Full Boka Bay Tour with visit to Blue Cave

If you’re planning a trip to Kotor and looking for a way to see the stunning scenery of Boka Bay without spending an entire day, this full Boka Bay tour with a visit to the Blue Cave might just be what you need. We’ve come across this experience and it’s impressively highly rated — with a perfect 5.0 from nearly 30 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate. The tour is designed to give you a taste of Montenegro’s most beautiful spots in about three hours, making it perfect for a half-day adventure.

What we really like about this tour is how it packs in many highlights — from the famous Blue Cave to Our Lady of the Rocks — in a compact, well-organized trip. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you get a more tailored, less rushed experience. And at just around $46, the price seems pretty reasonable considering all the sights and the personalized touch.

On the flip side, a word of caution: the tour’s itinerary can be affected by weather conditions, which could mean missing out on some stops, like the Blue Cave. This was noted by a reviewer who mentioned the Blue Cave wasn’t visited due to safety concerns, but they appreciated the alternative stops. So, flexibility is key here, and it’s good to manage expectations if weather turns sour.

All in all, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic, and informative overview of Boka Bay’s most iconic sites. It’s also great if you prefer a smaller group for a more private feel, or if you want a hassle-free way to see the highlights without planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Personalized experience thanks to the private tour format
• Includes major sights like the Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks, and Mamula Island
• Good value for money considering the itinerary, guide, and extras like WiFi and bottled water
• Weather can impact the experience — sometimes the Blue Cave might be skipped for safety
• Fast-paced but comprehensive — suitable for those short on time
• Small group of up to 10 travelers ensures a more intimate experience

What to Expect from This Boka Bay Tour

This tour offers an efficient way to experience the highlights of Montenegro’s stunning coast, especially if you’re limited on time but still want a memorable adventure. The trip takes about three hours, starting from Kotor’s Old Town, with a speedboat whisking you around the bay. It’s a mix of sightseeing, light swimming, and cultural stops, all in a comfortable, small-group setting.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Bay of Kotor
Your journey kicks off with a scenic boat ride through the bay, where you’ll get sweeping views of Kotor’s medieval walls and rugged mountains. This initial stretch is your chance to soak up the scenery and get a lay of the land from the water. It’s a peaceful way to start and sets the tone for the rest of the tour. Expect around 45 minutes here with plenty of photo ops and a chance to admire the landscape from a different perspective.

Stop 2: Blue Cave
Next, you’ll head to the Blue Cave, one of the bay’s most talked-about attractions. The cave’s striking blue glow, caused by sunlight filtering through the water, makes it a must-see. Here, you’ll have around 30 minutes to swim inside — the reviews mention that swimming is possible even in early May, which is a bonus. A common note from past travelers is to dress warmly and be prepared for some wind, especially if the boat is moving fast. Keep in mind that weather conditions can sometimes prevent visiting the cave altogether, as one reviewer pointed out.

Stop 3: Mamula Fortress
From there, you’ll cruise past Mamula Island, known for its fortress and military tunnels. This stop is more about the views and snapping photos. The 10-minute panoramic tour gives you a quick but effective peek into its history, making it an interesting photo stop if you’re into military architecture or just want a snapshot of a unique island.

Stop 4: Return to Our Lady of the Rocks
On the way back, the boat stops by a submarine tunnel — a cool photo opportunity — before heading toward Our Lady of the Rocks. This tiny island with its iconic church and museum is a cultural highlight. You can visit the church, admire its interior, and learn a bit about its history. The tour’s not including the entry fee but offers the option to buy tickets if you want to explore further.

Stop 5: Perast Old Town
The final stop offers stunning panoramic views of Perast, a picturesque town known for its baroque architecture and charm. It’s a lovely way to wrap up the trip before heading back to Kotor.

Final Leg: Return to Kotor
The boat ride back is smooth and scenic, giving you one last look at the bay’s dramatic coastline.

What You’ll Love About the Experience

Stunning Views and Photo Opportunities
From the moment you depart, the scenery is breathtaking. The bay’s cliffs, historic sites, and the shimmering Blue Cave create incredible photo memories. The quick visits are perfect for capturing a few standout shots without long waits.

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Service
The reviews mention guides who are friendly and knowledgeable, making the trip more engaging. Since it’s a private tour, your group gets a more relaxed experience, with less rushing and more opportunity to ask questions.

Good Value for Money
At roughly $46 per person, the tour covers a lot — multiple stops, bottled water, WiFi, and insurance — giving you a lot of bang for your buck. The small group size also means a more personal experience without the crowds that larger tours can attract.

Points to Keep in Mind

Weather Sensitivity
Some reviews highlight that weather can affect the tour. The Blue Cave might be skipped if the sea is too rough or conditions are unsafe. This isn’t unusual for boat trips, but it’s worth being aware that the itinerary could change at short notice. The operator offers alternatives, like visiting Perast or Porto MNE, which helps make up for it.

Timing and Duration
Since the tour lasts about three hours, it’s fairly quick but packed. Make sure to use the bathroom early on and dress comfortably — it can be windy and chilly, especially on the water. Expect some bumpy moments if the sea is lively, but that’s part of the adventure.

Additional Costs and Customizations
Entry tickets for Our Lady of the Rocks are not included, so if you’re keen to explore the church and museum inside, you’ll need to buy tickets separately. Also, if you want to be picked up from Tivat or Herceg Novi, or arrange hotel transfers, those can be organized for an extra fee.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a comprehensive taste of Boka Bay’s highlights. It’s also perfect if you prefer a more private, personalized experience rather than large group tours. The boat ride itself is fun and offers a different perspective of Montenegro’s coast, making it a memorable part of your trip.

If you’re into picturesque scenery, cultural sites, and a splash of adventure, this tour hits the spot. Just remember that if weather conditions turn unfriendly, the itinerary may shift, so flexibility will help you enjoy the day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour doesn’t specifically mention children, the boat ride and scenic stops can be enjoyable for families comfortable with boat trips. However, always consider your children’s comfort with water and movement, as the boat can be bumpy.

What is included in the price?
Bottled water, WiFi on board, all fees and taxes, insurance, and fuel are included. Entry to Our Lady of the Rocks is optional and not included in the base price.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, the swim is included, and past travelers have enjoyed swimming even in early May. Remember to dress warmly and be prepared for some wind or chilly water.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entry ticket for Our Lady of the Rocks church and museum is not included but can be purchased on site.

How long is the boat ride?
The entire tour lasts around 3 hours, with the boat ride itself covering several stops and scenic passages.

What if the weather cancels the Blue Cave visit?
The operator will offer alternative options like visiting Perast and Porto MNE if the Blue Cave isn’t accessible for safety reasons.

Is WiFi available on the boat?
Yes, free WiFi is provided during the trip.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially if it’s windy. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and possibly a waterproof layer if you want to stay dry.

Can I arrange pickup from other locations?
Yes, pickup can be arranged from Tivat or Herceg Novi Bay, and hotel transfers are also available on request.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

To sum it up, this Full Boka Bay Tour with a visit to the Blue Cave offers a great value-packed way to see Montenegro’s highlights with a small, private feel. It’s ideal for those who want a quick but scenic experience, and enjoy a bit of cultural insight along the way. Keep weather in mind, and you’ll likely come away with spectacular memories and some fantastic photos. If you’re after a hassle-free, intimate adventure that hits all the major sights, this one’s worth considering.