natural beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of seaside fun—all at a reasonable price.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The full day lasts approximately 9 hours, including cruising, stops, and free time at various sites.

Is food included in the price?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase on board, with options like fish or meat menus, and vegetarian choices must be requested in advance.

Are entry fees included?
No, the Blue Cave entrance fee ($10) and Our Lady of the Rocks museum entry ($2) are paid separately in cash.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for extras. Baby food is the only food you can bring onboard.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Not really—swimming stops are part of the experience, and non-swimmers should be aware they might not be able to access certain parts like the Blue Cave.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English, Russian, and optionally in Montenegrin and Italian.

Can I join without a pickup?
Yes, you can board directly in Kotor or meet at designated points. The tour offers a flexible start depending on your preference.

Is the boat modern and safe?
The reviews suggest the vessel is comfortable, though not necessarily the most modern. Safety equipment like life jackets isn’t always present on the main boat, but crew are attentive.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be modified, and in some cases, the route might involve a bus ride from Budva to Kotor and a different sequence of stops. The tour is weather-dependent for safety reasons.

In brief, this boat tour offers a fantastic mix of Montenegro’s scenic coastlines, historic sites, and unique sea caves—all in a well-organized, reasonably priced package. Perfect for travelers eager to see the best of Boka Bay without fuss but with plenty of memorable moments.

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