Kotor is not only famous for cats, churches and an old town built in Venetian times. Many of the tourists during their stay in Montenegro or Boka Bay don’t recognize the opportunity to enjoy boat tours in Kotor.
They are popular among locals during the summer season. So, why aren’t you the next to try a Kotor boat trip? Imagine sitting on the speedboat from Kotor to Blue Cave on Lustice while enjoying the Adriatic Sea (if you are lucky, you can see dolphins) and watching stunning mountains in the background.
If you are visiting Montenegro, I will try to give you some reasons why Kotor boat tours should be on your bucket list.
Whether you’re dreaming of leisurely cruises, speed boats, or private experiences, I’m pretty sure you will find something to relax and take most of your time in Montenegro.
Why Are Boat Tours Popular in Kotor?
Kotor boat tours are very popular because they offer a unique way to experience Boka Bay, Lustica, Blue Cave, Mamula, and Perast. The calm Adriatic Sea in Kotor Bay is surrounded by huge mountains, making it one of the most epic views in Europe.
Over 95% of tourists who visit Kotor mention that a boat trip was the highlight of their trip to Montenegro.
Boat tours in Kotor and Boka Bay allow you to visit locations like the famous Our Lady of the Rocks, small fishing villages like Rose, and Blue Cave and visit beaches that can’t be accessed by car like Dobrec or “Velja spilja”.
So, a boat trip is perfect whether you explore local culture, relaxation, or photography.
What You Get With a Boat Trip in Kotor
A boat trip in Kotor is a really unique experience, like many others in Montenegro, Cable Car from Kotor to Lovcen, or well-known outdoor activities. When you book a Kotor boat tour you will have the option to choose among some popular destinations like visiting Perast, or fortifications like Mamula (now a luxurious hotel) and Arza, Blue Grotta, and many others.
Expect to start the tour from Kotor, one of the Mediterranean and Adriatic Sea's most popular course ports.
In most tours, you will have a tourist guide who will explain all the historical points and answer all your questions. So, don’t worry, all key facts about Kotor or Boka Bay will be presented to you.
If you did not know, Kotor Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition, many tour providers organize stops along the way where you can snorkel or swim with dolphins in Boka Bay.
The Best Time of the Year for a Boat Trip in Boka Bay
I often receive this question. When is the best time to visit Montenegro?
Choosing the right time is important if you want to spend most of your time on the beach, in the sea, and sunbathing. Bad weather conditions will prevent boats from sailing. So, the best time for boat tours in Kotor is from May to September, when the weather is warm and the sea is calm. This is the perfect time of year, with an average sea temperature of around 23°C.
I must mention, sometimes, April, October or even November can be very nice and warm. But this can be tricky since weather conditions on the sea are not easy to predict.
July and August are the peak summer seasons. They are very crowded and have the highest prices. However, this is natural since most tourists have their vacations during these months.
If you are a more winter type of person, check our guide Where to ski in Montenegro or things to do in winter.
Popular Boat Tours in Kotor
As said before, boat tours are very popular. There are many locations to visit. It’s possible even to make a custom tour if you want. However, some of the most popular boat tours in Kotor are:
- Blue Cave Tour: A favourite among thrill-seekers, this tour takes you to Montenegro’s iconic Grotta Azzurra.
- Our Lady of the Rocks Visit: This serene journey is perfect for history and culture lovers. Listen to the story of Our Lady of the Rocks and learn how the island was built.
- Speed Boat Kotor Tours: If you enjoy adrenaline, this fast-paced ride quickly gets you around the bay.
- Private Tours: For a more exclusive experience, private boat tour Kotor options let you customize your trip.
It’s not rare to be at a concert on the Catamaran to listen to music, dancing and drinking favourite cocktails while cruising all the time in Boka Bay.
Is a Speed Boat Tour Worth It?
Kotor speed boat tours are not just exciting; they’re incredibly efficient. These tours allow you to cover more ground in less time, which is great if you’re on a tight schedule.
Speed boats typically stop at top attractions like the Blue Cave, Mamula Island, and Our Lady of the Rocks.
However, be careful, sometimes can be very windy in the bats due to high speeds.
Private Boat Tour Tips
Maybe the best type of tour is a private one. Simple, you can organize your time and tour your schedule. Stop whenever you want, and visit every beach you want. However, this comes with a higher price.
If you’re considering a private boat tour in Kotor, here are some tips to make the most of it:
- Book in advance, especially during peak season.
- Most private tours will let you create a custom route based on your interests.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, water, and a towel.
- Talk to your guide—they’ll know the best secret spots in Kotor Bay.
Private tours are perfect for couples, families, or even small group celebrations.
Boat Tour Kotor Prices
Prices for Kotor boat tours vary depending on the experience:
- Group Tours: These start at around €20-€30 per person for a two-hour tour.
- Speed Boat Tours: Prices for Kotor speed boat tours range from €50-€100 per person.
- Private Tours: Expect to pay anywhere from €200-€500 for a private boat tour in Kotor, depending on the size of the boat and duration.
Pro tip: Check for deals that combine boat tours with car rental in Montenegro to explore inland areas at a discount.
How to Get to Kotor?
In general, getting to Montenegro should not be a problem, as our country is well connected with major airports in Europe as well as bus connections. Getting to Kotor is easy and adds to the adventure. You can fly into Tivat Airport, just 15 minutes away, or Podgorica, which is about a 90-minute drive.
Car rental is a great option for tourists who love the freedom to explore. Drive along the scenic Adriatic coast, and you’ll be in Kotor in no time.
Once in town, the marina is centrally located, making it simple to hop on a Kotor Bay boat tour or arrange private trips.
Final Thoughts
Kotor boat tours are a popular experience for anyone visiting Montenegro. They are definitely worth your time. Make sure to book ahead of time, and choose your favourite destination.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
References:
The cover photo taken from 360monte.me, and the second photo was from miroandsons.com