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

Traveling along Montenegro’s captivating Bay of Kotor means encountering some of the most stunning natural and historical sights in the Adriatic. This private speedboat tour offers a compact yet rich experience that hits several highlights in just three hours. We’ve looked into what makes this outing special, along with a few considerations to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What really shines about this experience are the ethereal Blue Cave, the historical island of Mamula, and the serene Our Lady of the Rocks. These sites combine natural beauty with historical intrigue, offering a well-rounded glimpse of the bay. The private boat aspect allows for a more flexible, personalized journey—plus, the chance to swim and take photos in some of Montenegro’s most photogenic spots.

However, keep in mind that weather conditions play a big role in the tour’s success, especially when it comes to visibility in the Blue Cave. If the seas are choppy or the sky overcast, the cave’s famous blue hues might not shine through as vividly. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, want a taste of Montenegro’s highlights, and appreciate a small-group, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The Blue Cave and Perast sunset views are genuinely breathtaking.
• Flexible Itinerary: The tour includes iconic stops like Our Lady of the Rocks and Mamula, plus some hidden gems like the submarine tunnel.
• Private Experience: The tour is limited to six people, making it intimate and customizable.
• Active Elements: Swimming and snorkeling opportunities add a fun, relaxing dimension.
• Weather Sensitive: The Blue Cave’s appearance depends heavily on weather conditions, which can affect your experience.
• Value for Money: The price covers multiple attractions and a private boat, offering excellent value for a quick, comprehensive adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Park Slobode

The tour kicks off from a recognizable meeting point in Kotor, Park Slobode. Arriving 15 minutes early is advised to ensure a smooth departure and get acquainted with your guide.

Blue Cave and Lustica Peninsula

The highlight for many is the ride to the Blue Cave on the Lustica Peninsula. The speedboat ride takes about 50 minutes through the tranquil waters of the bay, offering chances to enjoy the breeze and stunning coastline views. Once at the cave, you’ll marvel at the ethereal shades of blue caused by sunlight reflecting off the water—an experience only a boat trip can deliver.

Guests often comment on the cave’s capriciousness: “Disappointing Blue Cave: I guess the timing is not right to bring out the blue in the water,” one reviewer notes. But even if the color isn’t as vivid as hoped, swimming in the clear waters right outside the cave more than makes up for it.

Visiting the Wartime Submarine Tunnel

Next, the tour reveals a hidden wartime submarine tunnel, offering a peek into Montenegro’s past. This relatively short stop allows for photos and exploration, giving you a sense of the region’s layered history. One reviewer shared that they appreciated the opportunity to visit this less-known site, which adds depth to the overall experience.

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Mamula Island

A quick 5-minute stop at Mamula Island provides a chance for photos of the former prison fortress. The island’s stark, imposing structure stands out against the blue waters, making it a compelling photo subject. Expect around five minutes here; it’s a brief but worthwhile glimpse into Montenegro’s military past.

Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast

The tour then takes you to Our Lady of the Rocks, a peaceful sanctuary with a centuries-old church. The visit combines sightseeing with free time, so you can explore the island’s charming ambiance and snap photos of the iconic church.

Later, as the sun begins to set, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Perast, widely regarded as one of the most picturesque towns along the bay. The golden hour lighting makes it a perfect moment to soak in the scenery and capture stunning photos.

Return Journey: Perast to Kotor

The trip ends with a smooth 25-minute ride back to Kotor. Reviewers mention the peaceful evening light and the illuminated coast, which turned the return into a highlight of the experience. “The sunset around 8 p.m. and the return at night with the view of the illuminated coast more than compensated,” noted one guest.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Duration and Schedule

The tour runs for about 3 hours, starting and ending in Kotor. Departure times vary, so it’s wise to check availability when booking. Peak summer timings, like the 6 p.m. trip, tend to offer a good balance of daylight and cooler temperatures, and as one reviewer pointed out, the late afternoon sunset adds a magical touch.

What’s Included and Not

The cost covers the speedboat, visits to all listed sites, swimming and snorkeling opportunities, and a guide speaking English, Turkish, or Serbian. Food and drinks aren’t included, so bring water, snacks, or a light meal if you wish. Also, hotel pickups aren’t part of the package, so plan to meet at the designated spot in Kotor.

Important Tips

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and a camera for photos.
• Wearing a life jacket is mandatory during the boat ride.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 2, non-swimmers, or those with back problems, seasickness, or a tendency to get seasick.
• Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt start.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the tour depends on weather, it may be cancelled or rescheduled in poor conditions. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if weather looks unfavorable.

The Experience from a Guest Perspective

One reviewer shared their experience: “We loved our outing! Edvan is a caring driver who was able to ensure that the boat did not shake us too much. He waited until the other boats had left after our swim at the Blue Cave so we could take nice photos and enjoy the sunset.” This highlights the personalized, considerate service on offer.

Another guest noted that fewer people on the boat made for a more relaxed experience, saying, “We were lucky to only be 4 even though the boat can accommodate 7. The sunset and the swimming right next to the Blue Cave more than compensated for the less-than-perfect cave color.”

This tour’s flexibility and intimate setting are big selling points for those wanting a more private, relaxed experience without sacrificing key sights.

Final Thoughts

This three-hour private speedboat tour offers an excellent snapshot of Montenegro’s coast, combining natural wonders with historical sites in a manageable, scenic package. The Blue Cave alone makes it worthwhile, with the added bonus of visiting Mamula, Our Lady of the Rocks, and a wartime submarine tunnel.

The small-group approach ensures a comfortable, personalized experience, making it ideal for couples, friends, or small families who want to enjoy Montenegro’s beauty at a relaxed pace. The tour’s focus on iconic sights, combined with the chance to swim and take photos, makes for a memorable, well-rounded adventure.

While weather can impact the cave’s appearance, the overall journey is full of stunning views and meaningful stops. If you’re after an authentic, scenic day on the water that showcases Montenegro’s best, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2 years or for those prone to seasickness, non-swimmers, or with back problems. The boat ride requires a certain level of comfort with the water.

What should I bring?
Be sure to carry a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and a camera. The tour involves swimming and photo opportunities, so be prepared.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is helpful if the forecast isn’t favorable.

How many people will be on the boat?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, making it an intimate experience compared to larger group excursions.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks aren’t included, so bring some snacks or water to stay refreshed.

What time does the tour usually start?
Start times vary; check availability when booking. Popular options include late afternoon trips like at 6 p.m., especially for sunset views.

This private Kotor speedboat tour balances natural beauty, history, and relaxation, making it perfect for travelers seeking a personalized adventure on Montenegro’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: