Kotor is one of those places where the water, mountains, and history come together to create an ideal setting for sailing. The Boka Bay, with its dramatic cliffs and charming coastal towns, is a natural playground for boat lovers. We’ve picked two standout sailing tours that showcase this stunning area: one offers a personalized, private experience, while the other provides a full-day group cruise. Both deliver memorable views, swimming stops, and insights into local sights—but each has its own style and appeal.
If you’re after a tailored experience with plenty of flexibility, the Kotor Bay Sailing Tour from Kotor is hard to beat. On the other hand, for a relaxed, all-in-one day out with a larger group and on-water swimming, the Full Day Sailing Boat Tour of Boka Bay offers great value. Let’s dive into what makes each of these tours special.
1. Kotor Bay Sailing Tour from Kotor
This private full-day sailing tour in Kotor Bay is perfect for those who want a personalized journey. Starting in Kotor, your own captain will take you around the bay, including visits to iconic spots like Our Lady of the Rocks and Saint George island. This tour emphasizes flexibility—your itinerary can be customized to suit your interests, whether that’s more time at certain islands, swimming stops, or just soaking up the scenery.
The highlight is exploring the coastline of Boka Bay, a stretch famous for its rugged beauty and hidden coves. You’ll get to swim in the clear waters of the bay and visit key landmarks like Perast, a charming town full of noble palaces and churches. The visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island built by local fishermen over centuries, is a cultural must-see. The boat is yours for about 8 hours, and the experience is very much tailored to what you want.
This tour is also a chance to learn from a captain who knows the area well, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy in-depth local stories and a more intimate setting. The cost is $1,020.31 per person, but the flexibility and personal touch often make this a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a customized, private experience with the chance to swim, explore islands, and learn about local history, this tour hits all the marks.
2. Full Day Sailing Boat Tour of Boka Bay
This full-day group sailing cruise offers a relaxed way to see the Bay of Kotor without the hassle of planning. With up to 10 people on board, it combines comfort, scenery, and socializing. The tour runs from about 10 am to 6 pm, giving plenty of time to soak in the views and enjoy swimming in the Blue Cave, a highlight of the trip.
During the day, the captain takes you around the bay to visit Perast, a town known for its elegant palaces and historical charm. You’ll also cruise past towns like Tivat, Luštica, and Herceg Novi, enjoying the scenery from the water. The tour includes stops for swimming and free time to explore or relax on deck, plus refreshments on board. The Blue Cave stop is a favorite for cool swims and photos.
The tour is highly rated for its leisurely pace and knowledgeable captain, with one reviewer noting, “the tour is a full day at a leisurely pace with plenty of history and scenic stops.” At $1,143.76 for a group, it’s a good investment if you want a social, laid-back experience with all the highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups or couples wanting a laid-back day on the water with swimming stops, scenic cruising, and a friendly crew.
How to Choose Between These Sailing Tours
Choosing between a private, customizable trip (Kotor Bay Sailing Tour from Kotor) and a group cruise (Full Day Sailing Boat Tour of Boka Bay) depends on your travel style. If you love a tailored experience, personal attention, and the flexibility to focus on specific islands or activities, the private tour is worth the splurge.
However, if you prefer a relaxed, social atmosphere with a fixed itinerary that covers all major sights in one go, the group cruise offers excellent value. Both tours are roughly 8 hours, so consider your budget and how much personal interaction you want with the crew.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, since these popular tours fill up quickly. Think about what kind of experience will make your trip to Kotor memorable—an exclusive, customized adventure or a friendly, shared day on the water.
To sum it up, both options bring something special to the table. The private sail offers intimacy and flexibility, perfect for romantic trips or small groups wanting a bespoke experience. The full-day group cruise is perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those who enjoy meeting new people while exploring the stunning coastline. Either way, a day on the water in Kotor will give you a different perspective of this beautiful bay—one that’s hard to forget.
So, whether you choose a personalized sailing adventure or a lively group cruise, be sure to book early. The views, swimming spots, and local stories will stay with you long after you leave the coast.