Bareboat RIB Rental in Montenegro: Self-Drive Guide

Bareboat RIB boat rental in Montenegro is a good option if you want freedom on the water. You do not depend on a skipper, you choose your route, and you can stop where you like. In this guide I will explain in simple language how self drive works, what you need, and what to watch out for so your day in Boka Bay is safe and relaxed.

What is a RIB and why it is good for self drive

RIB means Rigid Inflatable Boat. It has a hard hull and inflatable tubes on the sides.
Main advantages for self drive:

• It is light and fast
• It is easy to turn and control
• It handles waves better than a small plastic boat
• Fuel consumption is usually lower than on a big yacht

Because of this, many companies use RIBs for boat charter Montenegro when the client wants to drive the boat without a skipper.

Basic requirements to rent a RIB without a skipper

To take a RIB as bareboat in Montenegro, you usually need:

• Valid boat licence for small boats (international or local)
• Age 18+
• At least some basic experience with boats

Before you leave the marina, staff will show you:

• How to start and stop the engine
• How to use anchor
• How to enter and exit the marina safely
• Local rules in Boka Bay and speed limits

If you do not feel confident, better book a skipper. Safety is more important than pride.

Where you can go with a self drive RIB

From Tivat, Kotor or Herceg Novi you can reach many nice spots in one day:

• Blue Cave (Plava Špilja) – strong color of the water and rocks around
• Mamula island – good for photos from the boat
• Žanjice and Mirišta – clear water and small bays for swimming
• Perast – old stone town with a beautiful view
• Our Lady of the Rocks – small island with a church and history
• Narrow Verige strait – calm part of Boka Bay with great views

Plan your route by time, not only by distance. Remember you must come back to the marina on time and with enough fuel.

How much does bareboat RIB rental cost

Prices depend on month, size of the RIB and engine power. Typical daily prices:

• Small RIB (up to about 5 m, small engine): around 120–160 EUR per day
• Medium RIB: around 180–250 EUR per day
• Bigger and faster models: from 300 EUR and more

Fuel is almost always not included in the rental price. You either:

• Return with full tank
  or
• The company refills and you pay what you used

Ask before booking so there are no surprises.

Safety rules you must respect

Even if it is a holiday and the bay looks calm, the sea is still serious. Follow these simple rules:

• Check wind and weather before you go
• Keep life jackets ready and dry on the boat
• Respect speed limits inside Boka Bay
• Stay away from swimmers, buoys and crowded beaches
• Do not drink alcohol when you drive the boat
• Keep safe distance from other boats and from the shore

If you see strong wind or dark clouds coming, go back earlier. It is better to end a bit too soon than a bit too late.

Why people like bareboat RIB more than a tour

Compared to a group tour, bareboat RIB gives you:

• Freedom to choose your own stops
• Privacy with your friends or family
• Flexible timing for swimming, photos and lunch
• More “real” feeling that you are on your own boat

For many guests, one good self drive day becomes the highlight of their boat rental Montenegro experience.

Why book with CharterMNE

With CharterMNE you book directly with a local team in Tivat, not through random resellers. This means:

• Clear communication about licence and conditions
• Help with route planning for your exact day and weather
• Modern RIB boats, clean and well maintained
• Support during the day if you have questions on the water

If you later want something bigger, like a motor yacht or catamaran, the same team can arrange a full yacht charter Tivat or Boka Bay boat charter with skipper and crew.

Explore our fleet in Tivat.
Request your charter quote.