Kotor: Blue Cave & Swimming, Our Lady of The Rocks, Mamula offers an engaging three-hour adventure that takes you through some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. Starting from Kotor, this private tour typically costs around [check current pricing], and provides a personalized experience with just your group, making it ideal for those wanting a more intimate and flexible outing.
What we love most? First, the unmatched beauty of the Blue Cave, where the water’s shimmering shades of blue are truly captivating — you’ll want to bring your camera for this one. Second, the chance to swim beside the cave, which turns what might be a quick photo stop into a memorable, refreshing experience.
A possible consideration? The Blue Cave’s appearance can depend heavily on timing and weather — some travelers mention that the blue might not be as intense as hoped, especially if you visit later in the day. Still, the overall journey offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural sights—perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes and authentic experiences.
This tour suits those who want a flexible, small-group adventure packed with nature, history, and great photo opportunities. It’s particularly good for travelers eager to see multiple sites without feeling rushed, and who enjoy swimming and exploring off the beaten path.
Key Points
- Stunning Blue Cave with mesmerizing shades of blue, ideal for photos and swimming.
- Small group setting ensures a personalized, intimate experience.
- Multiple stops at iconic locations like Our Lady of the Rocks and Mamula provide cultural insights and history.
- Flexible itinerary with opportunities for swimming, exploring tunnels, and enjoying panoramic views.
- Weather-dependent experiences — the Blue Cave’s appearance may vary based on conditions.
- Ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, history, and quick dips in the sea.
An In-Depth Look at the Kotor Speedboat Tour
Planning more time in Kotor? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Overall Experience
The adventure kicks off from Park Slobode in Kotor, a central location easy to reach whether you’re staying in the Old Town or nearby accommodations. From there, you’ll jump into a private speedboat—a sleek, fast craft that feels exhilarating and efficient. The experience is designed for small groups, limited to six participants, which means plenty of space and a more personalized vibe.
One of the first things you’ll notice is the vibrancy of the Bay of Kotor, with its dramatic coastline and calm waters. The boat ride itself is part of the fun, offering a chance to feel the wind in your hair and get a taste of Montenegro’s stunning coastline. The entire trip lasts roughly three hours, with different stops that balance scenic beauty, history, and fun.
The Blue Cave: The Star Attraction
The Blue Cave is undoubtedly the highlight. Carved by nature over centuries, this cave on the Lustica Peninsula surprises visitors with its otherworldly glow. The water’s shimmering blue is so captivating that it’s easy to see why many consider it a must-see.
Expect to spend about 50 minutes on this first leg, which includes cruising, exploring the cave, and swimming in its crystal-clear waters. Many reviews note the beauty — “We loved our outing! Edvan is a caring driver who was able to ensure that the boat did not shake us too much,” one reviewer said. The guide’s attentiveness enhances comfort, especially if seasickness or safety concerns are on your mind.
However, some travelers find that the blue intensity varies depending on the time of day and weather. One reviewer mentioned that the timing wasn’t ideal for the deepest blue, but the overall experience, including swimming and sunset views, more than made up for it.
Exploring a Wartime Submarine Tunnel
Next, you’ll visit a hidden submarine tunnel used during wartime. This is a unique, lesser-known site that adds a hint of history to your trip. Expect a quick stop for photos and a brief explore. The tunnel, along with the other sites, offers a glimpse into Montenegro’s past and its strategic importance.
More Great Tours NearbyIsland of Mamula
Moving on, the boat reaches Mamula Island, once a fortress turned prison. Today, it’s a striking, if somewhat eerie, island that makes for a fantastic photo stop. The 5-minute stop allows for quick snaps and a bit of imagination about its former function.
Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast
The tour continues to Our Lady of the Rocks, a tranquil island with a centuries-old church. Here, you’ll have about 15 minutes to step ashore, take photos, and admire the peaceful surroundings. The church’s interior is simple but beautiful, and the setting is quite charming.
As the sun begins to set, the view of Perast from the water offers a panoramic vista that’s well worth the 15-minute stop. Many travelers note how magical the sunset atmosphere can be, especially when the coast is lit with soft evening light.
Final Stops and Return
The last leg involves a quick visit to Perast itself, with a 5-minute photo stop, before heading back to Park Slobode. The entire route is carefully curated for maximum scenic impact, with a total of about 25 minutes of cruising in the final stretch.
Pricing and Value
The tour’s price includes the speedboat ride, all visits, and swimming opportunities. It offers a good value considering the personalized nature of a private trip, swimming in several spots, and the access to exclusive locations like the submarine tunnel.
Notably, food and drinks are not included — packing a snack or water is recommended. Also, there’s no hotel pickup, so plan to meet at the designated spot in Kotor. For travelers wanting flexibility and exclusivity, this tour promises a tailored experience without the crowds often found on larger group excursions.
Practical Tips
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, towel, and camera.
- Wear swimwear underneath your clothes for easy swimming.
- Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth departure.
- Life jackets are mandatory during the boat ride, so pay attention to safety instructions.
- The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness.
Authentic Experiences and Feedback from Travelers
Authentic feedback highlights the tour’s stunning scenery. One reviewer shared: “Disappointing Blue Cave: I guess the timing is not right to bring out the blue in the water. But the swimming right next to it, the sunset around 8 p.m., and the return at night with the view of the illuminated coast more than compensated, it was superb!”
Another positive note: “Edvan is a caring driver who waited until the other boats left after our swim at the Blue Cave so we could take nice photos.” Such attentiveness enhances the overall experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.
Travelers also appreciate the small group setting, which allows for more personalized attention, better safety, and more intimate photos. The combination of natural wonders, history, and peaceful islands creates a well-rounded, memorable adventure.
The Sum Up
This private speedboat tour from Kotor offers a fantastic way to experience Montenegro’s coast, combining natural beauty, history, and a sense of adventure. The visit to the Blue Cave is truly a highlight, with its captivating blue waters and opportunity to swim, making it a perfect choice for active travelers looking for authentic moments.
The stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Mamula add layers of cultural and historical insight, while the panoramic sunset views provide a perfect ending. Its small-group format ensures a relaxed, intimate experience, perfect for those who value personalized service over crowded tours.
While weather conditions may influence the cave’s appearance and the overall experience, most travelers find the trip to be a worthwhile, scenic, and enriching outing. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, history, and quick dips in the sea, along with plenty of photo opportunities.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years old, and non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness may find it challenging.
How long does the trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including all stops and cruising time.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the speedboat ride, visits to the Blue Cave, swimming in the cave, the submarine tunnel, Mamula Island, and Our Lady of the Rocks, plus panoramic views.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing water and snacks is a good idea.
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, especially in peak season. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, towel, camera, and swimwear. Wearing comfortable clothes for swimming underneath your outfit helps.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling, as safety and visibility are essential for the experience.
How do I meet the tour?
The starting point is Park Slobode in Kotor. Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.
Can I join a group or book private?
This tour is designed for small groups, limited to 6 participants, and is typically private or semi-private.
What makes this tour worthwhile?
Most travelers are captivated by the stunning views, the unique stops, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters—creating memories that last long after the trip ends.
This Kotor speedboat tour is a lovely way to combine Montenegro’s natural beauty, history, and authentic coastal charm into a memorable, personalized experience. Whether you’re here for the scenery, the culture, or the thrill of the sea, this trip delivers on all fronts.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Kotor
- Kotor: Official Cable Car Round-Trip Ticket
- Kotor Jeep-Expedition : Fortress Trails & Local Food Picnic
- Kotor: Lake Skadar and Biograd Day Trip & Boat Ride
- 4h Private Tour: Explore Kotor bay & enjoy in Blue Cave and Beach
- 3H Guided Kotor & Cable Car Tour
- Kotor Cable Car – Perast – Lady of the Rocks Guided Tour
More Kotor experiences we've covered
- Kotor: Official Cable Car Round-Trip Ticket
- Kotor Jeep-Expedition : Fortress Trails & Local Food Picnic
- Kotor: Lake Skadar and Biograd Day Trip & Boat Ride
- 4h Private Tour: Explore Kotor bay & enjoy in Blue Cave and Beach
- 3H Guided Kotor & Cable Car Tour
- Kotor Cable Car – Perast – Lady of the Rocks Guided Tour
- Kotor: Boka Bay, Blue Cave, and Our Lady Private Boat Tour
- Herceg Novi: Bay of Kotor boat tours
- Discovering Kotor and Budva: A Riviera Adventure
- Private Transfer from Tivat or Porto Montenegro to Tivat airport
- Kotor: Guided Speedboat & Old Town Walking Tour
- Dubrovnik to/from Kotor: Day Trip or One-Way by Fast Ferry