Kotor: Private boat tour Blue Cave & Our Lady of the Rocks

Exploring Montenegro’s Kotor Bay by boat offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and a touch of adventure. This 3-hour private speedboat tour promises an intimate journey through some of the region’s most iconic sights, all with the flexibility to tailor the experience to your preferences. From swimming in the famous Blue Cave to strolling on the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks, it’s a journey packed with highlights.

What really appeals about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery and historical sites with the comfort and exclusivity of a private boat. The guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude make all the difference, turning a sightseeing cruise into a memorable experience. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is relatively short—so if you’re craving more extensive exploration, you might want to consider supplementing it.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized adventure, lovers of scenic boat rides, and those interested in authentic, off-the-beaten-path sights in Kotor Bay. It’s particularly suited to people who enjoy swimming, photography, and learning about local history. Families, couples, or groups of friends will find it a flexible way to enjoy Montenegro’s coastal charm.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Customizable 3-hour tour with an English-speaking skipper.
• Stunning Sights: Visit the Blue Cave, Mamula Island, submarine tunnels, and Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Ideal for Swimmers: Swim inside the Blue Cave with provided masks.
• Historical & Natural Highlights: From 17th-century church visits to WWII tunnels.
• Convenient & Flexible: Pick-up from your accommodation and options to adjust timing.
• Value for Money: All-inclusive drinks and personalized service make this a great spend.

An In-Depth Look at Kotor’s Private Boat Tour

Starting Point & Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins at the Spomenik palim za slobodu, a well-known monument area, where your guide will meet you. From there, you’ll hop into a private speedboat, ready to explore the bay’s highlights with a knowledgeable skipper at your side. The boat ride itself is an experience—sailing through the calm waters with panoramic views of Kotor’s old fisherman villages and rugged coastline.

Navigating the Bay

The speedboat whisks you through the bay, offering a different perspective than land-based sightseeing. You’ll feel a gentle thrill as the boat cuts across the water, with the breeze and the stunning scenery creating an energizing start. The guide will brief you on the landmarks, making the experience not just visual but also educational.

Blue Cave: The Natural Wonder

The Blue Cave is a true highlight—and for good reason. Once you arrive, you’ll have about 25 minutes to swim, take photos, and enjoy the mesmerizing turquoise glow. The interaction of sunlight with the sea creates a color so vivid it looks almost unreal. With diving masks included, you can get closer to the cave walls and appreciate nature’s artistry.

One reviewer mentioned, “It was a truly wonderful experience, and they took great care of us during the tour,” emphasizing the importance of a friendly, attentive guide when navigating this natural wonder. Keep in mind that the time inside the cave is limited, so if you’re a keen swimmer or photographer, plan your time accordingly.

Mamula Island & Submarine Tunnels

After the Blue Cave, the boat cruises towards Mamula Island, a former Austro-Hungarian fortress now a popular photo stop. The island’s imposing walls and history make for an interesting background, and slowing down here gives you a chance to capture the views.

Next, you’ll visit the Yugoslavian submarine tunnels, which add a dose of Cold War intrigue. The tunnels, built to hide submarines, are accessible for a quick peek, adding a layer of historical curiosity to the journey. This stop is brief but significant—an offbeat addition that appeals to history buffs.

Our Lady of the Rocks

The tour’s final major stop is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks. Built by local fishermen over centuries, it’s a striking sight in the middle of the bay. You’ll have roughly 30 minutes here to walk around, admire the 17th-century church, and perhaps enter if you wish (note the entrance fee of €2 per person). The church is packed with votive tablets and maritime artifacts, giving insight into local traditions.

A reviewer praised this stop, noting, “The walk around the island and visit to the church were truly special. It’s like stepping into a living history book.”

Return & Flexibility

After soaking in the views and exploring the island, the boat heads back toward the starting point, offering a final chance to admire Perast’s charming architecture from the water. The total duration is just enough to capture the essence of Kotor Bay—without feeling rushed.

The private nature of the tour means you can customize within the 3-hour window. For instance, you might choose to spend less time swimming and more on photos or a quick coffee break on board.

Transportation & Practicalities

The tour includes pick-up at the closest dock to your accommodation within the Bay of Kotor, making logistics straightforward. The boat is equipped with life jackets, diving masks, and drinks, so you’re comfortable and prepared for the water activities. The English-speaking skipper is friendly and knowledgeable, providing explanations about each sight along the way.

Since it’s private, you’re not part of a large group, which makes for a more relaxed, personalized experience. The tour’s timing depends on availability, but generally, you can expect to start in the morning or early afternoon.

Price & Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews highlight the tour’s great value, especially considering the inclusions—private boat, guide, drinks, and swimming gear. The small entrance fee to Our Lady of the Rocks is paid on the spot, so budget a couple of euros if you wish to enter the church.

Considerations

• The tour lasts 3 hours, so if you’re an avid swimmer or photographer, plan your time accordingly.
• Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or infants under 1 year.
• The tour is flexible but relatively short, so for those wanting a more extensive exploration, additional activities may be needed.

Authentic Experiences & Real Traveler Insights

One traveler shared, “The guides were exceptionally knowledgeable, and the views were breathtaking. We especially loved the photo stop at Mamula Island,” showing how the tour blends scenic beauty with historical interest.

Another reviewer emphasized the friendly attitude of the crew, saying, “They took great care of us during the swim and made sure everyone felt comfortable in the Blue Cave.” This personal touch can make a big difference, especially when swimming in natural caves.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour in Kotor offers an authentic, flexible way to see some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. It’s perfect for those who value personalized service, stunning landscape views, and a mix of natural and historical stops. The inclusion of swimming masks, drinks, and a knowledgeable skipper enhances the experience, making it both fun and informative.

While it’s a relatively short tour, the curated stops—Blue Cave, Mamula Island, submarine tunnels, and Our Lady of the Rocks—pack a punch, delivering a well-rounded taste of Kotor Bay’s beauty and history. The private setup means you can tailor it to your interests, whether that’s more swimming, photography, or cultural exploration.

In essence, this tour is best suited for travelers looking for a convenient, immersive, and personalized way to explore Montenegro’s coast, especially if they enjoy water activities and scenic photography. It’s a fantastic option for couples, families, or friends who want a memorable day on the water without the crowd.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, depending on the availability of your preferred starting time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Spomenik palim za slobodu area, where your guide will meet you.

What sights are included in the tour?
You’ll visit the Blue Cave, Mamula Island, Yugoslavian submarine tunnels, and Our Lady of the Rocks, with photo stops and some walking.

Is swimming included?
Yes, you can swim inside the Blue Cave using the provided masks, and there is time for swimming and photos.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes drinks, making it easy to stay refreshed during your adventure.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s private, you can discuss with your skipper to modify the itinerary within the 3-hour window, such as shortening swimming time or adding a break.

This private boat tour offers a balanced mix of natural wonder, history, and scenic beauty—all with the comfort of a tailored experience. Whether you’re seeking memorable photos, a refreshing swim, or a deeper understanding of Montenegro’s coastal gems, it’s a well-rounded choice that won’t disappoint.