Kotor: Bay of Kotor and Blue Cave Speedboat Tour

Exploring Montenegro’s coast with a speedboat tour from Kotor offers a thrilling way to see some of the most beautiful sights along the Adriatic. This 3-hour adventure takes you through the legendary Bay of Kotor, includes a refreshing swim in the Blue Cave, and visits the charming artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks. With a solid 4.7-star rating based on 186 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience both memorable and worthwhile.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it balances scenic cruising with active stops. The guide’s local knowledge shines, especially when explaining the history of the submarine tunnels and the legend behind Our Lady of the Rocks. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the Blue Cave’s turquoise waters is a real highlight — a moment to cool off and soak up Montenegro’s natural beauty. That said, I’d keep in mind that this tour can be a bit rushed at times, especially if you’re hoping to linger at each stop or swim longer.

A common consideration from reviews is the weather — it can be quite breezy and chilly, particularly on colder days or late in the afternoon. While the boat provides raincoats, it’s wise to bring your own sun protection and perhaps a warm layer, especially if you’re sensitive to wind or plan to spend time in the water. Also, the Blue Cave’s popularity means it can get crowded, limiting swim time and making photography a challenge. Still, most visitors agree that the overall experience offers excellent value and some of the best views around.

Key points / Takeaways

• Beautiful coastal scenery: The tour offers scenic views of the small villages, old walls, and the dramatic bay, making it perfect for photo lovers.
• Knowledgeable guides: Many reviews praise the guides, like Andrea, for their helpful insights and ability to tailor the experience.
• Swim at the Blue Cave: About 20 minutes are set aside for swimming in the Blue Cave, which is a must-see natural wonder.
• Historical sites: Stops like the submarine tunnel and Our Lady of the Rocks add interesting historical and cultural layers to the trip.
• Efficient itinerary: The total 3-hour duration includes multiple stops, making it a compact way to see many highlights without a full-day commitment.
• Good value: Most travelers feel this tour offers a lot for its price, especially considering fuel, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and raincoats are included.

A Detailed Look at the Bay of Kotor & Blue Cave Speedboat Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions
The tour begins at Park Slobode, just a five-minute walk from Kotor’s Old Town. It’s a convenient meeting spot, marked by bright signs and a friendly skipper waiting near the sea. Once aboard, the boat’s engine kicks in, and you’re off on a 55-minute cruise along the coast.

Cruising through the Bay of Kotor
As you glide past the Old Town’s high walls, you’ll understand why UNESCO has listed this bay among the world’s twenty-five most beautiful. The walls stretch for 4.5 kilometers, with some sections up to twenty meters high and fifteen meters thick — impressive even from the water. The guide might point out the famous view of the high walls climbing Saint Giovanni’s hill, a scene straight out of a movie.

Next come the small villages of Muo, Pranj, and Stoliv on the left, and Dobrota, Perast, and Lepetani on the right. Each has its own charm, with ancient houses, churches, and a sense of timelessness. Passing through Verige, the narrowest stretch of the bay at just 300 meters wide, is a highlight — a dramatic passage that emphasizes the bay’s unique fjord-like geography.

Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder and Swim Stop
Arriving at the Blue Cave, you’ll see why it’s a highlight. This large, 300-square-meter cavern features a stunning blue glow caused by light refraction on the water’s surface. With arches up to twenty-five meters high, it’s a dramatic spectacle. The name comes from the water’s color, which seems to shimmer, as if lit from within.

Here, most people jump into the water for a swim, snorkel, or just a quick dip. The reviews highlight this as a memorable part of the trip — “the water is so blue, it looks unreal,” as one traveler put it. The downside? It can be crowded, with other boats sharing the space, which limits your swim time and makes photography tricky. Still, even a brief experience is breathtaking.

Historical Pause: The Submarine Tunnel
On the return journey, a short stop at the submarine tunnel offers a glimpse into Montenegro’s Cold War history. Carved into the steep bank, these tunnels, used during Yugoslavia, are about fifty meters long. They’re a neat piece of military engineering and provide good photo opportunities.

Our Lady of the Rocks: Legends and Views
The highlight for many is the stop at Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island created in 1452 after fishermen saw an icon of the Virgin Mary. Today, it’s home to a church and museum, both accessible for a small admission fee. The legend and the tradition of throwing stones to expand the island add a charming cultural touch. The views from the island are lovely, and the story of its creation makes it more than just a scenic stop.

End of the Tour and Final Thoughts
The tour wraps up back at Park Slobode after about 3 hours of cruising, swimming, and sightseeing. Many reviews mention how friendly and helpful the guides are, like Andrea, who genuinely seems to enjoy sharing his knowledge. The boat itself is comfortable, and the small groups mean a more personal experience.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This adventure suits travelers who love scenic landscapes and want a quick, active way to see Montenegro’s coast. It’s great for those who appreciate natural beauty, historical tidbits, and a splash of adventure — especially the chance to swim in the Blue Cave.

If you’re traveling with kids or seniors, note that the tour involves boat rides and some walking around, so bring layers for cool or windy weather, and plan accordingly. If you’re really into photography, arriving early or bringing a waterproof camera could help you beat the crowds at the Blue Cave.

It’s a good choice if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of Kotor’s coastal wonders. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, bottled water, and raincoats adds to the value, making it a convenient and enjoyable half-day outing.

Price and Logistics

For the price, many find it a good deal considering what’s included — fuel, snorkeling equipment, water, and raincoats — and the personalized experience. You don’t need to worry about transport or lunch, as those are on your own, but it’s wise to bring your own sun protection and a warm layer depending on the weather.

The tour operates in small groups or private bookings, which enhances the feeling of intimacy and allows for more personalized attention. You can reserve your spot with flexible payment options, including pay later, which is handy if your plans aren’t yet fixed.

FAQs

Is there hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, the meeting point is at Park Slobode, about five minutes from Kotor Old Town.

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

Are food and drinks included?
No, but bottled water is provided. You should bring your own if needed.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and a warm layer for wind or chilly weather.

Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, snorkel equipment is provided.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
You can swim in the waters outside the cave. Inside the Blue Cave, swimming is not permitted, but you’ll have time to enjoy the water nearby.

Is this tour suitable for kids or pregnant women?
Not recommended for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems, mainly due to boat motion and physical activity.

What if I’m late or my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is flexible with the “reserve now, pay later” option.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially in peak season, to guarantee your spot and preferred time.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe, and you will get a full refund.

In all, this speedboat tour offers a lively and scenic way to explore Kotor Bay, blending natural beauty, history, and a bit of adventure. Perfect for travelers who want a memorable, compact experience with knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas. Just come prepared for the wind and crowds, and you’ll have a trip to remember.