Boat tour to Lady of the Rock , Submarine base & Blue Cave swim

Discovering Kotor Bay: A Speedboat Adventure to Lady of the Rocks, Blue Cave, and More

When it comes to exploring the spectacular coastline of Montenegro, a boat tour around Kotor Bay offers a perfect blend of scenery, history, and fun. This particular experience, rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from nearly 180 reviews, promises a lively, informative, and thoroughly enjoyable 3-hour ride that highlights some of the region’s most iconic sights. It’s a great choice whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, especially if you love being on the water and discovering hidden gems.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the hassle-free hotel pickup helps you start smoothly. Second, the stunning views from the boat make every moment picture-worthy. Third, the opportunity to snorkel in Blue Cave with provided equipment turns an ordinary boat ride into a memorable adventure. And finally, the onboard WiFi means you can share your experience instantly. The only thing to consider? The tour’s 3-hour duration means you’ll want to pace yourself, especially if you’re eager to explore each stop thoroughly.

This tour is quite popular, with most booking around 46 days in advance, indicating many travelers find it to be good value and a highlight of their trip. It suits those seeking a relaxed yet immersive way to see Kotor’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions or long boat rides. If you’re after stunning scenery, engaging guides, and a well-paced itinerary, this one could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Comfortable, small-group experience: Max 27 travelers for an intimate vibe.
• Stunning scenery and photo opportunities: Perfect for capturing the beauty of Kotor Bay.
• Includes snorkeling and swimming: Equipment provided, making it accessible to all.
• Knowledgeable guides: Providing insights into local sights and history.
• Hassle-free start: Hotel pickup simplifies your day.
• Value for money: At around $48, it’s a well-priced way to see many highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Our Lady of the Rocks

This small island is a highlight right at the start of the tour. Visitors get about 20 minutes to explore the church and museum, with the option to buy souvenirs. The guide, whose name isn’t specified but is known for being friendly and informative from reviews, explains the island’s fascinating history and its connection to the old town of Perast.

Many travelers find this stop particularly charming. As one reviewer noted, “Very comfortable boats and not big groups,” which means you can comfortably soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. While the admission fee isn’t included, the experience of walking on this man-made island and learning about its history makes the small extra cost worthwhile.

Panoramic View of Fortress Mamula

Next, the boat passes by the old Prison fortress Mamula. This former WWI and WWII prison-turned-luxury hotel offers a striking contrast between its dark past and current opulence. Travelers enjoy a brief panoramic view and background stories, making it an ideal photo op. From the reviews, “Felt like a private speed boat tour,” indicating the boat’s size and speed give you excellent vantage points without the crowds.

Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is the star attraction for many. Here, you can stop for about 25 minutes to swim, snorkel, or simply dip your toes in the refreshing waters. The cave’s name comes from the vibrant blue glow that fills the space—something that looks almost surreal from the boat. Equipment is provided, and several reviewers mention how “fun and interesting” the experience was, with one even calling it the “highlight” of their trip.

Keep in mind, entrance tickets are not included, so you might want to bring a little cash if you wish to enter or snorkel. Expect the water to be cooler in late April, but many still find the swim worth the effort, as one review pointed out, “Still great to be on the water and see the attractions.”

Lutica and the Submarine Base

Lutica is a brief stop at the old submarine base, used after WWII. This site is free to explore and offers a glimpse into Montenegro’s military history. Travelers describe it as “interesting,” and it’s a quick 10-minute visit, perfect for those curious about military structures or looking for a unique photo backdrop.

What You Can Expect on the Boat

The boat itself is praised for being comfortable, spacious, and well-maintained. With a maximum group size of 27, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, avoiding the chaos of large groups. Travelers consistently mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides—though their names aren’t specified, reviews suggest guides like Marko and others go out of their way to share interesting facts and answer questions.

The inclusion of onboard WiFi is a thoughtful touch, allowing travelers to upload photos or stay connected. Bottled water is provided, ensuring hydration during the sunny, breezy ride. As for timing, the 3-hour window is well-paced—long enough to experience the highlights without feeling rushed.

Practical Details

• Price: $48.84 per person—an accessible price for a guided boat trip that covers several key sights.
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, making it suitable for a half-day activity.
• Pickup: Hassle-free hotel pickup from Kotor makes planning easier.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 46 days in advance, indicating its popularity.
• Additional costs: Towel and parking fees are not included, so bring your own towel if you plan to swim.

The Authentic Touch: What Reviewers Say

Many reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. For example, one traveler mentioned, “Tour guide was very informative and friendly,” adding that the experience felt relaxed but informative. Others appreciated the small group size, describing it as “like a private speedboat tour,” which enhances the overall comfort and enjoyment.

The Blue Cave swim is highlighted as a “great experience,” with one traveler calling the Blue Cave “refreshing” and the entire day “a fantastic day on the water.” The submarine base and fortress Mamula also drew praise for their interesting contrast to the natural beauty, making the trip more than just a scenic cruise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy a mix of scenery, history, and water activities. It’s suitable for those who prefer smaller groups, wish to avoid long, crowded excursions, and want a guided insight into Montenegro’s maritime past. Family travelers and couples will appreciate the relaxed pace and stunning photo opportunities. If you’re a snorkeler or curious about military structures, the stops at Blue Cave and submarine base will be especially memorable.

The Sum Up

This 3-hour boat tour around Kotor Bay is an excellent way to see some of Montenegro’s most celebrated sights without feeling rushed. The combination of stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to swim in the Blue Cave makes it a balanced, enjoyable experience. At a reasonable price, with small groups and a smooth start, it delivers genuine value for travelers seeking an authentic, picture-worthy adventure.

Whether you’re a history buff, a water lover, or simply want a relaxing day on the water, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Kotor Bay’s charms. The limited group size and friendly service mean you’ll feel more like a guest than just another passenger, making for a memorable, personalized journey.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time to visit all stops without feeling rushed.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour features hassle-free hotel pickup from Kotor, making the start seamless.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can enjoy swimming and exploring the Blue Cave comfortably.

Do I need to buy tickets for the attractions?
Admission to Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave is not included in the price, so you might need to pay for entry if you wish to explore the island or enter the cave.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel if you plan to swim, and consider sunscreen and a hat for sun protection. Towel and parking fees are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, but the boat ride involves some walking and standing, so consider your mobility needs.

In short, this boat tour offers a fantastic, well-rounded look at Kotor Bay’s most captivating sights, perfect for those who want a blend of scenery, storytelling, and water fun—all set in a comfortable, intimate environment.