From Tivat/Kotor: Whole Boka Bay Guided Cruise, Comfortable Ship

Discovering Boka Bay on a Comfortable Ship: An Honest Review of the Whole Boka Bay Guided Cruise

If you’re eyeing a way to see some of Montenegro’s most beautiful coastal sights without the hassle of multiple bookings, the Whole Boka Bay Guided Cruise is worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what you can expect: a relaxing day on a well-equipped ship, with plenty of opportunities to explore, swim, and enjoy the scenery.

What really stands out is the value of this experience—covering a full day’s worth of sites for a reasonable price—and the knowledgeable guides that bring the story of each stop to life. Plus, the ship’s amenities, like sunbeds, showers, and a bar, make it a comfortable way to spend a leisurely day.

Of course, there’s a small caveat: some might find the itinerary slightly rushed, especially if you want to spend more time exploring each location. Also, the Blue Cave tour isn’t included in the base price and costs extra, so keep that in mind if it’s a must-see. This cruise suits travelers who want a laid-back, scenic day with a good mix of sightseeing and swimming — and who appreciate having a knowledgeable guide along the way.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Comfortable ship with amenities like sunbeds, showers, and a bar make the experience relaxing.
• Multiple stops including Our Lady of the Rocks, Blue Cave, and Herceg Novi provide a well-rounded taste of Boka Bay.
• Knowledgeable guides help bring the local stories and history to life.
• The price point offers good value, especially considering the full-day duration.
• The tour is suitable for those who enjoy scenic cruising, swimming, and light exploration.
• Not included: the Blue Cave visit costs extra, and there’s no included lunch, so plan for additional costs or bring snacks.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Departure and Overall Setting

Starting from Tivat or Kotor, this cruise kicks off early in the morning—09:00 from Tivat and 10:30 from Kotor—which is perfect if you want your day to be packed but not rushed. The boat itself is described as a three-deck ship, equipped with everything you’d want for a comfortable cruise: bar, restaurant, sunbeds, showers, and toilets. It’s a good setup for relaxing between stops, and the atmosphere is laid-back, making it ideal for travelers who prefer smooth, hassle-free sightseeing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Kotor and Panoramic Views of Perast
Your day starts with a quick stop in Kotor, a city famous for its impressive medieval walls and harbor views. The guide often takes you to see the panoramic outlook of Perast, a charming old town that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. This quick glimpse offers a perfect photo opportunity and sets the tone for a day full of scenic beauty.

Our Lady of the Rocks
Next, the boat reaches Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island that’s hard to miss with its striking church and votive offerings museum. The church houses a revered icon of the Virgin Mary from the 15th century. For just a 2-euro fee, you can visit the museum—a sweet touch for those interested in local traditions and religious art. The visit takes about 35 minutes, enough to appreciate the island’s charm without feeling rushed.

Swim and Relax at Miriste Cove
One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the swim at Miriste Lagoon. Known for its crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing dip. The stop lasts around 70 minutes, giving you time to swim, sunbathe, or just relax in an almost open-sea environment. The water’s transparency is often praised, making it a favorite for those who enjoy swimming in pristine conditions.

The Blue Cave
The Blue Cave is one of the most talked-about sights on this trip. The play of light on the limestone creates a surreal, almost magical atmosphere. The boat passes by the fishing village of Rose, adding a touch of local life to the journey. Visiting the Blue Cave isn’t included in the base price, costing around 10 euros extra, but many say it’s worth the small added expense for the stunning display of colors and natural beauty. Expect about an hour here, including time to marvel at the shimmering blue waters.

Island and Fortress Mamula
Further along, the ship approaches the fortress Mamula, an intriguing landmark with a unique architecture that hints at Montenegro’s military past. It’s a bit of a mysterious stop, perfect for those interested in history or striking landscapes. You also get a view of Cape Arza and its fortress, part of Montenegro’s historic defenses.

Herceg Novi and Old Town Walk
The final stop is Herceg Novi, often called the “city of rocks and mimosas.” Here, you’ll see three historic fortresses—Forte Mare, Kanli Kula, and Panjola—and have about an hour to walk through the Old Town. This is a chance to soak in local atmosphere, explore narrow streets, and take some photos of the port area, including the impressive Porto Montenegro.

The Return Journey

After exploring Herceg Novi, the ship heads back toward Tivat, passing by the largest port for mega-yachts in southern Europe—a reminder of Montenegro’s modern, luxurious side. From here, a taxi or tourist bus will take you back to Kotor if needed, which is an organized and convenient way to finish the day.

The Experience on the Ship

The ship’s amenities really add to the overall comfort. The sunbeds are great for lounging, and the showers and toilets mean you can stay fresh after swimming. The licensed guide onboard provides context and stories about each location, which enhances the sightseeing—more than just passing by scenic spots, you get a little bit of local insight.

Some reviews highlight the delicious food and tapas on board, adding a tasty element to what might otherwise be a purely visual trip. The atmosphere seems relaxed, with plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the views.

The Price and Value

At around $40.33 per person, this cruise offers a lot of value for a full-day experience. The inclusions—like the guided commentary, swimming stops, and scenic passages—are all part of what makes it a practical choice for many travelers. Keep in mind, the Blue Cave tour is extra, but many consider it a worthwhile addition.

Considerations Based on Reviews

While most comments praise the well-organized nature and friendly guides, some mention that the lunch options could be improved. If food is a big priority, you might want to bring snacks or plan for additional meals. Also, expect the Blue Cave visit to cost extra—if that’s a major highlight, factor in the additional expense.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for relaxed travelers who want to see multiple sights without the hassle of arranging separate visits. It’s perfect if you’re interested in swimming in clear waters, exploring charming coastal towns, and learning about Montenegro’s landmarks through a knowledgeable guide. It’s also suitable for those who prefer comfort and convenience—the ship’s amenities and organized stops make it a stress-free way to explore.

If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer more personalized experiences, you might find the group size (up to 180) a bit large, but generally, the atmosphere is casual and friendly.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Whole Boka Bay Guided Cruise offers solid value—a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing aboard a comfortable ship. The stops at iconic locations like Our Lady of the Rocks, Miriste lagoon, Blue Cave, and Herceg Novi give a well-rounded taste of the bay’s highlights.

The combination of scenic views, informative guides, and amenities onboard makes it a smart choice for travelers who want to kick back and enjoy Montenegro’s stunning coastline without overexerting themselves. While it’s not a tour for those seeking an exclusive or ultra-personal experience, it’s a reliable, enjoyable way to see some of the area’s most photogenic spots.

If you don’t mind a bit of a busy day and appreciate the convenience of a guided trip, this cruise is likely to meet your expectations—and maybe even surprise you with how much you get to see and do in just one day.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave tour included in the price?
No, visiting the Blue Cave costs extra—about 10 euros. The cruise guide will inform you about this additional fee, and many find the visit worth the expense for the stunning light effects inside.

How long do stops last?
Most stops are around 35 minutes to an hour, giving you enough time to explore, swim, or take photos without feeling rushed.

What amenities are available on the ship?
The ship has bar facilities, restaurant options, sunbeds, showers, and toilets. These features make the day more comfortable, especially after swimming or if you want to relax.

What’s the price for this tour?
It costs approximately $40.33 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the full-day itinerary and included guiding.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.

Is it suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Most of the stops involve walking or swimming, so it might not be ideal for everyone with mobility challenges. The tour is primarily outdoors and involves some walking in town.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 180 travelers, so expect a lively, social environment but still plenty of space to relax.

This cruise offers a practical and scenic way to enjoy Montenegro’s coast—great for those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and laid-back comfort. Keep your camera ready, bring some snacks, and enjoy the stunning views of Boka Bay.