Kotor:Blue Cave ,Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Boat tour

If you’re eyeing a trip to Montenegro and want a taste of its stunning scenery and intriguing history, this boat tour from Kotor might just be what you’re after. We’ve looked into what it offers, and from what we can tell, it’s a solid choice for those who love natural beauty combined with a dash of local stories.

Two things really catch our eye about this experience: first, the chance to swim in the Blue Cave—a highlight many travelers rave about—and second, the visit to the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks, which is a fascinating blend of history and scenery. On the flip side, a possible snag is that the tour can be affected by weather conditions, which might mean missing out on the Blue Cave if sea waves get too rough.

This tour is best suited for anyone who enjoys a relaxed boat ride, scenic views, and an easy way to tick off some of Montenegro’s top sights without the hassle of driving or planning. It’s particularly good if you’re after a quick, well-organized excursion that hits the highlights but keeps the pace manageable.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery around the Bay of Kotor and Lustica Peninsula.
• Swim in the Blue Cave (subject to weather conditions).
• Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a unique church on an artificial island.
• Discover historical sites like Mamula Island’s WWII prison.
• Guided experience with helpful commentary and included amenities.
• Consider weather and timing when planning your visit, especially to ensure access to the Blue Cave.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Looking at the details, this 3-hour boat trip is a straightforward yet scenic way to explore Boka Bay. The experience kicks off at Marina Kotor, where you’re picked up and taken out on a speedboat. You’ll enjoy skip-the-line tickets to Our Lady of the Rocks, although the church museum itself isn’t included in the entry fee. Your guide will be with you throughout, sharing stories and pointing out interesting sights.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

The tour begins with a visit to the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks. This site is a big draw, not just because of its striking location but also because of the story behind it. According to local legend, two brothers found a Madonna and Child painting, which led to the construction of the church on this small island. It’s a spot that combines scenic beauty with a sense of history.

While tickets for the church museum aren’t included, you can still explore the church itself and enjoy the panoramic views of the bay. Keep in mind the dress code—no swimsuits or beachwear here—and plan to dress appropriately for entering the church.

Cruising through Verige Straits and Beyond

Next, you’ll cruise along the Verige Straits, known for their dramatic beauty as the narrowest part of the bay. The guide will likely point out notable sights here, adding some context to the views. The boat then heads past Mamula Island, a former WWII prison site that’s now a striking historical marker. The scenery here is quite impressive, with rugged coastline and the island’s fortress creating a memorable backdrop.

Blue Cave and Swimming

The Blue Cave is the star attraction for many. Once you reach its location along the Lustica Peninsula, you’ll have a chance to swim in its crystal-clear waters. This is usually a big hit, especially if the weather is calm and sunny, as the water’s color turns a vibrant blue that’s hard to match. However, be aware that in challenging weather or high sea waves, the Blue Cave visit might be skipped for safety reasons, as noted by the tour operator.

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Exploring Submarine Tunnels

On the return leg, you’ll explore caves that once served as submarine tunnels—a little glimpse into Montenegro’s military history. Though not open to the public for entry, seeing these underground passages adds an interesting layer to the trip, especially if you’re into hidden stories and secret sites.

The Experience on the Water

From what travelers have shared, the guides are knowledgeable, often pointing out the key sights and giving some background, which enriches the trip. That said, some reviews point out minor flaws—like one traveler mentioning the captain was hurried and didn’t speak much English, while another noted the driver kept smoking on board. So, if you’re a big fan of chatty guides or a quiet ride, keep that in mind.

The boat itself is a speedboat, which offers a quick, exhilarating ride across the bay, perfect for those who prefer a lively pace. The tour includes water, a snorkel mask, and safety equipment, so you can take a quick dip or explore the underwater if you feel like it.

Practical Details

• Price: $59 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the sights and amenities included.
• Pickup/Drop-off: Hotel pickup is included, making it easy to start your day without worrying about parking or organizing transportation.
• Duration: Just about three hours, giving you a taste of the main sites without a long day on the water.
• What to bring: A towel, swimwear, and perhaps a sunhat or sunscreen.

When to Go and Weather Considerations

Remember, weather can impact the tour, especially the Blue Cave visit. If sea conditions are rough, the guide may skip the cave for your safety. The tour operates from April to October, with varying opening hours for Our Lady of the Rocks, so plan accordingly.

How Does It Compare to Similar Experiences?

There are quite a few boat tours around Kotor, from private charters to full-day excursions. This one strikes a balance: it’s a shorter, more affordable trip that hits the highlights, especially suited for travelers who want a manageable, guided experience without committing to a full day or a hefty price tag.

Some reviews highlight beautiful stops and a helpful guide, but others mention the captain’s hurried pace or the smoking during the trip. It’s worth noting that the small group size and included amenities make for a comfortable outing, especially if you’re traveling with friends or as a couple.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic boat trip that offers great photo ops, the chance to swim in a famous cave, and a peek into Montenegro’s maritime history, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially good if you want to see Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave without fuss.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth cultural experience or guided commentary in your language, you might find this tour somewhat basic. Also, keep in mind that weather can affect the itinerary, so flexibility is key. Not suitable for those needing wheelchair access or with mobility issues, as the boat and site access are limited.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Kotor offers a well-rounded snapshot of Montenegro’s coast, blending natural beauty with a touch of history. It’s an accessible and reasonably priced way to explore the bay’s highlights in just a few hours, especially if you’re comfortable with a lively boat ride and some spontaneity around weather conditions.

Travelers who appreciate stunning vistas, a swim in the Blue Cave, and guided insights will likely find it worthwhile. But, as always, it’s good to have a flexible attitude and be prepared for possible changes due to sea conditions or weather.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it can suit families with older children who are comfortable on boats. However, it’s not recommended for very young kids or those with mobility issues, as the boat ride can be bumpy and the sites involve some walking and climbing.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a towel, your swimwear if you want to swim, and possibly sun protection like sunscreen or a hat. The tour provides water, snorkeling masks, and safety equipment.

Can I visit Our Lady of the Rocks museum?
Tickets for the church museum are not included, but you can visit the church itself. The museum sometimes closes earlier than the church, depending on the season.

Will I definitely get to see the Blue Cave?
Not necessarily. The Blue Cave visit depends on weather conditions, and if sea waves are high, the guide may skip it for safety reasons.

How long is the tour?
About three hours, including the time for stops, sightseeing, and swimming.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if weather looks unfavorable or plans change.

In all, this boat trip offers a pretty good snapshot of Montenegro’s coast. It’s an easy, enjoyable way to see some iconic sites without a lot of fuss, especially if you love the idea of swimming in a famous cave and spotting historic islands along the way. Just remember to go with an open mind about the weather, and you’ll likely come away with some memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: