Tivat/Kotor: Boka Bay Full-Day Guided Cruise with Swim Stop

Tivat/Kotor: Boka Bay Full-Day Guided Cruise with Swim Stop — An Honest Review

Imagine sailing on a beautifully maintained three-deck wooden ship, gliding past rugged cliffs, shimmering water, and historic towns. That’s what this Boka Bay Full-Day Guided Cruise promises — and mostly delivers. The trip from Tivat or Kotor offers a chance to see some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights, enjoy a swim in clear waters, and learn about the region from friendly, knowledgeable guides.

One of our favorite aspects? The well-balanced itinerary that combines sightseeing, swimming, and relaxed beach time — all aboard a comfortable vessel with plenty of amenities. But, as with all tours, there are some considerations to keep in mind, like potential crowds at popular stops such as the Blue Cave and the limited time in some locations.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, want a rundown of the Bay of Kotor, and appreciate a mix of cultural sites and natural beauty. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the combination of scenic views, interesting stops, and the ease of a guided trip makes it a compelling choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable and well-equipped boat with sunbeds, bar, restaurant, showers, and toilets for all-day comfort
• Diverse itinerary including Our Lady of the Rocks, Miriste Lagoon, Blue Cave, and Herceg Novi
• Expert guides providing insightful commentary in English, Russian, and Serbian
• Ideal for relaxation, sightseeing, and swimming in some of Montenegro’s most beautiful waters
• Good value for the price, considering the full day of activities, sightseeing, and amenities
• Potential busy spots like the Blue Cave could feel crowded, with limited swimming time

Setting the Scene: What the Experience Looks Like

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with options to meet at Tivat or Kotor, depending on your booking. The boat itself is a highlight — a sturdy, three-deck wooden vessel that exudes maritime charm but is also fitted with modern amenities. If you’re a sun lover, you’ll appreciate the ample sunbathing areas, while those seeking shade can find refuge in the covered sections.

The narrated journey begins with a scenic cruise from either Tivat or Kotor, with the first major stop at the tiny island of Our Lady of the Rocks. Here, a brief guided tour takes you inside the church, showcasing a treasured icon from the 15th century. Reviewers like Jane highlighted the “delicious meal” and excellent service on board, which make the long day more enjoyable.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and First Stop: Our Lady of the Rocks

After boarding, your journey starts with a short cruise to the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks. The island is famous not just for its church but also for its fascinating history of local fishermen collecting rocks to build their sanctuary. Inside, you’ll see the iconic icon of the Virgin Mary, which is highly revered by local sailors.

A guide accompanies visitors on a 30-minute visit, splitting groups for language preferences. Reviewers like Helen appreciated the “beautiful stops” and the opportunity to explore a site with a sense of local tradition.

Mamula Island: A Photo Opportunity

Next, you’ll pass by Mamula Island, with a quick 5-minute sightseeing stop. The island’s fortress architecture is intriguing, although the stop is brief. It’s a great chance to snap some photos of this mysterious fortress that looms in the bay.

Swimming and the Blue Cave

The highlight for many is the swimming stop at Miriste Lagoon, with about 75 minutes allocated. The water here is consistently rated as clear and inviting, perfect for a dip. The Blue Cave nearby is an optional visit, known for its vibrant blue-green hues. However, reviewers like Richard pointed out that the Blue Cave visit can be crowded, with only about 15 minutes in the water, which some found rushed.

A notable insight from reviews: the water in the Blue Cave can smell of petrol, and due to the deep tides, some swimmers opt to bring inflatables or floats for safety and comfort. The boat has only one ladder off one side, which can cause some chaos during the swim, especially if the group is large or impatient.

Herceg Novi: A Town to Explore

After swimming, the tour heads to Herceg Novi, where you get roughly an hour to walk around the old town and see three key fortresses: Forte Mare, Kanli Kula, and Panjola. The reviews suggest this is a good opportunity to stretch your legs and take in some local culture. Some visitors, like Heather, wished for longer in Herceg Novi, hinting that an extended stop might make the visit even more worthwhile.

Scenic Views and Final Stops

On the way back, the boat passes St. Mark’s Island and offers more panoramic views of the coastline, perfect for photos. The journey concludes with a relaxed cruise back to Tivat or Kotor, passing Porto Montenegro, Montenegro’s luxurious mega-yacht port.

