Kotor: Blue Cave, Submarine Tunnels & Lady of the Rocks Tour

This 3-hour boat adventure in Kotor offers a compact but immersive way to explore some of Montenegro’s most captivating sights. For just $38 per person, you’ll cruise along the shimmering waters, swim in the Blue Cave, and uncover stories behind historic islands and hidden WWII tunnels. The tour is designed for those who want a taste of Montenegro’s natural beauty and fascinating history without spending an entire day on the water.

What really makes this experience stand out is the expert guidance from local skippers who know the bay inside out, along with the opportunity to capture stunning photos and enjoy some snorkeling. A small group setting means you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of time at each stop. One thing to keep in mind is that the Blue Cave can get crowded, especially in peak season, which might limit your swimming or photo opportunities. This tour suits travelers seeking a fun, scenic, and informative outing—perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to experience Montenegro’s coastal gems.

Key Points

Comfortable, modern speedboat keeps the trip smooth and enjoyable.
Knowledgeable guides share insightful stories about each location and Montenegro’s history.
Perfect duration for a quick yet comprehensive taste of Bay of Kotor.
Excellent value given the included stops, snorkeling gear, and scenic views.
Photogenic stops like Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Island provide memorable photo ops.
Flexible options for private or small groups, with full safety measures and Wi-Fi onboard.

The Experience: A Deep Dive

The tour begins with a choice of two convenient meeting points at Park Slobode, just a short walk from central Kotor. Once aboard the well-maintained speedboat, the adventure kicks off with a 20-minute cruise along the bay, giving a quick preview of the stunning coastline. The vessel is modern, comfortable, and equipped with Wi-Fi and music, creating a relaxed atmosphere right from the start.

Visiting Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks

Your first stop is the charming town of Perast, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its baroque architecture and picturesque streets. You’ll pass by the town’s waterfront and then spend about 20 minutes exploring Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island crowned with an iconic church. Reviewers highlight the “breathtaking views” and “beautiful walk” around the island, which offers an excellent photo backdrop and a peek into Montenegro’s maritime heritage.

One guest shared, “We loved the way the guide Aki explained the history of the church and the island. It’s a quick visit but very worth it for the scenery and stories.” The visit provides a tranquil moment amid the tour, with enough time to soak in the views and take photos without feeling rushed.

Submarine Tunnels and Mamula Island

Next, the boat cruises past the former WWII submarine tunnels, hidden inside the cliffs—mysterious sites that still have stories waiting to be uncovered. The guides often share fascinating tales of Montenegro’s wartime past, turning a simple visit into a mini history lesson.

Mamula Island follows, rising dramatically from the sea with its fortress walls. Historically, it was a notorious WWII prison, and today’s visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the bay. One reviewer said, “A quick pass by Mamula but with a lot of history packed into those few minutes—it’s a striking sight that makes you wonder about all the stories behind those walls.”

Blue Cave: The Main Event

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave, where you’ll have about 30 minutes to swim, snorkel, or even jump off the boat into the crystal-clear waters. The water’s transparency and vibrant blue color are truly breathtaking, and reviewers repeatedly mention how stunning and peaceful this spot feels. One guest commented, “Swimming in the Blue Cave was the best part of the trip—such clear water, and I loved the underwater views.”

A handful of reviews note that the Blue Cave can be crowded, especially during peak season, which might reduce your swimming time or limit photography opportunities. However, guides like Aki or Boban aim to get everyone in the water early to maximize your experience.

Lady of the Rocks and Bay Views

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads towards Lady of the Rocks once more, providing a chance for a short walk and more photo moments. The island’s church and the views of the bay are frequently praised: “It’s a tiny spot but packed with charm. The church looks beautiful against the backdrop of the mountains,” shared one traveler.

The tour concludes with a scenic cruise back, passing Porto Novi Marina, a luxurious harbor filled with yachts, and offering a visual feast of Montenegro’s upscale coastal life. The final stop is Perast, where you get a panoramic view of the town—a lovely way to end the trip.

The Practicalities

The entire 3-hour tour is designed for maximum enjoyment and value. The cost includes all fees, taxes, insurance, and snorkeling equipment, making it a straightforward experience. The modern speedboat ensures a smooth ride, and the small group setting fosters a more intimate feel, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.

The guides are highly praised—reviewers mention names like Aki, Boban, and Aljosa—highlighting their friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic approach. From explaining Montenegro’s history to pointing out the best photo spots, they turn a boat ride into a memorable adventure.

While the itinerary is packed, the timing allows enough flexibility for swimming, exploring, and taking photos at each stop. The tour is scheduled to start in the morning or late afternoon, and travelers are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes early to find the meeting point and avoid any last-minute rush.

What’s Not Included

Entrance fees to the Our Lady of the Rocks museum are optional and not covered in the tour price. Also, in rough sea conditions, the route may be adjusted for safety, but guides are transparent about this and prioritize your safety over strict sightseeing.

What to Bring

• Passport or ID for identification
• Swimwear and towel for swimming in the Blue Cave
• Water and sunscreen to stay comfortable under the sun
• Charged smartphone for photos and communication

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those wanting a quick, scenic, and cost-effective way to see Kotor’s highlights by boat. It appeals especially to travelers who enjoy water-based activities like swimming and snorkeling, and those interested in a bit of history without a heavy schedule. It’s also suited for solo travelers or small groups looking for a personalized feel, thanks to the small-group approach.

However, if you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or prefer a slower-paced, land-based tour, this might not be ideal. The tour’s speedboat nature means some may find it less comfortable if adverse weather conditions arise.

The Sum Up

This Kotor boat tour offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, history, and fun. For just $38, you get meaningful stops at iconic sites like Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Island, the thrill of swimming in the Blue Cave, and insightful commentary from guides who truly know the bay. The modern boat, flexible itinerary, and friendly guides make it a standout choice for travelers wanting a taste of Montenegro’s coast without the fuss of a full-day commitment.

If you’re after stunning views, interesting stories, and a chance to cool off in crystal waters, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially valuable for those who want a well-organized, safe, and memorable experience that combines adventure with culture.

For anyone visiting Kotor, this boat trip is a surefire way to add a splash of excitement and a handful of postcard-perfect moments to your Montenegro itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with schedules starting in the morning or late afternoon, depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
All fees, taxes, insurance, snorkeling equipment, and a licensed English-speaking guide/skipper are included. Wi-Fi and music are also available onboard.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, you will have around 30 minutes to swim and snorkel in the Blue Cave area. Keep in mind that during busy times, the area can be crowded.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet at Park Slobode, where you’ll see a large concrete monument and the Hawaii Boat Tours Kotor sign. Arrive at least 30 minutes early.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues due to the speedboat ride and outdoor nature of the trip.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, towel, water, sunscreen, and a charged smartphone for photos.

In summary, if you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and informative way to explore the Bay of Kotor’s highlights in a short time, this tour hits the mark. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to get in the water, it’s a memorable Montenegro experience that’s hard to beat at its price point.