3h-Private Bout: Kotor bay and Blue Cave attraction (Free Drinks)

Kotor Bay’s Hidden Gems on a Private Boat Tour

If you’re visiting Montenegro and want a taste of its spectacular coast without the crowds, this 3-hour private boat experience is an excellent choice. For around $310 per group (up to 7 people), you get to explore the famous Blue Cave, sail along the Lustica Peninsula, and enjoy a short visit to the manmade Our Lady of the Rocks island, all with the comfort and flexibility of a private tour. Your guide, affectionately praised by past travelers, will take you to breathtaking spots, with the added bonus of free drinks and snorkeling gear.

What we love about this trip? First, the personalized attention that comes with a private boat. No pushing through crowds or waiting for large groups to move — just you, your group, and the sea. Second, the chance to swim in the Blue Cave with provided snorkeling equipment, giving a memorable, immersive experience. One minor consideration? The tour’s success hinges on good weather, as with any outdoor water adventure, so a clear day is ideal.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic sights and want to explore at their own pace, especially those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on the water. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a flexible, fun, and scenic adventure in the Kotor Bay area.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Offers personalized attention and flexibility.
• Breathtaking Sights: Visit the Blue Cave, Mamula Island, and Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Snorkeling and Drinks Included: Snorkel gear and free drinks make it fun and refreshing.
• Short, Well-Planned Stops: Efficient visits to multiple highlights in just 3 hours.
• Value for Money: Excellent for those wanting a comprehensive, intimate tour without the high cost of group packages.
• Weather-Dependent: Clear skies are best for the full experience.

Exploring the Kotor Bay Private Boat Tour in Detail

If you’re seeking a comfortable, flexible way to see some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights, this private boat tour delivers. Starting from Kotor, your guide or skipper will take you along the stunning coast, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Lustica Peninsula. The tour is designed to be efficient but rich, offering multiple stops that highlight both natural wonders and historical sites.

The Itinerary

First stop: The Blue Cave

This is the star of the show — a spectacular grotto known for its glowing blue water and shimmering walls. Visitors have raved about swimming in the cave, with reviews mentioning the water’s “awesome” quality and the experience of snorkeling in such a unique environment. The tour typically spends about 30 minutes here, enough time to snap photos, swim, and marvel at the vivid colors. We loved the way the guide ensures you get the most out of this visit, often with a comment like, “He took us to breathtaking locations and made sure we never felt rushed.”

On the way to the Blue Cave, you’ll pass by historical sites such as the Old Submarine Base and Mamula Island. The submarine base, used after WWII, adds a touch of wartime history, while Mamula Island, with its fortress and now a luxury hotel, offers panoramic views and a chance to picture past military uses. From the boat, you’ll get a good look at Mamula’s fortress, which has been a point of contention and curiosity for history buffs.

Second stop: Our Lady of the Rocks

This man-made island is a highlight, featuring a Catholic church and a small museum detailing the history of Perast and the island itself. The tour allotting 30 minutes here allows enough time to wander and absorb the atmosphere. The island’s unique origin — built by local fishermen adding rocks and stones to create the island over centuries — makes it a noteworthy stop. However, note that admission tickets to the church and museum are not included, so if you want to go inside, plan for an additional fee. Reviews praise this stop as a “great short side trip” that offers a glimpse into local religious and maritime traditions.

Third stop: Lustica Peninsula

The boat will cruise past the former submarine tunnel and military base, giving you a sense of Montenegro’s strategic importance. The 10-minute visit offers a quick but fascinating look into the area’s wartime past, with no entrance fee. The sights here are largely about the views and the story behind the sites, making it a perfect moment for history and photo enthusiasts.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The customization of this private experience allows your group to focus on what interests you most. Past travelers rave about their guides, especially mentioning Marko and Zoran, who made the trip engaging and tailored. One reviewer said, “Marko was great, tailoring our trip to what we wanted to do,” which underscores the value of a private tour over a cookie-cutter group experience.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear and free drinks (bottled water, snacks, and beer) adds a relaxed, fun vibe. Being able to swim in the Blue Cave, combined with the comfort of your own boat, makes this a much more intimate experience than crowded group tours.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day. Multiple timeslots are available, giving flexibility to fit into your schedule. The meeting point at MontenegroGlobe in Kotor is central and easy to access, and the tour ends back at the starting point — no need for extra transportation.

The price of $309.53 for up to 7 people makes it a good value, especially considering the personalized service, private boat, and inclusive drinks. While you’ll need to pay for entrance tickets to the church on Our Lady of the Rocks if you choose to go inside, this small extra fee doesn’t detract much from the overall value.

Traveler Feedback and Authentic Experiences

The reviews are glowing, with all 35 ratings being a perfect 5-star. Travelers mention the “incredible experience,” “breathtaking locations,” and how the private boat made all the difference in avoiding the crowds. One traveler said, “It was enjoyable to be out on the water in our private boat,” highlighting the pleasure of having your own vessel rather than sharing with strangers.

Swimmers especially appreciated the chance to dive into the Blue Cave, describing it as “awesome” and “pretty amazing,” and many noted the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, making their trip both fun and safe.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private boat experience is best suited for travelers who value personalized service and authentic moments over large group tours. Perfect for couples, small families, or friends who want to explore at their own pace, especially those interested in swimming and snorkeling. It also appeals to history buffs interested in the military sites along the coast or those simply seeking a scenic, relaxing day on the water.

If you’re after stunning views, a non-rushed experience, and the convenience of all-inclusive drinks and gear, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just keep a close eye on the weather forecast — clear skies will enhance your experience, especially the Blue Cave’s vivid colors.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that can fit into a busy Montenegro itinerary.

What’s included in the price?
You get a private boat, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, snacks, and alcoholic beverages such as beer. Entrance tickets to Our Lady of the Rocks church are not included.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, the tour includes swimming and snorkeling opportunities in the Blue Cave, with equipment provided. Many reviews mention how special and “awesome” it was to swim in the glowing waters.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, if you want to enter the church and museum on Our Lady of the Rocks, you will need to pay separately for admission.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially since it’s private and flexible. Just ensure children are comfortable on a boat and prepared for water activities.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers plan about 47 days in advance, which ensures availability, especially in peak season.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, several timeslots are available, allowing you to select one that best fits your schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Zlatne Njive, Kotor, and finishes back at the same location, so no extra transportation is necessary.

In The Sum Up, this private boat tour offers an excellent balance of natural beauty, cultural interest, and personalized service. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and flexible way to explore Kotor Bay’s highlights, especially if swimming and small-group intimacy appeal to you. Past visitors consistently praise the breathtaking sights, friendly guides, and good value, making it a standout choice for a memorable Montenegrin adventure.

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Montenegro’s coast without the hassle of large groups, and want to incorporate swimming and history into one trip, this tour fits the bill perfectly. Just remember to book early, check the weather, and prepare for an unforgettable few hours on the water.