Kotor: Private boat tour Blue Cave & Our Lady of the Rocks

If you’re visiting Montenegro’s stunning Kotor Bay and looking for a way to see its highlights in a compact, personalized way, a private boat tour might just be your best bet. This 3-hour excursion from Sea&Sun Adventures combines some of the most iconic sights with the chance to enjoy the bay’s natural beauty, all from the comfort of a private speedboat.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the stunning Blue Cave where sunlight turns the water into a shimmering turquoise. Second, the opportunity to walk on Our Lady of the Rocks, a beautifully crafted artificial island packed with history. Third, the chance to explore hidden spots like submarine tunnels and Mamula Island, which many travelers miss during larger tours.

That said, keep in mind that this is a half-day experience, so if you’re craving a deep dive into Montenegro’s history or lingering at each site, you might find the 3-hour limit a bit tight. This tour suits travelers who want a personalized, efficient glimpse of Kotor Bay’s highlights, especially those who enjoy quick swims, scenic views, and a bit of history with a relaxed vibe.

Good To Know

• Private and customizable tour allows for tailored experiences within the 3-hour window
• Stunning natural sights like the Blue Cave and panoramic bay views
• Historical and hidden sites, including submarine tunnels and Mamula Island
• Includes drinks and diving masks, making the experience comfortable and fun
• Start and end point at a central location, with pick-up within Kotor Bay
• Suitable for travelers seeking an active, scenic, and exclusive boat trip

You can check if your dates are available here:

Why You’ll Love This Tour

This private boat tour offers a fantastic way to see Kotor Bay without the crowds and in a more intimate setting. The speedboat whisks you smoothly between sights, giving you up-close views of some truly impressive spots. The guides are noted to be knowledgeable, providing insightful commentary that enriches your experience without overloading you with history.

The Blue Cave is the highlight for many—swimming inside a natural wonder that glows with a captivating turquoise hue. The ability to use provided diving masks makes it easy to get a good look at the underwater magic. The quick stop at Mamula Island offers a chance for photos at a fortress that echoes Montenegro’s military past, while the submarine tunnels reveal a different side of 20th-century history.

Lastly, a walk on Our Lady of the Rocks is a charming, memorable moment, with a 17th-century church and stunning views of the bay. The short, flexible stop here allows you to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour starts at Spomenik palim za slobodu, a central, easily accessible point in Kotor Bay. Your English-speaking skipper will meet you there, ready to take you on a scenic ride through some of Montenegro’s most treasured sights.

Your first leg is a speedboat ride through the bay, where you’ll enjoy the impressive views of old fisherman villages and rugged coastlines. The boat glides past various points of interest, and you’ll get a chance to appreciate the intact nature of the area.

Next, you arrive at the Blue Cave, where you’ll spend about 25 minutes swimming and taking photos. The cave’s natural phenomenon of sunlight and water interaction creates that world-famous turquoise glow—something you won’t want to miss. The included diving masks make it easy to explore underwater, whether you’re a confident swimmer or a beginner.

After the Blue Cave, the boat heads towards Mamula Island, a former Austro-Hungarian fortress turned photo stop. Here, you can snap pictures of the island’s military architecture and panoramic views. The boat then cruises into the submarine tunnels, a fascinating glimpse into Montenegro’s naval past. A quick stop allows for photos and a brief visit, giving you a sense of the hidden history beneath the bay.

The final stop is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, built by human effort in the 15th century. You’ll have around 30 minutes to walk around, take photos, and visit the tiny church, which adds a touch of historical charm to the scene.

Throughout the tour, you’ll be accompanied by a friendly, informative skipper who explains the sights and answers questions, making the experience both fun and educational.

Each Stop in Detail

Blue Cave: As one of Montenegro’s natural miracles, this cave is a highlight. Being inside the cave offers a surreal experience with sunlight filtering through the water, turning it into a shimmering blue. The brief swim break means you can cool off and capture some Insta-worthy photos, especially with the masks included. Reviewers frequently mention how the interaction of light and water creates an almost magical effect, making this stop well worth it.

Mamula Island: This fortified island is known for its military history. The fortress’s imposing presence and panoramic views make it an ideal spot for photos. It’s brief but meaningful—a chance to appreciate Montenegro’s strategic past and enjoy the scenery. The slow-down here for photos is appreciated, according to travelers, especially since it’s a striking piece of Montenegro’s maritime heritage.

Submarine Tunnels: Montenegro’s submarines once hid in these tunnels during Yugoslavian times. Visiting them provides a tangible connection to the country’s military history. The short 5-minute visit allows for photos and a quick walk-through, adding a layer of depth to your understanding of the area.

Our Lady of the Rocks: This tiny man-made island is a visual treat. Built over centuries, it features a charming church, a small museum, and stunning views of the bay. The walk around the island is a peaceful moment amid the scenic setting. Many reviews mention the church’s interior as worth a small entrance fee (€2), and the overall atmosphere makes it a memorable stop.

Experience Quality and Practical Details

The tour is operated by Sea&Sun Adventures, known for their friendly, professional approach. The tour is private, which means you can customize within the 3-hour window—perhaps shortening the Blue Cave swim or adding a quick coffee break. Pick-up is arranged at the closest dock to your accommodation, making logistics simple.

The cost is a good value considering the inclusions: boat transfers, an English-speaking skipper, drinks, masks, and lifejackets. The experience is designed for comfort and safety, with lifejackets provided and the boat equipped for scenic sightseeing and swimming.

Duration and timing are flexible to some extent, with availability to match your schedule. Since the private group can tailor the experience, it becomes especially convenient for families or small groups who want a personalized touch.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Why This Tour Works

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a compact, scenic, and personal way to explore Kotor Bay’s highlights. The mix of natural beauty, history, and fun swimming makes it suitable for most ages, though not ideal for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or babies under one year.

The knowledgeable guides and the chance to swim inside the Blue Cave, combined with spectacular views of Montenegro’s coast, ensure you get both relaxation and excitement. The tour’s emphasis on authentic sights—rather than commercialized attractions—adds value for those seeking genuine experiences.

Summary: Who Will Benefit Most?

This private boat tour is ideal for travelers who value intimate, flexible experiences and want to cover multiple sights in a short time. It’s excellent for couples, small families, or friends who appreciate scenic beauty combined with a touch of history. The included drinks, masks, and personalized service enhance the experience, making it both comfortable and memorable.

If you’re looking for a scenic, activity-packed half-day that highlights Montenegro’s natural wonders and historical sites, this tour offers a good balance of fun, education, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy quick swims, panoramic views, and exploring hidden corners of Kotor Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last? The private tour is designed to last approximately 3 hours, but you can customize within that window with your skipper.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins and ends at Spomenik palim za slobodu, a central meeting point near the city park in Kotor Bay.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes boat transfers, an English-speaking skipper, drinks, diving masks, and lifejackets. Entrance to Our Lady of the Rocks church costs €2 per person if you choose to visit.

Is the tour private? Yes, this is a private experience for your group, allowing for personalized adjustments.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave? Yes, swimming inside the Blue Cave is part of the experience, with about 25 minutes allocated for it.

Are there any restrictions? The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year.

What should I wear or bring? Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and waterproof shoes if you prefer. Masks are provided, but you might want your own snorkel if you have one.

Is there flexibility in the itinerary? Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can discuss adjustments with your skipper, like shortening swimming time or adding a coffee break.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour in Kotor combines the best of Montenegro’s natural beauty, history, and exclusive charm. It’s a fantastic way to see multiple highlights without the hassle of large group tours and offers enough flexibility to suit your preferences. The combination of scenic cruising, swimming in the Blue Cave, and exploring historic sites makes for a well-rounded, memorable experience.

If you’re after a fun, luxurious, yet authentic way to experience Kotor Bay—without breaking the bank—this trip delivers solid value with expert guidance and stunning sights. Perfect for travelers who want a taste of everything Montenegro offers, all wrapped into a short but impactful adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: