Kotor: Blue Cave with Kotor Bay Island and Submarine Tunnels

Kotor: Blue Cave with Kotor Bay Island and Submarine Tunnels – A Detailed Review

Exploring Montenegro’s coast from the water is one of those bucket-list experiences you won’t want to miss. This speedboat tour from Kotor promises a quick yet immersive taste of the region’s highlights—think vivid Blue Cave, the iconic Lady of the Rocks, and intriguing WWII submarine tunnels. While the tour is compact, it packs in a lot, making it perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the best of Boka Bay.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning visuals—from the deep blue of the cave to the panoramic sea views. Second, the rich history and stories shared by the knowledgeable captain, which add depth beyond just sightseeing. Third, the flexibility and friendly service, with reviews highlighting responsive staff and options for private tours. That said, a possible downside is the crowded Blue Cave, which can make swimming less relaxing during peak times.

This tour is ideal for those who want a short, value-packed adventure with a mix of natural beauty, history, and fun. It suits travelers who appreciate good storytelling, picturesque scenery, and a comfortable boat ride. If you’re after a laid-back but memorable introduction to Montenegro’s coast, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Incredible sights: From the Blue Cave to Lady of the Rocks, the scenery is breathtaking.
• Knowledgeable guides: The captain shares interesting anecdotes and historical insights.
• Good value: All major highlights fit into a 3-hour trip with included amenities.
• Flexible booking: Options for skip-the-line, reserving now, and paying later.
• Family-friendly: Not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.
• Weather-dependent: Bad weather could lead to rescheduling, so check the forecast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This 3-hour boat trip begins at Park Slobode in Kotor, a convenient central starting point. From there, your adventure kicks off with a scenic 50-minute ride along Kotor Bay, giving you a panoramic view of the rugged coastline, dotted with islands and historic sites. The boat itself is modern, comfortable, and often praised for its cleanliness and stability, which matters when you’re cruising at speed.

The Blue Cave: A Visual Marvel

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the Blue Cave, where you’ll stop for about 20 minutes. The cave’s waters showcase an almost surreal shade of blue, caused by sunlight bouncing off the sea floor and entering through a narrow opening. The reviews rave about how mesmerizing the colors are—“out-of-this-world shades of blue” as one reviewer put it. You’ll have time for swimming and snorkeling, so remember your gear; the cave’s calm waters make for an excellent swim, even if it gets crowded.

Some travelers note that during peak season, the cave can be busy with boats, which might make swimming trickier, but the photo opportunities are spectacular. As one reviewer shared, “You won’t get bored at all,” thanks to the good vibes and vibrant scenery.

WWII Submarine Tunnels

Next, you’ll explore an abandoned WWII submarine tunnel, a little-known gem that adds a sense of adventure and history. The guide provides context about its use as a secret shelter, which is especially fascinating for history buffs. It’s a quick stop—mainly for photos and curiosity—but provides a tangible link to Montenegro’s wartime past.

Mamula Island and Its Fortress

Passing by Mamula Island, you’ll get a glimpse of its notorious history as a prison for some of the region’s most infamous criminals. Surrounded on all sides by sea, escaping was almost impossible, which today makes the fortress an imposing and photogenic landmark. The view from the boat is striking, and it’s a great spot for a quick photo break.

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The Jewel: Lady of the Rocks

The trip then heads to Lady of the Rocks, arguably Montenegro’s most beautiful island. This artificial island covers only about 3,000m2 but is packed with charm. You’ll have about 20 minutes to explore the church and museum, where stories of its origins are as captivating as the views. The island’s history and the legend behind it add a layer of intrigue, making it a must-see.

Final Return and Reflection

After exploring Lady of the Rocks, the boat heads back to Kotor, offering one last look at the coast’s rugged beauty. The journey concludes at the same starting point—Park Slobode—leaving you with plenty of photos and memories.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Park Slobode: Easy to reach in the heart of Kotor, with clear signs to the speedboats.
• Blue Cave stop: 20 minutes of swimming, snorkeling, and photography amid stunning blue waters.
• Mamula Island: Brief stop with a photo opportunity of this historic fortress.
• WWII Submarine Tunnel: Quick exploration and photo break at an intriguing military relic.
• Lady of the Rocks: 20-minute visit to explore the island, church, and museum.
• Back to Kotor: Return journey with scenic views and photo opportunities.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour price covers essentials like fuel, free Wi-Fi, and bottled water, which add comfort and convenience. The experienced multi-language captain ensures you’re well-informed and safe, and the boat’s modern design makes for a smooth ride.

However, you should note that museum tickets to Lady of the Rocks are optional and not included, which is worth budgeting for if you’re interested in visiting the inside. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, or people over 70, mainly due to safety and comfort reasons onboard.

Practical Tips

• Bring swimwear and a towel so you’re ready for swims in the Blue Cave.
• Arrive at least 15-20 minutes early to check in, especially during busy summer months when traffic can cause delays.
• Since weather conditions can affect the tour, keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible with rescheduling if needed.
• To maximize your experience, consider private options if the scheduled public tour doesn’t align with your plans.

What Travelers Say

The consistent praise from reviews underscores the tour’s quality. Guests mention “outstanding customer service” and feeling like a VIP thanks to the friendly staff and new, comfortable boats. One guest shared, “They worked with us when we arrived late, even arranging a private tour at an extra cost,” highlighting their flexible service.

Many emphasize the stunning scenery, with comments like “you’ll love the views of Kotor Bay and the colorful Blue Cave.” The knowledgeable guides are also appreciated, with reviews noting the informative commentary and stories that brought the sights to life.

Some comments mention the crowds at the Blue Cave, which can impact swimming or photography, but most agree the experience remains worthwhile. The value for money is also a common theme, with travelers feeling they received a well-rounded, memorable trip at a reasonable price.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour For?

This speedboat tour strikes a balance between natural beauty, history, and fun, making it perfect for travelers who:

• Want a short but impactful taste of Montenegro’s coast
• Appreciate stunning scenery and vibrant colors
• Enjoy storytelling and learning about local history
• Seek a comfortable, well-organized tour with friendly guides
• Prefer an activity that’s family-friendly (but not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues)

If you’re after a value-packed, scenic, and educational adventure**, this tour will hit the spot. It’s especially ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or those who want a quick overview of the region’s most notable spots with plenty of opportunities for photos and swimming.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, including all stops, with the main sightseeing and swimming time concentrated around the Blue Cave and Lady of the Rocks.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Park Slobode in Kotor, easily accessible within the town center. Look for the speedboat with the Limitless Speedboat logo.

Do I need to bring my own swimming gear?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring swimwear and a towel for swimming and snorkeling at the Blue Cave.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for babies under 1 year, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility difficulties, mainly due to safety and boat restrictions.

Can I visit the interior of Lady of the Rocks?
Visiting the island involves a 20-minute stop for sightseeing, photos, and the museum. The church is open to visitors, but tickets are optional and not included.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Bad weather could lead to the tour being rescheduled. Always check the forecast and be flexible.

Are there options for private tours?
Yes, the company offers private tours, which can be a good option if you want a more personalized experience or flexible timing.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is included, so you can share your photos or stay connected during the ride.

To sum it up, this Kotor Bay speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to see Montenegro’s highlights in a short time. With stunning natural sights, engaging stories, and friendly service, it’s a smart choice for travelers seeking a memorable yet efficient adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, it’s a fun, scenic way to experience the region’s most iconic spots—especially if you love vibrant waters, historic ruins, and breathtaking vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here: