Kotor’s stunning bay comes alive from the water on this private 3-hour speedboat tour, which takes you to some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. For around $464 per group (up to 10 people), you’ll enjoy a personalized experience with a friendly skipper, WiFi onboard, and the flexibility to customize your route. This trip covers the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, Mamula Fortress, Lustica submarine tunnels, and other hidden gems scattered across Kotor Bay.
What really sets this tour apart are the panoramic views and the chance to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters, set against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs and historic sites. We also loved the personalized attention that comes with a private group, making it a relaxed way to explore without the rush of larger tours.
One consideration, however, is that the Blue Cave can sometimes be closed due to weather or safety concerns, which might alter your planned visit. Still, the tour’s flexibility and the crew’s knowledge help make up for this — often with great alternative options.
This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic, authentic moments on the water, enjoy swimming or snorkeling, and want a tour tailored to their interests. If you’re looking for a memorable, flexible day with stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides, this is a solid choice.
Key Points
- Private and customizable: You can tailor your itinerary to your interests.
- Comfort and connectivity: WiFi and onboard amenities make the trip enjoyable.
- Scenic highlights: Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, Mamula Fortress, and submarine tunnels.
- Active options: Swimming and snorkeling with provided gear.
- Expert guidance: Skippers like Dregen and Nikola offer insights and humor.
- Weather considerations: Blue Cave visits depend on ocean conditions.
Exploring the Blue Cave and Lady of the Rocks: A Water Adventure in Kotor
If you’re after a memorable way to see Kotor Bay, a private speedboat tour like this offers the perfect combination of stunning scenery, history, and personalized service. We’ve taken similar trips, and this one stands out for its balance of comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences.
Planning more time in Kotor? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Basics: What’s Included and How It Works
This 3-hour private speedboat tour operates from the heart of Kotor at Park Slobode 1. It’s designed for small groups — up to 10 people — which means more space, less noise, and plenty of room for questions or spontaneous stops. The tour costs about $464.43 per group, making it a good value when you consider the personalized attention and the chance to visit multiple sites comfortably.
The boat is driven by a multilanguage skipper, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language. Amenities like WiFi, bottled water, a chemical toilet, and fresh water showers onboard make the trip more comfortable, especially on a hot day. Plus, the use of snorkeling equipment gives you a chance to cool off and explore the underwater world of Kotor Bay.
The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do
The tour is flexible, but the typical stops include:
Start in Kotor — You’ll meet your skipper in the town’s center, where the adventure begins. This gives you a chance to get familiar with your vessel before heading out onto the water.
Blue Cave — This is the highlight for many. Carved over hundreds of years by wave action, the cave’s vivid blue waters and natural beauty draw visitors from all over. We loved the 20-minute stop for swimming and snorkeling, which allows you to get up close to the striking blue waters. Keep in mind, however, that if weather conditions aren’t favorable, your guide might suggest an alternative activity or location. One satisfied traveler noted, “Our tour boat captain made up for the Blue Cave being closed with a wonderful trip and alternative swimming spots.”
Mamula Fortress — Located on a small island at the bay entrance, Mamula is an intriguing sight. Built by the Austro-Hungarians in the 19th century, the fortress was originally meant to defend against enemy ships. Today, it’s a picturesque site that adds a dash of history to your water journey. The island’s circular shape and imposing structure make for fantastic photo opportunities, even from the boat.
Lustica Submarine Tunnels — For just 15 minutes, you can glimpse the tunnels built during wartime, adding a touch of intrigue. It’s a brief stop but provides an interesting perspective on the strategic importance of the area.
Our Lady of the Rocks — This artificial island with its iconic church is perhaps the most famous site in the bay. The legend behind its creation adds a layer of mystique, and the church’s interior, decorated with 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja and silver reliefs, is a highlight. The tour’s 20-minute stop here allows enough time to marvel at the architecture and hear the interesting stories your captain shares. Note that entry to the church isn’t included in the price, so you might want to budget for that if you wish to explore inside.
Why We Loved This Tour
One of the standout features is the personalized experience. Unlike larger group tours, your small group means more room to ask questions, swim at your leisure, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The skipper’s local knowledge and humor elevate the trip, making it both educational and fun. As one reviewer said, “Dregen was fun, funny, and informative,” which sums up the friendly atmosphere.
