Blue Cave & Our Lady of the Rocks 3 hr private tour(up to 12 pax)

A Quick Look at the Blue Cave & Our Lady of the Rocks 3-Hour Private Tour

This private speedboat tour in Kotor, Montenegro offers a compact but immersive way to explore some of the region’s most iconic sights, all within about three hours. For $498.47 per group (up to 12 people), you get a personalized experience that whisks you across Kotor Bay, stopping at places like the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks island, with an optional visit to the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor and other landmarks.

What makes this tour stand out is the small-group intimacy — it’s just your party with a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way, sharing stories and history along the route. We loved the freedom to set your own pace, the inclusion of Wi-Fi onboard to share photos instantly, and the chance to swim in the Blue Cave’s turquoise waters — a real highlight. The personalized nature of the experience means your group can focus on what interests you most, whether it’s history, scenery, or just relaxing on the water.

One thing to consider is the price per group, which might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the private guide, speedboat, and all the included gear, it’s a strong value for a tailored experience. Keep in mind, this is a 3-hour tour, so if you want a more in-depth visit to sites like the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks, you’ll need to plan for additional time or separate excursions.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love water-based adventures, small-group intimacy, and learning about local history directly from a friendly guide. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group seeking a relaxed, informative, and scenic ride, this tour hits all those marks.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, offering flexibility and tailored storytelling.
• Scenic & Educational: Combines stunning views with historical insights, especially from guides like Stefan.
• Includes Swimming & Snorkeling: Opportunities to cool off in the Blue Cave’s clear waters with gear provided.
• Stops at Top Sites: From the UNESCO Old Town of Kotor to the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup offered, Wi-Fi onboard, bottled water included.
• Limited Duration: Three hours means a quick but packed experience—perfect if your time is tight.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Kotor Old Town or Other Bay Locations

The adventure begins at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor Old Town or a location of your choosing around Kotor Bay, such as Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota. This flexibility is a plus, especially if you’re staying in different towns along the bay. The tour’s meeting point at the fortress offers a scenic kickoff, with easy access via public transportation or your own vehicle.

From here, the speedboat quickly becomes your vessel for discovery. The boat itself is comfortable, equipped with Wi-Fi so you can share your adventure in real time, and the snorkel gear is ready for use during the swim stops.

Cruising Past Landmarks: Tre Sorelle Palace & Verige

As you glide past the Tre Sorelle Palace, built in the 15th century, you’ll see an impressive Gothic structure steeped in local legend. Our guide, Stefan, shared a lovely love story linked to this palace, adding a dash of local lore that makes the history come alive. The guide’s knowledge and friendly manner received high praise in reviews, making the journey not just scenic but also enriching.

Another highlight is passing through Verige, the narrowest part of the bay, only about 300 meters wide. It’s historically significant because of the “Vierge” chains used to block the bay during Ottoman attacks, giving this spot both a strategic and picturesque importance. Travelers often find this stretch fascinating, with the church of Our Lady of Angels nearby adding to the area’s historical intrigue.

The Blue Cave: Turquoise Waters and a Swim Stop

The Blue Cave is undoubtedly the star of this tour. Known for its intensely turquoise water and natural beauty, it’s a favorite among visitors for its stunning color and the opportunity to swim inside. The 20-minute swim stop is well-timed — enough to cool off and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Several reviewers, like Heather, comment on how amazing it was to swim in the crystal waters, making it a highlight of their trip.

Our Lady of the Rocks: A Man-Made Island with a Story

Next, the boat heads to Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island created by local fishermen who found an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock. Today, the island boasts a church and museum, offering a glimpse into local religious life and craftsmanship, although the museum entry isn’t included in the tour price.

While the visit to the island is about 20 minutes, it’s enough to appreciate the church’s beauty and the stunning views of the bay. Several travelers appreciated the chance to walk around this man-made wonder, with Heather describing it as “a must-see” on the trip.

Additional Stops: Mamula Fortress & Perast

The Mamula Fortress on its own island adds a touch of military history, built in the 19th century and used as a prison during wartime. Though currently undergoing renovations to become an elite hotel, the fortress’s presence is striking from the water and offers excellent photo opportunities.

The small town of Perast makes a quick stop, revealing a Venetian Gothic atmosphere that’s perfect for wandering if you have extra time. Though brief, this stop offers a peek into the region’s historical wealth and its connections to Venice.

Practical Aspects & Comfort

The tour’s small group size (up to 12 people) ensures everyone can enjoy personalized attention. The fuel surcharge and bottled water are included, and the private transportation makes pickup and drop-off straightforward. The modern speedboat is swift, comfortable, and well-equipped, making the roughly three-hour trip feel both efficient and leisurely.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Stefan, who are described as knowledgeable and friendly. Heather appreciated the “beautiful boat ride” and the history narration, while egrittenhouse called the day “super fun and beautiful,” emphasizing the relaxing pace and scenic stops.

One reviewer mentioned the flexibility of the captain, which made the experience more enjoyable, and all reviews praise the stunning scenery and value for money in creating a memorable, intimate adventure.

Considerations & Tips

• Since the museum visit at Our Lady of the Rocks isn’t included in the price, you might want to budget extra if that’s a priority.
• The timing is tight — if you want to explore more deeply or linger longer at certain sites, consider supplementing with additional visits.
• The price per group makes this more suitable for families or groups of friends rather than solo travelers or couples seeking a cheaper, shared experience.
• Weather dependency is typical for boat tours, so check the forecast and be prepared for possible rescheduling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private 3-hour speedboat tour is perfect for travelers who value customized experiences over canned group outings. If you’re interested in photo opportunities, swimming in stunning waters, or learning about local landmarks from a guide who knows the area well, this fits the bill. It’s especially suited to small groups or families who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and authentic stories.

People who enjoy water-based adventures and want a comprehensive yet quick overview of Kotor Bay’s treasures** will find this tour ideal. It’s also a great option for travelers with limited time but wanting a rich, scenic taste of Montenegro’s coast.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat tour offers a wonderful snapshot of Montenegro’s coastal highlights in just a few hours, combining stunning scenery, historical sites, and personalized service. The ability to swim in the Blue Cave and visit the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks makes it a memorable experience for water lovers and history buffs alike.

While the price might seem high for a short trip, the value is in the exclusivity and flexibility — no crowded buses or generic guides. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful routes ensure you’ll learn and see things you might miss on a larger group tour. It’s especially well-suited for those wanting a relaxed, intimate experience with a focus on authentic sites and scenic beauty.

If your goal is to soak in Montenegro’s iconic locations with a personal touch, this tour delivers just that — a balanced mix of adventure, history, and relaxation in a setting that’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is private and small-group, making it adaptable for families. Just consider the swimming part and whether your children are comfortable in the water.

Does the tour include transportation to the meeting point?
Pickup is offered from Kotor Old Town or other locations around Kotor Bay, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.

How long does each site stop last?
The Blue Cave swim is about 20 minutes, and the Our Lady of the Rocks visit is also approximately 20 minutes. Other stops like Perast and Mamula are brief, just enough to enjoy the views or take photos.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera. Snorkel gear is provided, but you might want your own if you prefer.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, boat tours are subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a private tour, so you can discuss with your skipper to focus more on certain sites or have extra swimming time.

Is the museum at Our Lady of the Rocks included?
No, the museum entry fee is not included in the tour price, so you can decide if you want to visit it independently.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
Generally, late spring to early fall offers the best weather for boating, swimming, and enjoying the scenery.

This private boat trip balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and flexibility, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting to see Montenegro’s highlights without the hassle of crowded tours. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a memorable day on the water, it’s a well-rounded experience that delivers on both comfort and authenticity.