From charming fortresses to hidden coves (with a bit of dramatic mountain scenery sprinkled in for good measure!), the town of Kotor in Montenegro is an absolute feast for the weary traveller’s eyes.
This UNESCO World Heritage site on the Adriatic Sea is a must-visit on any trip to the Balkans, especially if you love adventure, history, culture, and well, just downright freaking beautiful places!
Yes, Kotor definitely belongs on your bucket list, not least because it’s also incredibly affordable!
And a boat tour of Kotor is an excellent way to explore this town from a unique, watery perspective.
One of the most popular activities in Kotor, I’ve compiled a list of the best boat tours in the area, (which come highly recommended by seasoned travellers and locals alike), along with essential tips for getting the most out of your excursion.
Let’s get stuck in…
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Things to Know Before Your Kotor Boat Tour
The Bay of Kotor is one of the world’s most beautiful bays in Europe, but before you hop aboard a boat tour of the area, it pays if you know a few key things.
First up, that Kotor boat trips are readily available in towns like Porto, Montenegro and Budva.
Here boat operators offer half-day trips with frequent departures, often within an hour or two of booking.
Most operators prefer cash payments, so be sure to have enough on hand.
Prices generally range from €60-80 for an hour.
Most boat tour operators have knowledgeable guides and follow a standard itinerary with seven key stops, which can be seen in the below image, which also gives the order in which they are visited…
You must also decide whether you want to book a group or private boat tour of Kotor.
A group tour always has a social atmosphere, while a private tour is a more intimate and personalised, but expensive, option.
If you’re unsure, check with the tour company for your best option.
You can also choose whether you want a faster, more thrilling tour with a speed boat, or a more comfortable larger boat that’s a bit slower.
Larger boats typically have amenities onboard, such as toilets and showers and offer a more sedate water experience!
Although most boat tours of Kotor last for 3 hours, there are shorter, 1 hour tours if you’re strapped for time.
At the other end of the scale, some companies also offer longer tours that last 8 hours – the perfect way to spend a whole day as a group of friends!
Some tours also include optional activities such as swimming or snorkelling in the Blue Cave, so consider your interests and dislikes when booking too.
Remember to bring swimwear and some towels, especially if you are going for a swim or snorkel.
Smaller speed boats may not have the facilities for you to get a quick wash and a change, so plan accordingly – don’t forget your underwear if you’re already wearing your swimmers!, but don’t worry about a snorkelling mask, as most tours provide one.
Suncream is a must on these boat tours too, regardless of whether you plan to swim. A sun hat is also a dead cert.
Lastly, ensure you have extra cash before you board the boat for any drinks, tips or additional excursions.
For example, most (if not all) of these tours don’t include admission to Our Lady of the Rocks.
Granted, it’s only a few Euros, but you don’t want to miss out on such an iconic place just because you forgot to bring the cash for the entrance ticket to the church here.
Kotor Speed Boat Tours
A speed boat tour of Kotor is the perfect way to experience Boka Bay’s stunning beauty with a thrilling twist.
As you zip across the bay’s turquoise waters, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Kotor’s medieval architecture, cute fishing villages and dramatic mountains.
Kotor speedboat tours are an excellent way for thrill-seekers to experience the natural wonders of Montenegro’s Adriatic coastline and get that extreme wind-in-their-hair feeling!
Here are some of the best speedboat tours in Kotor…
#1 Discover Kotor Bay’s Gems by Boat: Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and Mamula Island
This 3-hour tour is hands-down one of the must-do excursions in Montenegro because it packs a fiesty travel punch in such a few hours!
This tour will let you see so much of what makes this region special, from the iconic artificial island that houses the Our Lady of the Rocks church to hidden submarine caves.
You’ll get to witness the beautiful landscapes of Boka Bay up close, learn about the region’s history, and even dip in the Blue Cave’s crystal-clear waters.
