Kotor: Blue Cave with Kotor Bay Island and Submarine Tunnels

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Montenegro’s enchanting Kotor Bay, you’ll find this Blue Cave with Kotor Bay Island and Submarine Tunnels tour offers a fantastic mix of sights, history, and fun. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking to see some of the most captivating spots around Kotor in a compact, three-hour window.

What immediately draws people to this experience is its ability to combine stunning natural beauty—like the Blue Cave—with intriguing historical sites, such as WWII submarine tunnels. Plus, you get to visit the famous Lady of the Rocks island, a true jewel of the bay.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves several stops, some of which can get busy, especially in summer. If you’re after a peaceful, secluded experience, this might be a bit hectic at peak times. But if you’re after a lively, well-rounded adventure on the water, it’s a solid pick.

This tour is perfect for those who love scenic boat rides, want a snapshot of Montenegro’s history and natural wonders, and enjoy snorkeling. It’s especially suitable if you’re looking for a flexible, well-organized outing that packs a lot into a short time.

Key Points

• Short but packed: Three hours of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring.
• Diverse spots: From natural wonders like the Blue Cave to historical sites like submarine tunnels.
• Great for photos: Many reviews highlight stunning views and memorable photo opportunities.
• Family-friendly: Not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, but fun for most travelers.
• All-included comfort: Fuel, water, Wi-Fi, and an experienced guide enhance the experience.
• Worth the price: Good value for the variety of sights and smooth organization.

This speedboat adventure offers more than just a boat ride; it’s a curated experience of Montenegro’s most intriguing sights in Boka Bay. We love the way it blends natural beauty with a touch of history and local lore. Plus, the whole trip is designed to give you memorable moments without feeling rushed.

The Blue Cave is truly a highlight. As the boat approaches, the hues of blue shimmer in a way that’s almost surreal. The tour allocates around 20 minutes here for swimming, snorkeling, and capturing photos—so bring your waterproof camera or phone. Many travelers, including those who’ve reviewed it, mention how spectacular the cave looks and how the swim feels like stepping into a different world.

Another aspect that makes this tour appealing is the exploration of WWII submarine tunnels. These abandoned structures carry a quiet sense of mystery and history, and your guide will fill you in on their story. It’s a reminder of how Montenegro’s strategic position has shaped its past and adds a layer of depth to your day on the water.

The passage by Mamula Island is brief but memorable. The fortress that once imprisoned the worst criminals in Montenegro now stands as a fascinating relic, surrounded by shimmering blue waters. Many reviews note the great photo ops here, with just enough time to snap a few shots before moving on.

Your visit to Lady of the Rocks island is a definite highlight. This artificially created island is a visual stunner, and it’s hard not to be enchanted by the story behind its origin. The church and museum here are small but packed with character. As one review pointed out, you can hear about the island’s history and walk around its tiny surface in about 20 minutes, making it a perfect add-on.

Start point: Park Slobode—the hub for most tours in Kotor. Arriving early is recommended, especially during the busy summer months, as the tour start times are fixed and late arrivals might miss out.

First stop: The Blue Cave. The boat cruise here is about 20 minutes from the start. Once you arrive, you’ll jump into the water for swimming and snorkeling in the cave’s cool, luminous waters. The reviews rave about the experience of floating in that striking blue, with one guest describing it as “out-of-the-world shades of blue.”

Second stop: Mamula Island, a quick 5-minute photo break. The fortress here once served as a prison, and your guide will share some stories about its past. It’s a short stop but perfect for snapping a few photos and soaking in the views.

Third stop: Exploring the WWII Submarine Tunnel. Another brief 5-minute pause to admire the abandoned tunnels used as secret shelters during the war. Many visitors find this part of the tour unexpectedly fascinating and photo-worthy.

Fourth stop: The Lady of the Rocks. This is a 20-minute visit, enough time to explore the church, visit the museum, and hear the legend of how the island was formed by human hands over centuries.

Return: The boat heads back to Park Slobode, completing the round trip.

This tour is guided by a multi-language captain who is knowledgeable about Montenegro’s sights and history. They’ll keep you informed and entertained throughout the cruise, which helps deepen your appreciation for each location.

Included are fuel, bottled water, and Wi-Fi on board—small touches that make the trip more comfortable. The boat itself is described as new and comfortable, which adds to the overall enjoyment. Reviews mention good music and a lively vibe, making the boat ride itself a highlight of the experience.

While the tour is a three-hour commitment, it’s quite dense, so don’t expect long, slow stops. Instead, it’s about making the most of each location with enough time to enjoy the scenery, take pictures, and explore briefly.

You can book with a flexible “reserve now, pay later” option, which is great if your plans aren’t firm yet. Just remember, arrivals late or during bad weather could mean rescheduling or missing out altogether.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, babies under one year, or travelers over 70, owing to the physical nature of boat excursions and stops. It’s also worth noting that in busy seasons, the Blue Cave and other stops might be crowded, which could limit swimming or snorkeling time.

Weather can impact the schedule; if conditions aren’t favorable, your trip could be rescheduled. Arriving early at the meeting point is crucial because the tours run on fixed schedules, and latecomers might not be accommodated.

Multiple reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides who share interesting anecdotes and history, making the experience more meaningful. For example, one review highlights the “outstanding customer service” and the feeling of being treated like a VIP, thanks to a new, comfortable boat and attentive staff.

Others mention how flexible and accommodating the team is. One traveler missed their original schedule but was offered a private tour, which they found totally worth the extra cost.

The natural beauty is a recurring theme—people just can’t get over the stunning blue of the Blue Cave or the picturesque views around Mamula Island. Several reviews also point out that despite some busyness, the overall experience feels well-organized and worthwhile.

This tour offers a lively, scenic, and historically interesting trip for those wanting a compact exploration of Montenegro’s Boka Bay. With a good balance of natural wonders and historical sites, it’s suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water and want a taste of everything without spending a full day on a boat.

The value for money seems solid, considering the variety of stops, the quality of the boat, and the friendly, professional guides. It’s a great way to see iconic spots like the Blue Cave and Lady of the Rocks, all in one go, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time.

However, expect some crowds, especially in peak season, and keep in mind it’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges or very young children. If you like lively, well-organized excursions with plenty of photo opportunities, you’ll likely find this tour a memorable highlight of your trip to Montenegro.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s generally safe and fun, the tour isn’t specifically aimed at small children or infants. It’s best for families with older kids comfortable on boats and able to enjoy snorkeling and brief sightseeing stops.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts about 3 hours, including all stops and sightseeing.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear and a towel for swimming and snorkeling at the Blue Cave, and don’t forget your camera or phone for photos.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided, which is handy for sharing your photos or staying connected.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours could be rescheduled in case of bad weather. It’s a good idea to check the forecast and arrive early to avoid missing your slot.

Can I join if I arrive late?
Late arrivals may not be accommodated, and refunds or rescheduling aren’t guaranteed due to strict timings.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour price includes fuel, water, and guide services. Visiting the Lady of the Rocks museum is optional and not included in the base price.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and info-packed boat trip in Kotor Bay, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s natural beauty and history. Just be prepared for some crowds and plan to arrive early—your camera and curiosity will thank you.

You can check availability for your dates here: