Which are the best boat excursions in Montenegro?

Montenegro, though small in size, offers a coastline and inland waters that are rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. Boat excursions here are not just a pleasant activity — they are often the highlight of any trip. Whether you're gliding across a tranquil lake surrounded by birdlife, or slicing through the glittering waters of the Adriatic along ancient coastal towns, there's something profoundly special about seeing Montenegro by boat.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the best boat excursions across Montenegro, including the coast and inland options like Skadar Lake. Each one offers a unique experience — from secluded beaches and mystical caves to UNESCO-listed islands and mountain-lined lakes.

1. Blue Cave & Bay of Kotor Tour (With Submarine Tunnels & Our Lady of the Rocks)

Why it’s the most popular:

This is the #1 boat excursion in Montenegro for a reason. It’s the perfect blend of nature, history, and coastline drama. The tour departs from Kotor, Tivat, or Herceg Novi and takes you through the Bay of Kotor, to the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks island, inside ex-Yugoslav submarine tunnels, and on to the Blue Cave (Plava Špilja) on the Lustica Peninsula.

Highlights:

• Swimming in the Blue Cave’s glowing blue waters
• Visiting the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks and its baroque church
• Seeing UNESCO-protected towns (Perast, Kotor) from the sea
• Exploring hidden naval submarine tunnels

Duration: 3–4 hours (some longer tours include beach stops)

Price: €40–€60 per person (private boats €250–€400/group), see more information here

2. Skadar Lake National Park Boat Cruise (Rijeka Crnojevića or crowded Virpazar Departure)

Why it’s special:

A completely different setting than the Adriatic coast, Skadar Lake is the largest lake in the Balkans, shared by Montenegro and Albania. The landscape is rich with floating lily pads, islands with monasteries, and over 280 bird species, including pelicans and herons.

The Albanian east part is boring with the open water. But: Do not expect a lake in the west part of the "Skadar Lake": It's a buzzling mix of rivers, fields of reed and millions waterlilies, in the middle of those typical hills of Montenegro.

You can begin your journey from the popular lakeside town of Virpazar, which has easy access. However, if you prefer a more authentic and less touristic experience, the small historical village of Rijeka Crnojevića is a far more tranquil and picturesque starting point.

Here, boat tours meander through winding river paths framed by lush mountains, ancient stone bridges, and almost untouched nature. The pace is slower, the groups are smaller, and the atmosphere is intimate — perfect for travelers who value serenity over mass tourism, see more information here.

Highlights:

• 3 hours boat tour all over the complete west part of the lake.
• The Jungle tour which compromises three rivers and smallest ravines to pass
• Cruising through carpet-like water lilies and reed channels
• Seeing fortresses, monasteries, and fishermen’s villages in Žabljak Crnojevića Monastery Kom island and Karuč or Rijeka Crnojevića
• Swimming in freshwater during summer

Duration various 1–4 hours

Price: €15–€30 per person as shared tours, private tours €50–€400 depending on group size

3. Island-Hopping in the Budva Riviera (Sveti Nikola & More)

Why it’s loved by beachgoers:

Budva is famous for its nightlife and Old Town, but just offshore lies Sveti Nikola Island (aka “Hawaii” Island) — a local gem. A boat trip here often includes multiple stops, swimming coves, and beach bars.

Highlights:

• Relaxing on hidden beaches only reachable by boat
• Swimming near the impressive cliffs of Sveti Nikola
• Views of Budva’s Old Town from the water

Price: €25–€75 per person as shared tours, private tours €50–€400 depending on group size

Some excursions also include Sveti Stefan viewpoint or beach drop-offs (photo stops only — the island is private).

4. (Sunset) Cruise in the Bay of Kotor

Why it’s unforgettable:

If you’re looking for romance, nothing beats a sunset cruise on the glassy waters of the Bay of Kotor. Many local captains offer evening tours with Prosecco, local snacks, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains turning gold.

Highlights:

• Golden-hour photography of Kotor, Perast, and the mountains
• Peaceful, intimate atmosphere with fewer boats on the water
• Optional swim stop or Our Lady of the Rocks visit

Duration: 1.5–2 hours

Price: €20–€35 per person (private from €150–€250 per boat), see more information here.

5. Kayak and Paddle Boat Excursions (For Active Travelers)

Why it’s different:

Not all boat excursions have engines. For active travelers, kayaking on Skadar Lake, Kotor Bay, or around Lustica Peninsula offers a quiet, immersive way to explore. You can reach beaches and coves no larger boat can.

Highlights:

• Paddle in silence through bird-rich areas or sea caves
• Combine kayaking with snorkeling or cliff-jumping
• Environmental and fitness-friendly

Duration: best is 4 hours

Price: from €12/hour, see more information here.

Tips for Choosing the Right Boat Excursion

• Book early in summer – July and August sell out fast
• Check boat type – covered, open, speedboat, or traditional?
• Private vs group – Private = more flexibility, but pricier
• Start early – Less wind and fewer crowds in the morning
• Bring: Sunscreen, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, water shoes
• Confirm what’s included – Drinks? Snacks? Entry tickets?

Final Thoughts: Which boat tour Is Best for You?

If you only do one boat excursion in Montenegro, the Blue Cave + Our Lady of the Rocks + Kotor Bay combo is the most iconic. It gives you a strong sense of Montenegro’s coastal identity — a blend of natural wonder, deep history, and maritime mystery.

However, don’t miss Skadar Lake if you’re anywhere near Podgorica or the south. For a unique, peaceful, and more authentic version of this experience, start your boat trip from Rijeka Crnojevića rather than the more touristy Virpazar. You’ll enjoy a deeper connection with nature, fewer boats, and a glimpse into Montenegro’s untouched inland beauty.

For beach fun, Budva’s coastal cruises deliver. And if you want peace and sunset beauty, choose an evening cruise in Kotor.

Want to combine more than one? That’s easy. Montenegro is small — but its waters are endless in wonder.