Kotor: Bay of Kotor and Blue Cave Speedboat Tour

Exploring Montenegro’s coast is a highlight for many travelers, and one of the most popular ways to do this is via the Bay of Kotor and Blue Cave Speedboat Tour. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, eye-opening experience. It’s ideal for those looking to combine scenic beauty with a bit of adventure—plus, a dash of history and local charm.

What we particularly like about this tour is the way it offers a blend of breathtaking scenery and engaging stops, all wrapped into a compact three-hour window. The panoramic boat ride along the coast is a real standout, providing views of tiny villages, historic sites, and the dramatic mountains that surround the bay. Another plus: the Blue Cave swimming stop, which many reviewers say is a magical highlight.

A potential consideration? The tour’s brief stops—especially at the Blue Cave—can feel a bit rushed, especially during peak season when boats crowd the space. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your way to the starting point in Kotor, which is quite straightforward but worth noting if you’re staying outside the Old Town.

This tour is a great pick for travelers who want a well-rounded, scenic, and value-packed experience. Perfect for those with a moderate schedule or anyone eager to pack in a lot of stunning sights in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The boat ride offers incredible views of Kotor’s coastline, old villages, and islands.
• Expert guides: The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights about the area.
• Well-paced stops: You’ll visit Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and see historical sites like the submarine tunnel.
• Good value: For around three hours, the tour includes multiple stops, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and a scenic route.
• Limited swim time: Swimming in the Blue Cave is brief, often about 20 minutes, but many find it enough for a memorable experience.
• No hotel pickup: You need to get to Park Slobode in Kotor yourself, but the location is easy to find near the Old Town.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at Park Slobode, just a short five-minute walk from Kotor’s Old Town and behind the bustling port area. The meeting point is well-marked with a bright orange and blue sign, making it easy to find. From here, you board a comfortable speedboat, and the adventure begins.

Many reviews mention the ease of check-in and the friendly, professional staff. The boat itself is described as feeling safe and quite cozy, and it’s equipped with snorkeling gear, bottled water, and raincoats—helpful touches considering the unpredictable weather and the warm sun.

The Scenic Ride Along the Bay

The first leg of the tour is a roughly 55-minute boat ride along the coast, which is often described as a highlight. As you glide past charming fishing villages like Muo, Stoliv, and Pranj, you’ll see traditional houses, historic churches, and tiny palaces set against a backdrop of steep, rugged mountains.

Travelers often comment on the spectacular views of the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor, which is considered one of the world’s most beautiful bays. The deep fjord-like waters contrast vividly against the green hills and azure sky, creating a scene that looks almost surreal. The coastline is dotted with small islands, including Mamula, which appears majestic from afar.

Passing Verige and Historic Sites

As the boat navigates toward the entrance of the bay’s narrowest section, called Verige, you’ll pass the Church of Our Lady of Angels perched on a tiny island. The Verige strait, just about 300 meters wide, is a dramatic spot that many find especially memorable.

On the way, the guide shares tidbits about the area’s history and geography, adding context to these scenic views. Reviewers note that the guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly, with some saying they answered all questions thoroughly.

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Blue Cave: The Main Attraction

The moment many travelers look forward to is the stop at the Blue Cave. This cavern of about 300 square meters is famed for the unusual, glowing blue waters caused by light refraction. When the sun aligns just right, the water appears as if it’s shining from within, creating an almost mystical atmosphere.

You’re given around 20 minutes to swim and snorkel in the cool, turquoise waters, which is ample time for many to snap photos and marvel at the natural beauty. Reviewers consistently say this stop is the highlight of the trip, with some calling it “magical” and “unforgettable.”

However, some comment on the cave’s small size and the crowding—since multiple boats arrive simultaneously, the space can feel cramped. Don’t expect to swim inside the cave itself, but the area immediately outside offers great photo opportunities.

The Submarine Tunnel and Historical Insights

On the return leg, you’ll make a quick stop at the old submarine tunnel—a relic from Yugoslavia days. Built to hide submarines, it’s a fascinating piece of Cold War history. The tunnels are about fifty meters long, with a width of seven meters, and they extend beneath steep banks. Reviewers find it intriguing to see this tangible reminder of the region’s complex past.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

The final main stop is at the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks. This island, created over centuries by local villagers throwing stones into the sea, is home to a small church and museum. The legend behind its emergence—two fishermen seeing a miraculous icon—adds a romantic touch to the visit.

Many reviews highlight the charming church and the story behind it, making the visit more meaningful. The stop typically lasts about 20 minutes, ideal for photos and a quick look inside.

End of the Tour and Practicalities

After this, you’ll head back to Kotor, with the boat ride taking roughly 20 minutes. The entire experience lasts about three hours, covering a lot of ground in a short time.

The tour price includes gasoline, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and raincoats—providing decent value for the comprehensive experience. Admission to Our Lady of the Rocks isn’t included, so if you wish to visit the church museum, plan on paying separately.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers raved about the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude. One said, “Andrea was our captain and guide, he understood what we wanted to see and made it happen.” Others mention that the scenery alone makes it worth the trip, with comments like “the landscape is beautiful” and “perfect for photography.”

A few noted that the swimming stops can be a little rushed, especially during busy times, but most felt the overall experience was well worth it. Some also appreciated that they could be picked up and dropped off at their hotel, although this isn’t included in the standard package.

Weather and Season Considerations

Several reviews mention that in March and November, it can get chilly on the water. Many travelers recommend bringing a jacket or hoodie, especially if you plan to take the afternoon tour. The water’s clarity and the blue cave’s glow are equally stunning in any season, but be prepared for wind and potentially cooler temperatures.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour offers a compact, scenic, and engaging way to see the best of Kotor’s coast in just a few hours. You’ll get superb views, interesting historical stops, and a memorable swim in the Blue Cave. It’s a great option for those who want an active, photo-rich excursion without the long commitment of a full-day tour.

The experience is especially suited for travelers interested in natural beauty, quick cultural insights, and a bit of adventure. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude consistently earn praise, making this a comfortable way to explore.

While the stops are relatively brief, many find that the highlights—particularly the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks—make the trip worthwhile. The value for money is solid, considering the scenic route, multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and expert guidance.

If you’re staying in Kotor and looking for a well-organized, memorable boat trip, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just remember to dress warmly if you’re taking an afternoon trip, and arrive a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you need to make your way to Park Slobode, the designated meeting point, which is close to Kotor Old Town and the port.

How long is the boat ride?
The entire tour lasts about 3 hours, with the boat ride itself being approximately 55 minutes each way, plus stops.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
You can swim and snorkel in the waters outside the Blue Cave for about 20 minutes. You won’t swim inside the cave itself, but the surrounding area offers plenty of photo opportunities.

What should I bring?
A sun hat, swimwear, towel, and possibly a jacket for cooler days. Large bags or luggage are not allowed on the boat.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, and those with back or heart problems. It’s best suited for active, reasonably healthy travelers.

How crowded is the Blue Cave?
During peak season, several boats may arrive simultaneously, making the space feel crowded. Arriving early may help avoid the densest crowds.

This tour combines the best of Montenegro’s coast—its natural beauty, history, and charming stories—delivered with expert guides and in a format that’s both fun and efficient. Whether you’re after dazzling views, a quick history lesson, or just a memorable swim, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: