Kotor: Private boat tour Blue Cave & Our Lady of the Rocks

Exploring Kotor Bay by boat offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, history, and fun. This private tour, lasting about three hours, takes you to some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights — notably the Blue Cave and the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks. What makes it appealing is the chance to see untouched nature, swim in crystal waters, and get a feel for the region’s maritime history, all from the comfort of your own private speedboat.

Two aspects I particularly like about this experience are the flexible itinerary — since it’s private, you can tailor the stops within the three-hour window — and the opportunity to swim inside the Blue Cave, a highlight of the trip. Also, the knowledgeable English-speaking skipper adds a personal touch that ensures you get plenty of insightful commentary along the way. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour may involve a lot of time on a small boat, which might not suit those prone to seasickness or looking for a more leisurely, land-based experience.

This tour offers excellent value for its price, especially considering the private setting, personalized service, and the chance to explore multiple sights in just a few hours. Whether you’re into photography, swimming, or simply soaking up scenic views, it’s a memorable way to experience Kotor Bay beyond the usual land-based excursions.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private, customizable experience offers flexibility within a 3-hour window.
• Swim inside the Blue Cave and admire its stunning turquoise waters.
• Explore historical sites, including Mamula Fortress and submarine tunnels, for a mix of nature and history.
• Walk on Our Lady of the Rocks and visit its 17th-century church for a cultural touch.
• Skipper-led commentary makes the journey engaging and informative.
• Inclusion of drinks and diving masks enhances the comfort and fun of your adventure.

Starting Point and Logistics

Your journey begins at the Spomenik palim za slobodu, conveniently located near the city center or your accommodation within the Bay of Kotor. The tour is tailored for private groups, which means you won’t be stuck with strangers and can customize the experience with your skipper—probably someone with a good sense of humor and local knowledge, like the reviews suggest.

The duration is about 3 hours, but check the actual availability and starting times when booking. Since the tour is private, you might be able to adjust the schedule slightly — for example, shortening or lengthening certain stops if you prefer more swimming or sightseeing. The flexibility is a major plus. You also get a pick-up service at the dock closest to your lodging, which simplifies logistics.

The Speedboat Journey: A Scenic Ride

Once aboard your private speedboat, you’ll love the quick, lively pace that allows you to cover multiple sights efficiently. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering panoramic views of Kotor Bay, along with glimpses of old fisherman villages and the rugged coastline. The boat is fast enough to keep the atmosphere playful but stable enough for comfortable sightseeing.

The first leg takes about an hour, during which your skipper will share some local insights, making the experience feel personal. From the start, you’re treated to incredible views — a perfect way to get your bearings and get excited for what’s ahead.

Visiting the Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder

The main attraction is the Blue Cave, a natural phenomenon celebrated for its vivid turquoise waters created by sunlight filtering through the cave’s opening. The boat gently cruises inside for about 25 minutes, giving you plenty of time to swim and take photos. Guests often find the interaction of sunlight and water mesmerizing — as one reviewer notes, “the cave is a natural spectacle of untouched nature.”

Swimmers can use the included diving masks, which means you can snorkel and get closer to the underwater hues. The cave’s small size means it’s best enjoyed in a group setting, but since this is a private tour, you won’t be crowded. Plus, the fact that the boat arrives inside the cave makes this experience more intimate than a larger tour.

Exploring Mamula Island and Submarine Tunnels

Next, your skipper will take you past Mamula Fortress, an old Austro-Hungarian military island that’s now a popular photo stop. It’s a striking sight with its ramparts and history, and many guests enjoy snapping photos here. The boat slows down for a brief stop, allowing plenty of time to admire and capture the fortress on camera.

Following that, the boat enters one of the Yugoslavian submarine tunnels. These tunnels, built to hide the navy fleet, add a layer of intrigue to the trip. It’s a quick but interesting visit, giving you a peek into Montenegro’s military past.

The Jewel: Our Lady of the Rocks

The highlight for many is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, built in the 15th century. It’s a small but captivating site, with a charming 17th-century church that you can walk around and visit (an entrance fee of 2 euros is paid on-site). The island’s story — built by local fishermen who laid stones on the water — adds a human touch to the scenic landscape. It’s the perfect spot for photos and a brief cultural experience.

Guests often appreciate the hour-long stop here, which includes free time, a walk around the island, and the chance to peek inside the church. The views back towards Perast make it a great photo opportunity, and the peaceful atmosphere contrasts beautifully with the lively boat ride.

Final Return and Practical Tips

The tour ends back at the starting point, completing a well-rounded journey through Kotor’s coastal gems. Since this is a private experience, you can customize the stops — for example, cutting short the Blue Cave swim to enjoy a coffee break or explore a little longer at certain sites.

Practical considerations include bringing sunscreen, waterproof gear, and perhaps a towel if you plan to swim. Drinks are included, which adds to the comfort, but note that entrance to Our Lady of the Rocks church is optional and costs 2 euros. The tour is suitable for most travelers but not for pregnant women, wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, or those with seasickness concerns.

Value and Overall Impression

At around three hours, this private boat tour offers a compelling value, especially for couples, families, or small groups wanting a personalized experience. The price includes the boat, skipper, drinks, and snorkeling gear, making it a straightforward choice for seeing multiple sights without extra hassle. The private aspect means less waiting and more flexibility, which can be the difference between a good and a memorable trip.

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views — the kind that stay with you long after your trip ends. One traveler even described it as a “truly wonderful experience,” highlighting the care taken by the crew.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and scenic views, all from the comfort of a private boat. It’s ideal if you value flexibility, personalized service, and the chance to swim in iconic caves. It’s also great for those who want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer a more intimate outing.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, or traveling with very young children or mobility issues, it’s worth considering the boat ride’s nature. Also, those seeking a longer or more in-depth cultural tour might want to combine this with other land-based visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours, but check availability for exact starting times. Since it’s private, you might be able to adjust timing slightly.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Spomenik palim za slobodu, near the city center or your accommodation within Kotor Bay.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks are included in the price, making the experience more relaxing.

Can I swim inside the Blue Cave?
Absolutely. Swimming and snorkeling are encouraged, with diving masks provided, allowing you to enjoy the cave’s vivid waters.

Is there an entrance fee for Our Lady of the Rocks?
Yes, entry to the church costs about 2 euros per person, payable on the spot.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or those with mobility issues. Seasickness could also be a concern for some travelers.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can work with your skipper to adjust stops — such as shortening the Blue Cave swim or adding more leisure time.

What is the experience level of the guide?
Guests praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude, making the journey both informative and fun.

To sum it up, this private boat tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and flexible way to experience the best of Kotor Bay. With its combination of natural wonders, historical sites, and personalized service, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic and memorable Montenegro adventure. If you’re after stunning views, a touch of history, and the fun of swimming in extraordinary caves, this tour hits the mark.