Another aspect we appreciated was the flexibility. The captain can adapt the route based on weather or your interests, which is especially valuable given the unpredictable nature of the sea. This adaptability, along with the WiFi on board to stay connected, adds comfort and convenience.
The Value of the Experience
For a total of roughly four to five hours of private boat time, this tour offers a rich combination of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and active water fun. The cost may seem high at first glance, but when you consider the exclusive nature of a private tour, the comfortable amenities, plus multiple stops, it’s quite reasonable.
Many travelers noted that the tour exceeded expectations. One review states, “The tour was amazing and our captain was the best,” highlighting the quality of both the boat and the guiding team. And given the high booking rate — 78 days in advance on average — it’s clear that travelers find this experience truly worthwhile.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This is perfect for small groups, couples, or families seeking a relaxed, personalized water adventure. If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring historic sites from the water, you’ll find this tour engaging. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate flexible itineraries and knowledgeable guides who can share stories and tips along the way.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. This private boat trip combines all the elements that make Kotor Bay special: dramatic cliffs, historic landmarks, and vibrant blue waters. The boat’s amenities and the crew’s attentive service make it a comfortable and memorable experience.
While weather can influence the Blue Cave visit, the crew’s flexibility and alternative options mean you’ll still enjoy a fantastic day. For travelers who appreciate authentic, scenic experiences and prefer the comfort of a private tour, this one hits the mark. It’s an ideal way to see the bay’s highlights without the crowds or rush of larger group excursions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The overall experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including time at each stop.
What is included in the price?
The price covers use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, WiFi onboard, a freshwater shower, and a chemical toilet. Entry to Our Lady of the Rocks church is not included.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour allows for customization based on your interests, especially since it’s a private experience.
What if the Blue Cave is closed?
Your skipper can suggest alternative locations or activities, ensuring you still have a memorable day.
How many people can join?
Up to 10 people can participate, making it ideal for families or small groups.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable with boat rides and swimming, this tour works well for families.
Do I need to book in advance?
Since it’s popular — booked on average 78 days ahead — it’s best to reserve early.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a camera. The boat provides snorkeling gear and water, but you might want personal items for photos.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations or route changes. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to weather.
How do I meet the tour?
You’ll meet at Park Slobode 1 in Kotor, at the designated starting point.
In the end, this private speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to see the best of Kotor Bay at your own pace. Whether you’re after iconic sights, a swim in blue waters, or just some quality time on the water with expert guides, it’s well worth considering for your Montenegro trip.
More Tours in Kotor
- Private Perast and Kotor Speed Boat Tour – Rick Steves Recommended
- 3 Hour Kotor Food Tour – Rick Steves’ Recommended
- Blue Cave tour and lunch at the local Restaurant, all inclusive – 5h duration
- Kayak active tour
- Blue Cave and Lady of the Rocks – Kotor tour up to 6 people (3hr)
- Deluxe Boka Bay Tour with lunch
More Tour Reviews in Kotor
- Private Transfer from Tivat airport to Kotor
- Private Perast and Kotor Speed Boat Tour – Rick Steves Recommended
- 3 Hour Kotor Food Tour – Rick Steves’ Recommended
- Blue Cave tour and lunch at the local Restaurant, all inclusive – 5h duration
- Kayak active tour
- Blue Cave and Lady of the Rocks – Kotor tour up to 6 people (3hr)
More Kotor experiences we've covered
- Private Transfer from Tivat airport to Kotor
- Private Perast and Kotor Speed Boat Tour – Rick Steves Recommended
- 3 Hour Kotor Food Tour – Rick Steves’ Recommended
- Blue Cave tour and lunch at the local Restaurant, all inclusive – 5h duration
- Kayak active tour
- Blue Cave and Lady of the Rocks – Kotor tour up to 6 people (3hr)
- Deluxe Boka Bay Tour with lunch
- Kotor private cooking class with lunch and Old town guided tour
- Kotor Speed Boat Tour
- Tour Kotor – Perast Old Town – Island Our Lady of the Rocks – Every 2 hours
- Kotor Old Town Walking Tour
- Ticket Tour: Blue Cave, Mamula Island, Submarine Tunnel, Lady of the Rocks (3hr)