Tivat: Blue Cave and Old Submarine Tunnel Speedboat Tour

Exploring Montenegro’s Coast on a Speedboat Tour from Tivat

When it comes to experiencing Montenegro’s breathtaking coastline, a speedboat tour like the one from Tivat offers a dynamic, engaging way to see the best of Boka Bay. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a memorable adventure packed with natural beauty and intriguing sights.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the chance to swim in the Blue Cave’s luminous waters is a highlight, capturing the imagination with its stunning blue reflections. Secondly, the view of Mamula Island and Kotor Old Town from the water is truly something special, giving a fresh perspective on these iconic landmarks. Lastly, visiting the Old Submarine Tunnel adds a surprising touch of history to the trip.

That said, it’s worth considering that this is a half-day experience, so if you’re after in-depth cultural exploration or a more relaxed pace, it might feel a bit rushed. This tour suits those who love scenic boat rides, quick dips in crystal-clear waters, and an active, outdoor day on the sea.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery: Panoramic views of Kotor, Mamula, and the bay’s charming villages
• Unique stops: Swimming in the Blue Cave and visiting an old submarine tunnel
• Value for money: At $46, it offers a lot of highlights in a short time
• Comfort and convenience: Includes snorkeling gear, bottled water, and raincoats
• Limited transfer options: No hotel pickup, so plan to meet at the dock
• Ideal for those who love adventure and natural beauty

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tivat Blue Cave and Submarine Tunnel Speedboat Tour

This tour promises a lively exploration of Montenegro’s coast, combining stunning scenery with a splash of adventure. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a quick yet immersive experience on the water.

What we particularly love about this trip? First, the panoramic 35-minute ride along the coast offers spectacular views of tiny villages, towering mountains, and historic sites like Kotor’s Old Town. Second, the Blue Cave, with its glowing waters and natural light effects, is a true visual treat—perfect for swimmers and photographers alike. Third, the visit to the Old Submarine Tunnel adds an unexpected historical element, revealing glimpses of Yugoslav military history.

One consideration? The experience is weather-dependent—on windy or rainy days, the boat ride might be less comfortable, and visibility inside the Blue Cave could be affected. It’s best suited for those who enjoy being on the water, are comfortable swimming, and want a compact tour that hits multiple highlights efficiently.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Meeting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off at Donja Lastva, right in front of St. Roko church. Meeting here is straightforward, but it’s important to arrive on time, as the speedboat departs with precision. The small group size means you won’t be lost in a crowd, which adds to the intimate feeling of the trip.

The Coastal Panorama

Once onboard, the 35-minute ride along the coastline whisks you past a series of charming villages. We loved the way the boat glided past clusters of colorful houses, ancient churches, and palaces, set against the dramatic backdrop of the mountains. This part of the journey sets the tone—expect plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to take in the natural contrast of lush greenery and shimmering sea.

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Exploring Lutica Bay and Mamula Island

As you approach the Blue Cave, the views of Mamula Island come into focus. The island, with its fortress ruins, looks like a scene from a movie—and from the water, you get a particularly striking perspective. The tour offers a chance to glimpse these iconic sights before heading to the Blue Cave.

Visiting the Blue Cave

The highlight for many is swimming inside the Blue Cave, a large natural formation with an area of about 300 square meters. Its arches rise up to 25 meters, creating an impressive natural cathedral. The water’s vivid blue hue is caused by light refraction, making it seem like the entire cave is glowing from within—truly one of nature’s wonders.

Guests often comment on how surreal the light inside the cave is, with one reviewer mentioning, “It felt like swimming in a dream, with the water shining all around us.” The approximately 20-minute stop allows enough time for a quick dip and some photos, but it’s not long enough for a thorough exploration.

Visiting the Old Submarine Tunnel

On the return route, the boat makes a brief stop at the Old Submarine Tunnel—a relic of Yugoslavia’s military past. Cut into the steep banks of Lutica Bay, these tunnels were designed for hiding and repairing submarines. With up to 50 meters in length and 7 meters wide, the tunnels reveal a slice of Cold War-era military engineering.

Reviewers find this stop fascinating—an unexpected history lesson amid natural beauty. It’s a quick glance, but it adds a unique dimension to the tour, especially for those interested in military history or engineering marvels.

Final Scenic Moments

The last 10 minutes provide a gentle cruise back over Boka Bay, allowing travelers to soak in the incredible landscapes of the bay’s lush hills and coastal villages. It’s the perfect way to wind down the trip, capturing final photos and savoring the peaceful beauty of Montenegro’s coastline.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is priced at $46 per person, offering excellent value considering the highlights. Included in the price are fuel, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and raincoats, making sure you’re prepared for spontaneous dips and varying weather.

However, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to meet at the designated dock. This isn’t a major inconvenience in Donja Lastva, but it’s worth planning your logistics accordingly.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• During the summer, pack a swimsuit, sunglasses, towel, and sun cream—the open water and sunshine make for a perfect beach day.
• In cooler months, bring warmer clothes and a hat, as the boat ride can get breezy.
• Arrive a little early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start; the tour usually departs on time.
• Since the tour is relatively short, it’s ideal for those who want a quick but memorable taste of Montenegro’s coast.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking preventive measures, as the boat ride can be choppy depending on the weather.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This speedboat adventure is perfect for travelers who love scenic views, quick dips in pristine waters, and a dash of history. It offers a fantastic snapshot of Montenegro’s coast without needing to dedicate an entire day. From solo travelers to small groups and families, it’s well-suited to anyone looking for an active, visually stunning experience.

Those who enjoy natural beauty, especially the mesmerizing Blue Cave, will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s also a good choice for anyone wanting a blend of adventure and cultural discovery—thanks to the submarine tunnel stop.

If your time in Montenegro is limited but you still want a taste of its coastal charm, this tour offers a good balance of fun, scenery, and unique sights—all at a reasonable price.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
No, the tour starts at the dock in front of St. Roko church in Donja Lastva. You need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long is the boat ride?
The ride along the coast from Donja Lastva to the Blue Cave and back takes about 35 minutes each way, with additional stops included.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, you’ll have around 20 minutes to swim and enjoy the cave’s glow—snorkeling equipment is provided for your convenience.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, sun cream for summer, and warmer clothes or a cap if visiting in colder months.

Are there any historical sites on this tour?
Yes, the Old Submarine Tunnel on Lutica Bay is a quick stop where you can see Yugoslavia-era military tunnels.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children who enjoy boat rides and swimming generally find this tour enjoyable, but always check if your kids are comfortable on boats.

How many people typically join this tour?
Small group sizes are common, making for a more intimate experience, but exact numbers vary depending on bookings.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

All in all, this Tivat speedboat tour offers a lively, scenic introduction to Montenegro’s coastal wonders. Perfect for those who want a memorable mix of natural beauty, a touch of history, and a splash of adventure—without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: