Kotor: Blue Cave Private Boat Tour

Exploring Montenegro’s breathtaking coast by boat is a must-do for anyone wanting a closer look at the stunning scenery and hidden gems of Boka Bay. The Blue Cave Private Boat Tour offers an intimate, flexible way to soak in some of the most iconic sights, from charming fishing villages to mysterious military tunnels. It’s a three-hour journey packed with natural beauty, fascinating history, and plenty of opportunities to cool off with a swim.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized experience with a private guide and boat, which means you can customize your stops and pace. Second, the visits to multiple highlights—including the Blue Cave, Lady of the Rocks, and the former submarine base—offer a well-rounded day. Lastly, the stunning views and knowledgeable guides ensure you’re not just rushing past scenery but truly appreciating what you see.

One thing to consider is the weather-dependent nature of the trip; poor conditions can lead to last-minute itinerary adjustments or cancellations, especially for the Blue Cave. But if you love a scenic cruise combined with cultural and natural highlights, this tour is perfect for those seeking a balance of relaxation and adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who value small-group experiences, stunning photo opportunities, and personalized service.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience with a knowledgeable skipper and guide
• Includes multiple stops: Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and a submarine tunnel
• Perfect for photos and swimming, thanks to the Blue Cave stop
• Flexible itinerary that can be adjusted for weather or guest preferences
• Value for money given the private nature, guiding, and multiple highlights
• Accessible for those comfortable with boat trips and active sightseeing

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Blue Cave Private Boat Tour

What’s Included and How It Shapes Your Experience

This tour is designed to maximize your time on the water with a boat trip, guided by a knowledgeable skipper/guide, with some thoughtful amenities like snorkel masks, water, safety gear, and insurance. The company, Montenegro Submarine & Speed Boat Tours, clearly emphasizes a focus on safety, comfort, and flexibility.

Pricing is quite reasonable considering the private group setting—you’re paying for a tailored experience rather than a crowded tour bus. The price includes the boat, guide, beverages, and snorkel gear, making it straightforward and transparent. Entrance tickets to the Our Lady of the Rocks museum are extra, costing €3, but the tour itself offers a rich experience even if you skip this.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the designated meeting point in Kotor. Expect to arrive at least 30 minutes early, as the meeting spot is easy to find once you leave your ship or car, near the park and an information desk by the sea. Once onboard, the adventure begins with several boat rides, each lasting anywhere from 5 to 70 minutes, depending on the stop.

The first major highlight is Our Lady of the Rocks in Perast, where you’ll have about 20 minutes to explore the small island, snap photos, and learn about the legend of fishermen creating the artificial island. The church and its art collection, including works by Lovro Dobricevic and Tripo Kokolja, add cultural depth to this visit.

Next up, a quick 15-minute boat ride takes you to the former submarine tunnel in Kotor for a brief photo stop and a chance to learn about its military past. Here, the reviews mention the guides’ helpfulness and the ease of navigating these historic sites, making the stops more than just photo ops—they’re educational as well.

The tour then heads towards Tivat Bay for sweeping views, and the highlight for many is the Blue Cave — a natural marvel accessible only by boat. The water here is said to be especially stunning during daylight hours, and the experience of swimming inside the cave, with plush cushions and chilled beverages on hand, makes it a memorable moment. A reviewer noted that their guide, Zdravko, made the swim fun and relaxed, emphasizing the personalized approach of the tour.

Another stop takes you to Mamula Island, a former military fort turned natural attraction. The mix of history and scenic beauty here is well appreciated, with many guests commenting on how the guide shared stories that brought the site alive.

Guides and Safety

From reviews, guides like Sergey and Sasha are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable attitude. They seem to go above and beyond, giving guests freedom to explore or relax, and even taking care of children during swimming stops. Safety gear is provided, and the boat’s condition is described as excellent, ensuring a smooth ride on sometimes choppy waters.

More Great Tours Nearby

Timing and Group Size

With a 3-hour duration, the tour is compact but packed with sights. The schedule is flexible enough to allow for a relaxed pace or quick visits, depending on weather or group preference. The private group setting, often for families or small groups, enhances the experience by avoiding crowded boatloads, and reviews mention that the boat is well maintained, with Bluetooth speakers for added ambiance.

Value for Money

Considering the private nature, the guide’s local knowledge, and multiple stops, this tour offers good value. It’s particularly attractive for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience over large group excursions. For just a few hours, you get a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s coast, combining natural beauty, history, and cultural insights.

Highlights and Unique Selling Points

Stunning Views: Every stop offers prime photo opportunities, from panoramic bay vistas to close-up shots of the Blue Cave and Mamula Island. Reviewers consistently mention how beautiful the scenery is, often saying it’s “heavenly” or “breathtaking.”

Guided Insight: The guides’ local knowledge is evident, making history and legends come to life. Many reviewers noted that guides like Sergey and Sasha made the experience personal and relaxed, often allowing guests to choose their stops.

Flexibility and Comfort: The tour’s private setup means you can swim, take photos, or just relax on the boat without feeling rushed. The amenities—snorkel masks, chilled drinks—add to the comfort.

Unique Stops: The Blue Cave swim, the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, and the submarine tunnels provide a diverse experience that’s hard to replicate on larger, less personal tours.

Natural and Cultural Balance: This tour offers a great mix of natural wonders and cultural sights, perfect for travelers wanting both scenic beauty and a touch of Montenegro’s history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who value personalized service and want to explore Montenegro’s coast at their own pace. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a relaxed yet adventurous day on the water.

If you love photo ops, swimming in caves, or discovering hidden military sites, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s also an excellent choice if you prefer avoiding crowded group tours and want a more intimate and flexible experience.

However, travelers should be comfortable on a boat and prepared for potential weather changes, as the Blue Cave visit can be affected by sea conditions.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic opportunity to see Montenegro’s coast in a way that’s both personal and picturesque. The private boat setting, combined with knowledgeable guides and varied stops, makes it a memorable experience for those who enjoy natural beauty, historical sites, and a touch of adventure.

The value lies in the flexible schedule and intimate setting—you’re not just another face in a crowd but a guest with the freedom to explore or relax as you wish. Whether you’re looking to take stunning photos, enjoy a swim inside the Blue Cave, or simply soak up the stunning views, this tour delivers on many fronts.

For travelers eager for a blend of adventure, culture, and scenery, this experience is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate expert guidance and a tailored approach to exploring Montenegro’s stunning coastline.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with kids enjoying the trip. Guides are attentive, and the boat ride is generally smooth, but young children should be comfortable on boats.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes are recommended. Large luggage or big bags are not allowed onboard.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves boat rides and swimming, so it’s best suited for those able to handle these activities comfortably.

Can I join if I’m arriving by car?
Yes, the meeting point is accessible by car, but traffic can be heavy during summer. It’s advisable to allow extra time for your journey.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or adjusted if weather conditions are unfavorable, especially for the Blue Cave visit. Always check with the operator on the day.

Are drinks and snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, chilled beverages and snorkel masks are included for your comfort and fun.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, making the experience more tailored and relaxed.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from 5 to 70 minutes, depending on the location, allowing plenty of time to explore or relax.

Can I skip the Our Lady of the Rocks museum?
Yes, you can choose not to visit the museum, and the tour still covers the main highlights.

In brief, if you’re seeking a flexible, scenic, and culturally rich boat trip with a knowledgeable guide and a small-group feel, the Blue Cave Private Boat Tour from Kotor offers great value. It’s perfect for those who want to see and feel Montenegro’s coast without the hassle of large tour groups or crowded boats.

You can check availability for your dates here: