Perast: Boka Bay and Blue Cave Tour – Pick up

Review of the Perast: Boka Bay and Blue Cave Tour – Pick Up

If you’re looking for a way to see Montenegro’s stunning Bay of Kotor without the hassle of navigating on your own, a boat tour from Perast might be just what you need. This 2-hour adventure promises a taste of the bay’s hidden treasures, from the legendary island of Our Lady of the Rocks to the colorful Blue Cave. What’s particularly appealing is the chance to see some of Montenegro’s most photogenic spots from the water—an entirely different perspective than on land.

Two things I especially like about this tour are the knowledgeable guides and the well-paced stops that balance sightseeing with relaxation. The guides seem genuinely enthusiastic about sharing stories—like the history of the island of Our Lady of the Rocks and the WWII submarine tunnels—that add depth to the experience. Plus, the opportunity to swim inside the Blue Cave with its vivid blue hues is a highlight that keeps travelers excited and engaged.

A possible consideration for travelers is the weather; the tour runs rain or shine, and rough seas can lead to changes in the itinerary or even cancellations. If swimming in the Blue Cave is a priority, you’ll want to check the weather forecast beforehand. Also, keep in mind this experience isn’t suitable for everyone—certain health or mobility restrictions are noted, and a dress code applies if you plan to visit the church on Our Lady of the Rocks.

This tour offers incredible value for its price, especially considering it includes several key sites, free drinks, and a friendly live guide. Whether you’re after fun photos, interesting stories, or just a relaxing ride on the water, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to see the Bay of Kotor from a fresh angle.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning perspectives: You’ll love the views of Porto Montenegro and Porto Novi from the water, especially if you’re into luxury marinas and boat scenes.
• Expert guides: The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the history of sites like Our Lady of the Rocks come alive.
• Perfect pacing: The stops are well-timed, giving you enough time to explore, take photos, or relax without feeling rushed.
• Unique sites: Exploring WWII submarine tunnels and Mamula Island, once a prison akin to Montenegrian Alcatraz, adds a fascinating historical layer.
• Blue Cave swim: Swimming in the Blue Cave, with its intensely blue interior, is often highlighted as a major highlight.
• Weather dependence: The tour goes rain or shine, but rough seas may cause adjustments or cancellations—best to check the forecast.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting at the dock in Perast, the experience kicks off with a quick 5-minute speedboat ride to the first major stop: the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. This tiny island, built by local fishermen, is filled with charming churches and offers a fascinating peek into local traditions. The guide’s stories about the island’s history are engaging—one reviewer mentioned how informative and friendly the guide was, which transformed a simple photo stop into a memorable visit.

After about 20 minutes exploring the island, you’ll board the boat again and cruise through the Verige channel, which offers stunning views of the bay’s cliffs and water. From here, you’ll get a good look at Porto Montenegro and Porto Novi marinas, places known for luxury yachts and sleek boats. Many travelers appreciate how the water-based perspective amplifies the sense of luxury and grandeur.

Next, the tour takes you to the abandoned WWII submarine tunnels. These tunnels, used during wartime to hide submarines, provide a glimpse into Montenegro’s military past. The short 10-minute photo stop allows you to appreciate the scale and mystery of these structures. Some reviews mention how the guide’s storytelling made these hidden tunnels genuinely intriguing rather than just a photo opportunity.

The route then leads to Mamula Island, which once served as a prison. Many describe this stop as a “Montenegrian Alcatraz,” with the island’s fortress providing a dramatic backdrop. You’ll have about 10 minutes for photos—an ideal time to snap panoramic shots of this stark, historic site.

The most anticipated part of the trip is the Blue Cave. After a short 15-minute ride, you’ll have about 30 minutes to swim, explore, and take photos inside this natural wonder. The vivid blue color of the water, as several reviewers noted, makes it one of the most beautiful spots in the bay. Be aware that swimming depends on weather conditions, so it might not always be possible.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a longer 40-minute ride back to Perast, giving you some relaxing moments on the water before arriving at the starting point. Many travelers mention how the entire experience feels relaxed yet well-organized, thanks to the attentive guides and smooth boat ride.

Who It’s Best For

This tour is ideal for travelers who value authentic scenic experiences and enjoy learning stories behind the sights. If you’re comfortable on a boat and interested in a mix of history, luxury views, and natural beauty, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with a small group or family, as the small-group setting enhances the personal touch. However, those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness should consider the weather and boat ride length. Also, if visiting Our Lady of the Rocks or swimming in the Blue Cave is a priority, check the weather forecast to ensure smooth sailing.

This experience offers excellent value considering all the sites covered, the guided commentary, and the included drinks. For a compact, enjoyable taste of Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, this tour hits the mark.

Price and Logistics

At around 2 hours, the tour offers an efficient way to see popular sights. The cost includes the boat ride, a live guide, visits, and free drinks—making it a good deal for a scenic, informative outing. You’ll meet at the market area in Perast, right across from the dock, so logistics are straightforward.

The tour runs daily with different starting times (check availability). You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if weather conditions look questionable. The small group size and the option to reserve and pay later add convenience and security to your planning.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for water activities, and bring a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.
• A hat, sunglasses, and a camera are must-haves for bright days and photo opportunities.
• Be prepared for seasickness—if you’re prone, take precaution or consider choosing calmer times.
• If you plan to visit the church on Our Lady of the Rocks, remember to dress modestly as there’s a dress code.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast—rough seas or rain might lead to schedule changes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be comfortable on boats and capable of participating in the stops, especially swimming if they wish to join in the Blue Cave.

How long is the boat ride each way?
The initial trip to Our Lady of the Rocks takes about 5 minutes, with subsequent rides varying between 10 to 40 minutes depending on the stop.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
The tour price covers the boat ride, guide, and visits, but the entrance fee to Our Lady of the Rocks church is not included.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, swimming is possible but depends on weather conditions. The tour often allows time for this, and many reviews highlight it as a standout experience.

Is there a dress code for visiting the church?
Yes, modest clothing is required if you decide to go inside the church at Our Lady of the Rocks.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Comfortable water-appropriate clothes and shoes are advisable.

What’s the ideal weather for this tour?
Calmer seas and sunny weather enhance the experience—rough seas might lead to changes or cancellations.

Is the tour private or small group?
Both options are available, with small group sizes providing a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts
This boat tour from Perast offers an efficient and enjoyable way to see some of Montenegro’s most photogenic and historically interesting sites. It balances scenic beauty with storytelling, making it perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic local spots and stunning vistas. Whether you’re keen on snapping photos of Mamula Island, learning about WWII tunnels, or just relaxing while cruising the bay, this experience delivers genuine value. Just keep an eye on the weather, dress appropriately, and prepare for a memorable journey through Montenegro’s waters.