Boat Tour Blue Cave

If you’re considering a boat trip around Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, the Blue Cave tour from Cattaro Boat Tours offers an engaging mix of natural beauty and intriguing history. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve come across plenty of honest reviews and detailed descriptions that help paint a clear picture of what to expect. This experience seems to strike a nice balance between sightseeing, leisure, and a taste of local stories.

Two things that stand out are the chance to see Our Lady of the Rocks, a unique artificial island with a compelling origin story, and the opportunity to swim in the Blue Cave’s crystal-clear waters—both fantastic for those who love a blend of culture and nature. One consideration? The tour lasts about 3 hours, so if you’re short on time or prefer longer outings, you might want to plan accordingly.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy quick, activity-packed excursions with plenty of opportunities to take photos and relax. It’s also a good fit for those interested in coastline history or simply wanting to tick off some of Montenegro’s top sights in a single trip.

Key Points

• Natural beauty: The Blue Cave’s waters are famously vibrant, perfect for a refreshing swim.
• Cultural site: Our Lady of the Rocks is an interesting stop with a fascinating story behind its construction.
• Historical insights: You’ll also see the secret caves once used for harboring submarines, adding a layer of intrigue.
• Convenience: The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier.
• Guided experience: A professional guide helps you understand the sights and provides safety equipment.
• Value: At $71 per person, the trip offers a well-rounded experience in just three hours, with skip-the-line tickets included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Blue Cave Boat Tour

The Itinerary
This 3-hour adventure kicks off at the Marina Kotor, where you’ll meet your guide and hop aboard a speedboat. The first highlight is the Our Lady of the Rocks island, which is a genuine highlight. The story here is quite charming: it’s said that two brothers discovered a Madonna and Child painting, which led to the building of a church on the spot.

From there, you’ll cruise through the Verige Straits—a narrow, picturesque channel that’s perfect for photos—and continue along the Herceg Novi Riviera. Keep an eye out for Mamula Island, a former WWII prison with a storied past. The coastline is quite dramatic, with rugged cliffs and lush greenery framing the water.

The Blue Cave
The main event is the Blue Cave, about which travelers rave. The tour provides a chance to swim in its incredibly clear waters, which are famed for their vivid blue hue. You’ll also receive snorkel masks, so you can explore underwater life if you’re inclined—just remember to bring your own towel and beachwear for comfort after.

Submarine Caves
On the return leg, the boat takes you past the caves once used to hide submarines. This offers a fun mix of natural and military history that adds a different dimension to the trip. The caves are accessible only by boat, making this a unique feature of the tour.

The Experience

What makes this trip special?
We loved the way the guide’s commentary provides context for each stop—stories about the church’s origins, the island’s history, or the military caves. The boat is a good size, accommodating a small group that makes for a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Value for money
For $71, you get a comprehensive 3-hour tour that hits all the major sights, plus skip-the-line tickets, safety gear, and water—all valuable extras. While no lunch is included, you can bring your own, making this a flexible option for an afternoon activity.

The downsides
Some reviews note that the duration is a bit tight if you love spending longer swimming or exploring. The caves, while stunning, can be crowded at certain times, so having patience is helpful. Also, the tour is only conducted in English and Croatian, which might limit understanding for non-speakers.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

This artificial island is a standout, especially for its intriguing backstory. It’s built on a foundation of stones and boats, with a church that dates back centuries. Visitors often comment on how peaceful and photogenic the site is—whether you’re taking panoramic shots of the bay or just soaking in the atmosphere.

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Cruising Through the Verige Straits and Mamula Island

The narrow waterways are a highlight for many. The views are dramatic, with towering cliffs and small villages dotting the shoreline. Mamula Island’s old fortress and prison are a stark reminder of the area’s layered history. Some travelers mention that passing by these sites offers a sense of the region’s strategic importance.

Swimming in the Blue Cave

This is where the trip really shines. The water’s color is as mesmerizing as you’ve seen in photos, and the experience of swimming in such a setting is quite memorable. The snorkel masks provided make it easy to see below the surface without needing your own gear.

Exploring the submarine caves

While not as visually spectacular as the caves, these military relics add an adventurous touch. You might find it interesting to think about the Cold War era when submarines were hidden here. It’s an unexpected bonus that adds historical depth to what is primarily a natural tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a quick, scenic, and activity-filled outing, this trip fits the bill. It’s ideal for those who want to tick off key sights in Boka Bay without committing to a full-day excursion. It’s also suitable for travelers interested in both natural wonders and stories behind the sites. Given the short duration, it’s perfect for those with limited time but still wanting a taste of Montenegro’s coastline.

While the tour isn’t explicitly designed for families, older children who are comfortable on boats and enjoy snorkeling might find it fun. The focus on natural beauty and history keeps it engaging for most travelers looking for a balanced experience.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a solid snapshot of Montenegro’s maritime charm. With highlights like the Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave, it hits the main attractions that make Boka Bay special. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets, guides, and safety gear helps justify the price, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

It’s a good option for travelers who want a well-organized, scenic, and engaging experience without spending an entire day on the water. If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of sightseeing and swimming, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

However, if you’re the type who prefers long, leisurely explorations or wants to spend more time in each location, you might feel the 3-hour window is a bit rushed. But overall, the tour strikes a nice balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

FAQs

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll want to bring your own if you plan to stay out longer or want a meal after the trip.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, which includes all stops and sightseeing.

Are water and snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, water and snorkel masks are included, so you can enjoy exploring underwater during the swim in the Blue Cave.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it more convenient.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English and Croatian.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s perfect for travelers wanting a short, scenic, and activity-rich trip that covers the main sights of Boka Bay. It’s suitable for those interested in natural beauty, history, and quick adventures.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children comfortable on boats and interested in snorkeling might enjoy it. Always consider your family’s comfort with water activities and boat rides.

If you’re after a compact, scenic, and memorable way to see Montenegro’s coastline, this Blue Cave boat tour offers a good mix of sights and stories—all wrapped up in a relaxing three-hour package.

You can check availability for your dates here: