Kotor: Private Boat Tour – Blue Cave – Our Lady Of The Rocks

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of exploring Montenegro’s dazzling coastline, a private boat tour around the Bay of Kotor offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and fascinating history. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a memorable, well-rounded experience.

What stands out are the stunning views and the knowledgeable guides who bring the history and natural wonders to life. The tour’s comfort and safety are also highly praised, making it accessible for most travelers. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a short, 3-hour trip—so if you’re after a more extensive exploration, this might just be a taste of what the bay has to offer.

This experience suits travelers who love authentic scenery, engaging stories, and a private setting. It’s ideal if you want a flexible, intimate outing with family or friends—perfect for those seeking a quick but immersive taste of Montenegro’s maritime treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable, modern boats with safety features and Wi-Fi
• Expert local guides provide insightful commentary
• Highlights include Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, Mamula Island, and submarine tunnels
• Ideal for small private groups wanting a personalized experience
• Duration of 3 hours with flexible start times
• Suitable for those who appreciate natural beauty and history

The Overall Experience: A Well-Balanced Adventure

This private boat tour provides a compact but fascinating overview of Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor. For travelers craving a mix of scenic beauty, history, and fun, it strikes a good balance. The route is thoughtfully planned to show off some of the most iconic sights, and the private setting means you won’t be stuck with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed atmosphere.

The boats are described as modern, offering the comfort and safety travelers desire. Many reviews mention good music and Wi-Fi onboard, making the ride both pleasurable and practical—especially if you want to keep your devices charged for photos or just to share the experience.

The tour is led by a licensed English-speaking skipper, who appears to be well-versed in the area’s stories. This adds a layer of richness to the experience, turning a scenic cruise into an educational and memorable outing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at United Oceans Boat Tours

Your adventure begins at the designated meeting point in Kotor, behind Konoba Akustik. It’s a straightforward location, and the staff is praised for their friendly and efficient service. The tour’s timing flexibility allows you to choose a start time that fits your schedule, which is a bonus for travelers juggling multiple activities.

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Cruise to the Blue Cave

The first stop is the Blue Cave, situated on the Lutica Peninsula. The boat ride here lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of opportunity to take in panoramic views of the bay. The Blue Cave is famous for its stunning blue hue, created by sunlight reflecting off the porous rocks at the bottom of the cave—an extraordinary natural sight that’s well worth the visit.

Once at the cave, you’ll have roughly 30 minutes to soak in the atmosphere, take photos, and enjoy a swim. As one reviewer put it, “enjoying the phenomenal atmosphere that is out of this world” makes this stop a highlight. The water around the cave is inviting, and the natural light creates perfect conditions for memorable photos.

Mamula Island and WWII Fortress

Next, the boat passes by Mamula Island, home to a fortress with a dark past—used as a concentration camp during WWII. The captain’s commentary adds depth here, sharing stories that might give you chills or provoke reflection. The island’s natural beauty contrasted with its history makes this a striking sight, even if the visit isn’t on foot.

Passing by Perast

A quick cruise along the coast offers views of Perast, an adorable town with charming stone houses and narrow alleys. While you won’t stop here for a walking tour, the panoramic views are worth noting, and you’ll get a sense of the town’s peaceful, historic character.

Exploring the Submarine Tunnels

One of the tour’s unique features is the pass-by of Yugoslav-era submarine tunnels. These tunnels, built for small ships and submarines, are covered with fake stones to keep them hidden from satellites—a clever piece of Cold War engineering. The 5-minute stop allows for some quick photos and a bit of history, which many travelers find fascinating.

Our Lady of the Rocks

The centerpiece of the tour is the Our Lady of the Rocks island. Built over centuries by local citizens throwing stones around the original chapel, it now boasts a church and museum. The legend of the founding, involving the Mori brothers finding an image of the Mother of God, adds a sense of wonder to the scene.

You’ll have about 30 minutes here to walk around, explore, and take pictures. Many reviews mention the unreal beauty of this island, and it’s clear why it’s a must-see in the bay.

Return to Kotor

The final leg returns you to the starting point in Kotor, passing scenic spots along the way. The trip wraps up about 3 hours after departure, leaving you with plenty of time to explore the town or continue your Montenegro adventures.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

The reviews are a testament to the tour’s appeal. One reviewer noted, “Fast boat, good music, nice guide, picked us up right below our house,” highlighting the convenience and relaxed vibe. Another called it “absolutely spectacular,” praising how easy it was to book, the friendly staff, and the captain’s knowledge. The common thread is the trust in the guides’ local expertise and the breathtaking views that leave a lasting impression.

Many appreciate the private nature of the tour, allowing for personalized questions and a tailored experience. The comfort of the boats, combined with the informative commentary, makes this a good choice for those who want a quick yet meaningful taste of Montenegro’s coast.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time but who want a quality experience. The group is private, which means you won’t be part of a large tour, ensuring more comfort and flexibility.

Included in the price are Wi-Fi, snorkeling gear, and raincoats, so you’re well-equipped for different weather conditions or spontaneous swims. The insurance, fuel, and taxes are covered, so what you see is what you get, with no hidden costs.

While the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users, it’s generally accessible for most able-bodied travelers. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

Value and Who It’s Best For

For the price, this tour offers a well-rounded experience, especially considering the private group setup and included amenities. It’s a particularly good choice for couples, families, or small groups who want an intimate, guided exploration with plenty of opportunities for photos and swimming.

Travelers who love natural wonders and historical sites will appreciate the stops at the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and the submarine tunnels. The knowledgeable guides and modern boats ensure a comfortable and informative journey, making it a worthwhile addition to your Montenegro itinerary.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour around Kotor’s bay encapsulates the essence of Montenegro’s coastal charm. The combination of breathtaking scenery, interesting history, and personalized guidance makes it an experience that can enrich your trip. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a relaxing boat ride, this tour hits many of the right notes.

The flexibility, comfort, and well-chosen stops mean you’ll come away with lasting memories and plenty of stunning photos. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a private, relaxed outing that balances natural beauty with intriguing tales.

While it’s not an all-day extravaganza, it’s a smart, value-packed introduction to everything the Bay of Kotor has to offer. If you’re after a convenient, engaging, and scenic adventure, this tour is likely to delight.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with multiple stops along the way.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll have a licensed English-speaking skipper, Wi-Fi, snorkeling equipment, insurance, and all fees and taxes. The boat also provides raincoats, bottled water, and music options.

Is the tour private?
Yes, the experience is designed for private groups, allowing for a more personalized trip.

What are the main stops?
Highlights include the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, Mamula Island, the submarine tunnels, and a panoramic view of Perast.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s time for swimming at the Blue Cave, and equipment is provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s short duration and comfortable boats suggest it could be suitable for families, but always check with the provider regarding children’s ages.

What about weather?
Raincoats are provided, and the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance if weather conditions are unsuitable.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at United Oceans Boat Tours in Kotor, behind Konoba Akustik, and ends back at the same location.

This private boat experience offers a great way to see Montenegro’s coast in comfort and style, with enough stories and sights to make it a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: