Ticket Tour: Blue Cave, Mamula Island, Submarine Tunnel, Lady of the Rocks (3hr)

If you’re considering a boat trip around Montenegro’s famous Bay of Kotor, this 3-hour tour offers a taste of some of the most iconic sights and hidden gems outside Kotor. It’s a popular choice, with an impressive 92% of travelers recommending it, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re short on time or just craving a quick water-based adventure, this trip balances scenic views, fascinating stops, and a bit of fun in the sun.

What we really appreciate about this tour are the stunning natural sights—especially the Blue Cave, where the water’s color is truly eye-catching, and the informative guides who bring the area’s stories to life. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and onboard Wi-Fi makes the experience more comfortable and engaging.

On the flip side, a possible concern is the weather dependency—if the sea is rough or the weather is poor, visiting some sites, like the Blue Cave, might be less enjoyable or even canceled. That said, it’s a flexible tour with options for rescheduling or refunds if conditions aren’t right.

This tour should suit anyone looking for a quick yet memorable boat ride, especially those keen to see Montenegro’s coastline and islands without overcommitting. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a snapshot of the area’s beauty, with enough flexibility to customize the experience.

Key Points

• Popular and well-reviewed: With over 400 reviews, it’s a trusted way to see the coast.
• Includes snorkel gear and Wi-Fi: Enhancing comfort and fun during the cruise.
• Multiple stops with varying interests: Blue Cave, Mamula Island, submarine tunnels, and Lady of the Rocks.
• Good value for money: At around $41, you get several highlights packed into 3 hours.
• Weather matters: The Blue Cave visit can be affected by sea conditions.
• Suitable for active, curious travelers: Expect a boat ride with opportunities for swimming and light exploration.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This 3-hour boat tour is designed to give you a quick but comprehensive peek at some of Montenegro’s most engaging sights outside of Kotor’s historic walls. It’s run by Limitless Speed Boat Kotor, and you’ll start right in the heart of town, making it convenient to join without complicated logistics.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is often the tour’s star attraction. Carved over hundreds of years by the impact of waves on a cliff over 100 meters tall, this natural wonder boasts water that turns a vibrant shade of blue. The guide will typically recommend around 20 minutes for swimming and exploring inside, which, based on many reviews, is a highlight for most. Travelers raving about this spot often mention how striking the water looks and how much fun it is to float and snorkel in such clear, colorful waters.

One guest noted that the Blue Cave is really blue, and swimming in the transparent water was a favorite part of the trip. However, keep in mind that the visit to the cave is weather-dependent—if sea conditions aren’t ideal, the stop might be shortened or canceled, as some reviews mention. If you love swimming or snorkeling, be prepared for the possibility of limited time if conditions aren’t perfect.

Second Stop: Mamula Island

Next, you’ll cruise towards Mamula Island, a small circular island at the entrance of the bay. Its history as a fortified island built in the 19th century adds an intriguing layer to this stop. The fortress was originally designed to prevent enemy entry into the bay, and visitors often enjoy the panoramic views of the island’s imposing structure.

Guests frequently comment on the interesting history of Mamula, with one reviewer mentioning the fortress built by Austro-Hungarian General Lazar Mamula. Since the tour describes Mamula as about 200 meters in diameter, you’ll get a good sense of its scale and history from the boat.

Third Stop: Lustica’s Submarine Tunnel

A brief 5-minute stop to view the submarine tunnels of Lutica offers a quick glimpse into this lesser-known site. It’s free to visit, and while it might not be as visually stunning, it adds an element of curiosity and history to your trip.

Final Stop: Lady of the Rocks

The last major highlight is Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificially created island famous for its legend and beautiful church. Built in 1630, the church’s interior is decorated with 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, and the collection of silver plates depicting seafaring life adds to its charm. Entry is not included in the tour, but most visitors find it worthwhile to explore the church and hear the legend shared by the captain during the boat ride.

Many reviews express appreciation for the stunning views of Perast from the boat, especially since the UNESCO-listed town looks striking from the water. The boat’s commentary often includes stories about the island’s creation and significance, which adds depth to the experience.

What to Expect on the Boat

The cruise itself typically lasts about 3 hours, during which you’ll be on a relatively fast boat that can carry up to 30 travelers. According to reviews, the boat is usually equipped with Wi-Fi and snorkeling gear, making it easy to stay connected and enjoy the underwater sights.

Travelers mention the friendly guides who are knowledgeable and eager to share stories, and many highlight how entertaining and professional their captains are. Some reviews praise the music played during the ride, creating a lively atmosphere, although a few mention it being too loud or inappropriate for children. It’s worth noting that the boat ride can be rough or windy, especially in cooler months, so packing a jacket is advised, as one reviewer suggests.

The group size is usually capped at 30 passengers, which is a good balance for a small tour. This allows for a more personal experience, and many reviews commend the crew for being attentive and accommodating.

Pricing and Value

At around $41.71 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the multiple stops and included amenities like bottled water, snorkel equipment, and Wi-Fi. You’re paying for a well-paced, scenic cruise with guides who enhance the experience with stories and local insights.

While the price is fair, some reviews note that booking directly with the company might be cheaper than going through third-party sites like Viator. Still, the convenience of booking ahead and securing your spot makes it a popular choice.

The Overall Experience

Many travelers describe this tour as “brilliant” or “amazing,” especially praising the guides and scenery. Some highlight the stunning views of Montenegro from the water, as well as the chance to swim in clear waters. The Blue Cave gets rave reviews, with one saying it’s really blue, and the submarine tunnel adds a touch of historical intrigue.

That said, a few reviewers mention that the boat ride can be rough and that loud music might detract from the experience. Others wished for more time swimming or exploring on the island rather than just passing by.

Overall, if you’re looking for a short, engaging water trip that hits several key sights with a knowledgeable crew, this tour is a strong option. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a taste of Montenegro’s waters and islands without dedicating an entire day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a compact, scenic outing that covers multiple highlights in a short time. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the bay’s spectacular scenery, and for those who enjoy water activities like swimming and snorkeling.

Since the tour isn’t long, it’s also suitable for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities. If you’re traveling with kids or older adults, keep in mind the boat ride’s potential roughness and windiness, so pack accordingly.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, the boat ride can be bumpy, especially in windy weather. Kids who enjoy water and quick boat rides will likely have fun, but check the weather and plan accordingly.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a jacket or jumper for cooler weather, especially if it’s windy. Sunscreen, a hat, and your camera are also good ideas. Snorkel gear is provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll get a full refund.

How long do stops last?
Typically, the Blue Cave stop is about 20 minutes for swimming and exploring. The other sites are passed by smoothly, with brief stops or views.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The information doesn’t specify accessibility features, so if you need assistance, it’s best to contact the provider directly.

Does the tour include entry to Our Lady of the Rocks?
No, the church entry is not included, but most guests find it worthwhile to visit.

How crowded does it get?
The boat can hold up to 30 travelers, so it’s relatively intimate. It can be lively, especially with music, but not overly crowded.

Is the Wi-Fi on board reliable?
Most reviews mention that Wi-Fi is available, which helps stay connected during the cruise.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a short, scenic adventure in Montenegro that combines natural beauty with some intriguing historical sites, this Blue Cave and Islands tour is a solid pick. It offers great value for the price, especially with included amenities like snorkeling equipment and Wi-Fi, and delivers a good balance of sightseeing, swimming, and storytelling.

Just be prepared for the weather—if it’s windy or rainy, some sites might be less spectacular or even canceled. The experience hinges on the crew’s professionalism and the sea conditions, but overall, many find it well worth the small investment.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a fun, engaging water day, appreciate beautiful views and are comfortable with a bit of boat motion. It’s a wonderful way to see a slice of Montenegro’s coast in a compact, memorable outing.

Happy boating, and enjoy your trip to this stunning part of the world!