Private Blue Cave Tour from Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor, Montenegro, is a place that immediately feels like stepping into a postcard. The Private Blue Cave Tour offers a chance to explore this stunning bay with personalized guidance, a small group of up to six people, and a boat that takes you along the coast for about three hours. Priced at $412.70 per group, this experience is designed for travelers seeking an intimate, scenic adventure that combines natural beauty, history, and a dash of fun.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the visual spectacle of the Blue Cave—that mesmerizing, glowing azure hue—and the opportunity to see hidden historical sites like the submarine base and Mamula Island fortress. The tour is as much about the stories behind these locations as the sights themselves. One consideration: if weather conditions turn choppy, the Blue Cave visit could be canceled, but guides are known for filling that time with other memorable stops.

This tour suits those who want a flexible, small-group experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photo-taking, and learning about Montenegro’s past. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to combine natural wonders with a touch of local history, without the crowds or rush of larger tours.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Small group of up to six provides a more intimate, flexible trip.
Stunning Scenery: Visit the iconic Blue Cave, featuring luminous blue waters, and enjoy panoramic views of Kotor Bay.
Historic Sites: Explore Our Lady of the Rocks, the submarine base, and Mamula Island for a mix of natural beauty and history.
Comfort & Convenience: Use of snorkeling equipment, WiFi on board, bottled water, and beverages included.
Flexible Cancellation: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, making it a low-risk way to enjoy Montenegro’s coast.

Exploring Montenegro’s Coast in Style: A Detailed Review of the Private Blue Cave Tour

Starting Point & First Impressions

The adventure begins at a convenient meeting point in Kotor, where a boat awaits to whisk you away into the bay. For about 20 minutes, your boat will cruise along the shimmering waters, offering a panoramic view of Kotor’s old town, fisherman’s villages like Muo, Prcanj, Stoliv, and lush forests that frame the coastline.

This initial ride is a highlight itself — a chance to soak in the scenery and get a feel for Montenegro’s maritime spirit. It’s easy to see why travelers rave about the spectacular views and authentic coastal atmosphere. The boat’s speed allows you to relax, chat, and snap photos, setting the tone for the rest of the trip.

Stops Along the Way: A Blend of Nature and History

Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks

Your first stop is Perast, a charming town with centuries-old stone architecture and quiet streets that seem frozen in time. Here, you’ll gaze at iconic landmarks such as the Church of St. Nicholas and the man-made island, Our Lady of the Rocks. The island’s church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is free to enter, and the views from the island are breathtaking. If you choose to visit the museum, there’s a small fee of €1.50, offering insights into local traditions and the island’s history.

A favorite among travelers is the panoramic view of Perast, which the tour highlights beautifully. One reviewer notes, “This peaceful setting offers a perfect backdrop for photos and reflection,” making it a highlight for many visitors.

The Submarine Base & Mamula Island

Next, the boat heads to the Lustica Peninsula, where a hidden WWII submarine base provides a fascinating glimpse into Montenegro’s military past. Entered via speedboat, the base is a rare site, with no foot traffic to disturb its quiet, eerie atmosphere.

Shortly after, the boat approaches Mamula Island, a former Austro-Hungarian fortress turned WWII prison. Its bold history combined with Mediterranean foliage makes it a striking sight. Many find it intriguing that Mamula’s long history even includes ancient Illyrian settlements and Roman forts, adding a sense of depth and continuity to your visit.

The Showstopper: The Blue Cave

The star of the tour is undoubtedly the Blue Cave. As you arrive, the sunlight filtering into the cave causes the water to glow with a hypnotic blue. It’s a natural phenomenon that looks almost surreal, especially if the weather is clear.

Inside, you can swim in the crystal-clear waters, snorkel, or simply marvel at the magical illumination. The guide’s description of the cave’s white-pebble bottom and the sunlight’s reflection helps you understand why this site is so famous. One guest described it as “everything here is magnificent,” and many find that the experience exceeds expectations.

Note that this stop lasts around 30 minutes, enough time to swim, relax, and take photos. In hot weather, this is the perfect refreshing break, and many reviews mention how the water clarity and color leave a lasting impression.

Optional & Bonus Stops

On your way back, the boat passes by the Blue Cave’s neighboring sites and offers a chance to ask questions or relax. The tour is designed to pack in as much as possible without feeling rushed, thanks to the relatively short 3-hour window.

What the Reviews Say

Several travelers highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides like Borja, who make the experience more enjoyable. “He was very nice and an expert skipper,” said one reviewer, adding that the tour really felt personalized.

Even if weather conditions prevent visiting the Blue Cave, guides are praised for creatively filling the time with visits to other interesting sites. “We didn’t get to see the Blue Cave because of choppy weather, but the guide filled the time with other stops that were just as memorable,” shared a happy guest.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $412.70 per group, the cost might seem high at first glance. However, considering the private, tailored experience, it’s quite reasonable. The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, WiFi, and beverages—adding value to the overall package. Plus, the small group size means you won’t be crowded, and your guide can cater to your interests and pace.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Booking in advance is wise; many groups are booked around 71 days ahead.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, check weather conditions, as choppy water can affect the Blue Cave visit.
• Bring along swimwear and a towel if you want to take a dip in the cave.
• The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, light history, and swimming in beautiful waters.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Blue Cave tour appeals most to travelers seeking an exclusive, relaxed exploration of Montenegro’s coast. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic stories, scenic beauty, and personalized service. If you enjoy historical sites combined with stunning natural wonders, this tour offers both in a manageable, friendly format.

Couples, small groups, or families will find this experience particularly worthwhile, especially if they want to avoid crowded tours and enjoy a more intimate connection with the landscape. The inclusion of swimming and snorkeling makes it attractive for active travelers too.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Cave tour delivers a wonderfully balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and comfort. The boat ride itself is a treat, offering spectacular views of Kotor Bay and its surrounding villages. The stops—particularly the Blue Cave—are truly memorable and photographer-worthy.

What makes this tour stand out is the knowledgeable, friendly guiding and the chance to explore sites that aren’t overrun with travelers. The fact that it’s private means you can tailor the experience a little, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing cruise. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, stunning visuals, and stories behind the sites. If you’re visiting Montenegro and want to see the bay’s highlights without the crowds, this experience will leave you with lasting memories of this gorgeous corner of the world.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave visit guaranteed?
Not always. The Blue Cave is weather-dependent, and if conditions are choppy, the visit may be canceled. Guides will fill that time with other stops if needed.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including all stops and the boat ride.

What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkel equipment, bottled water, WiFi on board, and beverages like soda, apple/orange/peach juice.

Can we swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, there’s about 30 minutes allocated for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the cave’s pristine waters.

Is this a shared or private experience?
It’s a private tour for your group only, with a maximum of six participants.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most groups book about 71 days in advance to secure their spot, especially during busy seasons.

Are children or non-swimmers welcome?
While not explicitly stated, most water activities are suitable for confident swimmers; check with the operator if you have doubts.

What are the main attractions?
The Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, the WWII submarine base, and Mamula Island fortress.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and possibly a hat for sun protection.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s coast—beautiful, historic, and just the right amount of adventure. It’s a memorable way to see the bay’s best bits, all from a comfortable, private boat.