Montenegro with Boat cruise in Kotor Bay

If you’re considering a day trip from Dubrovnik to explore Montenegro, this tour is one you’ll want to know about. While I haven’t personally taken it, I’ve read through the reviews, itinerary details, and all the info available to help you decide if it’s the right fit. This kind of trip offers a nice mix: a blend of scenic views, historic towns, and a boat cruise that promises a fresh perspective on the coast.

What really stands out about this experience are a few key things: the opportunity to visit two UNESCO-listed towns in one day and the breathtaking boat cruise around Kotor Bay. Both give you that perfect snapshot of Montenegro’s charm without the need to stay overnight, which can be a real bonus if your schedule is tight. On the flip side, a potential drawback is how long the day can be—around 10 hours—so it’s not for everyone, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with small children.

That said, this tour seems well-suited for travelers who enjoy a packed day of sightseeing, love history and scenic views, and want to get a taste of Montenegro’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or logistics. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or part of a small group, it looks like a solid way to see some of the Adriatic’s most stunning spots.

Key Points

• Ideal for those who love scenic boat rides and want a unique perspective of Kotor Bay.
• Includes visits to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, Kotor and Perast, offering a mix of history, architecture, and local charm.
• A full-day experience—expect around 10 hours—so it’s best for travelers ready for a long, engaging day.
• Guides and transportation are generally praised, providing comfort and insightful commentary.
• Cost-effective at around $70 per person, especially considering the boat cruise and guided tours.
• Border crossing and timing can add delays, so patience is key.

A Detailed Look at the Montenegro & Kotor Bay Tour

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Border Crossings

The tour kicks off early at around 6:40 am, with pickup options available if you choose that. This early start is typical for full-day excursions, aiming to maximize your time in Montenegro. The journey from Dubrovnik involves crossing the border, which many reviews mention can sometimes take longer than expected—especially in high season. One traveler noted a 12-hour day with a delay at the border, mainly due to a busy main road. So, if you’re not a morning person or prefer a more relaxed start, this might feel a bit rushed.

Once across, you’ll be driven in an air-conditioned vehicle—something most travelers appreciate—while your guide shares some insight and context about what you’re seeing along the way. It’s a good chance to get a primer on Montenegro’s highlights before arriving at the first stop.

First Stop: The Bay of Kotor

The heart of this trip is the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most scenic spots along the Adriatic. You’ll have about 3 hours here to take in the views, explore the charming towns, or just relax by the water. Many reviews praise the stunning vistas and the chance to see the classic mountains framing the bay, with some describing the area as a “beautiful” and “stunning” place to visit.

You’ll also get a local guide during your time in Kotor. Their insights can really enhance your experience—they’ll explain the town’s history, highlight must-see spots, and give tips on where to eat or browse local shops. One reviewer mentioned that the guide was “very knowledgeable,” making the experience more meaningful.

The Boat Cruise: A Unique Perspective

The boat cruise around Kotor Bay is arguably the highlight of the trip. You’ll cruise for about 45 minutes, gliding along the water while enjoying panoramic views of the coast and mountains. As one traveler put it, “the boat ride was very enjoyable,” and it offers a different perspective than just walking around the towns. For many, this part of the tour is worth the price alone, as it provides photo opportunities and a peaceful way to see the bay’s natural beauty.

In case of bad weather, the boat ride may be replaced by a coach ride from Perast to Our Lady of the Rocks—a small island with a church and a museum, built on a man-made island. This flexibility helps ensure the tour can run even if weather conditions are tricky.

Exploring Perast: Baroque Charm and a Holy Island

Next, about 45 minutes are allocated for Perast, a tiny town packed with history and charm. Its Venetian architecture, ornate palaces, and Orthodox churches give it that timeless feel. Travelers often mention how pretty and peaceful it is, with one reviewer saying they loved “the charm and the many pretty cats around.”

A visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island topped with a church, is typically included. Many reviews describe it as “very interesting,” and it’s a chance to see a unique religious and cultural site. The stop in Perast allows you to wander at your own pace, grab a coffee, or snap some photos of the scenic harbor.

Returning to Dubrovnik

The trip back is about 4-5 hours, with the group returning to Dubrovnik in the evening. Some travelers noted delays at the border, which can extend the day. However, most are satisfied with the overall experience, especially with guides who keep things engaging and informative.

What Travelers Say

People generally consider this tour a great value for money, especially given the inclusion of the boat cruise and visits to UNESCO sites. Multiple reviews praise the guides, describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. One reviewer even called their guide “phenomenal,” highlighting the importance of good commentary and local insight.

The stunning scenery and quaint towns are a clear highlight, with many noting that Montenegro is “beautiful and worth seeing.” The boat cruise gets particular praise for its relaxing and scenic qualities, giving a different way to enjoy the bay.

However, some critiques focus on the long day—around 10 hours total—and the border crossings, which can be slow. One traveler felt there was “too little time at the rest stop,” mentioning it could be better balanced. If you prefer a less packed schedule or are traveling with small children, this might feel a bit intense.

Price and Value

At around $70, this tour offers a lot. You get transportation, a guided experience, and a boat cruise, making it a decent deal for what’s included. If you value seeing multiple sites in one day without the hassle of planning logistics yourself, it’s a cost-effective option.

Practical Tips

• Bring your passport and check visa requirements beforehand, as border crossing is involved.
• Dress comfortably—expect a full day out and some walking.
• Prepare for a long day, especially if you’re not a morning person.
• Keep an eye on the weather—bad weather might mean a change in the boat cruise or delays.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic views, cultural sights, and small-group comfort. It’s perfect if you want to see Montenegro’s highlights without planning multiple trips or overnight stays. It’s also good for those comfortable with a full day of travel and sightseeing—especially if you’re okay with the potential border delays.

If your goal is to relax at a slower pace or travel with very young children, you might find the long day a bit tiring. However, if you’re eager to get a quick but comprehensive taste of Montenegro’s coastal beauty and history, this tour fits the bill.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, along with hotel pickup and drop-off if selected. If not, you’ll need to meet at the central point in front of Pile Gate.

What is the duration of the tour?
The whole experience is about 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Food and drinks are not included, nor are fees for visiting specific sites. You should also bring your passport and check visa requirements for Montenegro.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

What’s the quality of the guides?
Most reviews mention guides positively, describing them as knowledgeable and friendly, which adds value to the experience.

Is the boat cruise weather-dependent?
Yes, the boat ride may be replaced if weather conditions are poor, but the full tour will still run with an alternative route.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the itinerary is straightforward and safe, but keep in mind the long hours if traveling with young children.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, practical way to experience Montenegro’s coast, towns, and natural beauty in just a day. The combination of guided visits, scenic boat cruise, and free time in charming towns makes it a valuable outing for many travelers. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a full, structured day that covers highlights without the stress of independent planning.

While the lengthy schedule and border crossings might not be for everyone, most reviews suggest it’s a rewarding trip—particularly for those who appreciate scenic views, historic towns, and knowledgeable guides. The overall value, given the price and inclusions, makes it worth considering for your trip to Dubrovnik and Montenegro.

Happy travels!