Blue cave, Mamula island, Submarine tunnels and Our lady of the Rocks (3h)

If you’re visiting Montenegro, especially around Kotor, chances are you’ll want to experience the bay’s unique charm from the water. This 3-hour boat tour offers an efficient way to see some of the most iconic spots along the coast, from natural wonders to man-made marvels. While it’s not a full-day adventure, it packs in enough highlights to leave you with memorable photos and stories.

What we love about this experience is how it balances spectacular scenery with interesting stops—no boring moments here. The Blue Cave, Mamula Island, and Our Lady of the Rocks all offer different kinds of appeal, whether it’s the natural wonder of the cave or the fascinating history of Mamula. Plus, the tour is praised for its friendly guides and good value.

That said, a possible consideration is the weather-dependent nature of boat trips—rough seas can impact what you see or how comfortable you feel. Also, some reviews mention that the Blue Cave can be underwhelming at times, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re expecting a total showstopper.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, well-organized introduction to Kotor’s waterscapes. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to see a variety of sights firsthand.

Key Points

• Highlights-packed: Includes Blue Cave, Mamula Island, submarine tunnels, and Our Lady of the Rocks
• Good value: At around $40, it offers a lot for the price, especially given the number of stops and the guide’s knowledge
• Flexible experience: You can bring your own drinks and play music onboard for a personalized touch
• Limited duration: Just about 3 hours, so it’s ideal for a quick taste of the bay
• Weather matters: The tour relies on good weather; cancellations or changes are possible
• Group size: Small groups (up to 20) mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds

If you’re pondering whether this tour is worth it, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect, along with some honest insights. We’ll explore each stop, highlight what makes it special, and share what past travelers have said.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at Park Slobode in Kotor, a central and accessible location. You’ll hop onto a comfortable speedboat, and from the start, the focus is on enjoying the stunning scenery of Kotor Bay. The boat ride itself is often highlighted in reviews: some mention the friendly guide, good music, and the overall relaxed vibe. While the group can be as small as 6 or as many as 20, most travelers agree that the small size makes for a more intimate experience.

Cruising Along Kotor Bay: Natural Beauty on Display

The first part of the journey is a marvelous cruise along the coast, where you’ll see ancient fishing villages, lush vegetation, and striking architecture. This part of the trip sets the tone—expect incredible views of rugged cliffs and charming settlements that seem to cling to the hillsides. Many reviews rave about the breathtaking scenery that unfolds during this stretch, with one noting the “amazing colours” and “beautiful landscapes.”

This segment is also an opportunity to settle in, enjoy the breeze, and snap some photos. The guides usually share interesting tidbits about the area’s history and geography, which helps bring the scenery to life.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave—a natural formation created by eons of wave action, located on the Lustica peninsula. Access is via boat, and the cave features two entrances: a wide, low one and a narrow, tall one. Inside, the play of light and water often produces a vivid blue hue, although some reviews suggest that the “blue” might not always live up to the hype. As one traveler put it, “The blue cave was beautiful and interesting pass bys on submarine tunnels.”

You’ll spend about 20 minutes here, enough time to admire the view, take some photos, and even do a quick swim if you’re feeling adventurous. Many folks love the chance to snorkel or just float in the clear water. Keep in mind, the cave can be crowded with other boats, especially in high season, which can detract slightly from the experience.

Mamula Island: A Slice of History

Next, the boat stops briefly at Mamula Island, a small circular island that has served various purposes over the years—most notably as a prison in 1853. Although many reviews note that Mamula is uninhabited and doesn’t offer much to do on land, its historic fortress and commanding views make it a worthwhile photo stop.

One traveler mentioned, “Mamula is a small islet, and you get a quick glance at its fortress, which is quite photogenic.” It’s a good moment to stretch your legs and snap some shots of the fortress walls with the bay as a backdrop.

Our Lady of the Rocks: A Man-Made Marvel

The final stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island constructed from rocks and old ships, with a modest church built on top. The church has a small museum with religious artifacts and offers a fascinating glimpse into local traditions. Many reviews mention that the church is worth a quick visit, though note that entrance costs around 1.5 euros.

Visitors often find the setting quite picturesque, with the tiny island floating serenely in the water. This stop offers a peaceful and reflective moment after the more active parts of the tour.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who add context and fun facts throughout. One said, “The guide was friendly and shared great information,” while others highlight the music and relaxed atmosphere.

The value is also a recurring theme—most agree that for around $40, you get a well-rounded glimpse of Kotor’s water-based attractions, especially considering the small group size and the flexibility to bring your own drinks.

However, some reviews note that weather can impact the experience. Rough seas might make the boat ride bumpier or limit certain stops, especially the Blue Cave, which some found a bit underwhelming or crowded.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Timing: Most bookings are made about 17 days in advance, which is smart if you want to secure your preferred date.
• Weather: Keep an eye on the forecast, as the tour is weather-dependent. Cancellations due to bad weather are possible but usually come with options for a different date or full refund.
• Comfort: The boat is described as comfy, but be prepared for possibly choppy seas—especially if weather is windy. Carry a jacket if you tend to get cold quickly.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps swimwear if you want to dip into the sea. You’re welcome to bring drinks and music onboard to personalize your experience.
• Cost: The entrance fee to Our Lady of the Rocks is minimal (~1.5 euros), but bring cash just in case.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a quick but diverse taste of Kotor Bay’s highlights, this trip hits the mark. It suits those who want a mix of natural beauty, history, and fun in a compact timeframe. It’s particularly good if you enjoy boat rides and are comfortable with a small group setting.

While it’s not a comprehensive exploration, it offers enough variety to satisfy most travelers without the time commitment of a full-day tour. Perfect for a morning or early afternoon adventure if you’re on a tight schedule or want a relaxing break from land-based sightseeing.

This 3-hour boat tour around Kotor Bay is a fantastic way to see some of Montenegro’s most photogenic sites without overextending your day. You’ll experience the mesmerizing Blue Cave, the historic Mamula Island, submarine tunnels from WWII, and the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks, all while enjoying the company of friendly guides and the calming sea breeze.

The tour provides a balanced mix of natural beauty and history, with enough flexibility to make it your own—bring your drinks, play your music, or just soak in the views. While weather can occasionally impact the stops, most travelers find the experience smooth and enjoyable.

If you’re looking to maximize your time and get a snapshot of Kotor’s waterscape, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good value, friendly service, and memorable scenery in a relatively short window.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible. However, if you’re sensitive to choppy seas or have difficulty on boats, keep that in mind since weather can influence comfort.

Can I bring my own drinks and music?
Yes, the boat allows you to bring your own beverages and play music via onboard speakers, adding a personal touch to your trip.

How long is the stop at Our Lady of the Rocks?
The visit lasts about 20 minutes, providing enough time to look around and take some photos, but not enough for a lengthy exploration.

Is the Blue Cave worth visiting?
Opinions vary. Many find the cave beautiful and worth the short visit, especially for photos or a quick swim. Some feel the “blue” effect is less dramatic than expected, but it remains a popular stop.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers boat transportation, a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, and the stops. Entrance fees to Our Lady of the Rocks (~1.5 euros) are paid separately.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 17 days ahead, so planning early is wise, especially in peak season.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-sensitive. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, many travelers take the opportunity to swim near the Blue Cave or in designated swimming spots during the trip.

This short but sweet boat tour strikes a good balance for those wanting to see Kotor’s highlights without the fuss of a full-day commitment. It’s a fun, scenic, and historically interesting way to spend part of your day along the Montenegro coast.