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

Kotor: Private Boat Tour Blue Cave & Our Lady of the Rocks is a three-hour adventure that takes you through some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. Led by an experienced skipper, this private tour offers a relaxed yet immersive way to appreciate the beauty of Kotor Bay, whether you’re cruising past old villages, swimming in the famous Blue Cave, or walking on the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks. The tour includes drinks, diving masks, and a customizable itinerary—all for a reasonable price considering the exclusivity and intimate experience.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines stunning natural scenery with fascinating historical sites—all in a short time. The Blue Cave’s vivid turquoise waters are a highlight, perfect for a swim and memorable photos. Plus, visiting Mamula Island and the submarine tunnels adds a sense of adventure and history you won’t get on larger, more generic excursions.

A potential consideration is the tour’s duration—just three hours—which means you’ll need to prioritize what you want to see most. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for very young children or pregnant women, so it’s geared more toward active travelers and those with a curiosity for history and natural beauty.

If you’re looking for a personalized, scenic escape with authentic Montenegro touches, this private boat tour will suit you well. It’s especially ideal if you want a flexible schedule and a chance to beat the crowds, with the possibility to customize your stops along the way.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means flexibility and direct interaction with the skipper.
• Stunning Sights: Includes the famous Blue Cave, Mamula Island, and Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Historical & Natural Mix: Combines scenic cruising with visits to historic sites and natural wonders.
• Short & Sweet: A 3-hour tour that packs in a lot without feeling rushed.
• Family Friendly? Suitable for most active travelers but not recommended for pregnant women or very young children.
• Value for Money: Includes drinks, masks, and a knowledgeable guide, making it a worthwhile investment for a memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Kotor Private Boat Tour

The Starting Point and Overall Experience

Your adventure begins at the Spomenik palim za slobodu, the designated meeting point near the Tall Monument. From there, your English-speaking skipper greets you and takes charge of a private speedboat, setting the tone for an intimate, flexible experience. The boat itself is well-equipped, providing diving masks, lifejackets, and drinks, so you can focus on enjoying the ride and the sights.

This tour lasts around 3 hours, with the option to customize within that timeframe—shortening or extending stops depending on your interests, in coordination with your skipper. This flexibility is especially valuable if you want to spend more time swimming or exploring the island rather than rushing from one site to the next.

Cruising the Bay: Scenic Views and Hidden Corners

The first part of the journey offers a panoramic view of Kotor Bay. As you speed along, you’ll pass traditional fisherman villages, with their boats bobbing in quiet coves—an authentic backdrop that transports you away from tourist-heavy spots. The scenery alone could justify the tour, but the real magic happens when you reach the Blue Cave.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Phenomenon

Arriving at Montenegro’s Blue Cave, you’ll see why it’s a natural wonder. The boat gently sails inside, and you get around 25 minutes to swim and take photos. The sunlight’s interaction with the water creates a shimmering turquoise glow—truly captivating. The included diving masks allow you to get a closer look underwater, giving you a more immersive experience.

According to reviews, visitors cherish the chance to swim in such a pristine environment. One traveler remarked, “It was a truly wonderful experience, and they took great care of us during the tour.” The clarity of the water and the vibrant color are often highlighted as the main draws, making this stop worth every minute.

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Mamula Island: A Fortress with a View

Next, the boat slows down at Mamula Island, a former Austro-Hungarian fortress. It’s a perfect spot for snapping photos and soaking in the history. The island’s rugged fortress and old cannons evoke a sense of Montenegro’s strategic past. Your skipper may slow down here for a quick photo stop, giving you a chance to appreciate the island’s charm and take memorable pictures.

Submarine Tunnels: A Hidden Piece of History

A lesser-known highlight is the visit to the Yugoslavian submarine tunnels. Built during the Cold War era, these tunnels served as a secure hiding place for submarines and navy vessels. The boat will sail into one of the tunnels briefly, offering a glimpse into Montenegro’s military history. It’s a quick stop, but one that adds a layer of intrigue to the trip, especially for history buffs.

Our Lady of the Rocks: The Human-Crafted Island

The final major highlight is Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island built by local fishermen over centuries. The tiny island boasts a 15th-century church, which can be visited for a small entrance fee. You’ll have about 30 minutes here—enough for a walk around the island, capturing photos of the church and the picturesque surroundings. The story of how the island was built and the tradition of placing “rock donations” into the sea offers an authentic glimpse into local culture.

Visitors often comment on the serene atmosphere of the island and the beautiful views of Perast, a charming baroque town nearby.

Return and Final Views

After exploring, the boat heads back, providing one last chance to enjoy panoramic views of Perast and the bay. The tour ends where it began, leaving you with a sense of satisfaction and plenty of photos to remember your day.

The Value of This Experience

For the price, this private tour offers a lot of value. It includes private transportation, a knowledgeable skipper, drinks, and snorkeling gear, making it a convenient and immersive way to experience Kotor Bay’s highlights. The small group size (private or semi-private) ensures a more personalized experience, avoiding the crowded feeling of large group excursions.

The ability to customize the itinerary is a major plus. For instance, if you’re more interested in swimming than exploring the submarine tunnels, your skipper can adjust accordingly. This flexibility makes it a great choice for couples, families, or small groups seeking a tailored adventure.

Practical Considerations

While this tour is generally accessible, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, babies under one year, or wheelchair users. The tour’s comfort depends on weather conditions—calm days provide the best experience, especially for swimming and sightseeing. Be prepared for a fast-paced ride, as the boat moves quickly between sites, offering a thrilling perspective of the bay.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for travelers who want to see Montenegro’s top sights with a personal touch. It’s perfect if you enjoy natural beauty, history, and scenic cruising without the hassle of larger tour groups. Families with older children, couples, or friends seeking a flexible schedule will find it particularly appealing.

If you’re looking for an active, photo-friendly experience that balances beauty and history, this tour hits the mark. For those with limited time but a desire to cover a lot of ground in style, it’s a smart choice.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 3 hours, including stops at Blue Cave, Mamula Island, submarine tunnels, and Our Lady of the Rocks.

What is included in the price?
Your tour includes pick-up at the closest dock to your accommodation within Kotor Bay, boat transfers, an English-speaking skipper, drinks, diving masks, and lifejackets.

Can I enter Our Lady of the Rocks church?
Yes, entrance to the church is optional and costs about 2 euros per person. You’ll have time to visit if you choose.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, the tour isn’t recommended for babies under 1 year, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to physical limitations.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and camera. Since drinks are included, you don’t need to worry about hydration, but you might want to bring some extra snacks if you wish.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your skipper about adjusting stops or timing within the 3-hour window.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, calm weather provides the best experience, especially for swimming and sightseeing. Bad weather might lead to rescheduling or alterations.

How do I meet the guide?
Meet at the Spomenik palim za slobodu, next to the tall monument. The guide will be expecting you there, ready to start your adventure.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour in Kotor offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s spectacular natural scenery, historic sites, and local charm. It balances adventure with comfort, providing an authentic experience without the crowds. Whether you’re swimming in the Blue Cave, exploring Our Lady of the Rocks, or soaking in the views of Perast and Mamula Island, this tour is a fantastic way to make the most of your time in Kotor Bay.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate personalized experiences and want to include a mix of nature, history, and spectacular vistas. With its flexible itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and scenic settings, this tour will leave you with memories—and photos—that last long after your trip ends.

In summary, if you’re after a private, scenic, and customizable adventure that showcases Montenegro’s best sights, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a smart choice for travelers craving an intimate, authentic experience with a focus on value and genuine beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: