Adventure Cruises in Herceg Novi
On a small ship cruise in Montenegro, a visit to the historic health and spa town of Herceg Novi offers the best of everything this region has to offer. The town is ideally situated at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor putting it within reach of some of the Bay's best beaches when traveling by small ship. The town itself is rich in history having been occupied by the Turks, Spanish and Venetians, who each left their marks on its stunning architecture and prominent fortress. Adventure cruises in Herceg Novi also offer the opportunity to experience the healing sea mud of nearby Igalo and swim in the fresh and clear Adriatic waters.
Whether your interests lie in history, health or just enjoying the beach and seaside, Herceg Novi is full to the brim with enriching and relaxing experiences.
Top things to do and see in Herceg Novi
Although not technically inside of the town of Herceg Novi, one of the town's main attractions with local Montenegrans and tourists from further afield are the healing sea muds of Igalo. The area is famous not only for the mud but also the spring which produces water, rich in minerals named 'Igalika' known for its healing and therapeutic properties. There are numerous spas around the Igalo area which offer treatments and therapies as well as spa experiences making the most of the natural resources around them.
If you prefer to perform your own treatment, the nearby beach of Sutorina is only a short trip by boat. Here people can cover themselves in the healing mud which can be found all over the beach. For those who prefer sunshine to mud for their therapy, there are also several other beaches around Herceg Novi. These beaches, such as Njivice (known locally as the Queen's beach), are not in the town but are easily accessible by boat.
In the town itself, you will also find a wealth of the historic architecture Montenegro is famous for. Thanks to numerous occupations, there are a number of structures from different cultures such as the Turkish, Spanish and Italian. Towering above the town and visible before you even step off a small cruise ship, is the Spanjola fortress. Although now a ruin the building is well worth a visit, for the breathtaking views of the town below. A little along the coast from the main town is the Savina monastery which is home to many of the town's religious relics and ancient frescoes.
Best time to cruise Herceg Novi
A city with a buzzing social calendar, Herceg Novi is a fantastic spot to visit throughout the year with several festivals taking place. The 'mimosa' flower festival arrives with Spring in February. In the summer months, there are several festivals you can experience on a small ship cruise to Herceg Novi including the international book fair, which hosts a number of famous authors and signings. For those who prefer film to books, the film festival takes place in August, showcasing the very best of Montenegran cinema.
The main season to visit Herceg Novi is Spring to early Autumn when the weather is sunny and warm with virtually no rainfall at the coast. If you are looking to enjoy the beach and sunbathe on the deck of the small ship cruise, then June to August are the hottest months with long sun-filled days and balmy evenings. For exploring and sightseeing and those who prefer a little cooler weather, but still want plenty of sunshine, May and September are great times to visit Herceg Novi on a small ship cruise.
Top tips for visiting Herceg Novi on a cruise
- In the height of summer, the steep climb up to many of the historic sights is best done in the early hours. Plan to spend the hot afternoons at the beach or in one of the town's bustling street cafes.
- There are some beaches around the Herceg Novi area which are public, even though they might, at first, glance appear to be hotel only, such as Rafaello and Milasinovic Plaza beach.
Where do Herceg Novi cruises depart from?
Small ship cruises in Montenegro depart from the lively port town of Tivat. The town has its own international airport offering departures from most European hubs as well as connections from nearby Croatia. Tivat is an ideal departure point for small ship cruises to Herceg Novi. The town is famed for its yacht and cruising community with a spectacular superyacht marina in the harbour. It is well worth taking a walk around the shore to admire these floating mansions before embarking on your own adventure cruise of Montenegro.