The Onboard Experience & Amenities

Passengers consistently praise the comfortable, fully equipped ship. The ship’s amenities make the long day manageable — from toilets and showers to shaded areas and sunbeds. The bar and restaurant serve reasonably priced food and drinks, which reviewers like Jane found “delicious and reasonably priced,” adding to the overall value.

A key point from multiple reviews: the staff and guides are friendly, well-informed, and attentive. Achini called the guide “especially knowledgeable,” making the experience more engaging with interesting commentary and local insights.

Food & Drinks

While the tour includes a meal, some reviewers noted that the menu options are limited and recommend bringing snacks. The drinks are generally affordable, and the service is quick and friendly.

Timing & Practical Tips

The full-day trip lasts between 8 to 9 hours, depending on weather and group pace. Starting times vary, so check availability when booking. The tour departs from two potential meeting points—Pine or Park Slobode—offering flexibility, but confirm your pick-up location beforehand.

Travelers coming by car should note that parking in Kotor can be time-consuming, especially during peak hours. The trip from Tivat is smoother, as the transfer is straightforward and less congested.

Remember to bring:

• Comfortable shoes for walking around Herceg Novi
• Swimwear and towels for swimming stops
• Sunscreen and hats for sun protection
• A camera to capture the stunning views
• Cash for optional entry fees and additional snacks

Authentic Feedback from Other Travelers

Several reviews emphasize the tour’s value and the high quality of guides and staff. Jane described the boat as “very comfortable,” with “plenty of shaded areas and sunbeds,” and appreciated the “brilliant itinerary” with the optional Blue Cave swim. Edward praised the “delicious meal” and the “accommodating crew,” while Brigita called the staff “perfect and very friendly.”

However, some points of caution also surfaced. Heather noted that the Blue Cave stop could be rushed, and Emma mentioned that the ladders for swimming can be a safety concern. Richard highlighted the crowded Blue Cave and the short swimming window, which might impact those seeking a more relaxed experience.

The majority of reviews echo that this trip offers excellent value for money, with many travelers feeling it was a highlight of their Montenegro visit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who enjoy sea scenery, cultural sights, and a relaxed pace. It suits those who want a rundown of the Bay of Kotor without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

If you’re after good comfort, friendly guides, and beautiful stops, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also well-suited for families or groups who want to combine sightseeing with some fun swimming. If you’re prone to crowds or are seeking a very quiet, unhurried experience, be prepared for busy spots like the Blue Cave.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Tour for You?

This full-day cruise covers a wide range of Montenegro’s highlights in one smooth, enjoyable package. The well-maintained boat, expert guides, and diverse stops make it a fantastic way to see the Bay of Kotor without the stress of logistics.

For those who love water activities, scenic towns, and cultural sites, this cruise offers a balanced blend of all. It’s especially appealing for travelers who appreciate good value, friendly service, and a relaxed exploration of the coastline.

While the Blue Cave can be crowded and the swimming time limited, the overall experience remains a strong choice for anyone wanting to get a taste of Montenegro’s stunning maritime scenery in comfort and style.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the meeting points?
Transportation to the meeting points from Tivat or Kotor is not included, but the tour offers a pickup option from Tivat, which many find convenient. If you choose to drive, be aware of potential traffic and parking delays in Kotor.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking around Herceg Novi, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and cash for optional fees or snacks. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended for sun protection.

Can I swim at the Blue Cave?
Yes, swimming in the Blue Cave is optional, but it’s usually limited to about 15 minutes. The water can smell of petrol, and the area can be crowded, so some travelers prefer swimming at Miriste Lagoon instead.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a meal onboard, which reviewers found delicious and reasonably priced. However, the menu options are limited, so bringing extra snacks is a good idea.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

How long is the entire trip?
Expect the tour to last around 8 to 9 hours, with the itinerary carefully structured to maximize sightseeing and relaxation.

What is the group size?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, the boat’s capacity and the review comments suggest a comfortably sized group, not overly crowded.

What is the best time of year to take this cruise?
The tour operates seasonally, and weather conditions like wind can affect stops, especially the Blue Cave. Check availability for your preferred dates.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for last-minute changes.

This guided cruise offers a balanced, scenic, and culturally enriching experience. It combines comfort, stunning views, and varied stops, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting to explore Montenegro’s breathtaking coast without the hassle. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this trip delivers genuine value and plenty of memorable moments.