Perast: Boka Bay and Blue Cave Tour - Pick up

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2 A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Introduction

If you’re planning to explore Montenegro’s legendary Bay of Kotor, a boat tour like the Perast: Boka Bay and Blue Cave experience offers a fantastic way to see the highlights without feeling rushed. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a memorable outing packed with scenic views and fascinating sights.

What really appeals to us are the mix of natural wonders, like the Blue Cave, and cultural stops, such as the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. Plus, the opportunity to float past luxury marinas like Porto Montenegro and explore WWII tunnels adds a layer of historical intrigue. One thing to consider is that weather conditions can influence the experience, especially the Blue Cave swim and the route. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate both picture-perfect scenery and an engaging, well-rounded itinerary.

This tour suits anyone looking for a relaxed but informative way to enjoy Montenegro’s coastline—especially if you enjoy boat rides, stunning vistas, and learning a bit about local history in a small-group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning natural sights: Blue Cave swim and scenic Bay of Kotor views
Rich history: Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks and WWII submarine tunnels
Luxurious scenery: View of Porto Montenegro and Mamula Island
Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
Flexible and convenient: Short, 2-hour tour with hotel pickup options
Great for all ages: Family-friendly, with some water safety considerations

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kotor.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at the Pristaniste Perast, a central spot right across from a local market. The meeting point is straightforward to find, with the boat pickup on the dock, making it accessible even if you’re unfamiliar with the area. This setup ensures a smooth start to your adventure, giving you time to soak in the local atmosphere before heading out onto the water.

The Speedboat Ride: A Quick, Exciting Introduction

The tour kicks off with a 5-minute speedboat ride that gets your adrenaline going. The boat is described as very smooth, which is great if you’re wary of choppy seas. The short trip also helps maximize your time at each stop, so you won’t feel like you’re just racing past scenery.

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Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

Your first stop is the island of Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny but magical spot perched in the middle of the bay. You’ll have about 20 minutes here, enough time for photos, a quick walk around, and to hear about the island’s fascinating history from your guide. The island is famous for the church and the tradition of building a new rock on the site every time someone visits by boat, creating a sense of community and devotion.

Reviews highlight the value of this stop: travelers loved the storytelling from guides, which added depth to the visit. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide explained the history—it really brought the island to life.” Although entrance to the church isn’t included, the view from outside is worth the photo opportunities.

Here's some more things to do in Kotor

Exploring WWII Submarine Tunnels

Next, you’ll pass the abandoned tunnels used during WWII, where submarines were once hidden. This stop provides a tangible link to Montenegro’s past military significance and offers some excellent photo opportunities. The 10-minute stop is brief but impactful, especially for history buffs or those curious about wartime Montenegro.

Mamula Island and Its Dark Past

A quick 10-minute photo stop at Mamula Island allows you to glimpse its notorious past as a former prison, often compared to Alcatraz. The island’s stark silhouette and history make for compelling images, and your guide might share stories about its role in the region’s history. It’s a brief stop, but one that enriches your understanding of local history.

Swimming in the Blue Cave

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave, where you’ll have about 30 minutes on site. Here, you can swim inside this natural wonder, renowned for its vibrant blue hues and reflective water. As one reviewer enthusiastically described, “The water color was stunning, and everything felt so calm and peaceful.”

Swimming in the Blue Cave is weather-dependent, so if seas are rough, the operator might suggest visiting an alternative location like Porto Montenegro or Porto Novi. Still, the opportunity to float in such a mesmerizing setting makes it a memorable part of the tour.

Final Scenic Ride Back and Reflection

The trip concludes with a 40-minute ride back to Perast, giving you time to relax and take in the final views of the bay. You might find yourself reminiscing about the mix of natural beauty, historical insights, and the thrill of the boat ride—all wrapped into just a couple of hours.

The Value of the Tour

At around two hours, this tour offers a compact but comprehensive look at Montenegro’s coastline. The inclusion of a live guide adds depth, explaining the sights along the way and filling your trip with stories that bring the scenery to life. Plus, the availability of free drinks—water and juice—keeps you refreshed during the ride.

The price might seem modest given the number of stops and the guided experience, especially considering the opportunity to swim inside the Blue Cave. Keep in mind that entry to Our Lady of the Rocks church isn’t included, so if you wish to go inside, you’ll need to pay separately. Still, the overall value is high when you consider the scenic views, historical context, and the convenience of a small-group setting.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience really suits travelers who want an active but relaxed exploration of the bay, especially those interested in natural wonders and history. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or families with older children who can appreciate the boat ride and the stories. If you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility issues, it’s worth considering, as the tour involves some water activities and quick stops.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This boat tour from Perast offers a balanced mix of scenery, history, and fun. You’ll love the way it combines the tranquility of floating past opulent marinas with the excitement of swimming in the Blue Cave. The knowledgeable guides amplify the experience, making each stop meaningful rather than just photo ops.

For anyone craving a quick, well-organized way to see Montenegro’s coastline, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect if you want to get a sense of the bay’s highlights without wasting the whole day. Plus, the small-group atmosphere ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd.

If you’re visiting Kotor or Perast and want a memorable, photo-worthy adventure, this trip is a worthwhile addition to your Montenegro itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other sightseeing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Pristaniste Perast, where you’ll find the pickup point near the local market. The tour ends back at this same spot.

Is the Blue Cave swimming included?
Yes, you’ll have about 30 minutes at the Blue Cave to swim and explore, weather permitting.

Are drinks provided during the tour?
Yes, complimentary water and juice are included to keep you refreshed.

What is not included in the price?
Entry to Our Lady of the Rocks church is not included, so if you want to visit inside, you will need to pay separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it’s best for children over 1 year old who can comfortably handle the boat ride. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or seasickness.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Clothes suitable for water activities are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

In all, this Perast Boka Bay and Blue Cave tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience Montenegro’s stunning coastlines and historic sites in a short, enjoyable outing. Whether you’re into natural beauty, historical stories, or just relaxing on the water, it’s a trip worth considering.