Yachting and boating in Montenegro: overview, prices, and rules
Montenegro offers 295 kilometers of coastline for sea travel: from the sheltered Bay of Kotor to open sections of the Adriatic. The industry is actively developing thanks to the absence of VAT on charters and favorable legislation for non-EU vessels. The season lasts from May to October. The peak is in July and August (maximum prices, traffic). May, June, and September are the optimal time for a relaxed holiday with discounts of 20–30%.Rental formats and prices
The market offers three main options: group tours, rental with a skipper, and bareboat charter. Main departure ports: Tivat (Porto Montenegro), Kotor, Budva, Herceg Novi, and Bar. Indicative prices:- Group trips: 30–50 euros per person (4–8 hours).
- Motor boats (Day Charter): from 190 euros/day (for example, Grginič Shark 23 for 8 people).
- Private charter (sailing): from 350 euros/day (for example, Jeanneau Odyssey 439).
- Weekly rental: from 2000–3000 euros.
- Catamarans: from 450 euros/day (for example, Nautitech 40).
Recommendation: For family holidays with children, choose group tours for 10–13 people or private boats with a sun canopy. Popular routes include the Blue Cave, the Our Lady of the Rocks island, and Mogren beaches.
Additional expenses usually include:
- Skipper services: 100–200 euros per day (if you do not have a license).
- Fuel: often paid separately based on actual consumption.
- Provisioning and final cleaning.
Lifehack: Book the vessel 1–2 months before the trip, especially if you are planning a holiday in July–August.
License requirements
For independent operation (bareboat charter) of a vessel longer than 10 meters or with engine power over 50 hp, a license is mandatory. Recognized certificates:- ICC (International Certificate of Competence) + RYA Day Skipper (or equivalent).
- IYT Bareboat Skipper (up to 24 meters / 78 feet).
- Bareboat Skipper Power (for motor yachts).
Attention: Absence of original licenses on board or operating without the appropriate category entails heavy fines from the maritime police. A temporary license can be issued upon entry (100–200 euros), but this is a bureaucratically complex procedure.
If you do not have a license, you can take training at local schools (for example, Bora Sailing Club or Sail Skill). The IYT course lasts 7–10 days, costs about 1200 euros, and includes navigation theory, meteorology, and mooring.
Overview of marinas and berths
About 10 modern marinas operate in Montenegro. All are characterized by the need to reserve a berth 48–72 hours in advance during the high season.Main marinas
- Porto Montenegro (Tivat): Flagship marina with 450 berths (yachts up to 250 m). Luxury-level infrastructure: boutiques, restaurants, dry docks, Platinum status. Base for cruising in the bay.
- Portonovi (Herceg Novi): More than 200 berths (vessels 10–120 m). 24/7 customs, fuel station, deep draft. Ideal for heading into open sea.
- Luštica Bay (Trašte): Intimate marina with 50 berths (up to 45 m). Focus on relaxation, beaches, and snorkeling.
- Marina Kotor: Located by the walls of the Old Town. Cultural center, but berthing requires attention due to winds.
- Dukley Marina (Budva): Center of nightlife, water taxi to St. Nicholas Island.
- Marina Bar (Sveti Nikola): Budget option with 70 berths (up to 50 m). Technical base, fuel, convenient for southern routes (Ulcinj).
Safety and navigation
- Weather: Beware of katabatic winds (Bora), which can suddenly intensify, especially in the evening. Always check the forecast via the AdriaMeteo service.
- Equipment: VHF radio and life jackets according to the number of passengers are mandatory on board.
- Ecology: Discharge of wastewater and garbage into the sea is strictly prohibited. Fines are high; use pump-out services in marinas.
- Anchorages: As an alternative to paid marinas, permitted anchorages can be used (for example, near Sveti Marko Island).