Boat tour to Lady of the Rock , Submarine base & Blue Cave swim

Experience Kotor Bay on a Speedboat: A Detailed Review of the Lady of the Rock, Submarine Base & Blue Cave Swim Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro, particularly around Kotor, you might have come across a popular boat tour that promises to showcase the best sights in just a few hours. This tour, which visits Our Lady of the Rocks, the Blue Cave, and a submarine base, has earned excellent reviews and is clearly a favorite among travelers. It’s a compact, three-hour adventure that packs in a lot, especially if you love being on the water and want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and soaking up stunning views.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines ease and adventure. The hassle-free hotel pickup means you can relax from the start, and the speedboat itself is comfortable and well-sized — not a tiny vessel that feels crowded, but not overly large either. Plus, the inclusion of WiFi onboard is a surprisingly handy touch, allowing you to share your moments or just stay connected. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that admission tickets for certain stops like Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave are not included, so you’ll want to budget a little extra for those.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a short, engaging boat trip with a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and interesting stops. It’s especially popular with those looking for a relaxing yet adventurous way to experience Kotor Bay without the hassle of organizing their own boat or multiple tours.

Key Points

• Hassle-free start: Includes hotel pickup, making it easy to begin the adventure
• Comfortable vessel: You’ll be on a well-maintained speedboat with small groups, making the experience more intimate
• Varied stops: From historic sites to stunning caves and submarine tunnels, there’s a nice variety
• Snorkeling included: You can swim and snorkel with provided gear, adding a splash of fun
• Stay connected: Onboard WiFi keeps you in touch or captures those scenic moments
• Good value: At around $48, it offers a lot of sights in just three hours

Breaking Down the Itinerary and What to Expect

Our Lady of the Rocks

Your journey begins with a visit to this iconic island. The boat docks nearby, and you’ll have about 20 minutes to explore the church and museum. That’s enough time to appreciate the island’s charm, snap some photos, and maybe pick up a souvenir. Your skipper will share stories about the island and Perast, giving you some context that makes the visit more meaningful.

While the admission ticket isn’t included, the experience of standing on the island and learning about its history makes it worthwhile. Many reviews mention the guide’s friendly explanations, which help bring the place to life.

Panoramic Views of Fort Mamula

Afterward, you’ll get a quick peek at the former prison and WWII concentration camp, now a luxury hotel. The view from the water is quite striking—imagine a fortress that’s both history-laden and now plush. Although you won’t step inside, the scenery offers a reminder of Montenegro’s layered past.

Blue Cave Stop & Swimming

The highlight for many is the Blue Cave, where you’ll have around 25 minutes to swim and snorkel. The water here is often described as refreshing and beautiful, with the cave itself providing a stunning backdrop for photos. Remember, the admission ticket isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you want to go inside. Several reviews mention how great it is to have gear provided, making it easy for even beginners to enjoy the water.

Old Submarine Base at Lutica

A quick stop at the submarine base offers a fascinating glimpse into Montenegro’s military history. It’s a short visit—about 10 minutes—but the interest level is high, especially for those curious about Cold War secrets. The best part? It’s free to enter, so it adds a little extra to your trip without extra cost.

What It’s Like on the Water

The boat is described as comfortable, with some reviews mentioning it felt like a private tour due to the small group size (maximum 27 travelers). The experience of cruising through Kotor Bay, with its dramatic cliffs and lush coastlines, is the real treat here. Many travelers comment on the friendly, knowledgeable guides who keep the mood light and informative, making the ride enjoyable whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to boat trips.

The WiFi onboard is an easy addition, especially if you want to check in with family or share your beautiful photos instantly. The boat departs from a convenient location, just a short walk from the cruise terminal for those arriving by cruise ship.

Timing & Duration

The entire tour lasts around three hours, which is quite reasonable for what it packs in. It’s long enough to see some highlights without feeling rushed, and the flexibility to snorkel and swim makes it more than just a sightseeing cruise. The timing also works well for most travelers, fitting comfortably into a morning or early afternoon schedule.

Is the Price Worth It?

At roughly $48.84 per person, this tour offers solid value. Considering the inclusions—snorkeling gear, bottled water, WiFi—and the fact that the stops are curated to give you both scenic beauty and cultural insights, it’s a good deal. You’re paying for a guided, small-group experience that takes the stress out of organizing your own boat trips or trying to visit these spots independently.

Many guests, including those with positive reviews, emphasize the quality of the guides and the comfortable boat as reasons why the experience feels worth the price. For the convenience and the variety of sights, it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy Kotor Bay in just a few hours.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized boat trip that hits the main highlights of Kotor Bay. It suits those who appreciate a bit of history, love the water, and want to avoid the complications of self-organizing boat trips. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, which many reviews praise.

If you’re a beach lover, the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the Blue Cave adds a fun element. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of the area rather than a full-day tour.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this boat tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural stops that capture the essence of Kotor Bay. The combination of comfortable transportation, friendly guides, and the stunning scenery makes it a well-loved choice. It’s especially good for those who want to see a lot without spending a full day on the water, and the WiFi is a nice touch for sharing your adventure on the go.

While you’ll need to pay extra for some attractions, the core experience delivers a memorable glimpse of Montenegro’s beautiful coastline. If you’re after an easy, enjoyable way to explore some of the bay’s most famous sights, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
Bottled water and snorkeling equipment are provided. The tour covers stops at Our Lady of the Rocks, the Blue Cave, and a submarine base, with onboard WiFi as well.

Are admission tickets included?
No, admission to Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave is not included, so you’ll need to budget extra if you want inside access.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable option if you’re short on time but want to see key sights.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention the boat as being comfortable and well-maintained. It’s small enough to feel intimate but spacious enough for a relaxed ride.

Can I snorkel at the Blue Cave?
Absolutely. You’ll have about 25 minutes to swim and snorkel, with equipment provided. Many reviews say it’s a highlight, even if the water’s temperature varies by season.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 27, which keeps the experience friendly and personalized.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free hotel pickup, which is convenient for travelers staying in or near Kotor.

What’s the best time of year to go?
Most reviews seem to be from late April onward, though the water might be colder early in the season. The tour is weather-dependent, so check the forecast.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age recommendations aren’t provided, the focus on water activities and small group size suggests it’s suitable for older children comfortable in boats and water.

How do I book?
You can book in advance, with most travelers reserving about 46 days ahead. Booking online ensures you secure a spot.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and hassle-free way to experience Kotor’s highlights, this boat tour could be just what you need. It’s a well-loved option that offers good value, stunning views, and a relaxed vibe—perfect for a memorable day by the water.