Kotor: Bay of Kotor and Blue Cave Speedboat Tour

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of the Bay of Kotor, with its dramatic mountain backdrop and charming villages. This 3-hour speedboat tour from Kotor offers a compact yet immersive experience—perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see Montenegro’s coast from the water. Led by friendly guides, you’ll visit Our Lady of the Rocks, explore the Blue Cave, and enjoy spectacular views of Mamula Island and the surrounding scenery.

What we love most about this tour are the clear, turquoise waters that make swimming a delight, and how accessible it is to combine multiple sights in one trip. The informative guides really help bring the landscape to life with stories and insights, making the experience both fun and educational. However, be aware that weather conditions can impact the swim time and the overall comfort, especially in cooler months or windy days.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value authentic coastal scenery, enjoy a bit of adventure, and want a taste of iconic Montenegro sights without spending a full day on the water. It’s also ideal if you want a small group or private experience that feels personalized and relaxed.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views and panoramic scenery along the Bay of Kotor.
• Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a unique artificial island with religious and cultural significance.
• Swim in the Blue Cave, a highlight for water lovers and photography enthusiasts.
• Expert guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience.
• Flexible itinerary with multiple stops, including the submarine tunnel and picturesque villages.
• Good value for money, considering the variety of sights and the inclusion of snorkeling equipment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour Experience

A speedboat adventure from Kotor is an exhilarating way to see some of Montenegro’s most famous sights in just a few hours. Starting from Park Slobode, just a short walk from the Old Town, you’re greeted by a professional crew ready to whisk you away along the coast. The 55-minute panoramic ride along the bay is lively and scenic, giving you sweeping views of the mountains, charming villages, and historic sites.

One of the best parts? The Blue Cave, a naturally lit, shimmering turquoise chamber that invites you to swim and snorkel in its inviting waters. You’ll also visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a church and museum, famous for its legend and the tradition of throwing stones to expand the island. Each stop offers ample time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings.

While the itinerary is packed—including a visit to the submarine tunnel and Mamula Island—the tour operates smoothly and efficiently. Weather can sometimes influence your experience, especially for swimming and snorkeling, so it’s worth considering the season when booking.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Park Slobode

The tour begins with a short walk from Kotor’s Old Town, making it convenient for travelers exploring the historic center. Look for the brightly colored sign with the company logo, and you’ll meet your skipper, ready to set out.

The Panoramic Ride

Within the first 20 minutes, you’ll be cruising along the coastline, passing by Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, and other small villages. These charming spots are scattered along the shoreline, with colorful houses, churches, and castles helping you understand why the bay is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

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Passing Verige and Mamula Island

As you approach the narrowest part of the bay, called Verige, you’ll get a close-up view of the Church of Our Lady of Angels and the cliffs that form this natural passage. The cruise past Mamula Island, a former fortress turned hotel, offers a striking contrast to the lush greenery and blue waters.

The Blue Cave

The main highlight? The Blue Cave, a natural wonder about 20 minutes from the starting point of the swim. The size of the cave—around 300 square meters—with its 25-meter-high arches creates an otherworldly atmosphere. The refraction of light in the water gives it the famous “blue” appearance, which makes for stunning photographs.

Many reviews mention how spectacular the color is, although some note that the crowds can be a drawback—especially in peak season when multiple boats are inside the small space at once. You’ll get about 20 minutes here for swimming, snorkeling, or just marveling at the view.

The Submarine Tunnel

On the return trip, you’ll stop at the Old Submarine Tunnel, a relic from Yugoslav times. It’s a quick photo stop to admire the fifty-meter-long tunnel carved into the cliffs—a reminder of Montenegro’s military history.

Our Lady of the Rocks

Next, your boat will stop at the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks. The legend of the icon being found by fishermen in 1452 leads to the building of the chapel and museum that sit atop the island today. Visitors can explore the church, admire the artwork and relics, and learn about local traditions that involve throwing stones during an annual procession.

Final Scenic Cruise and Return

The last leg offers more views—this time of the Lutica Peninsula—before returning to Park Slobode. The journey combines breathtaking scenery, historical sights, and water-based fun—a winning combination for many travelers.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

Duration and Schedule: The tour lasts about 3 hours, with various starting times depending on availability. Check in at Park Slobode, just behind Kotor’s port, where your skipper will meet you.

Inclusions: The price covers fuel, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and rain coats for unexpected weather. Not included are entrance fees for Our Lady of the Rocks, so plan for that if you want to explore the island’s church and museum.

Group Size and Atmosphere: Whether you book a private or small group tour, the experience tends to feel intimate and relaxed, with plenty of room to ask questions and chat with your guide.

Weather Considerations: Wind and rain can impact your time in the water, especially in the Blue Cave. Many reviewers suggest packing a warm layer, sun protection, and waterproof gear—particularly if you’re visiting in early spring or late autumn.

Tips for a Comfortable Trip: Bring a sun hat, towel, swimwear, and a waterproof camera if you want to capture the vivid colors. Light jackets or hooded sweatshirts are recommended for chilly or windy days.

The Value of the Tour

At a moderate cost, this tour offers an excellent balance of scenery, cultural sights, and water fun. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and water bottles adds to the value, especially considering the number of stops and the professional guidance. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing stories and answering questions, which makes the trip more engaging.

Some travelers mention that the Blue Cave swim might be a little rushed during busy seasons or poor weather, but the viewing and exploring of the island and submarine tunnel more than compensate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who crave beautiful coastal scenery and want to see multiple sights in a short time. It’s ideal for those who enjoy water activities like swimming and snorkeling, provided weather conditions permit. It’s also a good choice for small groups or couples wanting a more personal experience, with guides who offer insights and stories about the sights.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic water adventure that mixes nature, history, and culture, this tour delivers plenty of memorable moments—without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

The Sum Up

The Kotor Bay and Blue Cave speedboat tour is a well-rounded experience that offers some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights in just a few hours. From the stunning views of the bay and charming villages to the unique legend of Our Lady of the Rocks, each stop provides a chance to appreciate the region’s beauty and history. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude greatly enhance the trip, making it both fun and informative.

While weather can influence swimming and the cave’s crowd levels, most visitors find that the spectacular scenery and cultural stops make this tour worth every penny. It’s especially suited for those who want a compact, engaging water adventure that combines photo opportunities, local legends, and natural wonders.

If you love stunning boat rides, history, and water-based fun, this tour will give you a memorable taste of Montenegro’s coast without overextending your schedule.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet at Park Slobode, just a 5-minute walk behind Kotor’s Old Town and near the port. The guide will be waiting at the orange and blue sign.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, allowing you to enjoy the Blue Cave’s waters comfortably.

Do I need to pay for entrance to Our Lady of the Rocks?
No, the tour includes a photo stop and sightseeing at the island, but admission to the museum and church is not included.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private or small group options are available, providing a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is suitable for most children, but keep in mind the water activities and potential weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, towel, swimwear, and waterproof clothing if needed. Luggage or large bags are not allowed onboard.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can influence the experience—particularly swimming and cave visibility. The tour can be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund if necessary.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the tour includes bottled water, but there are no meals or additional drinks provided.

Is there a restroom on the boat?
This information isn’t specified, so it’s good to plan accordingly before the trip.

This tour combines scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and water fun—a highly recommended experience for anyone wanting to soak in the best of Montenegro’s coast in a short, enjoyable trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: