Speed Boat Trip: Kotor Bay attraction , Blue Cave and beach time

If you’re considering a boat trip around Montenegro’s stunning Kotor Bay, you’ve probably come across this popular speedboat tour. Promising scenic views, a visit to the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks, a swim in the Blue Cave, and some relaxing beach time, it offers a compact yet immersive way to see the area’s highlights.

From what we’ve gathered, this tour earns high praise for its knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery you’ll experience. We love that it’s a small-group experience, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. On the flip side, a possible snag is the weather-dependent nature of the Blue Cave swim — sometimes, wind or waves can cut your visit short.

This trip seems best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing without feeling rushed. If you like the idea of exploring by water and enjoy a laid-back vibe with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour could be just right for you.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 10 guests) means a more intimate experience.
• Highlights include Our Lady of the Rocks, Mamula Island, Blue Cave, and Dobrec Beach.
• Blue Cave swimming is a major draw, but weather can affect the experience.
• The tour offers around four hours of fun, balancing sightseeing and relaxation.
• Great value for the price when considering the stops, scenery, and inclusions.
• The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude.

A Closer Look at the Speedboat Experience in Kotor Bay

This tour offers a chance to see the best of Kotor Bay from a different perspective — from the water. It’s a compact cruise designed to pack in some of the most iconic sights and natural wonders, all within roughly four hours. The journey kicks off at the meeting point in Kotor, with a small group of no more than 10 travelers, making it a more personalized experience than larger group tours.

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-maintained, with the added bonus of snorkelling gear included. Bottled water is provided, ensuring you stay hydrated during the cruise. While snorkelling equipment is offered, some reviews mention that in certain cases, equipment like snorkeling gear might not be available, or some expectations might not be fully met. Still, the focus here is on the scenery, swimming, and exploring.

At just under $70 per person, the price point seems reasonable when you compare it to the variety of stops and the small-group experience. It’s a great value whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group wanting a flexible, fun outing.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Our Lady of the Rocks

Your first stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island famous for its church and museum. The boat pauses here long enough for a quick visit, with the guide explaining its history. Visitors can buy tickets separately if they want to step inside the church or museum, but the tour doesn’t include entrance fees.

Many reviews highlight this as an interesting cultural spot, especially if you like a quick peek into local traditions and history. Some might find the 25-minute stop a little brief, but it’s enough to get a sense of the island and snap some photos.

Mamula Island Passing

Next, the boat glides past Mamula Island, which has a military history dating back to WWII. The guide explains its purpose, though access to the island is currently restricted due to construction, so no landings are possible. Instead, it’s a chance to admire the island’s fortress-like appearance and hear a bit of its history.

Blue Cave Swim

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave, where you can swim and snorkel in the glowing, azure waters. The guide will take you inside the cave to enjoy the surreal beauty, with about 20 minutes allocated for this activity. It’s a popular spot, often busy in the summer, but the guide makes an effort to find quieter areas for swimming when possible.

A few reviews mention that sometimes, due to wind or weather, swimming in the Blue Cave isn’t feasible, leading to a quick turnaround or an alternative stop. Still, most travelers agree that the experience of swimming in such a unique environment is worth the effort.

Dobrec Beach Break

After the Blue Cave, the tour continues to Dobrec Beach, where you can relax, swim, or grab a quick snack. This beach stop lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to unwind on the sands or enjoy Montenegro’s local fare. Several reviews praise the beach for its natural beauty and tranquility, making it a perfect spot to soak up the sun and clear your head after the boat ride.

Lustica and the Submarine Tunnel

On the return, you’ll visit the old submarine base in Lustica. This former military installation adds a touch of wartime intrigue to your journey. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, free of charge, but many find it interesting and worth a quick look.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Many positive reviews emphasize the expertise of the guides, especially the boat captains, who are often described as knowledgeable and friendly. They provide interesting stories and helpful tips, making the experience more engaging. For instance, one reviewer said, “The captain was extremely knowledgeable about the history of the area and answered many questions,” which adds a lot to the trip.

The scenery is another big draw — from the rugged coastline to the historic islands, the views are stunning from the water. Several reviewers mention that the boat ride alone is worth the price, offering a relaxed way to see Montenegro’s impressive landscape.

Swimming and snorkelling opportunities, mainly at the Blue Cave and Dobrec Beach, are highly appreciated. Even if the Blue Cave swim doesn’t happen due to weather, the other stops make up for it. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and bottled water adds to the value.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a taste of Montenegro’s natural beauty without a full day commitment. It’s perfect for those who enjoy small-group settings and prefer avoiding large crowds. If you enjoy water-based adventures, scenic boat rides, and are comfortable with some flexibility around weather or timing, you’ll find a lot to love.

It’s also a good choice for anyone traveling with a moderate sense of adventure who appreciates informative guides, beautiful vistas, and a chance to relax on a beach. Keep in mind that if you prefer detailed sightseeing with longer stops or want to avoid weather-dependent activities like swimming in the Blue Cave, you might want to consider private options.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day trip.
• Price: Around $70 per person. When you factor in the stops, scenery, and guide expertise, it offers good value.
• Group size: Max 10 guests, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
• Weather considerations: The Blue Cave swim is weather-dependent; windy days can limit access, so plan accordingly.
• What to bring: Towel, swimwear, and perhaps some snacks if you want more than just the provided water.
• Tickets: Some stops, like Our Lady of the Rocks, require separate entrance fees. Budget for that if you plan to visit inside.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this speedboat tour of Kotor Bay hits the right notes for many travelers: stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and a relaxed pace. The small-group setting makes it more personal, and the variety of stops keeps things interesting. Yes, weather can impact the Blue Cave experience, but most reviews mention that the guide’s flexibility and the other stops help make the trip worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for those who want a fun, scenic escape on the water, paired with a bit of cultural and historical insight. It’s not a deep-dive into every detail but offers enough to create memorable moments and beautiful photos. If you’re looking for a well-organized, enjoyable outing that balances adventure with relaxation, this might just be the trip for you.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the short duration and gentle boat ride make it generally suitable for children, especially if they enjoy swimming and outdoor activities. However, parents should consider weather conditions and their child’s comfort with boats.

Does the tour include entrance tickets?
No, the tour price doesn’t include entrance tickets for Our Lady of the Rocks or the museum. You can purchase tickets on-site if you wish to explore inside the church or museum.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a towel, swimwear, and perhaps some snacks or a camera. The tour provides bottled water and snorkeling equipment, but check if you want additional gear or personal items.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour. However, some reviews mention that in specific instances, equipment might not be available, so it’s good to be prepared.

How weather-dependent is the Blue Cave visit?
It can be quite weather-dependent. Wind or waves may prevent safe swimming or entering the cave, in which case the guide will find alternative stops. Most travelers find the other stops compensate for this.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed adventure around Kotor Bay with a knowledgeable guide and plenty of opportunities to swim and unwind, this speedboat trip offers a genuinely enjoyable experience. Just remember to stay flexible with the weather, and you’ll likely come away with beautiful memories and fantastic photos.