2025 Private Blue Cave and Boka Bay Speedboat Tour from Kotor

Kotor, Montenegro, is famous for its dramatic coastal scenery and historic charm. When it comes to exploring this stunning area, a private speedboat tour like the one offered by Hawaii Boat Tours truly stands out. With a 5-star rating from 88 reviews, this trip promises a combination of natural wonders, fascinating stories, and plenty of opportunities to photograph and relax amidst some of the most beautiful waters in Europe.

We’re especially drawn to the tour’s personalized experience—being private means your group’s comfort and interests come first—and the chance to visit renowned spots like the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and Mamula Fortress. The fact that guests frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and spectacular views makes this outing particularly appealing.

That said, a potential consideration is the three-hour duration, which packs quite a bit in but might feel rushed if you like leisurely exploring. Still, for travelers seeking a short but packed adventure, this tour offers exceptional value.

This tour is ideal for those who want a customized, scenic, and informative experience with a small group, especially if you’re eager to get off the beaten path and learn some stories while enjoying Montenegro’s stunning coast.

Key Points

• Private experience ensures a personalized, intimate journey with your own group.
• Expert guides and friendly captains like Aki bring stories and local insights to life.
• Multiple stops combine natural beauty with historical sites, offering a well-rounded trip.
• Spectacular scenery and opportunities to swim and take photos highlight the trip’s visual appeal.
• Efficient three-hour itinerary maximizes sights without overextending your day.
• Affordable luxury at roughly $451 for up to 8 people offers excellent value given the exclusivity and quality.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is the highlight for many visitors—and rightfully so. Its name comes from the striking sunlight that filters through the water, turning the interior into a glowing aquamarine. You’ll have about 30 minutes here, which is ample time to swim, take photos, and marvel at the bright waters. Several reviews mention how crystal-clear water and warm temperatures make swimming particularly enjoyable. One reviewer simply claims it’s the “best experience” and notes the informative guide Aki enhances the visit with interesting facts about the cave’s formation and significance.

Our Lady of the Rocks

This tiny island is famous for its church built on a man-made island, which looks like it belongs to a fairy tale. The stop lasts about 20 minutes, giving you a chance to stroll and admire the Venetian architecture and scenic views. Many reviews praise this stop for its stunning vistas and photo opportunities. Learning about the island’s unique history makes this more than just a pretty view—it’s a glimpse into Montenegro’s maritime heritage.

Mamula Fortress

Once a WWII prison, Mamula Island offers a fascinating, if slightly eerie, glimpse into history. The boat stops for about 10 minutes, giving you enough time to see the fortress from the water and hear the stories from your guide. Travelers appreciate this stop for its storytelling and the imposing structure that hints at dark pasts. One reviewer remarks that the story shared during the visit will “be remembered for the rest of your life,” highlighting the emotional impact of this spot.

Former Submarine Tunnel

This stop is a bit more adventurous, lasting around 10 minutes. You’ll explore the submarine tunnels from aboard the boat and get a close-up look at their impressive engineering. The guide shares captivating stories about their history, adding depth to the experience. It’s an unusual sight and one that appeals to those interested in Montenegro’s military history or simply intrigued by extraordinary structures.

Perast from the Water

Finally, the tour offers panoramic views of Perast, a beautifully preserved town with Venetian-style architecture. Seeing it from the sea provides a different perspective that many travelers find memorable. Several reviews mention how the views of Perast and its coastline are simply breathtaking, making this a fitting end to the trip.

What to Expect on the Trip

Transportation and Comfort

You’ll be traveling on a brand-new yacht with a private group of up to 8 people, ensuring a comfortable and exclusive experience. The boat is described as modern and well-maintained, with plenty of space to relax or take photos. The speedboat allows rapid access to all the stops, making the most of the short 3-hour window.

Timing and Pace

The itinerary is designed to be efficient, with about 30 minutes at the Blue Cave, 20 minutes at Our Lady of the Rocks, and brief stops at Mamula and the submarine tunnels. This schedule is perfect for those who want a fast-paced but fulfilling overview of the bay’s best spots. However, if you prefer a slower, more detailed exploration, you might find the stops a little rushed.

Guides and Service

The reviews unanimously praise Aki, the guide and captain, for his friendly demeanor and knowledgeable stories. Several mention that he is also skilled at photography, helping guests capture memories. The private nature of the tour means you can tailor the experience slightly, asking questions or requesting specific photo stops.

Price and Value

At approximately $451.66 for up to 8 people, the cost splits into around $57 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the private setup, the guided experience, and the included stops. For a small group, this trip offers excellent value, especially when you factor in the personalized service and the opportunity to skip crowded, generic tours.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides. One guest mentions, “Aki was a really good person and helpful with everything,” emphasizing the quality of service. The spectacular views—crystal waters, scenic coastlines, historic landmarks—are consistently praised, with comments like “The water was very clear and warm” and “The views were beautiful.”

Many travelers also mention the fun element—swimming in the water, taking photos, and enjoying the music onboard—making the trip not just educational but genuinely enjoyable. Several reviews note that the guide shared fascinating stories about each site, adding depth to the experience.

Conclusions and Who Should Consider This Tour

This private speedboat tour from Kotor offers a compact, scenic, and personalized way to explore Montenegro’s highlights. The combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and the expert guidance makes it ideal for travelers who value quality over quantity. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or families looking for a luxurious yet affordable adventure.

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning scenery and enjoys stories shared by passionate guides, you’ll love the way this trip balances adventure and education. The versatility of being private means you can customize the experience to some extent, making it a flexible choice for various interests.

The cost might seem high for a three-hour trip, but when you consider the exclusivity, guide expertise, and scenic stops, it’s a solid investment in one of Montenegro’s most memorable experiences. Travelers who seek authenticity, comfort, and beautiful views will likely find this tour well worth the price.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, guide services, and the stops at the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, Mamula Fortress, and the submarine tunnels. It does not include admission fees, but these are free at all stops.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is about 3 hours, including travel time and stopovers. This allows for a quick but rundown of the bay’s top sights.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, you can swim in the Blue Cave’s waters, which are described as crystal-clear and warm. The guide helps facilitate swimming opportunities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, the boat ride’s speed and the nature of some stops might require consideration for very young children.

What should I bring?
Bring suitable clothes for the weather, especially if it’s windy, and don’t forget your camera. Swimsuits and towels may also be helpful for swimming stops.

What about the guide’s role?
The guide, Aki, is praised for his friendliness, storytelling ability, and helpfulness, making the journey informative and fun.

How do I book this tour?
You can book in advance, with most trips being scheduled roughly 26 days ahead. The experience is private, so you won’t be sharing with strangers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable, but weather-related cancellations are fully covered with a full refund or rescheduling.

This private Blue Cave and Boka Bay speedboat tour from Kotor offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, history, and personalized service. Whether you’re eager to snap photos of the crystal waters, listen to captivating stories, or simply enjoy Montenegro’s stunning coastline in comfort, this trip could be just the right choice. It’s a small investment for a big, memorable adventure—perfect for those who love a mix of natural wonder and cultural insight.