#2 Set Sail for Historic Perast & the Sacred Our Lady of the Rocks
This fantastic tour is your ticket to uncovering Montenegro’s historical and natural treasures.
In just 2 hours, you’ll sail through the stunning bay as you take in the sights of UNESCO-listed Perast, Our Lady of the Rocks, and the picturesque fishing villages along the coastline.
As the tour continues, knowledgeable tour guides will share fascinating stories about ancient Romanesque churches, Byzantine palaces, and other historical landmarks that line the Bay of Kotor.
You’ll also learn about the legends surrounding Our Lady of the Rocks and even get a guided exploration around the manmade island.
#3 Scenic Boat Cruise with Blue Cave Dip and Submarine Base Visit
If you’re a thrill-seeking explorer, this 3-hour speed boat cruise is perfect.
Your adventure begins at Our Lady of the Rocks, allowing you to explore the island’s rich history and fascinating architecture.
Afterwards, you’ll cruise through to Blue Cave, where you can dive in for a swim and explore underwater using the snorkelling gear provided.
When you’ve cooled off, your knowledgeable skipper will share fascinating stories about Mamula Island – a former fortress with a dark past.
If you prefer to share photos of your tour as you go, the onboard WiFi will help you upload them as you zip through Perast, Tivat, and Herceg Novi.
#4 Sail through Boka Bay with Drinks Onboard
Are you ready to soak in the beautiful bay of Kotor in style for 3 hours?
After setting off from Park Slobode, you’ll sail towards the Our Lady of the Rocks.
Afterwards, you’ll pass through the Verige channel, which will bring you close to the luxury marinas of Porto Montenegro and Porto Novi.
It won’t be long before your boat ventures into an abandoned submarine tunnel used during World War II, adding a touch of history and mystery to your tour.
You’ll also sail past Mamula Island; listen to your guide as they tell you great stories about the “Montenegrin Alcatraz.”
Your last stop is the beautiful Blue Cave, where you can swim while exploring the cave or relax with complimentary refreshments.
Speaking of drinks, did I mention you get three on this great tour?
You have a choice of three soft drinks or two soft drinks and a beer.
#5 High-Speed Boat Trip to the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks
This boat tour may only be 2 hours (an hour shorter than most on this list), but you’ll see so many things, you’ll feel as if you’ve been sailing for much longer!
The main highlight is the chance to take a refreshing dip in the Blue Cave, followed by a quick stop at Island Mamula.
You’ll also visit one of the three tunnels used to conceal and repair submarines during the Second World War.
Of course, no Boka Bay boat tour is complete without a stop at the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks.
#6 Private Speedboat Adventure to the Best Views in Kotor
A private speedboat tour for 60-90 minutes is your best bet if you prefer to explore Boka Bay at your own pace.
Not only will you be sitting comfortably, but you’ll also have a steady supply of refreshing drinks as you sail.
Our Lady of the Rocks is the first stop, where you can enter the small church and admire its magnificent marble altar… and discover the secret hidden away behind it!
If you’re an art enthusiast, you’ll want to look at the church walls; they showcase works of renowned Kotor artist Tripo Kokolja, as well as head to the small museum at the side of the church too.
After this, your private tour will sail to the old town Perast, a UNESCO heritage site that was once a popular retreat for Venetian nobility and one of the prettiest places in the By of Kotor imo.
Your private guide will give you a walking tour of 16 Baroque palaces, 17 Catholic churches, and nine defensive towers.
#7 Exclusive Small Group Speedboat Cruise along the Bay of Kotor and Blue Cave
On the flip side, if you’re travelling with a small group or prefer to socialise while sightseeing, this 3-hour long, lively speedboat tour will be an amazing experience.
Our Lady of the Rocks in Perast is your first stop, where you’ll have some time to explore the island and visit the church.
Next, you’ll pass by former submarine tunnels and the imposing Mamula Fortress, offering a glimpse into the bay’s fascinating past.
You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Boka Bay’s majestic mountains and crystal-clear water, lively music, chilled refreshments and great company.
Your final destination is Blue Cave, where you can have an optional swimming or snorkelling.
Or you can stay onboard to sit back and relax from within the cave.
@bigworldsmallpockets Beat you to it guys! #kotor #kotormontengro #kotorbay #montenegro #travelmontenegro #uktravelblogger ♬ You Don’t Ignore (Too Late) – Petit Biscuit
Submarine Tours of Kotor Bay
Although Kotor boat tours are a popular way to explore the bay’s surface beauty, a submarine tour allows you to see underwater from a unique perspective.
You’ll discover a hidden world of coral reefs and marine life – a view you won’t get unless you’re on a submarine tour.
Keen to learn more? Check out these options..
#8 Discover Kotor in a Bay Cruise and Semi-Submarine Adventure
You can’t get more up close with Kotor Bay’s marine life than this hour-long semi-submarine tour.
It’s good for kids or those looking for a tour with a short option.
This tour offers two ways to experience the beauty of Kotor Bay: panoramic views from the upper deck and underwater views from the semi-submarine cabin.
Not only will you be mesmerised by charming fishing villages and medieval churches, but you’ll also get a close look at the marine life that swims alongside your semi-submarine.
Trust me, being underwater rather than over is much more fascinating than you think!
Full Day Kotor Boat Tours
Why settle for a glimpse when you can spend a full day enjoying the splendour of Boka Kotorska Bay?
While a shorter Kotor boat tour offers a taste of the region’s beauty, a full-day excursion lets you absorb the sights and explore nearby towns.
You’ll have more than enough time to appreciate the old town of Kotor and its surrounding area – the perfect way to really soak it all in.
#9 Full Day Exploration by Boat from Kotor, Budva, Tivat, or Herceg Novi
If you really want a deep appreciation of the natural beauty and rich history surrounding Kotor Bay, this 8-hour cruise on a custom-made boat by 360 Monte should be on your itinerary.
Depending on what you pick during booking, you’ll set sail from Kotor, Budva, Tivat, or Herceg Novi.
Your first stop will be Bjiela, where you can swim in its crystal-clear waters.
Next is Our Lady of the Rocks, and then you’ll sail through the entire length of Kotor Bay.
Along the way, your boat will circle Mamula Island so you can observe how Montenegro used this unique island in the past.
You’ll have another chance to swim at Blue Cave before heading to Porto Montenegro for lunch.
You’ll have the opportunity to explore this bouji marina town and maybe even do some shopping… if your wallet can stretch to it!
Of course, no full-day tour is complete without some refreshments – you’ll enjoy a welcome champagne and some rakija shots, along with some fresh fruit.
#10 A Scenic Boat Journey from Tivat to Our Lady of the Rocks
For this 8-9 hour long boat tour, your journey will start in Tivat.
You’ll immediately see Europe’s largest mega-yacht marina in Porto Montenegro.
Bask in the surrounding luxury as you relax on one of the boat’s sundecks with a drink from the onboard bar.
After a brief stop in Kotor Town to pick up your guide and other travellers, you’ll cruise past Perast to arrive at Our Lady of the Rocks.
You’ll then head towards Blue Cave, where you can swim or snorkel in its clear waters, passing by the fishing village of Rose and the Mamula Fortress.
Your final stop will be at Herceg Novi, where a guide will tell you all about the town’s three impressive fortresses: Forte Mare, Kanli Kula, and Španjola.
At the end of your tour, you’ll sail past Saint Marco Island (the largest island in Boka Bay) before finally returning to Tivat.
#11 Custom Kotor Boat Tours
Beyond the standard group tours, you can get personalised boating experiences in and around Kotor.
Private boat rentals are readily available in major towns such as Budva, the glamorous Porto Montenegro, the historic Perast and Kotor itself.
This means you have complete control of designing your adventure to your preferences.
If you want an exclusive experience in Kotor, curated private boat tours are the way to go and can be hired for usually 1-4 hours.
Want to skip the crowds at Our Lady of the Rocks? You can do that.
Want to spend several hours exploring Mamula Fortress? That’s fine, too.
What you do on your own tour is entirely up to you… and that’s the beauty of it!
#12 Water Taxis in Kotor and Nearby
You can also hire private boats as your personal water taxi or for a scenic ride across the bay.
Some are skippered, but you can also rent the boat as is.
We got a water taxi from Tivat back to the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort between 6 of us, it was just €10 each with a captain.
Whether you’re heading to a romantic dinner in Perast, or spending a luxurious few hours at Porto Montenegro, a personal water taxi is guaranteed to give you an amazing time and leave you with unforgettable memories… plus nobody has to drive!
Mini Travel Guide to Kotor, Montenegro
When to Visit Kotor?
I think the best time to visit Kotor is either the months of May, September or October.
How to Travel There?
One of the great reasons Kotor makes a fantastic travel destination is because it’s easy to get to from lots of different directions and in lots of ways!
International airports can be found in Kotor’s closest hub Tivat, Montenegro’s capital Podgorica, or just outside the country in nearby Dubrovnik or Tirana in Albania.
All these airports boast budget airline arrivals from destinations around Europe – check out Skyscanner to compare prices.
From Tivat airport it’s then just a 15 minute drive to Kotor, otherwise if you’re coming Podgorica, Dubrovnik or Tirana airports, you can then easily find a cheap bus or private transfer to Kotor.
For those already travelling in the Balkan / Eastern European area, buses to Kotor can also be easily found using Busbud.
This great website allows you too book online bus tickets from a range of companies in advance and choose the best option for you based on price, duration and comfort.
How to Get Around Kotor Town?
Once in Kotor, you’ll then be delighted to know getting around this town is super cheap and easy.
That’s mainly because it’s undertaken using your own 2 feet!
The exception is if you want to head out to explore other parts of the Bay of Kotor, such as the village of Perast.
For this, it’s best to either cycle, hop on the public Blue Line bus or, of course, take a boat trip or water taxi!
How Much Time Do You Need in Kotor?
I’d honestly advise staying at least 4-5 nights in Kotor.
There’s a lot to see and do in and around the town and it also makes for a nice Montenegro base if you want to venture further afield.
Where to Stay in Kotor?
I highly recommend the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort.
Montenegro Travel FAQs: Answered
Is Kotor Safe?
I travelled Kotor as a solo female and felt very safe.
What to Pack for Kotor?
#1 Good Camera – I highly recommend the Sony A6000, which I use for all my travels and which I love not least because it’s light, compact and robust!
#2 Good Walking Shoes – Make sure your feet are comfortable with a pair of New Balance Trainers.
#3 Good Water Bottle – Ensure you have a metal water bottle that you can refill as you go, because the tap water in Kotor is drinkable.
#4 Good Backpack – You can’t go past the Bobby Anti Theft Backpack, which is perfect for helping you avoid pickpockets.
Travel Insurance
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.
Money in Montenegro
The currency in Montenegro is the Euro and I advise bringing some cash with you, as well as a good card you can use to pay for things abroad.
With real exchange rates, no transaction fees and no ATM withdrawal charges, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card when travelling… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay, Grab yours here.
Best eSIM for Montenegro
I highly recommend Holafly, which I used throughout my time in Montenegro and had great connection in Kotor, as well as across the country.
Get 5% off with the discount code: BIGWORLDSMALLPOCKETS
Top Montenegro Tours
If you want to visit Montenegro with a group and an experienced guide, then check out these top tours that include a stop in Kotor.
SAVE THIS TO PINTEREST!
So there you have it, my complete guide to the boat tours in Kotor, including water taxis.
Have you decided which one you are going to enjoy in Kotor?
Let me know in the comments box below!
My trip to Kotor was sponsored by the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort as well as the Montenegro Tourism Board but, as always, all views are my own.
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