Blue Cave, Kotor, Lady of the Rocks from Budva, Tivat, Kotor

This 9-hour tour offers an immersive experience of Montenegro’s most celebrated coastal sights for $70 per person. Starting from Tivat, Budva, or Petrovac, the journey takes you across Boka Bay, revealing its famous landmarks, scenic views, and inviting waters. The tour is well-known for its traditional cruise route in the Bay of Kotor, a route that has been the most visited since 1981 and remains popular after over 40 years. It combines bus transfers, boat rides, and multiple sightseeing stops, all led by a professional licensed guide.

The tour’s highlights include swimming opportunities at Anjice Beach, a visit to the Blue Cave, and free time at Our Lady of the Rocks and Kotor Old Town. While the tour covers many attractions, it’s important to note that weather conditions can impact certain activities, such as visiting the Blue Cave or swimming. This trip appeals to those wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing in Montenegro with good value and a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Price: $70 per person for a full 9-hour experience
• Starting points: From Budva, Tivat, or Petrovac with bus transfers included
• Main attractions: Blue Cave, Lady of the Rocks, Kotor Old Town, Anjice Beach
• Includes: Boat rides, bus transfers, and a professional guide in multiple languages
• Duration: Approximately 9 hours, though some reviews note it can extend to 12 hours with delays
• Weather dependence: Activities like visiting the Blue Cave depend on sea conditions

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Starting the Day: Transport and Pick-up Locations

This tour begins with a bus transfer from Budva, Tivat, or Petrovac. The exact pick-up point depends on your selected starting location, ensuring flexibility for travelers staying in different areas. The buses are comfortable and new, providing a relaxed beginning to a busy day of sightseeing.

Once in Tivat, the boat ride aboard MB Vesna departs at 10:00 am. From other starting points, the timing aligns with the overall schedule, with the cruise experience kicking off shortly after arrival. This organized transportation helps streamline the day, although some reviews mention initial confusion about bus organization, so checking your pickup details is wise.

The bus ride to the first stop lasts about 40 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in before the water-based part of the tour begins.

Visiting Herceg Novi and the Blue Cave

The first major water stop is in Herceg Novi, where you enjoy a one-hour break. This provides a chance for a quick walk or refreshments before continuing toward the open sea.

Next, the tour proceeds to the Blue Cave, a highlight for many travelers. The boat ride to the Blue Cave lasts approximately 40 minutes, and you get about 15 minutes to swim or explore inside the cave, depending on sea conditions. The Blue Cave’s access is subject to weather, and if conditions aren’t safe, the captain may skip this stop, which is an important consideration.

Some reviews mention that visiting the Blue Cave involves an additional fee of 10 euros, and the short swimming time can feel rushed. The cave’s natural beauty makes it a popular photo spot.

Anjice Beach: Swimming and Relaxation

The next stop is Anjice Beach, where you get about 90 minutes of free time. This is a prime opportunity to swim, relax, or be transported via smaller boats to the Blue Cave if you haven’t visited it directly.

Travelers often find Anjice Beach a beautiful location for a swim, with clear waters and scenic surroundings. The flexible schedule allows guests to enjoy the beach at their own pace, whether that means sunbathing or exploring nearby.

Exploring Our Lady of the Rocks

The tour then takes you to the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. Here, a 40-minute break allows visitors to walk around the island, take photos, and visit the church or museum—though entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

This site is notable for its floating church and historical significance, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in local culture. The guide provides commentary, enhancing the experience.

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Cruising the Bay of Kotor and Perast

The last 45 minutes of the boat ride offer a scenic cruise through the Bay of Kotor, passing Perast and other coastal villages. The views of the bay’s steep cliffs and picturesque towns are a highlight, especially as the boat gently glides along.

In Kotor, visitors are given around 70 minutes to explore the Old Town. This time is ideal for wandering through narrow streets, visiting shops, or relaxing in the park. Those departing from Tivat skip this stop, returning directly by boat.

Returning and Drop-off Locations

After the final stop, the tour returns to the starting points by bus, which takes about 40 minutes. Drop-off is available at 8 locations, including Bus Station, Rafailovici, Slovenska Plaja, and others, offering convenience for travelers heading back to their accommodation.

The entire schedule, in practice, can extend to 12 hours, mainly due to traffic or weather delays, as some reviews observe. The tour’s pacing is generally relaxed but may feel long for some, especially if delays occur.

The Guide and Onboard Experience

A professional licensed guide accompanies the tour, providing commentary in Russian, English, and Serbian. Review mentions highlight the guide Vladimir as outstanding, with interesting facts shared throughout the trip.

Onboard, travelers enjoy good food and drinks, with prices considered reasonable. The crew is praised for their professionalism and helpfulness, making the boat rides comfortable and enjoyable.

What’s Not Included and Additional Fees

The tour does not include lunch or entrance fees for the museum or church on Our Lady of the Rocks.

A boat transfer to the Blue Cave costs 10 euros, an additional expense that some travelers might want to budget for. Entrance fees for the museum or church are not covered, so plan accordingly.

Pacing, Crowd, and Practical Tips

The long day can be tiring, with some reviews noting a delayed departure or extended hours due to traffic. The pace is slow, with many stops and free time, but large groups can make it challenging to enjoy each site fully.

Passengers should bring sun protection, as the top deck is mainly equipped with sun loungers, and cash is recommended since credit card facilities may not be available everywhere.

Strengths and Limitations Revealed in Reviews

The expert guides and beautiful scenery are consistently praised, making the tour worthwhile for those wanting a comprehensive Montenegro experience. The value for money is high, especially given the number of locations visited.

However, some comments mention crowding and noise, especially onboard the boat, and short durations at stops like the Blue Cave. The weather can impact activities, and delays can extend the day beyond the scheduled 9 hours.

Final Thoughts on the Montenegro Boka Bay Tour

This tour gives a broad overview of Montenegro’s coastal highlights at a reasonable price. It suits travelers looking for a full-day adventure that combines bus, boat, and walking exploration. The knowledgeable guides and scenic routes are the tour’s main strengths, making it a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Boka Bay.

While it may be long and occasionally crowded, the experience captures many of Montenegro’s best sights, from the Blue Cave to the historic Kotor Old Town. Travelers should be prepared for weather-dependent activities and possible delays, but overall, it offers a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Cave visit included in the tour?
The Blue Cave is part of the itinerary, but visiting it involves an additional fee of 10 euros, paid onboard.

How long is the tour?
The scheduled duration is 9 hours, but delays can extend the experience to up to 12 hours.

Are meals provided during the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but onboard food and drinks are available at reasonable prices.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Russian, English, and Serbian, providing commentary throughout the trip.

Can I swim at the Blue Cave?
Swimming inside the Blue Cave is possible but depends on weather conditions and sea safety.

What should I bring?
Sun protection, cash for extras, and comfortable footwear are recommended, especially for walking around Kotor and Our Lady of the Rocks.

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