Ticket Tour: Blue Cave, Mamula Island, Submarine Tunnel, Lady of the Rocks (3hr)

Experience Montenegro’s Coastal Wonders in Just 3 Hours

We recently had the chance to join a short but incredibly rewarding boat tour starting right from the heart of Kotor. For just $41.71 per person, this half-day cruise whisks you away to some of the most iconic and lesser-known sights in the Bay of Kotor. The tour, which lasts about three hours, takes you to the breathtaking Blue Cave, the historic Mamula Island, the hidden Submarine Tunnel of Lustica, and the enchanting Our Lady of the Rocks. With a knowledgeable crew and a good vibe, it’s a great way to see Montenegro’s rugged coast without feeling rushed.

What we loved most was the opportunity to swim into the Blue Cave and see its vivid, glowing waters—the photos don’t do it justice. Plus, the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks allowed us to step inside a church filled with centuries of seafaring stories, complete with artwork and silverware that tell the island’s legend. One thing to keep in mind is that the music onboard can be loud and not to everyone’s taste, which some reviews have pointed out, but most find it adds to the fun.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape from Kotor, especially those keen on snorkeling, exploring intriguing islands, or simply enjoying stunning vistas from a boat. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want an authentic taste of Montenegro’s spectacular coastline.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience the beauty of Montenegro’s coast, including the UNESCO-listed Perast from the water.
• Unique Stops: Visit the Blue Cave, Mamula Island’s fortress, Lustica’s submarine tunnels, and Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Use provided gear to explore underwater sights and swim in the clear blue waters.
• Value for Money: For about $40, you get a well-rounded trip with included water, Wi-Fi, and snorkeling gear.
• Authentic Experience: Learn about the legend of Our Lady of the Rocks from your captain, adding local color.
• Mixed Reviews: Most travelers loved the scenery and guides, but some found the music loud and the ride rough at times.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour kicks off in the heart of Kotor at a conveniently located meeting point, with the boat ready to depart on schedule. You can expect a maximum of 30 travelers, making it feel intimate enough to ask questions and enjoy the crew’s attention. The onboard Wi-Fi and bottled water are thoughtful additions, allowing you to stay connected or simply relax with a drink.

The Blue Cave: A Must-See

The Blue Cave is the star attraction—and for good reason. Carved by years of wave impact into a cliff over 100 meters high, this natural marvel offers an unforgettable opportunity to swim in glowing blue waters. The tour allows about 20 minutes here, giving plenty of time to don your snorkel gear and explore. As one reviewer put it, “The blue caves are really blue,” which is a perfect description. The water is notably clear, and the experience of floating into a natural grotto surrounded by shimmering blue hues is genuinely memorable.

However, weather can influence this stop. Some reviews mention days when conditions prevented visiting the cave, which did disappoint some travelers. It’s worth checking the forecast before booking if the Blue Cave is a top priority.

Mamula Island’s Fortress

Next, the boat circles Mamula Island at the entrance to the bay. Its circular shape and imposing fortress evoke a sense of history. Built in the mid-19th century by the Austro-Hungarians, the fortress was originally designed to prevent enemies from entering the bay. Today, the island retains its military charm, and from the boat, you’ll appreciate the panoramic views of the fortress walls and the surrounding seascape.

While you don’t set foot on Mamula, the view from the boat offers plenty of photo opportunities. An added bonus is learning about its past from your captain, which gives depth to this striking sight.

Lustica’s Submarine Tunnels

A quick five-minute stop over Lustica’s submarine tunnels provides a fascinating glimpse into military engineering. These tunnels, built for submarines, are one of the lesser-known sights in the area. While most of the focus in reviews is on the beauty of the landscape, the tunnels add a touch of recent history. No entry fee is required, and you won’t get much time here, but it’s an interesting contrast to the natural wonders.

Our Lady of the Rocks: The Most Enchanting Stop

The highlight for many is the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a church that has quite the legend. According to local lore, the island was built over centuries by sailors who laid stones and dropped rocks to mark their safe return. The church, constructed in 1630, is decorated with 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja and holds a collection of silver plates depicting the development of seafaring in Boka.

Entry to the church isn’t included in the tour price, but the 20-minute stop allows you to explore its interior and learn about its history from your captain. The views from the island are stunning, and the boat’s proximity makes for some wonderful photos.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s inclusions are straightforward: bottled water, Wi-Fi, and snorkeling equipment—great for those wanting to explore underwater or just relax. Fuel is covered, so no hidden costs there. The only extra is the entry fee to Our Lady of the Rocks, which you might want to budget for.

The Overall Experience and Reviews

Most travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides, with many mentioning their captains’ friendliness and storytelling skills. The stunning scenery consistently earns praise, and many emphasize how the tour provides excellent value for money. One reviewer called it “a great experience,” highlighting the incredible views and swimming opportunities.

However, some reviews mention downsides. The loud music onboard was problematic for a few, and the boat ride can get rough or cold, especially at certain times of year. A few travelers noted that fast driving made the ride less comfortable, and some wished for more time to swim or explore the island.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This three-hour boat tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape from Kotor without sacrificing the chance to see key sights. It’s perfect if you enjoy snorkeling, exploring islands with legends, and appreciating stunning coastal views—especially if you’re traveling with family or friends and enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.

Those looking for a more relaxed, less crowded experience** might find the boat’s speed and loud music a bit much, but overall, most find this tour to be a value-packed introduction to Montenegro’s coastline.

The Sum Up

This boat tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and fun. The price makes it accessible, and the stops are thoughtfully chosen to give you a taste of Montenegro’s diverse coastlines — from the glowing Blue Cave to the legendary Our Lady of the Rocks. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendly manner, making it an enjoyable experience for most.

If you’re after stunning scenery, underwater adventure, and intriguing islands, this tour ticks all those boxes. It suits travelers who are short on time but eager to see some of Montenegro’s most Instagram-worthy spots with a lively group atmosphere.

For the best experience, come prepared for the weather—wear layers, and don’t forget your swim gear. Keep your expectations in check about the loud music and rocky ride, but overall, it’s a fun, memorable way to explore the Bay of Kotor from the water.

FAQs

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately three hours, starting from Kotor’s town center and ending back there.

• What is included in the price?
  Bottled water, Wi-Fi on board, snorkeling equipment, and fuel surcharge are included. Entry to Our Lady of the Rocks is not included.

• Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
  Yes, you can swim and snorkel in the Blue Cave for about 20 minutes, weather permitting. Use the provided snorkeling gear to explore underwater.

• Is the tour suitable for kids?
  Most travelers find it suitable, especially families, but be prepared for some potentially loud music and a boat that can get a bit rough at times.

• What should I bring?
  Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, a jacket if it’s chilly, and your camera for the stunning views.

• Is there a minimum number of participants?
  The tour requires a minimum number to operate, but most bookings are confirmed with enough travelers.

• How far in advance should I book?
  It’s best to book about 24 days in advance, as it’s a popular tour.

• What happens if the weather is bad?
  The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• Are the guides multilingual?
  While most reviews praise the guides’ knowledge, some mention limited English skills from the boat driver. Expect mostly English commentary.

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This 3-hour boat trip in Montenegro offers a lively, scenic way to see some of the country’s most beautiful spots. With friendly guides, stunning natural sights, and opportunities to swim, it’s a memorable option packed with value—perfect for anyone wanting a taste of Montenegro’s coast without a full-day commitment.