Boat tour to Lady of the Rock , Submarine base & Blue Cave swim

Taking a boat tour around Kotor Bay is often heralded as one of the top ways to experience its beauty, history, and unique sights. This particular 3-hour group excursion, offered by MontenegroGlobe, promises a well-rounded adventure that combines scenic cruising, historical stops, and a splash of fun in the blue caves. With a stellar rating of 5.0 from 179 reviews, it’s clearly a favorite among travelers who want an authentic, relaxed way to explore the area’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or rushing through stops.

One of the things we love about this tour is its simplicity and focus on highlights. You get a taste of history, stunning vistas, and some swimming—all in just a few hours. Plus, the small group size (max 27 people) and friendly guides make it feel personal and easygoing. However, a potential consideration is that admission to some attractions like Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave isn’t included in the tour price, which means you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to visit the museums or enter the submarine base.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible, informative, and scenic experience without the complexity of full-day tours or private charters. It’s ideal if you’re looking to relax onboard, enjoy spectacular views, and take a quick swim without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Scenic Water Experience: Enjoy breathtaking views of Kotor Bay from a speedboat, with plenty of photo ops.
• Historical and Cultural Stops: Visit Our Lady of the Rocks and learn its story from your friendly skipper.
• Unique Attractions: Explore the submarine base and see the old fortress Mamula from the water.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Use provided gear to refresh at the Blue Cave or Blue Lagoon, with reviews praising the fun and safety of the experience.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 27 travelers, expect a relaxed, intimate vibe.
• Good Value: At just under $50, the tour offers a well-rounded mix of sights, comfort, and expert guidance.

An In-Depth Look at the Kotor Bay Speedboat Tour

The Itinerary and Its Charm

This tour kicks off with a hassle-free hotel pickup, which makes starting your adventure easy and stress-free. From the meeting point in Kotor, you’ll head out onto the water aboard a comfortable speedboat, with a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way. The first stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island that’s both picturesque and historically intriguing. Your guide will explain the story of this unique island and its church, while you have the chance to explore the museum and buy souvenirs. At just 20 minutes there, the visit is enough to appreciate its charm without feeling rushed.

Next, the boat heads towards the panoramic view of Fortress Mamula, which has a compelling history. Used as a prison and concentration camp during WWI and WWII, it’s now a luxurious hotel. From the water, you’ll get a stunning shot of this structure, adding a layer of history and contrast to your trip.

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave, where you can jump in and swim or snorkel in its vibrant waters. The provided equipment makes it easy for everyone to partake, even if you’re new to snorkeling. The cave’s intense blue glow, caused by sunlight filtering through underwater openings, makes for a memorable photo and refreshingly cool dip. Reviews often mention how much fun it is to swim in this natural wonder, with some even saying the Blue Cave swim is a definite “must-do”.

Finally, your boat will take you to Lutica, the site of an old submarine base. This quick stop (only 10 minutes) offers a peek into post-WWII military history, and some travelers enjoy walking around or just taking photos of the intriguing tunnels and structures. It’s a free visit, so no extra cost is involved.

What Makes the Experience Special?

Scenic cruising is a big part of the charm. The entire route offers panoramic views of the rugged coastlines, tiny islands, and the glittering water. Travelers often highlight how the small group size makes the experience feel personal and less commercial, with guides like the one mentioned in reviews being friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories.

Swimming and snorkeling at the Blue Cave is frequently praised, especially the way the equipment is provided, making it accessible for all. Many reviews note that the guide, while not named specifically, was very informative and accommodating, enhancing the experience with interesting facts and a relaxed attitude.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs around $48.84 per person, which, when you consider the inclusions—speedboat ride, bottled water, snorkeling gear, and WiFi onboard—offers excellent value. The WiFi connection allows you to share your trip in real-time or plan your next stops in Kotor, which is a nice touch.

While the admission to some attractions like Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave isn’t included, the small extra fee doesn’t seem to deter many travelers, who find the overall experience worthwhile. The tour’s 3-hour duration fits well into a busy travel day and makes it easy to combine with other activities later.

Departure is from a central meeting point in Kotor, close to the cruise port and public transport, so it’s very accessible whether you’re coming from your hotel or docked nearby. The booking process is straightforward, with most travelers booking about 46 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What Travelers Say

The glowing reviews consistently mention friendly, knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer even said it “felt like a private speedboat tour,” highlighting the exclusivity small groups can provide. Many mention the clean, comfortable boat, and the relaxed pace, with no rushing through stops or crowding. The Blue Cave swim is labeled a “great experience,” with some noting that the water might be cold in early spring but still enjoyable.

What Could Be Better?

A few reviews mention that admission costs to certain sites are extra, which could surprise some. Also, the 25-minute Blue Cave stop, while packed with fun, is relatively short, so if you’re a serious snorkeler or swimmer, you might wish for a longer session. Weather can also affect the experience, especially the swimming, but the tour provider offers refunds or rescheduling options if bad weather occurs.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trip is ideal if you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, historical interest, and fun water activities in a compact timeframe. It’s perfect for small groups or couples who enjoy a relaxed, social vibe and want expert guidance without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re keen on snorkeling or swimming in beautiful locations like the Blue Cave, this tour offers a great opportunity.

It’s also suitable for cruise passengers or those staying in Kotor who want a quick yet comprehensive experience of the bay’s highlights. The tour’s affordability and inclusions make it a smart choice for travelers looking to maximize value without sacrificing quality.

Final Thoughts

This 3-hour boat tour around Kotor Bay offers a fantastic snapshot of Montenegro’s natural beauty, history, and culture. The combination of scenic cruising, interesting stops, and water-based fun makes it a well-rounded choice for a wide range of travelers. The small group size, friendly guides, and thoughtful touches like WiFi elevate the experience and make it feel personalized.

While extra costs for admission and short stops might be considerations, they don’t diminish the overall value or enjoyment. If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic, and informative way to explore the bay, this tour ticks all the boxes—and with rave reviews backing it up, it’s clear many find it a highlight of their Montenegro adventures.

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for those who want a comfortable, visually stunning, and insightful experience without the fuss of a full-day commitment. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see the best of Kotor Bay with ease and style.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, but the meeting point in Kotor is centrally located, making it easy to join the tour without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
The entire tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the speedboat ride, bottled water, and snorkeling equipment. WiFi onboard is also provided.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, admission to Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave are not included, so you should budget separately if you wish to enter or buy souvenirs.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Yes, the Blue Cave stop is designed for swimming and snorkeling, with equipment provided. The water’s glow makes for an unforgettable experience.

Is the group size large?
No, the tour caps at 27 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the activity is family-friendly, especially since snorkel gear and swimming are optional.

What should I bring?
Towels aren’t included, so bring one if you plan to swim. Also, consider packing sunscreen and a waterproof camera to capture the moments.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this Kotor Bay boat tour matches your travel style. Whether you’re after scenic views, a touch of history, or just some fun in the water, it offers a wonderfully balanced experience with many satisfied travelers.