Kotor: Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks Group Boat Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro and want to experience the highlights of Kotor Bay without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself, this 3-hour boat tour offers a fantastic way to see some of its most iconic sights. Whether you’re into stunning scenery, a bit of history, or just swimming in crystal-clear waters, this trip covers all those bases.

What we love about this tour is how it balances natural beauty with fascinating heritage sites. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable commentary and friendly vibe, making the experience feel personal and engaging. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the Blue Cave is a highlight for many. A small drawback could be the potential for weather-related adjustments — sometimes the Blue Cave visit might be skipped if conditions are unsafe.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy short, active excursions with a mix of sightseeing, history, and a splash of adventure. It’s especially popular with those who appreciate value for money and want a hassle-free way to explore Kotor’s coast in style.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a unique church on an artificial island with a memorable story.
• Natural Wonder: Swim in the Blue Cave’s perfectly clear waters, a must-see for water lovers.
• Historical Insights: Sail past WWII submarine tunnels and Mamula Island for a glimpse into Montenegro’s past.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking coastlines and the UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor.
• Professional Guides: Guides like Aki, Ortega, and Murat are often praised for their friendliness and insights.
• Good Value: The tour includes snorkel masks, water, and skip-the-line tickets, making it a well-rounded package.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at Kotor Boat Tours, where you’ll meet your guide and skipper — often a friendly face like Sara, who’s noted for her warm welcome. The journey begins with a speedboat ride that whips you out into the bay, giving you your first taste of the exhilarating experience. The boat itself is described as modern and comfortable, with some reviews mentioning shaded seating options, which are perfect for sunny days.

First stop: Our Lady of the Rocks. This artificial island is built on the site where a legend tells of two brothers who found a Madonna painting, inspiring the church’s construction. Visitors spend about 20 minutes here, exploring the church and its small museum. Reviewers like Bethany have called this a “beautiful place,” though they note the entrance fee (around 3 EUR) is modest but not included in the tour price. The church’s lore adds an extra layer of interest, making it more than just a pretty photo spot.

Next, the boat navigates through the Verige Straits — a narrow, scenic passage that’s often highlighted as one of the most beautiful parts of the journey. Here, the views of the coastline are striking, and you’ll get a sense of the maritime character of the region.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Marvel

One of the main draws is the Blue Cave, located on the Lustica Peninsula. Reaching it involves a 70-minute ride, but it’s worth every minute. The cave’s waters glow with an intense blue color, thanks to light filtering through underwater openings. The experience of swimming in the Blue Cave is often described as spectacular, with reviewers like Emma and Bethany mentioning how the water’s clarity and vibrant hue make it unforgettable.

A note from reviews: if you’re on the later tour in the evening, the water might not look quite as spectacular — the magic of the Blue Cave is best during daylight hours. Also, the tour guides are quick to adapt if weather conditions aren’t suitable, sometimes skipping the visit to ensure everyone’s safety.

Exploring the Submarine Tunnels and Mamula Island

On the way back, the boat passes by former submarine tunnels, which reveal a lesser-known side of Montenegro’s military history. A quick stop provides an opportunity for photos and a bit of storytelling about their past use during WWII.

Just past Mamula Island, a fortress turned hotel, you’ll get a quick photo stop. The island’s history as a WWII prison is often highlighted, adding a historical touch to your scenic cruise.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Return Leg

The final leg of the journey takes you past more caves and along the coastline, with often a little time for swimming or relaxing. Reviewers frequently mention how the guides, like Aki, Ortega, or Murat, sprinkle interesting facts and music, making the trip lively and educational.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a guide, water, snorkel masks, and safety equipment — all essential for a fun and safe trip. You’ll also be given skip-the-line tickets to Our Lady of the Rocks, saving you time and hassle. However, the church museum entry fee (around 3 EUR) is not included, so budget for that if you wish to go inside.

Note: No hotel pickup, so plan to meet at the designated spot 15 minutes early. The meeting point is easy to find, marked by an information desk near the sea, with friendly staff like Sara ready to greet you.

The Experience in Practice

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. For example, Aki and Ortega were praised for their helpfulness and engaging commentary, making the trip more than just a boat ride. The boat itself is noted for its comfort and modern features, and the small group size helps keep the experience intimate and relaxed.

Timing is generally well-managed, with most stops providing enough time to explore, take photos, and enjoy a quick swim. For those who like to take their time, the sunset tour (around 6 pm) might be especially appealing because it offers stunning views and fewer crowds at the sites.

The Value for Money

While the tour costs around 40 EUR, many reviewers feel this is justified given the quality of the boat, the expert guides, and the included activities. The fact that it’s a small-group experience adds to the sense of intimacy and personalized service.

Potential Drawbacks

Weather can influence the itinerary — if sea conditions are rough, the Blue Cave visit might be skipped for safety. Also, the church museum requires an extra fee and has opening hours that vary by season, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for water enthusiasts, history buffs, and scenery lovers who want a comprehensive yet manageable adventure in Kotor Bay. It’s especially suitable for those looking for value-packed excursions that include swimming, sightseeing, and cultural visits in a short timeframe.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer small-group tours with knowledgeable guides, as reviews indicate a highly personalized and friendly atmosphere. If you’re visiting during the summer, be prepared for crowds in Kotor, but the early or late tours tend to be less busy.

The Sum Up

This Kotor Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks boat tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances natural beauty, history, and fun. The modern boat, friendly guides, and carefully curated stops make it a standout choice for those wanting to see the best of Kotor Bay without the hassle of planning each detail.

You’ll love the stunning scenery, the chance to swim in the Blue Cave, and the stories from guides who clearly enjoy sharing their knowledge. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Montenegro’s coast, especially if you’re short on time but want a memorable adventure.

For travelers seeking good value, engaging guides, and breathtaking views, this tour hits the mark. It’s suited for those who enjoy active outings and are eager to combine history, nature, and a splash of fun in one go.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at a designated meeting point in Kotor, so plan to meet there 15 minutes early.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 3 hours long, with specific start times available depending on the day.

Can I visit Our Lady of the Rocks during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a 20-minute stop for photos and visits, but entry to the church museum (around 3 EUR) is not included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and light clothes are recommended.

Is swimming allowed at the Blue Cave?
Yes, there is time to swim in the Blue Cave, which many reviewers have described as a highlight.

Can the itinerary change?
Yes, in poor weather conditions or high sea waves, the Blue Cave visit may be skipped for safety reasons.

What is the group size?
The experience is often described as intimate, with small groups that allow for personalized attention from guides.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, wheelchair users, or individuals with mobility issues.

How do I confirm my booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour truly offers a snapshot of Montenegro’s coast — stunning scenery, engaging stories, and a splash of adventure — perfect for those wanting a memorable day on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: