Experience the Best of Kotor Bay with a Private Speedboat Tour
If you’re looking for a personal and immersive way to explore Montenegro’s breathtaking Kotor Bay, this Private Kotor Bay Speed Boat Tour and Blue Cave Adventure offers just that. For around $343 per group (up to 6 people), you get roughly three hours of cruising along the coast, stopping at iconic sites like the Our Lady of the Rocks church, the rugged Verige Strait, and the shimmering Blue Cave. The tour is perfect for travelers wanting a flexible, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide — often a highlight for many, as the reviews show.
What we really love about this tour is how it combines spectacular scenery with engaging storytelling. The boat ride offers unbeatable views of medieval churches perched on cliffs, lush greenery, and historic military tunnels, all topped off with a refreshing swim in the Blue Cave. Plus, having a private guide means you get a personalized, relaxed pace, which is a big plus compared to crowded group tours. The only thing to keep in mind is that the boat ride can get a little chilly, especially outside the summer months, so packing a warm layer is wise.
A possible consideration is the weather — this tour is only feasible in good conditions, as bad weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. Also, some sites, like Our Lady of the Rocks, have strict rules about swimwear and drone use, so come prepared. This tour is ideal for those who want more than just a quick glance — it’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups who appreciate authentic scenery and storytelling without the hassle of large groups.
If you enjoy scenic boat rides, historic sites, and swimmer-friendly caves, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially well-rated for its friendly guides, the quality of the scenery, and the value for money.
Key Points
- Breathtaking scenery of Kotor Bay, including cliffs, churches, and lush landscapes
- Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a historic church and museum
- Swim in the Blue Cave, a natural wonder famous for its glowing blue waters
- Personalized experience with a private guide who shares stories and local insights
- Good value for a private tour that covers multiple highlights in just 3 hours
- Weather-dependent: best enjoyed in clear, calm conditions
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Exploring Kotor Bay: A Detailed Review
The Itinerary and What It Means for You
The tour kicks off with a 20-minute cruise along Kotor Bay’s coast, giving you an immediate sense of how dramatic this area is. You’ll get views of towering cliffs, medieval churches, and small fishing villages. This scenic intro sets the tone, making it clear why this part of Montenegro is such a beloved destination.
Next, you’ll visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a UNESCO-listed site and a favorite among visitors. Built on a small man-made island, this church has been a seafarers’ landmark for centuries. Inside, you’ll find a collection of paintings and votive offerings, and outside, stunning views of the bay. Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling here, with one describing it as “a mystical story about the island’s genesis,” which adds a layer of enchantment to the visit. Keep in mind, entry to the church and museum isn’t included in the tour price, so you might want to budget a small fee if you want to explore inside.
After that, the boat passes through the Verige Strait, the narrowest part of the bay, and crosses into Tivat Bay. Here, you might see the abandoned submarine base — an eerie reminder of Cold War-era military history. The guide often points out these sites and shares stories, making the experience more immersive.
A highlight is the visit to Mamula, a fortified island with a dark history linked to World Wars — perfect for history buffs who like a touch of the dramatic on their trip.
Finally, the Blue Cave awaits — a natural, shimmering grotto where sunlight creates an iridescent glow. You’ll have about 20 minutes here to marvel and swim in the crystal water, an experience many reviews call “amazing” and “beautiful.” The guide often finds quiet spots for swimming, making this a genuine highlight.
The Value of a Private Boat Experience
What sets this tour apart is the private setting. With just your group and your guide, you can customize the pace, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. As one reviewer put it, “It was the perfect way to see all of Kotor and the bay,” especially when traveling with family or friends.
The boat itself is comfortable, and the guide is friendly and knowledgeable. Several reviews mention how guides like Peter and Andrea go above and beyond by sharing stories, making sure everyone feels safe, and even adjusting the itinerary based on your preferences. The small group size and private nature often mean fewer crowds and a more genuine experience.
Practical Considerations
The tour lasts about three hours, which is just enough time to see the main highlights without feeling overwhelmed. The price may seem high at first glance, but when considering all fees, fuel, insurance, and a private guide, it’s a solid value for the intimacy and flexibility you receive.
Weather plays a crucial role: this tour is only available in good conditions, and cancellations are possible if the weather turns poor. Reviewers mention that in cooler months, it can feel chilly on the water, so packing a warm layer is advised.
Some rules to keep in mind: no swimming or drone use at Our Lady of the Rocks, and swimwear should be covered when visiting the church. Bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes or sandals makes the trip more enjoyable.
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Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers who value personalized service, want to explore off-the-beaten-path sites like military tunnels, and enjoy scenic boat rides. It’s a good fit for couples, small families, or groups of friends who want a relaxed, informative adventure without the crowds. The high review ratings suggest it’s especially popular among those seeking authentic, memorable experiences rather than just ticking off tourist stops.
The Sum Up: Why This Tour Is Worth Considering
This private speedboat tour of Kotor Bay offers a unique way to experience Montenegro’s coast — combining stunning scenery, engaging stories, and the flexibility that only a private guide can provide. You’ll see iconic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks, marvel at the Blue Cave’s shimmering waters, and learn about the area’s intriguing history.
The tour’s value lies in its personal approach. For roughly three hours, you get a tailored experience that beats crowded group excursions, with the chance to swim and relax at your own pace. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling as a small group or family, wanting an authentic adventure on the water rather than a rushed tour.
While weather can impact the day, most reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, making it a memorable highlight of any Kotor visit. The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery, which speaks volumes about what you can expect.
If you’re after a scenic, educational, and intimate way to see Kotor Bay’s highlights, this private boat tour is an excellent choice. It’s a good investment for those who want to combine comfort, flexibility, and authentic beauty into a single, memorable outing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you enough time to see several key sites without feeling rushed.
What is included in the price?
The price covers a private guide/skipper, all fees and taxes, fuel, insurance, and water. Entry fees for sites like Our Lady of the Rocks are not included.
Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, you can swim in the Blue Cave. The guide often finds quiet spots for swimming, and many reviews mention how beautiful and refreshing it is.
Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, especially since it’s private and flexible. Just consider the weather and bring appropriate clothing.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sunhat, sunscreen, a camera, comfortable shoes or sandals, a jacket for chilly weather, swimwear, a towel, and flip flops.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date.
Are there any rules about attire at Our Lady of the Rocks?
Yes, swimwear is not allowed inside the church, and you should wear at least a T-shirt when visiting.
Can I use a drone during the tour?
No, drone use is forbidden at Our Lady of the Rocks.
Where does the tour meet?
You meet at Kotor Boat Tours, Submarine and Speedboat at the Montenegro Submarine Park, near the hotels Hyatt Regency Kotor and Heritage Hotel Perast.
This private boat tour stands out as an excellent way to experience Kotor’s natural beauty and history intimately. For those who cherish personalized service, picturesque scenery, and a flexible schedule, it offers a memorable, authentic Montenegro experience that’s hard to beat.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Kotor
- Montenegro coast- Tivat, Kotor and Budva (suggested for cruise ship travelers)
- From Kotor: Blue Cave and Bay of Kotor Boat Tour (Small Groups)
- Group tour : Blue Cave boat tour 3 hours experience package
- 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
More Tours in Kotor
More Tour Reviews in Kotor
- Montenegro coast- Tivat, Kotor and Budva (suggested for cruise ship travelers)
- From Kotor: Blue Cave and Bay of Kotor Boat Tour (Small Groups)
- Tara rafting (Private tour)
- Private Transfer from Tivat airport to Tivat city or Porto Montenegro
- Blue Cave and Dobrec Beach Tour
- Group Blue Cave Tour- 3h duration
More Kotor experiences we've covered
- Montenegro coast- Tivat, Kotor and Budva (suggested for cruise ship travelers)
- From Kotor: Blue Cave and Bay of Kotor Boat Tour (Small Groups)
- Tara rafting (Private tour)
- Private Transfer from Tivat airport to Tivat city or Porto Montenegro
- Blue Cave and Dobrec Beach Tour
- Group Blue Cave Tour- 3h duration
- Private Kotor Walking Tour – Rick Steves Recommended
- Half-Day Tour in Magnificent Boka Bay
- 3-Hour Private Blue Cave Tour
- Luxury Perast and Njegusi Village Tour
- Bay of Kotor: 2.5-Hour Kayak Tour
- Heart of Old Montenegro private tour