A quick overview of the Blue Cave boat tour from Kotor
This 3-hour adventure takes you on a small, intimate boat ride through some of Montenegro’s most captivating sights, including the Blue Cave, Mamula Fortress, Kumbor submarine tunnels, and the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks. Priced at just over $58 per person and with a maximum of 7 travelers, this tour offers a relaxed, personalized experience, often booked about two months in advance. The experience is perfect for those seeking a flexible, scenic, and authentic taste of Montenegro’s coast.
What we really appreciate about this tour is its small group size—it keeps the experience cozy and friendly, allowing plenty of time for swimming, photo-taking, and enjoying spontaneous moments. Plus, with hotel and port pickup included, it’s designed for convenience, making it easier for travelers to relax and focus on the scenery rather than logistics. The well-organized itinerary balances popular highlights with enough free time for swimming and exploring.
One potential consideration is the weather dependency—as several reviews mention, rough seas can limit or cancel certain stops, like the Blue Cave. Travelers should be prepared for the possibility of changing plans if the weather turns sour. Otherwise, this tour suits those who love a mix of stunning scenery, light adventure, and an intimate group setting—especially if you’re eager to dive into Montenegro’s natural beauty without the crowds.
Key Points
- Small group experience ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
- Includes Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks, with opportunities to swim and explore.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off at hotel or port, easing logistics.
- Cost-effective for the value, with several stops and a knowledgeable skipper.
- Weather-dependent sightseeing can affect certain highlights, especially the Blue Cave.
- Ideal for travelers seeking authentic, scenic, and relaxed boat trips in Kotor.
Exploring the 3-Hour Blue Cave Boat Tour in Kotor
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What’s on the itinerary and why it matters
This tour is built around a handful of well-chosen stops, each offering a different flavor of Montenegro’s coast. You’ll start with the Blue Cave, arguably the main attraction, which offers a chance to see and swim inside the famous glowing waters (if weather permits). Spending 20-30 minutes here means plenty of time for photos and a refreshing dip, as several reviews note how incredible it is to be inside such a naturally mesmerizing spot. The admission is free, but the experience is priceless.
Next, the boat glides past Kumbor, where you’ll see the submarine tunnels—a quick stop that impresses many visitors with its unique history and scenery. It’s only a 5-minute look, but enough to get a sense of Montenegro’s strategic past. Many reviewers found this a fascinating and unusual part of the trip.
Then comes the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island built between 1452 and 1722. You’ll have 20 minutes to explore this peaceful, charming spot, which offers panoramic views of Perast’s old town. The island’s history and tranquil atmosphere are a highlight for visitors who enjoy a mix of culture and natural beauty.
Finally, the tour offers a photo-worthy cruise past Perast with a panoramic view from the boat, with some tours including an optional swim. Even in less favorable weather, many appreciate the serenity and scenic views from the boat.
What makes this tour stand out
The Blue Cave experience is often the highlight. Several reviews mention how stunning the cave looks—and even more so when swimming in the crystal-clear waters. One guest described it as “really awesome,” emphasizing the great boat ride with good music and the chance to swim in the Adriatic.
Small group size—a maximum of 7—means you’re not just another face in a crowd. It allows for more personalized interactions with the skipper and a relaxed pace. Multiple reviewers gush about the friendly guides and skipper Serga, who expertly navigates choppy waters and shares interesting local facts.
The value for money
For only about $58, this tour covers multiple stops, includes entrance fees for the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks, and offers complimentary water, coffee/tea, and Wi-Fi at the start. It’s a sensible choice for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed outing. The small group structure ensures you won’t be squeezed or rushed, which enhances the overall feeling of a personal adventure rather than just a corporate experience.
Possible drawbacks and considerations
The main caveat is weather dependency. Several reviews mention how rough seas can prevent access to the Blue Cave or make some stops less enjoyable. One traveler pointed out that the boat was quite small, and in rough seas, rides can be bumpy. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more stable ride, consider this when booking.
Plus, the tour does not include a guide—it’s a self-guided experience with a skipper. For travelers interested in deep historical or cultural insights, this might feel a bit limited. However, many reviewers appreciated the friendly and informative skipper who shared interesting tidbits.
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Whom this tour suits best
This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a short, scenic boat ride with plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos. It’s perfect for small groups or families wanting a relaxed, personal experience away from large tour buses or crowded excursions. Those on a cruise will find it a convenient way to see key sights without spending all day on the water.
If you’re looking for a blend of natural beauty, light exploration, and fun water activities in a relaxed setting, this tour hits the mark. Keep in mind the weather factor if your trip coincides with unpredictable conditions.
In-depth review of the experience
The highlights of visiting the Blue Cave
Most travelers agree that the Blue Cave lives up to its reputation. Its glowing waters and striking blue hue make it one of Montenegro’s most photographed spots. Several reviewers describe it as “incredible” and “really awesome,” and many mention how swimming inside the cave is a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The 20-30 minutes spent here allow for enough time to snap plenty of pictures, dip into the water, and enjoy the surreal environment. One guest shared how the water’s color was so vivid they couldn’t stop taking photos, which highlights how visually stunning this site truly is.
Exploring the submarine tunnels at Kumbor
Not as famous as the Blue Cave, the submarine tunnels offer a glimpse into Montenegro’s military past. The pass-by is brief, but for those interested in history or unusual sights, it’s worth a quick stop. Many find the view of the tunnels fascinating, and it adds a sense of adventure to the trip.
Discovering Our Lady of the Rocks
The artificial island is a peaceful spot with a rich history. Visitors enjoy walking around, exploring the church and museum, and taking in the panoramic views of Perast from the island. The 20-minute visit is ample for a quick stroll and some memorable photos.
The overall boat ride
Travelers often praise the skipper’s skill in navigating the sometimes choppy waters. Several reviews mention how Serga, the captain, managed the boat smoothly and made the ride enjoyable, even when the seas were rough. The music, friendly attitude, and interesting facts he shared contributed to a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Water activities and additional notes
Many reviewers recommend bringing snorkel gear, fins, or water shoes if you want to explore the smaller caves or jump off the rocks—these are optional but add to the fun. The opportunity to swim in the Adriatic is a major perk, with several describing it as “refreshing and fun.”
The reviews tell the story
From glowing praise—“amazing,” “fantastic,” and “well run”—to some concerns about boat size and weather, the general impression is that this is a well-organized, memorable, and value-packed experience. Several travelers noted the friendly, educational guides and the timely, smooth operation as major pluses.
Final thoughts: Who should book this tour?
If you’re seeking a small-group, scenic boat excursion with a focus on natural beauty, historic sites, and swimming, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time without overloading their schedule, especially if you’re a cruise passenger or visiting Kotor for a few days. The affordable price point combined with the personalized experience makes it an excellent value.
However, if you prefer a more comprehensive historical or cultural guide, or are sensitive to seasickness or rough waters, you might want to consider the weather forecast or look for a more stable alternative. Still, most reviews affirm that the friendly skipper and the breathtaking sights make this a memorable outing.
In essence, this Blue Cave boat tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. It’s a chance to see Montenegro’s coast in a relaxed, authentic way—an experience you’ll remember fondly.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Mostly yes, but it’s not recommended for travelers over 65 or those heavier than 100kg, due to boat size and safety considerations.
What’s included in the price?
The tour covers fuel, a professional skipper, entrance to the Blue Cave, entrance to Our Lady of the Rocks, water, coffee/tea, and Wi-Fi at the start.
Can I swim inside the Blue Cave?
Yes, you can swim inside and outside the Blue Cave during your allotted 20-30 minutes, weather permitting.
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or the port is included for convenience.
Will I see the submarine tunnels?
Yes, the guide will pass by the Kumbor submarine tunnels and may allow a quick look as it’s a brief stop.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
How long does each stop last?
The Blue Cave gets about 20-30 minutes; Our Lady of the Rocks around 20 minutes; the submarine tunnels are a quick 5-minute sighting.
Is there a guide explaining the sights?
While there is no dedicated guide, the skipper provides interesting facts and is friendly and informative.
Can I bring my snorkel gear?
Yes, bringing snorkel gear, fins, or water shoes is recommended if you want to explore the caves or climb around.
How many people are on the boat?
The boat seats up to 7 people, ensuring a comfortable, unrushed experience.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and authentic way to experience Montenegro’s coast with a small, friendly group, this Blue Cave boat tour is a dependable choice. It offers stunning views, a chance to swim in spectacular waters, and a personable skipper who makes the journey memorable. Just stay mindful of weather and seas, and you’re in for a delightful adventure.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Kotor
- Blue Cave & Perast Boat Tour from Herceg Novi (3h) (1-6 people)
- Private Speed Boat Tour to Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks – 3h
- Kotor: Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
- Private Boat Tour Kotor: Lady of the Rocks & Blue Cave – Small Groups up to 15
- 3 Hour Speed Boat Tour to Blue Cave with WiFi and Drinks
- Private tour with speed boat – Perast and Lady of the rock
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- Perast and Our Lady of the Rock Tour
- Lady of the Rock and Mamula with Blue Cave Private Tour
- Cycle & SUP: A Complete Circumnavigation of Kotor Bay (new tour)
- Our Lady of the Rocks and Blue Cave 3 hours tour- ticket tour
- Bike tour – Kotor Bay circle and visit Our Lady of the Rock
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