Speedboat Tour to Lady of the Rock, Mamula and Blue Cave Swim

If you’re visiting Kotor, Montenegro, and looking for a way to see some of the most iconic spots in Boka Bay without the fuss of a lengthy tour, this speedboat experience offers a lively, scenic, and genuinely fun adventure. With a professional captain who’s a former cruise ship officer, you’re in good hands—he’s passionate about the sea and loves sharing his knowledge and humor with guests. The trip packs in several highlights, from the historic Our Lady of the Rocks to the striking Blue Cave, all within a compact three-hour window.

What really draws us to this tour is its balance of adventure, comfort, and authenticity. You’re on a brand-new speedboat with free WiFi, drinks, music, and an engaging guide who clearly loves his work. The shared group size keeps things intimate enough for good interactions but lively enough for a social vibe.

One thing to note is that, at this price point (just under $50 per person), it’s an incredible value—especially considering the included entry tickets to key sites. However, the short duration might feel rushed for some, especially if you want more time at each stop or prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and spirited boat rides. It’s perfect for those on a budget, cruise passengers with limited time, or anyone seeking an active, photo-worthy experience in Boka Bay.

Key Points

• Excellent Value: The price includes all major entry tickets, drinks, WiFi, and a fun, well-informed guide.
• Authentic Experience: A local captain with extensive knowledge about Boka Bay makes all stops educational and engaging.
• Fun & Scenic: Combining sightseeing with swimming in the Blue Cave and a speedboat ride through stunning scenery.
• Group Size & Comfort: Small groups (up to 12) foster a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention.
• Time Management: The tour is about 3 hours, so it’s ideal for a quick yet comprehensive taste of Boka Bay.
• Potential Drawback: The short stop durations, especially at the Blue Cave, may leave some longing for more swimming or exploring time.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Overview

The adventure kicks off at the Kotor city park, a convenient and scenic starting point in this medieval coastal town. From here, your captain—who’s born in Kotor—sets sail to give you a personalized and knowledgeable introduction to the bay. Expect a lively, fun atmosphere right from the start, with music and free WiFi to share quick snaps or update your friends.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

The first stop is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, created by sinking old ships and piling rocks into a man-made marvel. The church itself, the Gospa od krpjela, is the main attraction, with its attached museum providing insight into the island’s history. This spot is especially photogenic, with its iconic church set against the deep blue sea.

Guests typically spend about 20 minutes cruising here, with time to explore and buy souvenirs. Reviewers mention that the guide provides a good explanation of the island’s history, making the visit more meaningful. One reviewer noted, “They give out drinks as well after you dip in the sea,” which adds to the relaxed, fun vibe of the trip.

Passing Tivat & the Ex-Submarine Tunnel

Cruising through the strait of Verige, you’ll get sweeping views of Tivat’s luxurious Porto Montenegro marina—a sight that impresses even those used to upscale yachting. The highlight here is the ex-Yugoslav submarine tunnel, built by the army. The outside is camouflaged with fake rocks, making it feel like a secret military hideaway. The short 5-minute stop is free and offers a quick peek into Montenegro’s military history.

Mamula Fortress & Historical Insights

Next, the boat takes you around Mamula Fortress, a formidable structure that played roles in both World Wars. While the fortress has been closed recently due to ongoing construction, the captain provides background on its past importance. One reviewer called the explanation “hilarious,” adding a personal touch to this historical stop.

The Blue Cave & Swimming

The Blue Cave is the star of the trip—created over centuries by wave impacts, it’s a natural marvel. Here, you’re invited to jump into the water and snorkel in the glowing, blue-hued sea. Free snorkeling gear is provided, and many guests say the experience of swimming here is unforgettable.

Reviewers consistently highlight the Blue Cave as a highlight, with one saying, “The blue cave was incredible,” and others noting that “the water was so nice to swim in.” While the Blue Cave can get busy (sometimes too crowded for safe swimming), the captain’s flexibility in taking guests to alternative spots is a plus.

Final Return & Overall Timing

After about 30 minutes here, the boat heads back to Kotor, cruising for around 55 minutes. Guests often comment on how fast the trip feels, thanks to the lively commentary, music, and the scenic views along the way. Many mention that the trip is well-paced, with enough time at each site to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

Beyond the obvious scenic beauty, this trip offers a genuine connection to Montenegro’s coastline, thanks to an experienced captain who shares stories and insights that you’d miss on a typical tour. The combination of swimming in pristine waters, exploring historical sites, and enjoying a fast-paced boat ride makes it a well-rounded adventure.

The inclusions—entry tickets, drinks, WiFi—add significant value, especially considering the affordable price. Guests consistently praise the crew’s friendliness and the lively atmosphere, which makes the whole experience more memorable.

What Could Be Better?

The main critique is the short duration at each stop, particularly at the Blue Cave, which can leave some wishing for more time to swim or relax. If you’re a slow explorer or prefer longer dips into the water, this tour might feel a bit rushed.

Plus, the weather can influence the experience—choppy waters might make the boat ride bumpier, but this is part of the adventure. The tour requires good weather to run smoothly, and if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This speedboat trip is ideal for adventurous travelers, cruise ship passengers, or anyone on a budget seeking a lively, scenic, and fun way to see Boka Bay’s highlights. It’s perfect for those who enjoy swimming and quick sightseeing without the time commitment of longer, more comprehensive tours.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, in-depth exploration, or plan to spend hours at each site, you might want to consider a different option. But if you want a high-energy, picture-perfect experience that combines history, nature, and a splash of adrenaline, this tour checks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including cruising, stops, and swimming time.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers all major entry tickets, bottled water, alcoholic drinks, soda, WiFi on board, and snorkeling equipment.

Is it suitable for children or families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the boat is small but stable. However, consider the choppy waters if traveling with very young children.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 11 days in advance is typical, and for popular dates, early booking ensures availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is there a guide on board?
Absolutely—the captain is very knowledgeable about the area and provides explanations throughout the tour, making each stop more meaningful.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, and your camera. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but personal items like dry clothes or snacks are optional.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour offers an intoxicating mix of stunning scenery, historical insights, and fun water activities at a budget-friendly price. The small group size and knowledgeable captain make it feel intimate and personalized, while the inclusion of all tickets and amenities boosts its value.

Perfect for travelers seeking an active, photo-worthy experience with just enough time to enjoy the highlights of Boka Bay without feeling overwhelmed. It’s an ideal choice whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor wanting a quick, captivating taste of Montenegro’s coastal charm.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and well-organized adventure that combines history, nature, and a splash of adrenaline, this tour might just be your favorite part of your trip to Kotor.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before booking, as choppy seas can impact the experience. Early booking is recommended due to high demand, and private options might offer a more leisurely experience if your schedule allows.