Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Boka Bay Full-Day Guided Cruise with Swim Stop: A Detailed Look
This full-day boat tour explores Montenegro’s stunning Boka Bay on a comfortable three-deck ship. Starting from Tivat or Kotor, the tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours and offers visits to iconic spots like Our Lady of the Rocks, the Blue Cave, and Herceg Novi. The cruise is fully equipped with a restaurant, bar, sundeck, toilets, and showers, ensuring a relaxing and convenient experience.
A key feature of this tour is the swimming stop at Miriste Lagoon, which boasts Blue Flag quality waters, perfect for a refreshing dip. The tour is suitable for those who want a comprehensive look at the bay’s highlights, combined with opportunities to swim and enjoy scenic landscapes. With an average rating of 4.3 based on 263 reviews, it’s a popular choice, especially praised for friendly guides and great value.
However, travelers should consider that Blue Cave visits depend on weather conditions and may involve additional costs. The tour’s length and pacing are generally well-regarded, but some reviews note crowded Blue Cave trips and shorter-than-expected stops at certain locations. This cruise offers a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural highlights, ideal for those seeking an in-depth day on the water.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Departs from Tivat or Kotor with flexible pick-up options, lasting 8 to 9 hours.
- Visits Our Lady of the Rocks island, featuring a 15th-century icon and a guided tour.
- Stops at Miriste Lagoon for swimming, with the option to visit the Blue Cave.
- Includes a licensed guide who provides commentary in English, Russian, and Serbian.
- The three-deck ship offers bar, restaurant, sunbeds, toilets, and showers for full comfort.
- Participants pay extra for entry to Our Lady of the Rocks Church ($2) and the Blue Cave ($10), with food and drinks not included.
Planning more time in Tivat? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
How the Tour Starts and Ends
The tour begins at two pick-up locations: Park Slobode or Pine. After a brief stop in Kotor for the guide and group, the cruise sets off along the bay. The return trip ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward.
Travelers coming by car are advised that parking in Kotor can involve long waits and traffic, so starting from Tivat may be more convenient. The tour ends with a view of Porto Montenegro, Montenegro’s largest port for mega yachts, providing a scenic conclusion.
Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks Island
The Our Lady of the Rocks is an artificial island built on the bay, home to a church housing a notably venerated icon of the Virgin Mary from the 15th century. The guided visit lasts about 30 minutes, giving ample time to explore the church and enjoy scenic views. The experience is enhanced by the historical significance and the beautiful setting.
The Blue Cave and Miriste Lagoon Swimming Stop
The Blue Cave is a highlight, famous for its vivid blue and green colors. Entry costs approximately $10 and involves a short transfer to smaller boats. The water inside is deep and vibrant, but some reviews mention crowd levels and a rushed swim of around 10-15 minutes.
The swimming stop at Miriste Lagoon offers clear waters with a Blue Flag designation. Here, swimmers can relax on beach chairs and enjoy the peaceful scenery. It’s an ideal moment for refreshing dips and photo opportunities.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Herceg Novi’s Old Town and Fortresses
The coastal town of Herceg Novi provides about an hour for sightseeing. Major landmarks include Forte Mare, Kanli Kula, and Panjola Fortress, all of which offer panoramic views of the bay. While some reviews suggest that more time would be preferable, the stop still allows a taste of the local culture and architecture.
While you're exploring Tivat, here are other experiences we've looked into
The Role of the Guide and Onboard Amenities
A licensed guide enhances the experience with informative commentary in multiple languages. The staff are frequently praised for their friendliness, efficiency, and attentiveness.
The ship’s amenities include plenty of shaded and sunlit areas, comfortable sunbeds, a bar serving drinks, a restaurant with food options, toilets, and showers. These features make the full-day cruise comfortable even during hot days, and the onboard service is often highlighted as a major positive.
Pacing, Crowds, and Overall Comfort
Most reviews describe the day as well-paced, with enough time at each stop to explore and relax. The size of the boat helps avoid overcrowding, and plenty of space allows guests to find quiet spots or social areas.
Some travelers note that Blue Cave visits can be crowded and that time in the water is limited. A few mention long wait times for parking if arriving by car in Kotor, and suggest early starts or starting from Tivat to simplify logistics.
Pricing, Food, and Extra Costs
While the tour price covers the boat cruise, entry fees to Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave are paid separately (around $2 and $10 respectively). The food and drinks onboard are not included in the tour price but are available at reasonable prices, with plenty of options praised for their quality and value.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
This full-day Boka Bay cruise offers a comprehensive look at Montenegro’s most famous spots from the water. The comfortable ship, friendly staff, and variety of stops make it a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting a relaxed yet engaging day. The scenic views and cultural visits like Our Lady of the Rocks are highlights, complemented by the swimming opportunities.
While the Blue Cave can be crowded and weather-dependent, the other stops and onboard amenities compensate well. The value for money is high, especially considering the full-day itinerary, local guide expertise, and scenic variety.
This tour suits those who enjoy sailing, sightseeing, and relaxing on a boat, with easy access to Montenegro’s stunning coastline. If avoiding lengthy waits in Kotor and preferring a well-organized experience are priorities, starting from Tivat is advisable.
✨ Book This Experience
Tivat/Kotor: Boka Bay Full-Day Guided Cruise with Swim Stop
“I liked everything about it. The boat was very comfortable with lots of shaded areas where you could eat delicious meal prepared on board. There wa…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, especially if children enjoy boat rides and swimming.
Are there any age restrictions?
The data does not specify age restrictions, but swimming in the Blue Cave and walking in towns may require adult supervision.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and cash for extra expenses.
Can I visit the Blue Cave without paying?
Entry costs around $10, and payment is usually made onboard or on-site.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
What happens in bad weather?
The Blue Cave visit depends on weather conditions; if weather is poor, it may be skipped or re-scheduled.
This guided cruise of Boka Bay offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and relaxation, making it a memorable day for anyone eager to explore Montenegro’s coast by boat.
You can check availability for your dates here: