Kotor: Speedboat Tour to Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks

Kotor’s stunning coastline and historic islands become even more breathtaking when seen from the deck of a speedboat. I’ve come across a highly-rated tour that whisks travelers along the Bay of Kotor, offering a close-up look at Our Lady of the Rocks, the Blue Cave, and some hidden local gems. Although I haven’t taken it myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized, value-packed experience perfect for those wanting a quick, scenic adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it combines panoramic views with opportunities for swimming and exploring, making it more than just a boat ride. The fact that the boat is small enough to offer a more intimate experience—generally with fewer than ten people—is a bonus for those who prefer a relaxed, personal vibe. Plus, the guide Bojan (from Sea&Sun Adventures) seems to go out of his way to make everyone feel comfortable and included, often with little surprises along the way.

On the flip side, a consideration for travelers is that the tour runs for about 3 hours, which means the stops are brief. If you’re hoping to spend hours swimming inside the caves, this might feel a little rushed, as the reviews suggest swimming occurs mainly outside the Blue Cave due to crowding. Also, food isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks if you get hungry during the trip. Still, given the price point and the quality of sights, this tour offers great value for a quick taste of Montenegro’s coast.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Intimate Group Size: Small groups mean less crowding and a more personal experience, often just a handful of travelers.
• Expert Guide: Bojan, the guide from Sea&Sun Adventures, is praised for his friendliness and helpfulness.
• Stunning Nature: The Blue Cave’s unique turquoise waters and the view of Perast and Mamula Island are highlights.
• Historical Touches: Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks includes a chance to see the church’s museum and learn about its fascinating, man-made origin.
• Unique Experiences: Entering the old Yugoslavian submarine tunnels adds a quirky, unexpected element.
• Great Value: At just around 3 hours, the trip offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, often at a lower cost than similar tours.

Exploring the Highlights of the Kotor Speedboat Tour

Starting at Park Slobode: The Launch Point for an Exciting Day

The tour begins at a central spot in Kotor, easily recognizable with many competing speed boat companies. Your guide Bojan from Sea&Sun Adventures will be easy to spot, usually greeting travelers with a friendly smile. This initial meeting sets the tone for a relaxed, well-organized trip. The boat itself is comfortable, and since there’s a small group (often just you and a few others), you won’t feel like just another tick on a crowded tour.

Panoramic Sailing Near Perast: A Perfect Introduction

Once underway, expect about 35 minutes of cruising along the coastline. This part is a highlight for photography enthusiasts—think rugged cliffs, quaint fisherman villages, and the silhouette of Perast. The captain’s careful navigation ensures you get great views without the noise of large tour boats. Many reviews praise this quiet, scenic stretch as a peaceful way to start the adventure.

Our Lady of the Rocks: A Manmade Marvel

The stop at Our Lady of the Rocks is a true highlight. Built on an artificial island, it’s a story of dedication—each rock laid by local sailors over centuries. Visitors typically have about 20 minutes to explore the church, its museum, and take photos of this striking, floating monument. The church’s interior is modest but filled with history and local artistry, offering a glimpse into the island’s significance for Montenegro’s maritime community. Several reviews note this stop is the perfect length—enough to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

Entering the Submarine Tunnels: A Quirky Adventure

One of the more unique aspects is a quick entry into the Yugoslavian submarine tunnels. Lightly explored in most reviews, this brief stop offers excellent photo opportunities and a bit of history for those interested in Cold War relics. It’s a quirky addition that breaks up the sightseeing with a touch of local military history.

Scenic Sail Along the Coast: Hidden Gems and Historic Villages

The boat then sails past fisherman villages and the fortress island of Mamula. Many travelers find this stretch especially charming—quiet harbors, old stone houses, and panoramic views that seem to stretch forever. The captain often points out notable features, making this part both scenic and educational.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder and Swimming Spot

The Blue Cave is often the main reason travelers pick this tour. Inside, sunlight interacts with the water to create an almost unreal turquoise glow—a natural phenomenon that’s hard to experience anywhere else. The boat enters the cave, and guests have around 15 minutes to swim or just marvel at the colors. Several reviews mention the water can be chilly, but the experience remains memorable, especially with the bright, clear waters. Keep in mind that due to crowds and safety, swimming inside the cave isn’t always possible, but many still enjoy swimming just outside or in the surrounding waters.

Returning to Kotor: A Final Look at the Bay

The trip concludes with a relaxed sail back to the starting point, often with a playlist that many say is “the best”—adding a fun, laid-back vibe to the journey. The full experience wraps up after a total of about 3 hours, leaving you with plenty of time to explore further or relax.

Why This Tour Works for Different Types of Travelers

If you’re someone who loves quick, scenic escapes with a mix of adventure and history, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized, intimate experience without the big crowd. The guide’s friendly manner and surprising touches, like the submarine tunnel stop, make it stand out.

For families, the short duration and safety equipment like life vests and masks make it appealing, though you should also consider the swimming aspect. Adventure seekers will love the Blue Cave and the chance to swim in its stunning waters, but remember that crowds often limit how long you can stay inside the cave itself.

Travelers on a budget will find this tour provides excellent value—a comprehensive trip with multiple stops and scenic highlights, often cheaper than larger group cruises. Its flexible cancellation policy also means you can book with confidence.

However, if you’re expecting a long, leisurely day with hours of swimming or extensive exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for a quick, high-impact trip that hits the main sights, it’s hard to beat.

Price and Logistics: Getting the Most Out of Your Time

The tour lasts around 3 hours, starting from Kotor’s Park Slobode. The meeting point is straightforward, and Bojan will help you find your boat easily. The tour includes speed boat, skipper, water, life vests, and masks, making it convenient and safe. Food isn’t included, so bringing snacks might be wise if you’re prone to hunger.

Pricing is competitive, especially considering the small group size and the variety of sights. Given the inclusion of hidden gems, historical stops, and natural wonders, many reviewers believe it offers excellent value. The flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later, which adds peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Experience

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an efficient but memorable glimpse of Montenegro’s coast. It suits those who enjoy snappy sightseeing, small-group intimacy, and a knowledgeable guide. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and some local secrets.

It’s also suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an active yet relaxed way to experience the Bay of Kotor. If you’re not a fan of boats or swimming, or if you prefer a very in-depth tour, you might want to consider alternatives. But for most, this balance of scenic beauty, history, and fun is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including all stops and sailing time.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Park Slobode in Kotor, where Bojan from Sea&Sun Adventures will meet you and help you find your boat.

Are food or drinks included?
No, food is not provided. Water and masks are included for guests’ convenience.

Is swimming inside the Blue Cave possible?
You can swim outside the cave, but entering and swimming inside is often limited due to crowds and safety considerations.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Key sights include Our Lady of the Rocks, the Blue Cave, Perast, Mamula Island, and the Yugoslavian submarine tunnels.

Is the group size small?
Yes, most trips have fewer than 10 people, making for a more relaxed experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking allows for flexible payment options.

This speedboat tour to the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized glimpse into Montenegro’s stunning coast. Perfect for those who appreciate a mix of natural beauty, history, and a little adventure—all wrapped into just a few hours.