From Kotor: Blue Cave and Bay of Kotor Boat Tour (Small Groups)

This boat tour offers a fantastic way to explore the stunning Bay of Kotor without the hassle of driving or spending all day on land. Clocking in at just around three hours, it hits all the main sights — from historic islands and caves to hidden military relics — in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want a blend of scenery, culture, and adventure without breaking the bank.

One thing we love about this tour is the small group size, capped at 20, which keeps things personal and allows for more flexibility — especially when it comes to swimming or adjusting stops based on weather and crowd levels. However, some reviews highlight that the Blue Cave can get a little crowded, and at times, the experience might be quicker than expected. Still, it’s a fantastic value for the price, particularly if you’re eager to see Montenegro’s highlights in just a few hours.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, are curious about local history, and don’t mind occasional crowds. If you’re after a relaxed adventure that provides both cultural insights and opportunities for swimming, this tour is a strong contender. Just be prepared for some variability depending on the day’s weather and boat traffic — and that’s part of the adventure.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers a more intimate feel and better flexibility.
• Highlights include Our Lady of the Rocks, Blue Cave, submarine tunnels, and Mamula Island.
• Approximately 3 hours long, blending sightseeing with swimming opportunities.
• Value for money with a comprehensive itinerary including multiple stops.
• Knowledgeable guides and amenities like WiFi, bottled water, and snorkeling gear.
• Crowding can occur, especially at the Blue Cave, which might limit swimming and photo opportunities.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Kotor Bay Views

The tour kicks off with a 20-minute speedboat ride from Kotor’s port, giving you your first chance to soak in the breathtaking scenery of Kotor Bay. Expect to glide past charming old fishing villages like Muo, Prcanj, and Stoliv, each with centuries-old stone houses and narrow streets that whisper stories of the past. Reviewers mention that the scenic drive is a highlight on its own, setting a relaxed and picturesque tone for the rest of the trip.

Old Town Perast

Next, the boat stops at Perast, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This tiny town, with its single main street, has been around for over eight centuries, famously once home to seafarers and captains. The town itself is a highlight for history buffs and architecture lovers alike, with well-preserved old stone houses and churches. Several reviews praise the town’s charm and its perfect vantage point for views of the two islands: Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George.

Our Lady of the Rocks

The first major stop is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, built after a legend involving fishermen finding a miraculous icon of the Holy Mother of God. The story says that seafarers kept laying stones on the island to build the church after a shipwreck, and today you can visit the 17th-century church with its stunning interior. You’ll need to pay a small entrance fee (around €1.50), but many visitors say it’s worth it for the history and views. A frequent comment from reviewers is the legend and the beautiful setting make this stop memorable, even if the inside is modest.

Submarine Tunnels and Mamula Island

From Perast, the boat heads to the Lustica Peninsula, where you’ll get a glimpse of Montenegro’s military history. The highlight is the submarine base, built during the wars, which you can explore from the water. You won’t disembark but entering by speedboat gives you a peek into this secretive relic. Some reviews mention that the submarine tunnels felt like a hidden treasure, a quiet reminder of Montenegro’s past military significance.

Further along, you’ll see Mamula Island, a former Austro-Hungarian fortress turned WWII prison, and later a concentration camp under Mussolini. The island’s imposing fortifications are a striking sight, and some travelers enjoy imagining the stories that ground these historic structures.

The Blue Cave: Nature’s Light Show

The star of the trip is the Blue Cave, famous for its luminous, blue-tinted waters. The cave’s magic lies in the sunlight reflecting off its white pebble bottom, creating a glowing effect that will wow anyone. Inside, you’re encouraged to swim and snorkel in the refreshingly clear waters. Expect about 30 minutes here, which many reviewers say is enough time for photos, swimming, and simply soaking in the otherworldly atmosphere.

While the cave is spectacular, a common concern is that it can get crowded — especially in peak season — limiting how long you can enjoy it fully. One reviewer noted that the cave was very busy, and their guide took them around the corner for a more private swim, which was a nice way to avoid the crowds.

What You Can Expect on the Boat

The tour is run by Aquaholic Speedboat Tours, and their operation seems well-regarded overall. The boats are described as comfortable and well-organized, with a cap of 20 people ensuring a more personalized experience. The guides are praised for their friendliness, with one reviewer even calling their captain a “James Bond impersonator,” which adds a fun touch to the day.

Included amenities such as bottled water, snorkeling gear, WiFi, and an audio guide in multiple languages make the trip feel well-equipped. Several reviewers mention the importance of the guide’s local knowledge and personality, with one calling their guide “Pavi,” who was “fun and informative,” making the experience even more memorable.

Timing appears flexible, with several departure slots available, allowing you to pick a time that suits your schedule. The tour’s total duration of about three hours makes it a manageable half-day activity, ideal for travelers on tight schedules.

Group Size and Comfort

Most reviews highlight how the small group size adds to the experience — fewer crowds on the boat, more space to relax, and better chances to interact with the guide. One guest noted that their boat took only eight people, making it very comfortable. Conversely, some reviews point out that larger boats or overcrowding can diminish comfort, especially when trying to sit or swim freely.

Practical Tips from Reviewers

• Seating matters: The rear of the boat is generally calmer, so sitting there is recommended.
• Weather considerations: Tours are weather-dependent. Some reviews mention delays or cancellations, and safety remains a top priority.
• Crowd awareness: During peak times, the Blue Cave and other stops can be busy, limiting how long you can enjoy each spot.
• Snorkeling and swimming: Equipment is provided, and many guests enjoy the chance to swim in the clear waters, although some mention that the blue cave can be too crowded for a relaxing swim.

The Verdict: Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price (~$37.94 per person), this boat tour offers fantastic value. You get to see Montenegro’s most iconic sights with a knowledgeable guide, in a small, comfortable group, and with plenty of chances to swim and take photos. The inclusion of water, snorkeling gear, WiFi, and multilingual audio guides adds to the value, making it accessible and enjoyable for a range of travelers.

However, it’s worth being aware that the Blue Cave can get crowded, and the experience might be quicker than some expect, especially if the weather or day’s traffic is heavy. The tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and leisure, making it a solid choice if you’re looking to pack a lot into a short period.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is particularly good for those who want an easy, scenic overview of Kotor’s surroundings without the hassle of land-based exploring. It’s ideal if you appreciate small groups, want to enjoy informative guides, and are looking for photo opportunities and swimming. Nature lovers, history buffs, and those with limited time in Montenegro will find this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

This boat tour from Kotor provides a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s coast, combining history, nature, and fun. The small group size, friendly guides, and scenic stops make it a memorable way to spend a few hours. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, stunning views, and good value.

While crowds at the Blue Cave and some variability in weather can be considerations, most guests walk away with wonderful memories and plenty of photos. It’s a flexible, enjoyable trip that balances exploration with relaxation, perfect for those wanting a quick but authentic Montenegro experience.

If you’re after a straightforward, scenic tour with a personal touch, this trip is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
Approximately 3 hours, including all stops and swimming time.

What sights are included?
You’ll visit Our Lady of the Rocks, the submarine tunnels, Mamula Island, and the Blue Cave, with scenic views of old villages and bays.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and guests can swim in the Blue Cave and other stops.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Yes, entry to Our Lady of the Rocks church costs about €1.50, but other sites like the submarine base are free to view from the water.

Can I choose my tour time?
Yes, several departure times are available to fit your schedule.

Is the group size small?
Yes, tours are limited to 20 guests, ensuring a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and a camera. Water and snorkeling gear are provided.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes. Most travelers can participate, but children and those with mobility issues should consider comfort levels with boat rides.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of Montenegro’s natural beauty, historic sites, and fun water activities. For travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, engaging guides, and authentic sights, it’s a memorable way to experience the Bay of Kotor.