Tivat: Blue Cave and Old Submarine Tunnel Speedboat Tour

Tivat: Blue Cave and Old Submarine Tunnel Speedboat Tour — Honest Review

If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro and want a quick but memorable way to see some of the most striking sights along the coast, this speedboat tour from Tivat might be just what you need. It promises a swift 100-minute adventure packed with swimming, sightseeing, and unique historical sights—all at an approachable price of around $41 per person.

What caught our attention? First, the stunning views of Boka Bay—a UNESCO-listed area often called the “southernmost fjord of Europe.” Second, the chance to swim in the Blue Cave and explore a piece of Cold War history at the old submarine tunnel. On paper, it sounds like a compact, exciting excursion, but let’s unpack what you can really expect, including the good, the not-so-good, and who this tour suits best.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour duration is just under two hours, so if you’re after a more leisurely, in-depth experience, this might feel a bit rushed. Plus, the tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point in Donja Lastva. Still, for those looking to tick off key sights in a fast-paced, scenic way, this trip definitely deserves consideration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of Montenegro’s iconic coast. It’s well-suited for travelers interested in beautiful scenery, a quick swim, and some light historical exploration. Families, solo travelers, and small groups all seem to enjoy it, especially if they’re keen on a combination of sightseeing and water activities.

Key Points

• Quick and scenic: You get a 100-minute trip with plenty of remarkable views along Boka Bay.
• Swim in the Blue Cave: A highlight, offering a chance to relax and cool off in a naturally beautiful setting.
• Historical peek: A brief stop at the old submarine tunnel gives a glimpse into Cold War history.
• Cost-effective: At $41, it’s a reasonably priced way to see multiple sights without breaking the bank.
• No hotel transfer: Be prepared to find your way to the meeting point in Donja Lastva.
• Good for photo lovers: The panoramic views of Mamula, Lutica peninsula, and Kotor Old Town are fantastic for snapping memorable shots.

What to Expect from the Experience

Meeting Point and Start

You’ll meet your guide at the dock in front of St. Roko church in Donja Lastva, a Tivat suburb. It’s a straightforward location, but make sure to arrive a little early if possible, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The tour begins with a 35-minute scenic ride along the coast, giving you an introductory view of small villages, lush mountains, and the sparkling sea.

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The Scenic Coastline

We loved the way the boat glides past charming little villages, each with their own character—pale stone houses, old churches, and lush greenery spilling toward the water. The ride offers a real sense of Montenegro’s layout and natural beauty. Plus, you’ll get a glimpse of Lutica peninsula and Mamula island, which are both very photogenic spots.

The Blue Cave

The main event for many is the Blue Cave—and it doesn’t disappoint. This large cavern, around 300 square meters, is famous for the unusual blue glow created by the sunlight refracting through the water. According to reviews, the cave’s arches are about twenty-five meters high, and the water’s blue reflection on the walls creates a magical, almost surreal atmosphere.

You’ll spend approximately 20 minutes swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise waters—an activity many find refreshing and fun. Bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen, as the bright sun can make it feel warmer than expected. Several visitors mentioned the water is clear and inviting, and the experience of floating in the blue-lit water is truly memorable.

The Old Submarine Tunnel

On the return, there’s a brief 5-minute stop to view the abandoned submarine tunnel. Cut into the steep banks of Lutica Bay, these tunnels date back to Yugoslavia days and served as hidden naval hideouts and repair spots. It’s a quick stop, but it offers a glimpse into Cold War history, and many found it surprisingly interesting. You’ll get a chance to take photos of the 50-meter long, 7-meter wide tunnel, and the steep banks surrounding it.

Final Scenic Stop & Return

After the tunnel, the boat heads back toward Donja Lastva, with about 10 minutes to enjoy more views of Boka Bay. The landscape is breathtaking—an ideal way to wind down the trip while soaking in the last impressions of the bay’s natural beauty.

The Practicalities

Duration and Group Size

At just 100 minutes, this is a compact experience. The group size isn’t specified, but most tours like this tend to be small, which helps create a more personal feel. The guide speaks English and Serbo-Croatian, making communication straightforward.

Cost and Value

For $41, you’re getting access to several top sights in a short amount of time. The price includes fuel, bottled water, snorkeling gear, and raincoats—so no extra charges for the essentials. Since hotel pickup isn’t included, budget some time or transportation to reach the meeting point.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to organize your own transport to Donja Lastva. If you’re staying in Kotor or Tivat, this isn’t a big deal, but if you’re relying on public transport, plan accordingly. Also, the tour doesn’t include meals or longer stops, so come prepared with your own snacks if needed.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Breathtaking scenery and panoramic views which make for great photos.
• The swimming in the Blue Cave is a definite highlight, with many reviewers calling it “magical.”
• The affordable price point offers good value for the sights seen.
• The short duration fits well into a busy itinerary, making it a flexible option.

Cons:

• The experience is brief, so if you prefer in-depth exploration, it might feel rushed.
• No hotel pickup, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation.
• The weather can affect the experience, especially the Blue Cave swimming—on windy days, conditions might not be ideal.
• Some reviewers mentioned the crowds or waiting times at certain spots, but generally, it’s a smooth trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a quick, scenic, water-based adventure that hits the highlights of Montenegro’s coast, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the Blue Cave, enjoy breathtaking views of Mamula and Kotor, and learn a bit about Cold War history without spending hours on a boat.

It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with a group or solo and prefer a guided experience that offers both sightseeing and some fun swimming. If you’re looking for a calm, lengthy cruise or in-depth cultural tour, this probably isn’t the right fit.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour from Tivat balances stunning scenery, a quick but memorable Blue Cave swim, and a touch of history—all wrapped into a compact 100-minute trip. The experience offers a great way to absorb Montenegro’s rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters without much fuss or expense.

We think it’s a solid choice for those with limited time or anyone eager to tick off key sights in Boka Bay. The views alone make it worth considering, especially if you’re keen on capturing some incredible photos or simply floating in that luminous blue water.

While it’s not a comprehensive day-long tour, the value for money and the scenic highlights make it a worthwhile add-on to any Montenegro itinerary—just be sure to arrive prepared for sunshine and to organize your transport to the meeting point.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to swim?
While swimming in the Blue Cave is part of the experience, earlier notices suggest it’s more about enjoying the water than diving deep. If you’re comfortable in the water, you’ll have no problem; if not, you can still admire the view from the boat.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour involves a short boat ride and swimming, so it might be suitable for older children comfortable with water activities. Always check with the provider if you’re traveling with young kids, especially for safety.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel transfer isn’t included. You will need to make your way to the meeting point in Donja Lastva.

How long is the Blue Cave swim?
You’ll have approximately 20 minutes to swim and snorkel, which is enough for most people to enjoy the cave’s beauty.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather can impact the experience—especially for swimming and boat rides. Wind and rain can make the trip less enjoyable or even alter the schedule.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this tour offers a quick but beautifully scenic taste of Montenegro’s coast, perfect if you want to see key sights without committing a whole day. It combines natural beauty, a splash of history, and fun water activities, all at a reasonable price. Just be ready for a brisk ride and organize your own transport to the meeting point—it’s a small price to pay for a memorable trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: