Kotor: Boat Cruise with Blue Cave Swim and Submarine Base

Imagine cruising through breath-taking waters, feeling the wind in your hair, and visiting iconic sights like the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and a World War II submarine base—all in one go. That’s the promise of the Kotor boat cruise, a popular activity that offers both scenery and history, all wrapped into a roughly three-hour adventure from the charming town of Kotor, Montenegro. While the tour takes in some of the region’s most photogenic spots and has rave reviews for its value and guides, it’s worth knowing what to expect to ensure it hits the right notes for you.

We love the way this tour combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty—from swimming in crystal-clear waters to learning about the island fortress’s dark past. The high-speed boat ride makes for a fun, exhilarating way to cover a lot of ground quickly, and the stops at unique sites mean you won’t just be sitting back. A possible consideration? The Blue Cave can get crowded with boats, which might limit your swimming experience inside the cave itself. This tour suits travelers eager to see multiple highlights in a short time, especially those who appreciate being out on the water and learning local history.

Key Points

• Fast-paced adventure: The speedboat allows you to see a lot in a short amount of time while keeping the experience lively and fun.
• Stunning photo opportunities: Views of coastal towns, fortress ruins, and the Blue Cave make for memorable pictures.
• Educational component: Learn the intriguing history of sites like Mamula Island, the submarine tunnels, and Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Great value: At $39 per person, this tour packs in a variety of sites, snorkeling gear, and expert guides—offering good bang for your buck.
• Comfort and convenience: The boat is described as clean and comfortable, with onboard Wi-Fi, a fridge, and music to keep the vibe lively.
• Mixed reviews on welcoming: One review noted an uncomfortable encounter at the start, but most agreed guides and staff were friendly and knowledgeable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Your trip begins at the MontenegroGlobe agency, conveniently located near the Kamelija shopping center, just a few minutes from Kotor Old Town. The process for check-in is straightforward, and booking ahead allows you to reserve your spot without upfront payment, offering some flexibility. Keep in mind that parking in Kotor is notoriously tricky, so plan accordingly if you’re driving.

The tour lasts around three hours, and group sizes tend to be modest, ensuring a more personal experience. The boat departs in the morning, helping you avoid the midday heat and crowded spots later on. The crew, including the captain and guide, are praised for their professional, friendly service and ability to keep everyone engaged.

The Speedboat Experience

Once on board, you’ll immediately notice the boat’s cleanliness and comfort—a significant plus amid busy tourist activity. The boat is described as fairly new, with enough space for the entire group, which creates a relaxing environment after the initial adrenaline rush of the high-speed ride.

Expect to cruise past charming seaside towns such as Perast, Tivat, Porto Montenegro, and Herceg Novi. These picturesque villages are wonderful to view from the water, and your guide will share tidbits about each location. Several reviews mention the pleasure of simply watching the coastline roll by with good music in the background, thanks to onboard speakers.

Submarine Tunnels and Mamula Island

One of the highlights is a visit to the abandoned submarine tunnels—a reminder of Montenegro’s Yugoslav military history. The tunnels are carved into the rocks, and your guide will tell you about their purpose and eerie history. While the tunnels are fascinating, some viewers note that the tour stops nearby are more about the view and photo opportunities than exploring the tunnels themselves.

Next, you’ll sail to Mamula Island, notable for its fortress built at the turn of the 20th century and used during WWII as a concentration camp by the Italians. The guide shares stories about Mamula’s history, adding depth to what might otherwise just be a photo stop. Many tour participants found the stories compelling, making the experience more meaningful.

More Great Tours Nearby

Swimming at the Blue Cave and Lagoon

The Blue Cave is arguably the star of the trip. You’ll cruise near its entrance, and if you’re lucky with the timing and crowds, you can swim or snorkel in the waters outside the cave. The blue light reflection inside the cave creates a surreal effect, as one reviewer describes, “the blue light reflects off the rocks,” making for fantastic photos. However, the cave can get crowded, and some travelers note they only swam outside the cave or in nearby spots instead.

The Blue Lagoon follows as another swimming spot, with some reviewers calling it the best part of the tour. The water is described as “crystal clear,” and snorkel masks are provided, letting you explore underwater life. One reviewer mentioned the fish sightings and how the experience of swimming in such a clean, beautiful environment was “worth every penny.”

Our Lady of the Rocks

The final stop is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, built by local fishermen in the 15th century. Visitors have the opportunity to buy a ticket to enter the church, which houses 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a renowned 17th-century artist. The church remains an important cultural site, and the views from the island are stunning. Several reviews highlight how the smaller boat ride and the opportunity to explore this historic site add depth to the trip.

Authenticity, Value, and Practical Tips

One of the big selling points is the value for money. For just $39, you get a well-rounded experience—multiple sites, swimming opportunities, and insights from a knowledgeable guide. Many reviews emphasize that the trip offers “excellent value for 3 hours,” and the boat’s amenities, like onboard Wi-Fi and a fridge, make the journey more comfortable.

The guides are praised not only for their knowledge but also for their friendly demeanor, making the tour enjoyable. As one reviewer said, “Marko was an excellent guide, making sure everyone had fun and stayed safe,” which is key when you’re speeding around on a boat.

What to Bring and Consider

To make the most of your trip, pack your sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and camera. Remember, it’s a speedboat, so a jacket might be a good idea in case of wind or if you’re sensitive to splashes. The tour does not include food or drinks beyond water, so bring snacks if you need them.

Note that pets and bikes are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for those in wheelchairs or over 95 years old. If you’re traveling with young children, consider their comfort with boat rides and swimming.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour’s schedule is weather-dependent. Poor weather can lead to cancellations, which is understandable given the safety considerations. The activity can also be canceled if the minimum number of participants isn’t met, so booking in advance guarantees your spot if the weather cooperates.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This boat cruise is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and learning about local sites. It’s great for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a fun, quick way to see several highlights of Kotor Bay. Those interested in history will appreciate the stories about Mamula Island and the submarine tunnels, while nature lovers will be captivated by the Blue Cave and lagoon waters.

However, if you’re sensitive to crowds, especially at the Blue Cave, or prefer a more relaxed, less hurried pace, you might want to consider shorter or different tours. The tour’s fast pace and multiple stops mean you’ll need to be comfortable on a boat and prepared for some splashes and movement.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This boat cruise offers more than just a scenic ride—it’s an engaging way to see Kotor’s most photogenic and historically significant sites in a compact package. The guides are often praised for their friendliness and wealth of knowledge, making the experience richer and more engaging. The included snorkeling gear and the possibility to swim in the Blue Lagoon add a fun, refreshing element to the trip.

While the Blue Cave is a crowd magnet, most reviewers agree that the trip’s value and variety more than compensate. The tour’s affordability means you can tick a lot of boxes without breaking the bank.

For travelers who love cruising, exploring history, and enjoying nature’s beauty, this tour provides a memorable adventure with the right mix of fun, education, and relaxation.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
The description notes it’s not suitable for people over 95 years, but specific minimum ages aren’t given. Expect the experience to be best suited for most ages, provided they are comfortable on a boat.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts approximately three hours, giving you enough time to visit multiple sites without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and a camera. A jacket might be useful if you’re sensitive to wind or splashes.

Are there restrooms onboard?
The provided information doesn’t specify, but most modern boats typically have basic facilities or nearby options at the departure point.

Can I book the tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, giving you flexibility to fit the trip into your schedule.

Is food included?
No, food and additional drinks are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to eat afterward.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled due to poor weather, and you’ll receive a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, based on the available information.

In essence, this boat cruise offers a lively, scenic, and educational way to experience Kotor Bay. It’s ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure, history, and beautiful views—all at a budget-friendly price. Just be prepared for crowds at the Blue Cave and a little wind on the water, and you’ll have a memorable day on Montenegro’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: