Kotor: Blue Cave Private Boat Tour

If you’re visiting Montenegro and looking to explore the stunning Bay of Kotor by boat, the Blue Cave Private Boat Tour is an experience that promises both moments of awe and authentic local charm. With a typical duration of around 3 hours, this tour offers a relaxed, personalized way to see some of the most iconic sights, including the Blue Cave, Lady of the Rocks, and even an old submarine base. From the minute you step onto the boat, you’re in for a scenic adventure full of panoramic views, cultural landmarks, and a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters.

What really makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and the knowledgeable guides who help bring the area’s history and natural beauty to life. The private boat setup means less crowding, more personalized attention, and the chance to tailor your experience a bit — whether that’s spending more time swimming or exploring certain spots in depth.

A consideration to keep in mind is the potential for weather-related changes. In challenging conditions, the Blue Cave visit might be skipped, but that doesn’t take away from the overall value of the trip. Designed for those who love scenic boat rides, cultural sights, and a touch of adventure, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a more intimate, less hurried way to experience Montenegro’s coast.

Key Points

• Breathtaking scenery: Panoramic views of Boka Bay, fishing villages, and historical landmarks.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable skippers and guides provide insights and personalized recommendations.
• Unique spots: Visit the iconic Lady of the Rocks, swim in the Blue Cave, and explore a former submarine base.
• Flexible itinerary: Customizable stops and time for swimming, photo-taking, and sightseeing.
• Private group experience: More privacy and tailored service than standard tours.
• Good value for a 3-hour trip: Combines natural beauty, cultural highlights, and a touch of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

The Tour Starts Well: Meeting Point and Logistics

Your journey begins at the designated meeting point near Kotor, right by the sea. The instructions are clear: arrive at least 30 minutes early, especially if you’re arriving by car, as parking can be tricky during the busy season. The tour provider, Montenegro Submarine & Speed Boat Tours, has a friendly team — including guides like Sara — who will welcome you and help you feel at ease before setting off.

The boat itself is described as well-maintained, equipped with safety gear, snorkel masks, and plush cushions for comfort. The crew is praised for their professionalism and helpfulness, which immediately sets a relaxing tone for the trip.

The Route and Stops: What Makes Each Special?

Start with the Scenic Speedboat Ride: The journey kicks off with a quick 20-minute cruise across Boka Bay, giving you that adrenaline rush of being on the water while soaking in the striking views. Several reviewers, like Salma, appreciated the private boat, noting that it was an “ideal” way to enjoy sailing with a dedicated captain.

Our Lady of the Rocks & Perast: The highlight here is the famous islet, which legend says was created by fishermen. The small church on the island hosts a remarkable collection of art — including works by Lovro Dobricevic and Tripo Kokolja, featuring the renowned “The Death of the Virgin.” The 20-minute stop allows time for photos and a quick visit, but be aware that entry tickets cost a modest 3 EUR and are not included.

Submarine Base and Tunnels: Visiting the old submarine tunnel and military base offers a glimpse into Montenegro’s strategic past. Though brief, the stops here are appreciated for their historical significance, with guides sharing insights to make the sites come alive.

The Blue Cave: A Highlight for Swimmers and Photographers

The Blue Cave, accessible only by boat, is often the star of the tour — and for good reason. The water’s glow, caused by sunlight filtering through underwater openings, creates a surreal experience. Most reviews emphasize how refreshing and memorable this swim is, with many guests noting that the cave’s water looks best during daylight hours.

Guests are provided with snorkel masks and comfortable cushions, making the experience more enjoyable. Some reviewers, like Andjela, described the Blue Cave as “amazing,” and others appreciated the chance to relax and swim in such a unique setting.

Weather considerations are important here. Tour operators may adjust plans if sea conditions are rough, so flexibility is key. If the Blue Cave isn’t accessible due to weather, the guides typically suggest alternative stops or a longer time exploring other spots.

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Exploring Tivat, Herceg Novi, and Mamula

The cruise takes you around Tivat Bay with its stunning marinas and islands, giving you a taste of Montenegro’s luxurious side. Herceg Novi’s bay showcases Byzantine and oriental architecture, adding cultural flavor to the trip.

A visit to Mamula island offers a mix of natural beauty and history. The former military island is impressive visually and adds a sense of adventure, especially for history buffs or those interested in Montenegro’s military past. The guides share stories that make these sites come alive, which is something many reviews highlight as a big plus.

The Return Journey and Overall Comfort

The trip wraps up after roughly three hours, with most guests feeling they’ve experienced a good balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation. The private nature of the tour means you can ask the guide to linger at favorite spots or skip certain parts if desired.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

For the price, the tour offers excellent value — the boat trip, guide, water, snorkel masks, safety gear, and insurance are all included. Entry to Our Lady of the Rocks museum is extra, but the modest fee (3 EUR) is well worth it for the art and history. Hotel pickup isn’t provided, so plan accordingly, especially if you’re staying outside Kotor.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes for walking on the island, a sun hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel if you want to swim. Sunscreen is essential, and a camera will help you capture these stunning moments. The boat is open-air, so dress for the weather, and be aware that the tour may be canceled or altered if conditions are unsafe.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat tour suits travelers who want an intimate, flexible experience on the water. It’s perfect for those interested in scenic photography, cultural sites, and swimming in unique locations like the Blue Cave. Families and small groups will appreciate the privacy and personalized attention — many reviews mention how the guides like Sasha, Mirko, and Zdravko made everyone feel comfortable and well looked after.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, given the boat rides and walking on uneven surfaces. Also, if you’re looking for a deep historical lecture, the focus is more on visual beauty and quick cultural stops rather than detailed history.

Final Thoughts

In all, this Blue Cave Private Boat Tour offers an authentic, well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s coast. For a reasonable price, you get a private vessel, an engaging guide, and access to some of the area’s most stunning sights. The mix of natural wonders, cultural highlights, and the chance to swim in pristine waters makes it a memorable addition to any Montenegro itinerary.

If you prioritize personalized service, stunning scenery, and flexible stops, this tour delivers. Expect a relaxed pace, excellent guides, and enough variety to keep everyone entertained. Just be prepared for weather-dependent adjustments — but even then, the beauty of Boka Bay ensures you’ll leave with plenty of incredible photos and stories.

FAQ

How long does the tour last? The tour typically lasts around 3 hours, but check availability for specific starting times.

Are the stops customizable? Yes, the private nature of the tour means guides can often tailor the experience, such as spending more time swimming or exploring.

Is there an additional cost for visiting Our Lady of the Rocks? Yes, entry to the museum costs about 3 EUR and isn’t included in the tour price.

Is swimming in the Blue Cave safe? The Blue Cave swim is generally safe, with snorkel masks provided. However, the sea conditions depend on the weather and may affect access.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sun protection, camera, and sunglasses. Wear suitable clothing for the weather.

Can I join if I have mobility issues? Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchairs.

Is this tour family-friendly? Yes, families with children enjoy the privacy and scenic stops — just consider the boat ride and walking involved.

What if the weather is bad? The tour can be canceled or adjusted for safety, especially if sea conditions are challenging. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before booking.

The Blue Cave Private Boat Tour in Kotor offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and personalized service, making it an ideal choice for travelers keen on experiencing Montenegro’s coast authentically and comfortably.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby