Table of Contents
ToggleThe glimmering Adriatic Sea is a key ingredient for having the perfect vacation in Kotor. Cruising around the beautiful Bay of Kotor in a boat, relaxing in the mild Mediterranean breeze, and indulging in the stunning landscapes and centuries-old Baroque architecture is just awe-inspiring.
There are numerous tour boat companies operating in Kotor, most of them are located in Kotor Harbor, opposite the Sea Gate of the old town. While there are differences in the tours they offer, here are the three most popular packages. There are both group tours and private tours.
Typically two hours in length, the shortest tour lets you explore the picturesque coast around Kotor before stopping for a 20-minute break to visit Our Lady of the Rocks Island and Church. The licensed skipper will then stop another time in Perast where you can get a feel for its charming architecture.
The tour boats leave from Kotor Old Town and sail along the Boka coastline to a secluded sea cave on the other side of the Lustica Peninsula. If the weather conditions are right, the boat slides effortlessly into the Blue Cave which is renowned for its glowing phenomenon.
The best conditions for experiencing and swimming within its mysterious deep blue glow are to be had around noon when the sun is perfectly positioned for the best luminous effects. It is advisable to only take this tour early in the morning and only in good weather conditions. This tour usually also includes a short visit to Our Lady of the Rocks and a former Yugoslav submarine tunnel.
One notable downside of Kotor as a holiday destination is its lack of beautiful beaches. But luckily, there is enough sandy and pebbly shoreline as soon as you leave the bay. Let the captains take you to secluded coves of crystalline water which are the perfect spots for swimming and snorkeling breaks.
Most local boat tour operators either stop at Rose, Miriste Beach, or Zanjice Beach. These places are hard or impossible to reach by car and offer spectacular views of the rugged coast while being surrounded by unlimited water from the stunning Adriatic Sea. Don’t forget to pack some snorkeling gear.
If you are visiting Kotor with young children, or are simply interested in underwater maritime life, booking a panoramic semi-submarine tour might be a good idea. But your views are not capped below the waterline – you can experience the picturesque Boka coastal towns and villages from the comfort of your submarine.
Experience a day at sea with friends and/or family on a speed boat or yacht. Speed boats are ideal for groups of 6 or more, some can even accommodate up to 25 people. There are half-day, and full-day trips, sunset cruises, fishing tours, night tours, and many more.
The sunset cruises take you to watch a mesmerizing orange sun disappear behind the mountains surrounding the Bay of Kotor. They start close to the old town and usually include beer and wine. Taking pictures of the beautifully lit old town is part of the relaxing night cruises which can also include beer and wine.