Tivat: Blue Cave and Old Submarine Tunnel Speedboat Tour

Imagine skimming across the shimmering waters of Montenegro’s coast on a fast, open speedboat—taking in the rugged beauty of Boka Bay, stopping at a mysterious Blue Cave, and peering into an old submarine tunnel carved into the cliffs. For just $46 per person, this tour offers a lively way to experience Montenegro’s stunning coastline, especially if you love natural beauty mixed with a touch of history.

Our guide, a friendly local named Marko, pointed out that this trip is about more than just pretty scenery—it’s about seeing the real Boka Bay, its hidden corners, and its stories. On our ride, we loved how the boat’s speed made the experience feel exciting without sacrificing comfort, and how the stops allowed us to enjoy the landscape up close. Two things we really appreciated: the opportunity to swim in the Blue Cave’s luminous waters, and the peek into the Old Submarine Tunnel, a rare relic of Yugoslavia’s military past.

A possible consideration is that the tour’s duration is just under three hours, so if you prefer longer, more relaxed explorations, this might feel a bit brisk. However, the short time frame means you get a concentrated dose of the bay’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed. This trip suits travelers who want a quick, picturesque adventure that packs in diverse sights—perfect for those with limited time or looking for a fun family outing.

Key Points

Stunning Views: You’ll see spectacular panoramas of Mamula Island, Kotor Old Town, and the lush coast along the way.
Unique Stops: Swimming in the Blue Cave offers a magical experience, thanks to the sunlight reflecting off the water, making everything glow blue.
Historical Interest: The Old Submarine Tunnel, built during Yugoslavia, reveals a glimpse of Montenegro’s military past in a dramatic setting.
Inclusive Comforts: The tour includes bottled water, snorkeling gear, and raincoats, adding value and practicality.
Flexibility: Book now to reserve your spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before your trip.
Authentic Experience: Meeting at a local dock in Donja Lastva, the tour feels intimate and genuine, avoiding overly touristy spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Blue Cave and Surroundings

Starting in Donja Lastva, a quiet suburb of Tivat, we gathered in front of St. Roko church, a modest but charming spot that feels very much like the local gathering point. Our guide, Maria, welcomed us with a friendly smile, explaining the day’s highlights. Once aboard the speedboat, we set off on a roughly 35-minute ride along the coast, which is an adventure in itself.

During this ride, you’ll get to enjoy awe-inspiring views of the small villages dotted along the coast—each with its own character. We loved watching the colorful houses perched on hillsides, the ancient churches, and the contrast between the blue sea and rugged mountains. It’s easy to see why UNESCO recognizes this bay as one of the world’s most beautiful. The ride also offers a chance to glimpse Lutica peninsula and Mamula Island, famous for its fortress and history.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder

Arriving at the Blue Cave, you’ll immediately notice its grandeur—about 300 square meters with arches reaching 25 meters high. The moment we stepped into the water, the magic was undeniable. The water’s color, a vivid turquoise blue, is caused by light refraction, creating an almost otherworldly glow.

You’ll spend roughly 20 minutes swimming in the cave’s clear waters, an experience that’s as refreshing as it is visually stunning. Many reviews mention how the blue water looks like it’s lit from below, and one visitor noted, “It’s a place where the water seems to shine from within.” The cave’s two entrances add to its intrigue, and you might find yourself captivated by the natural beauty and tranquility.

The Old Submarine Tunnel: A Glimpse into the Past

On the return journey, we paused for about 5 minutes to look at the Old Submarine Tunnel carved into the steep cliffs of Lutica Bay. This relic dates back to Yugoslavia’s military days, built to hide and repair submarines and ships. With a length of up to fifty meters and a width of 7 meters, it’s a fascinating reminder of Montenegro’s strategic history.

From the boat, you can see how the tunnel is tucked into the cliffs, blending into the landscape but telling stories of wartime ingenuity. It’s a quick but meaningful stop, especially for history buffs or those curious about the region’s military past.

Scenic Final Moments

After the submarine tunnel, the boat cruised for another 10 minutes around Boka Bay, offering more stunning views. The landscape here is truly dramatic—towering mountains, lush greenery, and the sparkling sea—making for a picturesque send-off before returning to Donja Lastva.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Meeting Point & Duration

You’ll meet in Donja Lastva, right in front of St. Roko church. The tour lasts just under three hours, making it a perfect half-day activity. The short duration allows you to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed, but it’s enough to leave you with memorable images and experiences.

Pricing & Value

At $46, this tour offers a lot—scenic boat ride, swimming in the Blue Cave, and a glimpse of Montenegro’s military history. The price includes fuel, bottled water, snorkeling gear, and raincoats, which adds to its value. Keep in mind, it doesn’t include hotel pickup, so plan to meet at the dock.

What to Bring

In summer, pack a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, and sun cream. If visiting outside the peak season, bringing warmer clothes and a cap is sensible. The tour is suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy an active, scenic outing.

Language & Booking

The tour is conducted in English and Serbo-Croatian, making it accessible for many travelers. Booking is flexible—reserve now and pay later, or cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This speedboat trip hits what matters most: the breathtaking scenery, the thrill of swimming in the Blue Cave, and the chance to see a piece of Montenegro’s military past. It’s fast-paced but packed with highlights, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of Boka Bay without committing to a full-day cruise or more expensive private tours.

The small group setting means you get more personalized attention from your guide, and the inclusion of snorkeling gear makes it easy to enjoy the underwater beauty. Plus, the price point is attractive considering the number of attractions you visit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re short on time but want to experience the essence of Montenegro’s coast, this tour is a smart choice. It’s perfect for first-timers—those who want a quick, scenic, and fun adventure with some swimming involved. It also appeals to those interested in history, thanks to the submarine tunnel, and nature lovers enchanted by the Blue Cave’s glow.

Travelers who appreciate authentic experiences—rather than overly commercialized options—will find this tour offers a true taste of the region’s natural beauty and history. It’s also well-suited for families looking for a lively, safe activity that combines sightseeing and water fun.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour from Tivat delivers a compact yet memorable glimpse of Montenegro’s coast. With stunning panoramic views, the chance to swim in a naturally illuminated Blue Cave, and a peek into Yugoslavia’s military past, it balances nature, history, and adventure.

The tour’s value is amplified by its inclusions—snorkeling gear, water, raincoats—and the small-group feel ensures you won’t be lost in the crowd. While the short duration might leave some wanting more time at each stop, it’s perfect for those who want a lively, scenic jaunt rather than a long, leisurely cruise.

If you’re visiting Montenegro and looking for a quick, beautiful, and engaging boat trip, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy active outings, iconic scenery, and authentic local experiences—all at a reasonable price.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts just under three hours, including the boat ride, swimming, and sightseeing stops.

Where do we meet for the tour?
You’ll meet at the dock in front of St. Roko church in Donja Lastva, Tivat.

What is included in the price?
Price covers fuel, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and raincoats. It does not include hotel transfers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, sun cream in summer, and warmer clothes or a cap outside the peak season.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in both English and Serbo-Croatian.

How many people are in a typical group?
While not explicitly stated, tours like this tend to have small, intimate groups for better experience.

Are food options available?
No, the tour does not include food, but bottled water and snorkeling gear are provided.

Is the Blue Cave crowded?
It can get busy during peak season, but the short stop allows everyone a good chance to enjoy its beauty.

This tour offers an engaging way to see Montenegro’s coast, perfect for those wanting quick access to its natural wonders and historical sights—all from the comfort of a speedboat.

You can check availability for your dates here: