Kotor stands out as one of Montenegro’s top destinations, especially for travelers who love authentic boat adventures and cultural sights. Its calm waters, dramatic coastline, and rich maritime history make it perfect for exploring by boat. We love the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks boat tours, which blend natural wonders with fascinating local stories. Imagine swimming in glowing blue waters, visiting a stunning island built by seafarers, or cruising past WWII submarine tunnels—these experiences truly capture the essence of Kotor’s charm. Whether you prefer a small-group outing or a private yacht, there’s a tour suited to your style and curiosity.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover a broad selection of tours, from 3-hour group speedboat trips (see here) to luxury private yacht excursions (check the private options here). You’ll find options that include swimming, sightseeing, and cultural visits, with some tours emphasizing family-friendly fun and others offering intimate, personalized experiences. Now, let’s take a closer look at each one.
1. From Kotor: Blue Cave and Bay of Kotor Boat Tour
This highly-rated tour (4.9/5 from nearly 2,000 reviews) offers a 3-hour boat trip exploring the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and Mamula Island. Led by an experienced skipper, the tour combines crystal-clear swimming spots with engaging stories about each site. You’ll cruise past WWII submarine tunnels and enjoy personalized touches on this small-group outing. The tour is praised for its breathtaking scenery, friendly guides, and efficient itinerary that packs in all the highlights in just a few hours. The boat is small, so there’s an intimate vibe, but note there’s limited space to change or use a toilet. Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, active day on the water with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom line: A top pick for those who want a well-rounded, memorable boat experience with an expert guide and a manageable time commitment.
2. Kotor: Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks Group Boat Tour
This 4.7-star tour (over 2,300 reviews) offers a 3-hour group adventure covering key attractions like Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave. The tour includes a visit to the artificial island built by sailors and a swim in the famous Blue Cave, which makes it a favorite among travelers. The guide shares entertaining and informative commentary, making the experience both fun and educational. Expect a balanced mix of sightseeing and swimming, with stops at WWII submarine tunnels and Mamula Island. The large group size keeps the atmosphere lively, and many guests note the friendly captain and beautiful scenery. It’s a great choice for those wanting a social, cost-effective way to see Kotor’s highlights.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a low-cost, engaging day on the water with plenty of photo stops and stories.
3. Kotor: Blue Cave and Lady of the Rock Guided Boat Tour
With a 4.9/5 rating from 382 reviews, this tour dives deeper into both natural and cultural sites over 1.5 to 9 hours. It offers the chance to swim in the Blue Cave, visit Mamula Island, and explore the church and museum at Our Lady of the Rocks. The tour includes snorkeling equipment and guided commentary from Aki, who many mention as warm and personable. It also covers Perast’s UNESCO-listed architecture and the peaceful Saint George Island. The longer duration means the tour can be tailored to your interests, perfect for those who want a more relaxed, in-depth experience. Reviewers love how the guide shares interesting stories and makes the sights come alive.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want an all-encompassing, flexible day with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and history.
4. Kotor: Boat Tour to Perast Old Town & Our Lady of the Rocks
This 4.7-star tour (705 reviews) offers a 2-hour trip focusing on Perast’s picturesque streets and the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks. The tour features a short boat ride from Kotor to the island, where you can explore the church and museum. Then, you’ll stroll through Perast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its maritime charm and beautiful architecture. This tour is perfect if you prefer a shorter, more relaxed excursion that combines scenic cruising with cultural sightseeing. The guide’s commentary makes the visit engaging, and many travelers appreciated the timed exploration giving enough time to see the main sights without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: A solid choice for those wanting a short, scenic, and culturally rich experience without a long day on the water.
5. Kotor: Our Lady of the Rocks and Blue Cave Group Boat Tour
This highly-rated (4.9/5, 325 reviews) tour offers 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks in a small group setting. It’s praised for its friendly guides, beautiful swimming spots, and the chance to see WWII submarine tunnels. Many guests highlight the great value and the opportunity to swim in the Blue Cave. The tour suits travelers with limited time who want to hit the highlights and enjoy some snorkeling and sightseeing. Some reviews mention weather affecting the Blue Cave visibility but still enjoying the overall experience.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers looking for a short, fun, and scenic trip with an emphasis on swimming and cultural highlights.
6. Montenegro Private Tour: Kotor, Perast, Our Lady of the Rocks, Budva
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 181 reviews, this 4-hour private tour offers customized sightseeing with a private vehicle. You’ll visit Perast, Our Lady of the Rocks, and optionally Budva—all with your dedicated guide. The tour includes a boat ride from Perast to the island, and the itinerary is flexible to match your interests. Many appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to go at your own pace, especially for those who want a more intimate experience or have specific sites in mind. The tour provides entry tickets and expert commentary, making it a great value for those seeking comfort and privacy.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a bespoke, relaxed day with the flexibility to include other nearby sites.
7. Boat tour to Lady of the Rock, Submarine base & Blue Cave swim
This group tour (5/5 from 179 reviews) is known for its upbeat atmosphere and multiple stops in about 3 hours. It includes visits to Our Lady of the Rocks, swimming at the Blue Cave, and exploring the submarine base. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and swimming with onboard WiFi and a lively guide explaining the history. The itinerary makes it easy to see key sites in a compact time frame, with some reviews noting the fun and friendly vibe. It’s well suited for those wanting a group experience with a active, photo-rich day.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a fun, social trip with multiple highlights in a short time.
