Montenegro is a small country with a big soul – and for sailors looking for the best anchorages, it’s nothing short of a hidden paradise. Nestled along the Adriatic coast, it offers a spectacular mix of dramatic mountains, historic towns, and pristine waters. It does not matter whather you are a seasoned cruiser or setting sail for the first time in the Balkans, Montenegro’s coastline promises unforgettable moments at anchor.
In this article, The Octopus takes you on a cruise through the best anchorages in Montenegro, from tranquil bays to UNESCO-protected harbors. But before we dive into these dreamy spots, let’s cover the essentials: how to check in, what paperwork you’ll need, and how to cruise worry-free in Montenegrin waters.
Get ready for a journey filled with turquoise coves, rich history, and local flavors — the Adriatic awaits!
A cruise around the best anchorages in Montenegro
How to check-in Montenegro hassle-free
Sailing in foreign countries can be challenging. Not speaking the language, getting through customs, and not understanding restrictions are three stressful factors. Thankfully, The Octopus is here to help you get through the administrative part so that you can enjoy your cruise around the best anchorages in Montenegro!
Here’s what you need to know about check-in:
The flag
Upon arrival, hoist the Q‑flag (yellow) and monitor coastline surveillance. After clearance, swap it for a Montenegrin courtesy flag—topped by nothing else.
The vignette
You need a cruising permit when sailing in Montenegro, whether it is for just a day to get fuel and water, or for a stay up to 1 year. The fee varies depending on the length of your stay and the size of your boat. Remember to keep the sticker visible on your boat at all times. It is easier to check-in at a marina. Here are all the ports of entries that you can go to: Bar, Budva, Herceg Novi, Kotor, Tivat, and Zelenika.
The Tourist Tax
After purchasing the vignette, you will have 24 hours to pay the tourist tax – which informs the authorities of all the people on board. To pay for this tourist tax, you can either go to a tourist office, available near each port of entry.
Required Documents
- Passports/IDs (and valid visa if you’re not visa-exempt)
- Crew & passenger list (must match vessel capacity)
- Boat’s Certificate of
- Registry & proof of insurance
- Skipper’s license or qualification certificate
- If the boat’s owner is not on board, you need a signed letter attesting your right to use it.
- Evidence of last departure port
For departure
- Reverse the arrival process and clear-out at Marina Zelenika.
- Lower the courtesy flag and either hoist Q‑flag again (if returning later) or sail out.
For additional information, we reached out to Marina Lazure, a Navily partner.
- Note: If clients wish to register their stay for a period longer than the one covered by the marina mooring agreement, they must contact the Tourist Organization of Herceg Novi directly.
- Duty-Free Fuel: As of this year, duty-free fuel is once again available when checking out of the country. If clients are interested in this option, the engagement of a shipping agent is required. For more information about this procedure, you can contact Lazure Marina.
In this document provided by Marina Lazure, you will find all the information in regards to check-in procedures (English version at the bottom). Read the document
The best anchorages in Montenegro
Sveti Stefan South Bay
To kick-off our cruise around the best anchorages in Montenegro, The Octopus decided to take you to Sveti Stefan South Bay. This anchorage is protected from the northwest to the southeast by the north, and you will have good holding in sandy bottoms resting between 4 and 9 meters deep. Additionally, this anchorage is conveniently located next to Budva, where you can check-in when coming from Albania or Italy.
The view from the anchorage is nothing short of breathtaking. The bay is surrounded by turquoise waters and offers a picturesque view on the famous Sveti Stefan island. In the 15th century, the island was a fishing village and was then fortified against pirates, only to be abandoned afterwards. In the 1950s, it was turned into a luxury resort. Although it is now only accessible to guests, the view from the deck of your boat is still exceptional.
What’s more, Sveti Stefan is near another island worth the detour, Sveti Nikola – also known as the Hawaii of Montenegro. The island is named after Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors, and it is open to visitors! Only accessible by boat, Sveti Nikola is uninhabited and wild. Thus, it offers a totally different experience from Sveti Stefan. There, you can lounge on the beach, swim in the Hawaiian-like waters, and enjoy the serene atmosphere that comes with Sveti Nikola.
What better way to start your journey around the best anchorages in Montenegro than this?
Bigova
Our second stop is as enchanting as the previous one! Located inside a cove that is protected from all directions except the northwest, Bigova promises an unforgettable stay. There, you can anchor in sandy bottoms, but make sure to avoid the seagrass as well. There are also mooring buoys available at Konoba Grispolis. The food there is delicious and Marko, the owner, will welcome you with open arms!
Once safely anchored or tied to your buoy, you might feel hungry. Lucky for you, Montenegrin cuisine is a true delight for your taste buds! The country’s cuisine is often common to all the Balkans. This means that you will find these dishes in other countries of the region as well. On the savoury side, the options are endless. There are all kinds of dishes with seafood, often added to pasta and rižoto (risotto, the most famous one is black risotto). You might also have to try Ćevapi with ajvar – the delicious grilled beef sausages with red pepper spread that everyone in the Balkans love (and rightfully so!)
For a sweet touch, try palačinke (crepes) or Pita sa višnjama, a cherry pie!
In short, Bigova grants a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views on the surrounding area and a chance to enjoy typical Montenegrin cuisine!
Uvala Arza
To continue our itinerary of the best anchorages in Montenegro, The Octopus wanted to show you another anchorage with a scenic view. Uvala Arza is protected from the south to the northeast by the east, and the sandbanks resting between 7 and 10 meters deep will provide good holding. Be careful when anchoring as there might be rocks at the bottom as well when you get closer to shore!
Uvala Arza is yet another wonder to the eye. You will be surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush forests, with very little infrastructure nearby. The anchorage is also located next to a small island called Otočić Gospa, on which lies a monastery. To take in all that this anchorage has to offer, jump into the water for a snorkelling session! In calm waters, swim with small fish and barracudas. But be careful to avoid sea urchins when going near the beach!
Although the bay can get crowded during the day, it all goes quiet after sunset, leaving room for a tranquil night. After taking in all that Uvala Arza had in store for you, you are ready to set sail to your next anchorage.
Kotor
Now that you are well-rested, The Octopus brings you to Kotor! Tucked deep into the Kotor Bay, this anchorage is extremely well-sheltered, providing protection from all directions except the north. Additionally, the sandy and muddy bottoms will provide excellent holding.
When it comes to Kotor, there is so much to see. The UNESCO-listed city is a true jewel for anyone interested in medieval architecture. Indeed, Kotor has many historical landmarks worth visiting. For starters, explore Stari Grad (Old Town). This is a maze of stone alleys, hidden squares, and Baroque buildings. Stop by mythical buildings, such as St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, the Clock Tower, or Duke’s Palace. One place that you cannot miss is the San Giovanni Fortress. It sits on a hill overlooking Stari Grad. After a steep hike of around 1,300 steps, you will be rewarded with idyllic views on the bay.
To add even more adventure to your stay in Kotor, visit the Lovćen National Park! The park is among Montenegro’s most iconic natural and cultural landmarks, and offers panoramic views and a high mountains experience. Before going, you need to purchase a ticket (the ticket prize is €3), and you can do that by clicking here. The park is a dream come true for hike lovers! The trails will take you up rocky peaks, sinkholes, caves, and forests, offering unmatched views on the Adriatic Sea, Lake Skadar, Albania, and even Italy on clear days.
Nestled inside the park lies the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, Montenegro’s beloved poet, prince-bishop, and national hero. Located on Mount Jezerski vrh (1,657 m), the mausoleum was built in 1974 out of granite and marble, accessed by climbing 461 steps.
It houses a statue of Njegoš and offers a 360° panoramic view from the platform – a perfect way to end your exploration of Kotor!
Morinjski Zaliv
Because all beautiful things must come to an end, we have now reached our final anchorage. Located in Morinj Bay, Morinjski Zaliv is protected from the northwest to the southeast by the west, and the muddy bottoms will provide good holding. There are also mooring buoys available if you prefer.
Once safely settled, the scenery leaves you speechless. Around you, there is nothing but crystal-clear waters and high mountains packed with lush forests rising dramatically over the anchorage. The waters mirror the cliffs and scattered clouds to create a spectacular painting. Gentle waves lap softly against the hull, rocking the boat in a slow, soothing rhythm – nature’s lullaby in one of Montenegro’s most peaceful corners.
From the anchorage, you will have a postcard-like view of the two symbols of the bay: Gospa od Škrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks) and the Island of Saint George. One is a man-made island with a church and a museum that you can visit, while the other is a natural island where lies a monastery – which you will have to watch from afar as it is not open to the public. You can also visit the nearby town of Perast, a tiny baroque gem where cars are prohibited in the center. A peaceful stay is therefore guaranteed!
Back at the anchorage, the sun is finally setting. As the blue sky leaves room to shades of orange, pink, and red, you reflect on the unforgettable journey that led you to this moment. One thing is for sure, now that you have reached Morinj Bay, you will never want to leave. This tranquil anchorage was everything you had dreamed of and more, and now that the night has come, you wish you could stay here forever.
This is the end of our journey around the best anchorages in Montenegro! We hope you enjoyed this first article on this mesmerizing region. If you would like to keep this cruise going, you can follow The Octopus to discover the best anchorages from Dubrovnik to Korčula!
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Comment
What are the options for those who wish to charter? And where from?