Kotor: Blue Cave & Swimmimg, Our Lady of The Rocks, Mamula

Kotor’s coastline is a magnet for travelers seeking striking scenery and intriguing sights. This private boat tour offers a compact but immersive glimpse into the area’s highlights—perfect for those who want to explore without the crowds or rigid schedules. From the stunning Blue Cave with its glowing blue waters to the historic and tranquil Our Lady of the Rocks, this journey combines natural beauty with a touch of history and fun.

What makes this trip especially appealing is the chance to enjoy exclusive, private access to some of Montenegro’s most photographed locations. You get a personalized experience, usually with a guide who’s knowledgeable and friendly—one reviewer even praised Evard for giving options and excellent communication. Plus, the inclusion of swimming and snorkeling in the Blue Cave and other stops adds a refreshing break from sightseeing.

However, this is a shorter tour — about three hours — which means it’s packed with sights but might leave you wishing for more time at each location. Also, since it involves speedboat rides and water stops, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with boat travel and water activities. If you’re prone to seasickness or have physical limitations, this might not be ideal. But if you’re looking for a cost-effective, high-value way to see the Bay of Kotor’s icons with a bit of adventure, this tour hits the right notes.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private tour offers flexibility and a personalized touch, often praised for good communication and punctuality.
• The Blue Cave’s glowing blue waters are a highlight, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear surroundings.
• Visiting Mamula Island and the submarine tunnel reveals Montenegro’s military history wrapped in a dramatic setting.
• Our Lady of the Rocks provides a peaceful and picturesque setting, with a historic church and scenic views of Perast.
• The tour’s timing and itinerary are designed to maximize sightseeing in a short window, making it a practical choice for those with limited time.
• The experience is best suited for active, water-loving travelers comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activities.

Exploring Montenegro: A Private Boat Tour from Kotor

Kotor is known for its stunning fjord-like bay, UNESCO World Heritage old town, and dramatic mountain scenery. This private boat tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the most eye-catching sights around the bay, all within a manageable three-hour window. The journey is operated by Boka Boat Tours, and the experience emphasizes comfort, exclusivity, and authentic scenery.

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at Park Slobode, the main departure point in Kotor. From there, you’ll hop onto a speedboat for a swift 55-minute cruise that whisks you away from the town’s busy streets into the tranquil waters of the bay. The use of a private boat means you’re not competing with crowds, which makes for a more relaxed and flexible experience.

Blue Cave: The Crown Jewel

The Blue Cave is the standout highlight. Carved by nature over centuries, this cavern is renowned for its ethereal blue glow caused by sunlight filtering through underwater openings. The effect is captivating—something you have to see to believe. Once inside, you’ll have time to marvel at the shimmering waters, take photos, and if you’re up for it, take a dip in the cool, clear water.

Many reviewers, like Kevin, appreciated the company of guides such as Evard, who was “an excellent tour operator… giving options and communicating very well.” The Blue Cave’s combination of natural beauty and the opportunity for swimming makes it a truly memorable stop. Keep in mind, the tour only allows about 15 minutes here, so plan your photo and swim time accordingly.

A Peek into Montenegro’s Military Past: Submarine Tunnel & Mamula

After the Blue Cave, the boat takes you to a hidden wartime submarine tunnel. This site offers a glimpse into Montenegro’s military history, carved into the landscape—an interesting contrast to the natural wonders. The tour includes a quick photo stop and brief swimming here, typically around 10 minutes.

Next, you’ll visit Mamula Island, a former military prison fortress, now a rugged, intriguing island. The 5-minute photo opportunity lets you capture its imposing walls and unique shape—perfect for history lovers and photographers alike.

Our Lady of the Rocks: A Peaceful Sanctuary

The journey then continues to Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island famous for its centuries-old church and peaceful ambiance. You’ll have about 15 minutes to explore, take photos, and enjoy the calm scenery. A guided tour inside the church offers a chance to see its treasures and learn a little more about the island’s legend—built on a tradition of boat offerings and legend.

Sunset Views Over Perast

As your tour winds down, the boat heads toward Perast, where you’ll get a panoramic view of the town and the bay as the sun begins to set. This is a great photo opportunity and a fitting end to an active, scenic trip.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of this private tour covers the boat, guide, and all stops, with complimentary beverages to keep you refreshed. It does not include food, which you might want to pack if you’re hungry. Since there’s no hotel pickup, you’ll need to meet at Park Slobode or arrange your own transport.

The tour’s duration of 3 hours is tight but packed. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager to see Montenegro’s top sights from the water. The private setup makes the experience more intimate and flexible, allowing for a more enjoyable trip, especially for those who prefer avoiding large groups.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for active travelers, water enthusiasts, and those who value privacy and personalized service. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors to Kotor who want a quick, comprehensive introduction to the bay’s highlights. The inclusion of swimming and snorkeling makes it ideal for travelers comfortable in and around water.

It’s less suitable for people with mobility issues, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness. The tour is also not tailored for long, relaxed exploration—it’s a swift, scenic snapshot of the area’s best features.

The Experience: Authentic, Fun, and Well-Organized

Based on reviews like Kevin’s, who said, “Evard was an excellent tour operator,” this experience is well-organized and enjoyable. Clear communication and punctuality are hallmarks, making it easy to relax and enjoy the ride. The scenery—especially in the Blue Cave—is truly breathtaking, offering photographic moments that will stick with you.

The boat itself is comfortable, and the timing allows for a good balance of sightseeing and water activities. The guide’s local knowledge adds context to each stop, enriching your understanding of Montenegro’s landscape and history.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip from Kotor is a standout choice for travelers seeking a quick, high-impact experience. It’s tailor-made for those who want to see iconic sights, enjoy some swimming, and do it all in a private, relaxed setting. If you’re short on time but crave the beauty of Montenegro’s coast, this tour offers good value, memorable views, and a chance to dip into some of the area’s most photogenic spots.

However, if you’re after a slow-paced, in-depth exploration or traveling with someone who doesn’t enjoy boat rides or water activities, you might want to consider other options. For active, adventurous travelers eager for a fun, scenic cruise with the comforts of privacy and flexibility, this tour delivers.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including cruising between stops, sightseeing, swimming, and photo opportunities.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes a private speed boat, visits to the Blue Cave, swimming opportunities, visits to Mamula Island and the submarine tunnel, Our Lady of the Rocks, and complimentary beverages.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are scheduled at the Blue Cave and other stops, allowing you to cool off and enjoy the waters of the bay.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children should be accompanied by an adult and be comfortable with water activities and boat rides. It’s not recommended for those with back problems or prone to seasickness.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and sunscreen. Consider waterproof protection for your phone or camera as water activities are involved.

Is there a hotel pickup?
No, transportation to the starting point (Park Slobode) is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way there.

This private boat tour balances excitement, natural beauty, and history, making it a rewarding addition to your Montenegro journey. It’s a great way to enjoy a few hours in the company of spectacular scenery, especially if you appreciate personalized service and water-based adventures.