8. Private Walking tour with Wine and Food
This 5-star (176 reviews) 2-hour private tour turns your visit into a culinary adventure. You’ll wander through Kotor’s Old Town, sampling local specialties like smoked ham, cheese, and wine. The guide shares anecdotes about the city’s traditions and daily life, making it both tasty and informative. Many find the intimate setting perfect for asking questions and learning about local culture in a relaxed environment. It’s ideal for travelers interested in gastronomy and authentic experiences, especially if they appreciate good food and lively stories. The tour offers enough tastings to almost replace a meal, making it good value.
Bottom line: Perfect for food lovers wanting a personalized, flavorful exploration of Kotor.
9. Kotor: Speedboat Tour to Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks
Rated 4.8/5 from 185 reviews, this speedboat adventure (2–6 hours) whisks you around the bay to see Our Lady of the Rocks, Blue Cave, and submarine tunnels. The comfortable boats and expert guides make it a smooth ride, with many reviewers mentioning the spectacular swimming spots and informative narration. The tour is flexible, with options to swim, snorkel, and explore. Some reviewers note that weather can impact site visibility, but everyone agrees the fast pace and scenic routes make this a worthwhile choice for active travelers. It’s best suited for those who want to maximize sights in a short period and enjoy adventure on the water.
Bottom line: A reliable, lively option that’s perfect for those who want a fast-paced, fun day on the bay.
10. From Budva/Kotor: Montenegro Highlights Tour & Lake Cruise
This 4.9-rated, 9-hour tour takes you away from the coast to Lake Skadar, Cetinje, and Kotor Bay. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Montenegro’s inland beauty, with stops at off-the-beaten-path spots and a serpentine drive overlooking the bay. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and delicious lunch with scenic views. It’s suited for those who prefer more extensive exploration and are interested in Montenegro’s diverse landscapes. The tour balances nature, culture, and history, making it a good pick for a full day of discovery away from the beaches.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a comprehensive, scenic day trip covering both land and lake highlights.
11. 2025 Private Blue Cave and Boka Bay Speedboat Tour from Kotor
This luxury private yacht (5/5 from 88 reviews) offers a 3-hour personalized cruise around Boka Bay. It features stops at Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and Mamula Fortress, with ample time for swimming and photos. The brand-new yacht and dolphin sightings add to the special feeling. Guests rave about the professional crew and tailored experience, making it perfect for special occasions or travelers who want exclusivity. The tour offers the most flexibility and includes stunning scenery and memorable moments.
Bottom line: The ideal choice for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting a completely personalized, luxurious experience.
12. Private Speedboat Tour: Lady of the Rocks & Blue Cave – Small Groups up to 25
This exclusive small-group tour (87 reviews, 5/5) is perfect for groups up to 15. It combines scenic passage with visits to Lady of the Rocks and Blue Cave, plus stops at Mamula and Tivat. Many reviewers mention the friendly crew, informative narration, and beautiful photo opportunities. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want a private yet social outing with all the major sites. The 3-hour itinerary balances sightseeing and swimming, making it good for those with limited time but high expectations for personalized service.
Bottom line: Excellent for groups seeking a customized, intimate boat experience with plenty of iconic stops.
13. Group tour: Blue Cave boat tour 3 hours experience package
Rated 5/5 from 82 reviews, this affordable (around $58 per person), small-group tour focuses on swimming, sightseeing, and exploring the Blue Cave, Mamula Fortress, and submarine tunnels. The 3-hour itinerary is designed to maximize scenic views and photo ops, with a lively guide explaining the history. Travelers appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the cost-effective nature of this tour. It’s suited for those who want a fun, social experience without breaking the bank. Some reviews highlight the beautifully preserved sites and the enjoyable boat ride.
Bottom line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who seek a short, lively, and memorable day in Kotor.
How to Choose Your Perfect Kotor Tour
When selecting a tour, consider how much time you have and what interests you most. If you want a quick highlights tour with swimming and sightseeing, the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks group tour (see here) offers great value. For a more personalized, private experience, the Montenegro Private Tour (check it out) provides tailored stops and comfort. Budget travelers might prefer the Group Blue Cave boat tour (see link), which offers lively fun at a lower cost. Meanwhile, those craving luxury and full flexibility will appreciate the Private Blue Cave and Boka Bay Speedboat (here).
Booking early is advised, especially during peak season, to ensure you secure your preferred time and group size. Consider weather conditions—some tours depend on clear skies for Blue Cave visibility—and always check what’s included, like snorkeling gear or lunch.
Final Thoughts
Kotor’s diverse tour options mean there’s something for all, whether you want an adventurous boat ride, a relaxed cultural visit, or a luxury private cruise. For active travelers, the speedboat trips offer thrilling swimming and sightseeing, while those interested in culture will appreciate detailed guides at Our Lady of the Rocks or Perast. Families and couples can find enjoyable, tailored experiences that fit their pace and interests.
The best approach is to pick a tour aligned with your schedule and curiosity. The Blue Cave remains a must-see, but pairing it with a visit to Our Lady of the Rocks or exploring Perast’s old town can make your day even more memorable. Don’t forget to book early—Kotor’s tours fill up fast, especially in summer. Happy sailing!