Kotor: Blue Cave tour with swiming time and drinks

Introducing the Kotor Blue Cave Tour: An Exciting 3-Hour Adventure

If you’re craving a blend of scenic cruising, fascinating history, and a splash of adventure, the Kotor Blue Cave tour might just be your perfect day out. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed descriptions show it’s a compact but action-packed journey through the highlights of Montenegro’s stunning Bay of Kotor.

What really appeals are the breathtaking views, the chance to swim in the Blue Cave, and the opportunity to explore iconic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Island — all on a private speedboat. Plus, there’s a good mix of cultural stops, natural beauty, and adrenaline-pumping boat rides.

One consideration is the duration—at just three hours, it’s a quick trip that covers a lot, so it might feel rushed if you love slow, lingering explorations. However, it’s ideal for those who prefer a focused, high-energy experience that hits the main highlights.

This tour suits travelers who want a convenient, immersive, yet manageable taste of Montenegro’s most famous spots, especially if you’re short on time but still want memorable moments on the water and the chance to snap some great photos.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery with panoramic views of Kotor Bay and surrounding islands
• Flexible stops allowing exploration of iconic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Island
• Blue Cave experience with swimming and exploring its luminous waters
• Private group setting ensures personalized attention and a comfortable experience
• Includes drinks and water for refreshment during the trip
• Fast-paced but fulfilling tour perfect for those who enjoy scenic boat rides and quick visits

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Kotor Blue Cave tour runs for approximately three hours, starting from Poseidon Boat Tours in Kotor. It’s a well-paced journey that balances sightseeing, cultural visits, and water activities, making it a versatile choice for travelers wanting a broad taste of the region.

Starting Point: Poseidon Boat Tours in Kotor

Your adventure kicks off at the main port near the Kotor Main Gate. From here, the boat is ready to whisk you away. The vessel—an comfortable, sleek speedboat—sets the tone for the trip with its modern look and ample space. The guide and skipper are licensed and fluent in English, which helps keep the experience smooth, especially when sharing interesting tidbits about each stop.

First Stop: Our Lady of the Rocks

This tiny island is an absolute highlight. Surrounded by clear, turquoise waters, the church’s blue domes are instantly recognizable. You’ll get around 20 minutes to explore the island, walk around its tranquil gardens, and peek inside the church with its beautiful frescoes. The guided visit offers insight into the island’s legendary origins and its religious significance.

A common comment from travelers is how peaceful and picturesque the island feels, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the serenity.

Second Stop: Submarine Tunnels

Next, you’ll cruise past the former Yugoslav military submarine tunnels, known for their strategic importance during World War II. This location offers a chance for a quick 10-minute photo stop, giving a glimpse into Montenegro’s defensive history. It’s a brief but intriguing window into the region’s military past, with some reviews noting the tunnels’ “fascinating” design and historical significance.

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Mamula Island: Panoramic Views

After that, the boat approaches Mamula Island, a fortress that once guarded the bay. You’ll spend about 5 minutes here, enjoying sweeping views of the fortress and the rugged coastline. Several reviews mention how striking the island’s silhouette is against the sky, making it an ideal spot for photos and appreciating the bay’s natural beauty.

The Main Event: The Blue Cave

Finally, the highlight of the trip—the Blue Cave. The boat carefully maneuvers through a narrow entrance to this underground marvel, revealing a dazzling display of iridescent blue waters that seem to glow from within. Inside, the water’s luminescence creates an almost surreal atmosphere, like swimming in liquid sapphire.

Guests are given around 30 minutes here, which is enough time to admire the cave’s eerie beauty, take photos, and even swim in the inviting waters if they wish. Many reviewers describe this part as “magical,” and the experience of swimming in the glowing cave is often cited as the trip’s biggest highlight.

Return Trip: Scenic Ride Back

The return journey is equally scenic, with the boat zipping past charming fishing villages, rugged mountains, and private beaches. The ride is lively, with the skipper performing fun turns and splashes that add a splash of adrenaline to the experience.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The tour includes a licensed English-speaking guide and skipper, ensuring you’re well looked after and informed along the way. You’ll also enjoy free Wi-Fi, water, and a bottle of local wine—a nice touch to relax and toast after your adventure.

Safety is prioritized, with insurance and fuel included in the price, so there are no surprises. You’ll also get a diving mask to enhance your experience in the Blue Cave or other stops.

However, entry to Our Lady of the Rocks Museum isn’t covered, so if you want to explore the interior more thoroughly, you’ll need to pay separately. Drinks like soft drinks, juices, or additional alcohol can be purchased before departure, which is a good option if you want more variety.

Price & Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest option, its private group setup and inclusion of drinks, guide, and swimming make it a solid value. It’s especially appealing for couples, small groups, or families who prefer a tailored experience without the crowds.

Timing & Flexibility

The scheduled start times vary, so checking availability in advance is essential. The three-hour duration is ideal for a quick but comprehensive taste of Kotor’s highlights, though some may find it a bit rushed if they wish to linger longer at each site.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Multiple reviewers praised the Blue Cave for its “mesmerizing glow,” with one describing it as “like swimming in a gemstone.” Others appreciated the smooth and safe boat ride, with many noting the crew’s professionalism and friendliness.

A few mentioned that the Our Lady of the Rocks visit felt a bit brief, but the scenic beauty more than made up for it. The submarine tunnels were highlighted as a “quirky and interesting” detour, providing a different perspective on Montenegro’s history.

Some travelers loved the fast-paced nature—they said it hits all the main spots efficiently—while others wished for more time at each location, especially at the Blue Cave.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Kotor Blue Cave tour offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural stops, and fun water activities, making it especially suitable for short-term visitors who want a compact yet memorable experience. It’s ideal for families, couples, or friends who enjoy scenic boat rides, quick explorations, and a splash of adventure.

If you’re after relaxed, slow-paced sightseeing, this might feel a little rushed. Conversely, if you love exciting boat rides with plenty of photo moments and a swim in a glowing cave, this tour could be just what you need.

The private group setting ensures a more personalized, intimate experience, free from crowds, which many travelers find adds to the enjoyment. Plus, the all-included drinks and guides mean you can focus on soaking up the stunning views without worry.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, from start to finish, including all stops and travel time.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Poseidon Boat Tours in Kotor, just across the Main Gate.

What can I expect to see during the tour?
You’ll visit Our Lady of the Rocks, submarine tunnels, Mamula Island, and the Blue Cave, with plenty of scenic views along the way.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, you have about 30 minutes to explore and swim in the Blue Cave, which many find to be the highlight.

Is food included?
No, but a bottle of local wine and water are included, and drinks can be purchased before departure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those comfortable with boat rides and water activities.

Do I need to pay extra for entry tickets?
Yes, entry to Our Lady of the Rocks Museum isn’t included and requires a separate ticket if you wish to visit inside.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimming gear, sun protection, camera, and a sense of adventure. Light snacks and drinks are available for purchase.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed as a private group experience, providing a more personalized journey.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot in advance through the provider, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

To sum it up, this private Blue Cave tour in Kotor offers an engaging blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and high-energy fun. It’s perfect for those who want a snapshot of Montenegro’s most famous spots, with enough time to enjoy each stop, especially the mesmerizing Blue Cave. For travelers seeking a well-organized, scenic, and exciting water adventure, this tour delivers on all counts—making it a memorable part of any Montenegro itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: