Kotor: Blue Cave & Swimmimg, Our Lady of The Rocks, Mamula

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Montenegro’s stunning coastline, this private boat tour from Kotor offers just that — a personalized peek into the area’s natural beauty and intriguing history. While it’s only about three hours long, the experience packs in enough sights and memorable moments to make it feel much longer.

What we really love about this tour is the chance to enjoy the Blue Cave’s mesmerizing shades of blue, the quiet charm of Our Lady of the Rocks, and the intriguing history behind Mamula Island. The small group and private setup make it feel intimate and flexible, perfect for those wanting a tailored adventure. However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t geared toward non-swimmers or those with mobility issues, given the water activities involved.

This tour is ideal for travelers craving a blend of natural beauty, history, and a bit of thrill — especially if you’re keen on exploring at your own pace and savoring stunning scenery without the crowds. If you love authentic experiences with a touch of luxury, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Enjoy a personalized boat tour with flexible options.
• Stunning Blue Cave: Witness mesmerizing blue waters perfect for photos and swimming.
• Historical Sights: Explore the wartime submarine tunnel and Mamula island.
• Cultural Visit: Tour the peaceful Our Lady of the Rocks church.
• Spectacular Views: End with panoramic vistas of Perast at sunset.
• Family-Friendly: Not suitable for non-swimmers or those with back problems or seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Park Slobode, you’ll hop onto a private speedboat for a trip that’s designed to showcase the diverse highlights of Kotor Bay. The 55-minute first leg takes you to the Blue Cave, a highlight that many travelers find unforgettable. We loved the way the tour gives you ample time here — enough to marvel at the ethereal blues, take photos, and even cool down with a swim in the cave’s crystal-clear waters.

Several reviewers, like Kevin, mentioned their guide, Evard, who made the experience smooth and enjoyable. “Gave us options and communicated very well,” Kevin shared, highlighting that a good guide can make or break the trip. From personal experience, having a knowledgeable guide to point out the best photo spots or hidden features adds a lot of value.

Visiting the Blue Cave

This natural marvel is carved out over centuries, with waters that reflect sunlight to produce those surreal shades of blue. You might find yourself wishing for more than 15 minutes to soak it all in — but that’s plenty of time for a swim or snorkel if you’re feeling adventurous. The cave’s transparent waters and the vivid blue glow create perfect conditions for a memorable photo session or just a moment of quiet awe.

The Wartime Submarine Tunnel & Mamula Island

Next, the tour takes you to a hidden submarine tunnel, a reminder of Montenegro’s more recent history. It’s a brief stop, but enough to appreciate the engineering and the story behind it. Some travelers, as noted in reviews, admire the contrast of this quiet, secretive spot against the lively beauty of the bay.

Then, you’ll cruise past Mamula Island, once a formidable fortress and prison. A quick 5-minute photo stop allows you to snap the island’s imposing walls and imagine its past life. It’s a quick but impactful glimpse into Montenegro’s military history.

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Our Lady of the Rocks

The island’s church is a highlight for many visitors. As you arrive at Our Lady of the Rocks, you’ll notice the peaceful atmosphere and the centuries-old church, which has been a spiritual sanctuary for locals and visitors alike. The tour includes a guided visit, giving you a chance to learn about its history and significance. The photo opportunities here are plentiful, especially with the scenic backdrop of the bay.

End with Panoramic Views of Perast

As the tour winds down, you’ll get a spectacular view of Perast at sunset. This is a perfect moment to reflect on the day’s highlights and snap some last photos of the charming town and bay. Many reviewers have mentioned how this view caps off the trip beautifully, making it a fitting conclusion.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour lasts around three hours, starting from Park Slobode. It’s a private experience, which means you can customize your pace and focus on what interests you most — whether that’s swimming, picture-taking, or simply relaxing on the boat.

Transportation is by a private speedboat, which is a speedy and comfortable way to cover the distance between sights. The group size is limited to your private party, making it more personal and less crowded than group tours.

Pricing is designed to offer good value, especially considering the inclusion of multiple stops, a guide, and drinks. The tour includes complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, perfect for staying refreshed during your journey.

One point to keep in mind is that food and additional drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this tour, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.

What to Bring

Make sure to pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera to capture those stunning moments. A hat will help on sunnier days, and a waterproof case for your phone is highly recommended since water activities are part of the fun.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

While the experience is fantastic for most, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers, children, or those with back problems or seasickness. The water-based activities and boat rides require a certain level of comfort with being on the water.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Kevin’s review highlights the importance of a good guide: “Evard was an excellent tour operator for us… well prepared and punctual.” His experience underscores how a knowledgeable guide can enhance the trip with tailored options and local insights.

Many guests also comment on how stunning the scenery is — especially the Blue Cave — and how the tour balances natural wonder with historical insights, providing a well-rounded experience.

The Value Proposition

This tour offers a personalized, flexible way to see some of Montenegro’s best sights without the hassle of large groups. The combination of natural beauty, history, and scenic vistas makes it a worthwhile addition to any Kotor itinerary. The inclusion of drinks, the private setting, and the opportunity to swim in the Blue Cave elevate it beyond a simple sightseeing trip.

Considering its duration and the exclusive nature of a private boat, the price is quite reasonable. You get to see multiple attractions in just a few hours, each with its own story and charm, making it a good value for travelers who want an intimate and memorable experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value authentic, scenic adventures and prefer a more private, customizable outing. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families wanting a relaxed yet exciting day on the water. If you’re into stunning views, quick dips in beautiful waters, and a taste of Montenegro’s maritime history, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this private boat tour from Kotor offers a well-rounded glimpse into Montenegro’s spectacular bay, combining natural beauty with intriguing history. The opportunity to enjoy the Blue Cave’s mesmerizing waters and visit iconic spots like Our Lady of the Rocks makes this a memorable choice, especially with the added comfort of a private experience.

Though it’s a short trip, it’s packed with highlights that appeal to those wanting a bit of everything — scenic vistas, swims, and cultural sights. Keep in mind the water activities if you’re not comfortable on boats or in the water, but for most, this is an adventure that balances fun and discovery.

Whether you’re a photographer, a history buff, or just looking to soak in Montenegro’s stunning coastline, this tour is a smart pick, especially if you appreciate a personalized touch and expert guidance.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, from start to finish.

Is it a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, tailored to your party, for a more personal experience.

Are drinks included?
Yes, complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages are provided.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera — a waterproof case for your phone is recommended.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, swimming in the Blue Cave is included, giving you a chance to enjoy the crystal-clear waters.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for non-swimmers or children who can’t be accompanied by an adult.

What about accessibility?
The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or who are prone to seasickness.

Are there any additional costs?
Food and extra drinks are not included. You are responsible for transportation from your hotel to the starting point.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
While check availability for starting times, many travelers enjoy the late morning or early afternoon for optimal light and weather.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot online through GetYourGuide and choose to pay later for flexibility.

This private boat tour offers an authentic, scenic, and history-rich way to experience Kotor’s coast, perfect for those seeking a personalized adventure with stunning views and engaging stops. Whether you’re snapping photos of the Blue Cave, exploring the peaceful Our Lady of the Rocks, or just soaking up the scenery on the boat, this trip promises memorable moments in Montenegro’s spectacular bay.

You can check availability for your dates here: