Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks – 3h Private Speedboat Tour

Experience the Best of Montenegro’s Coast in Just 3 Hours

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights without the crowds, this Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks private speedboat tour offers a perfect solution. For around $320 per group (up to six people), you’ll spend roughly three hours cruising along the Kotor Bay with a knowledgeable skipper, soaking in stunning views, and visiting hidden gems only accessible by boat.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its personalized nature and flexibility. Since it’s private, you won’t be stuck behind strangers, and the small group size means more comfort. We love how you get to swim in the Blue Cave’s crystal waters and visit Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island with a fascinating story. Plus, the boat ride itself is a scenic adventure, allowing you to see yachts at Porto Montenegro, Mamula Fortress, and submarine tunnels—offering a glimpse into Montenegro’s maritime history.

One thing to consider: At just three hours, the tour is a pretty quick jaunt, so if you’re craving a deeper exploration or more time at each site, you might want to extend or combine it with other activities.

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery, authentic moments away from crowds, and personalized guided adventures—especially those who love water-based outings and are eager to explore Montenegro’s coast from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Private & intimate: Small group (up to 6), personalized attention from your skipper.
• Unique locations: Visit sites that can only be reached by boat, including the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Stunning scenery: Enjoy scenic views of Kotor Bay, Mamula Fortress, Porto Montenegro, and submarine tunnels.
• Swim & relax: A chance to swim in the Blue Cave’s glowing waters—an unforgettable experience.
• Expert guide: Mirko, the guide, is praised for his friendly, helpful demeanor and local knowledge.
• Excellent value: A 3-hour private tour for around $320 is a good deal considering the personalized experience and access to exclusive spots.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary & Experience

Starting in Kotor: A Scenic Introduction

The tour kicks off in Kotor, one of Montenegro’s most picturesque towns, with a boat ride along the bay’s rugged coastline. We loved how this initial stretch offered spectacular views of medieval architecture, fishing villages, and lush greenery. Peg_M, one of the reviewers, called it a “wonderful way to see the area from the water,” highlighting how the boat ride itself is a visual feast.

This opening segment, lasting about 20 minutes, is a gentle warm-up, setting the tone for an adventure filled with photo opportunities and anticipation. Since admission to the boat is included, this part is straightforward—just sit back, enjoy the breeze, and get ready for what’s ahead.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

Next, your boat pulls up to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a story as captivating as the view. Built upon a crag that bears the icon of Holy Mother Mary, this tiny island hosts a church filled with artworks, votives, and religious relics. Visitors can listen to tales of how the island was formed by local seafarers and explore the museum linked to the church.

For many, this stop is a highlight. Celine_D praised Mirko for making the visit enjoyable and comfortable, noting his friendly, helpful nature. The 30-minute visit allows enough time to soak in the mystical atmosphere, take photos, and perhaps buy a small souvenir.

Passing Porto Montenegro & Submarine Tunnels

After leaving the island, the boat heads through the Verige Strait, where you’ll pass by Porto Montenegro, a modern marina filled with yachts—an impressive sight. From here, the tour includes a short stop at an ex-submarine military base, a historical site that adds a layer of intrigue.

Traveling further, you’ll cruise past Herceg Novi, with views of Portonovi resort and the town itself. The guide’s narration makes these moments richer, offering context you might not get exploring on foot. This section is about 10 minutes long, but it’s a chance to appreciate how Montenegro balances luxury tourism with remnants of its past.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder

The big moment arrives at the Blue Cave—a natural phenomenon created by waves crashing over the Lustice peninsula for thousands of years. As the sun filters through cracks, the water takes on an iridescent blue hue that’s truly mesmerizing. Guests are encouraged to swim in the cave’s clear waters, a highlight for many travelers.

Reviewers like Peg_M remarked, “What a wonderful way to see the area from the water,” especially mentioning swimming in the Blue Cave’s glow. It’s a 30-minute stop, enough to enjoy the scenery and cool off in the refreshing waters.

Wrapping Up & Return Journey

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads back towards Kotor, passing by Mamula Fortress, a haunting island with stories from World Wars. You’ll also see submarine tunnels from the 1950s, offering a glimpse into Montenegro’s military past. The return trip takes about 90 minutes, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included & What You Should Know

Your ticket covers bottled water, WiFi, fuel, insurance, and a skipper/tour guide. It’s a good package that keeps things simple and comfortable. Unlike many tours, there’s no entrance fee for the island or Blue Cave—those are free—but keep in mind the €2 admission to the museum at Our Lady of the Rocks if you choose to explore inside.

Food and alcohol are not included, so consider packing a snack or drink if you want to extend your enjoyment at the scenic spots.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Tips

From the reviews, it’s clear that Mirko’s guiding makes a difference. His local knowledge, friendly demeanor, and flexibility—like offering guests the chance to play their own music—enhance the experience significantly. It’s these personal touches that elevate a simple boat ride into a memorable adventure.

Travelers also appreciate the quality of the boat, which is comfortable enough for a small group, and the timing, as most bookings are made about 3 weeks in advance, indicating it’s popular but not overly booked.

To get the most out of this tour, consider arriving early in the day to avoid any potential crowds at the Blue Cave or Our Lady of the Rocks. Packing a swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and a camera will ensure you’re ready for swimming and snapping pictures.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private tour is perfect for couples, small families, or friends wanting an exclusive experience. It’s especially good for travelers who value authentic scenic moments and want to avoid crowded boat trips.

If you’re interested in history and scenery, the stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and submarine tunnels will resonate. For adventurers and water lovers, the swim in the Blue Cave will be the highlight.

This tour is less suitable for those seeking longer excursions or a full day of sightseeing—its compact schedule is designed to give a taste of Montenegro’s coast, not a deep dive into every site.

Final Thoughts

The Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks private speedboat tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and fun in a short timeframe. Its small group format and knowledgeable guide make it feel personal and relaxed, while the stunning scenery and unique locations provide plenty of photo-worthy moments.

For travelers craving a scenic escape from the hustle of Kotor’s narrow streets, and eager to swim in crystal-clear waters, this tour delivers an authentic taste of Montenegro’s coastal charm. The value shines through in the quality of the guide, the exclusivity of the experience, and the breathtaking views that make this trip truly special.

Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, this 3-hour adventure will leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of stories to tell back home.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including all stops and the return to Kotor.

What sites will we visit?
You’ll visit Our Lady of the Rocks, the Blue Cave, Porto Montenegro, Mamula Fortress, submarine tunnels, and pass Herceg-Novi.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the small boat with a friendly guide makes it suitable for families, though children should be comfortable with boat rides.

What’s included?
Bottled water, WiFi onboard, fuel, insurance, and a private skipper/tour guide are all included.

Are there any additional costs?
The museum at Our Lady of the Rocks costs about €2, but otherwise, the stops are free. Food and alcohol are not included.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 21 days ahead, to secure your preferred time.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and underwater moments.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, you will have about 30 minutes to swim in the cave’s waters—an experience many reviews highlight as unforgettable.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, this private boat tour offers a fantastic blend of culture, scenery, and adventure in just a few hours. It’s a smart choice for those who want an authentic, intimate experience of Montenegro’s coast without the hassle of large group tours.