Kotor: Speedboat Tour to Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks

Traveling along Montenegro’s stunning coast offers unforgettable sights and adventures. If you’re pondering a quick yet enriching way to see some of the best highlights in Kotor Bay, this speedboat tour might just be what you’re looking for. Designed to be a flexible, fun, and scenic experience, it hits all the key spots—like the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks, the mysterious Blue Cave, and the charming Perast—within three hours.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines breathtaking views with a touch of adventure, all while being accessible for most travelers. The chance to jump into the Blue Cave’s turquoise waters and explore a historic island at your own pace makes it special. That said, some travelers note that swimming in the caves can be dependent on boat traffic and weather, which is worth keeping in mind. Overall, it’s a great fit for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing with a splash of fun.

If you’re someone who loves exploring coastlines, appreciates knowledgeable guides, and doesn’t mind a little boat ride, this tour is likely to suit you well. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a straightforward, scenic day out without too much planning involved. Plus, it offers enough flexibility with reservations, including options to cancel or pay later—always a bonus when travel plans can shift.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: A 3-hour tour packs in a lot of beautiful sights and experiences.
• Great value: Compared to other options, it often provides a more affordable experience with a richer itinerary.
• Expert guides: The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding context and safety throughout the trip.
• Scenic highlights: From panoramic coastlines to the Blue Cave’s vibrant waters, visuals are a major plus.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours and pay later options make planning easier.
• Group size: Usually small groups (around 8 people), which keeps the trip intimate and relaxed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This speedboat experience is designed to be a quick but comprehensive taste of Kotor Bay’s best sights. Starting from Park Slobode, the tour kicks off with a 35-minute cruise along the coast, giving you sweeping views of Perast and the surrounding bay. This initial leg sets the tone with picture-perfect scenery—think rocky shores dotted with old fisherman villages and distant mountain peaks.

The first major stop is Our Lady of the Rocks—a man-made island that’s instantly recognizable. Here, you’ll have about 20 minutes to explore the church and museum, gaining insight into this unique place built by local sailors. The visit is short but fulfilling, giving just enough time to soak in the history and snap some photos without feeling rushed.

Next, the boat enters the old submarine tunnels, a fascinating slice of Cold War history. The photo stop inside these tunnels is a fun, unexpected addition. It adds a little adventure to the trip while giving you a chance to capture some unusual shots.

Afterward, you’ll sail past more coastal villages, enjoying panoramic views of fishermen’s hamlets and the nearby Fortress Island Mamula. The highlight for many is the Blue Cave, where sunlight filters into the water, creating a vibrant turquoise glow. Inside, you’ll have around 15 minutes for swimming, so don’t forget your diving masks and water gear. The intact nature and clarity of the water make it an ideal spot for a quick dip.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a few more photo stops, including Mamula Island, before heading back to Park Slobode. The entire trip is just enough to feel like a proper adventure without being exhausting or overly packed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Park Slobode: Easy to find, with multiple boat companies around. Look for Bojan from Sea&Sun adventures—he’ll welcome you and point you to the right boat.

First cruise (35 min): A gentle, scenic ride along the coast, perfect for snapping photos and taking in the views.

Stop at Our Lady of the Rocks: Spend around 20 minutes exploring the church and museum. The island is crafted entirely by local sailors placing rocks and offering a glimpse into their history. The church’s 17th-century architecture and museum are notable attractions.

Submarine tunnels: About 10 minutes for a quick look inside an old Cold War relic. It’s a short but interesting detour, adding a bit of historical flavor.

Sail past fishing villages: Enjoy panoramic views of fishermen’s houses and a bird’s eye view of the Bay of Kotor.

Blue Cave: Spend approximately 30 minutes here—swimming, taking photos, and marveling at the natural color play of sunlight and shadows.

Final stops: A quick 5-minute photo of Mamula Island before the boat heads back to the starting point.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Expert guides and small groups: Several reviewers highlight the ease of finding their guide and the professionalism of the team. The small group size (around 8 people) makes things relaxed and friendly.

Surprise element: One traveler mentions a surprise prepared by the captain, adding an element of fun and unpredictability. While details are kept under wraps, it’s clear that the guides are committed to making the trip memorable.

Value for money: Given the itinerary, the price is considered very reasonable, especially compared to longer or more crowded tours. You get quality sights, a comfortable boat, and knowledgeable guides without breaking the bank.

Beautiful scenery: From the panoramic coastline to the Blue Cave’s surreal waters, visual appeal is a major draw.

Swimming in the Blue Cave: The opportunity to swim in the turquoise waters is a highlight, though some mention that crowds or weather can affect the experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at Park Slobode to find your guide easily. Bojan from Sea&Sun adventures is the contact person.
• Bring your diving mask if you want to maximize your swimming fun inside the Blue Cave.
• Dress appropriately—a light jacket or raincoat might be useful if the weather turns.
• Book in advance if possible, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
• Keep your camera ready—the views are worth capturing, especially the Blue Cave’s color and the panoramic coastlines.
• Be prepared for a 3-hour adventure—bring water and a quick snack if needed, though water is provided on the boat.
• Consider your swimming ability—the Blue Cave visit involves swimming, but it’s optional.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a compact, scenic cruise with the chance to see several of Kotor’s top sights in one go, this is a solid pick. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it suitable for travelers who appreciate a more personal experience. It’s also great if you’re on a tight schedule but still want to experience the magic of the bay.

Adventure seekers or those who love a little thrill will enjoy the fast boat ride and the swimming stop. If you’re traveling with children, make sure they’re comfortable with boat rides and swimming. The tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but if your kids are fine with water and short walks, they might enjoy it.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy natural scenery, history, and small group tours. If you prefer long, leisurely explorations or highly structured visits, this might feel a bit rushed.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour in Kotor offers a lively, beautifully paced way to see some of the bay’s most iconic sights. From the historic Our Lady of the Rocks to the glimmering Blue Cave, it combines scenic views and fun activities in just a few hours. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding genuine value to the experience.

While it might not suit travelers seeking a deep, lengthy cultural dive, it’s perfect for those who want a quick, enjoyable adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and a splash of excitement. The value for money and the small group setting make it a popular choice among visitors.

Whether you’re a first-timer eager to tick the highlights off your list or someone looking for a fun, scenic escape, this tour delivers on those promises. Just plan ahead, arrive prepared, and you’ll likely leave with some fantastic memories of Montenegro’s captivating coast.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire speedboat experience lasts about 3 hours, from start at Park Slobode to returning.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Park Slobode in Kotor, with guides like Bojan from Sea&Sun adventures ready to meet you.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the speedboat with skipper, water, life vests, and diving masks.

Is food included?
No, food is not included, so it’s best to bring a snack if you need one.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, you’ll have around 15 minutes to swim inside the cave, weather and boat traffic permitting.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, children comfortable with boat rides and swimming could enjoy it. Always consider your kids’ comfort with water and speedboat rides.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, swimming gear, sunscreen, and camera. Dress in lightweight, comfortable clothing, and consider a rain jacket if the forecast looks rainy.

How do I find the guide?
Look for Bojan from Sea&Sun adventures at the start point; he’ll be there to welcome and direct you to the right boat.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and memorable taste of Kotor Bay’s highlights, this speedboat tour is well worth considering. It’s a great way to enjoy Montenegro’s coast with a bit of thrill and a lot of stunning scenery in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: