Kotor: Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks Group Boat Tour

Key Points

• Duration: The tour lasts 3 hours, with starting times available based on availability.
• Highlights: Visit the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, take a swim in the Blue Cave, and see WWII submarine tunnels.
• Guide: An English-speaking guide leads the experience, sharing insights about each stop.
• Inclusions: The trip includes water, snorkel mask, safety equipment, and skip-the-line tickets for sites (excluding the church museum entry fee).
• Meeting Point: The tour begins at Kotor Boat Tours, Submarine and Speedboat location, with clear instructions for early arrival.
• Rating: The experience boasts an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 2,300 reviews thanks to its engaging guides and beautiful scenery.

This 3-hour boat tour offers an exciting way to soak up the stunning sights of Boka Bay from the water. Starting from Kotor, the experience takes you to iconic locations such as Our Lady of the Rocks, Blue Cave, and the wartime submarine tunnels. Led by an English-speaking guide, the trip is packed with natural beauty, historical sights, and the thrill of swimming in crystal-clear waters.

The tour is ideal for those who want a quick yet enriching glimpse of Montenegro’s coast. The speedboat ride ensures a lively pace, with multiple stops designed for sightseeing and photos. While the Blue Cave swimming experience is a highlight, it’s worth noting that this stop may be skipped during unfavorable weather. The tour balances fun, learning, and scenic views for a memorable day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Three-hour duration with flexible starting times based on availability.
• Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island with a church built atop a discovered Madonna painting.
• Swim in the Blue Cave, renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters, weather permitting.
• See WWII submarine tunnels and learn about their historical significance.
• Enjoy coastline views along the Lustica Peninsula, Mamula Island, and the Herceg Novi Rivera.
• Expert guides share interesting facts and stories about each location.

How the Tour Starts at Kotor and What You Need to Know

The tour begins at Kotor Boat Tours, Submarine and Speedboat location. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early and look for the guides, Marko, Sara, or others, who will welcome guests. The meeting point is easy to find after passing through security and heading left toward the small bridge and the park by the sea.

The experience does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, but the meeting spot is straightforward to locate, especially with clear instructions. The tour includes skip-the-line tickets for the Our Lady of the Rocks church, but the church museum entry fee (around 3 EUR) is not included.

Speedboat Ride: Exciting and Comfortable

The journey kicks off with a 20-minute speedboat segment that whisks participants across the bay, offering panoramic views of the coastline. The boat is described as modern and comfortable, with options for shaded seating, making it suitable even during warmer days.

Throughout the ride, guides share fascinating insights about the sights, such as Mamula Island, a former WWII prison, and the Verige Straits. The quick pace of the boat allows for multiple stops, making the most of the short time frame.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks: Art, Faith, and History

The artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks stands out due to its unique construction and story. The church was built after two brothers found a Madonna and Child painting, inspiring the creation of the church on this man-made island. The 20-minute stop includes a chance to photograph the church, visit the small museum (tickets not included), and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

The church itself is perched on a rocky island, with its white façade contrasting against the blue waters. The visit offers a glimpse into local religious traditions and craftsmanship, making it a meaningful photo stop.

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Exploring the WWII Submarine Tunnels and Old Gaol Island

Next, the tour passes by the former submarine tunnel in Kotor, where a 5-minute photo stop and visit are possible. The tunnels once concealed submarines during wartime, adding a slice of military history to the experience.

Close by, travelers can see Old Gaol Island, now a luxury resort, which adds to the many historical and modern contrasts along the coast. The guide shares brief insights into these sites, enriching the visual experience.

The Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder and Swimming Spot

The Blue Cave is one of the main highlights. The boat approaches the Lustica Peninsula, where the cave’s vibrant waters invite swimmers. The guide announces the ideal time for a swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters—a perfect refreshment during the trip.

It’s important to note that weather conditions can influence the visit. If sea waves are high or weather is challenging, the Blue Cave stop may be skipped for safety reasons. When accessible, the cave’s interior offers an incredible display of azure hues, making it a favorite for photos and quick dips.

Mamula Island and the Coastline Views

The trip also includes a short photo stop at Mamula Island, a medieval fortress turned WWII prison, and a brief sightseeing of the Bay of Kotor from the water. The 5-minute stop provides excellent photo opportunities of the island’s historic architecture and natural beauty.

The coastline along the Lustica Peninsula offers panoramic views, with the guide sharing interesting stories about each location.

The Longest Stop: The Blue Cave Experience

For the main part of the trip, there is a 70-minute segment dedicated to exploring the Blue Cave and nearby spots. This allows enough time for swimming, snorkeling, and taking photos. The boat’s speed and the lively pace of the tour help keep energy high and sightseeing efficient.

The water after 6 pm may look different, so the best lighting conditions for photos and swimming are during daylight hours.

Return Journey: Submarine Tunnels and Final Views

On the return, the boat passes by additional submarine caves, giving a sense of the area’s military past. The tour wraps up back at the starting point, providing time to reflect on the sights seen and the stories heard.

Throughout the trip, guides like Aki, Ortega, or Sam, are praised for their friendly attitude, humor, and knowledge, making the experience lively and informative.

Practical Tips and What to Bring

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothes, bring sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen, and pack swimwear and towels for the cave swim. A camera is recommended to capture the scenic views, and water is provided during the trip.

Since shopping or entering the church museum involves an entry fee of around 3 EUR, travelers should prepare small change. Note that pets, large luggage, and smoking are not allowed onboard or in the vehicle.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This trip appeals to those who enjoy a mix of natural beauty and history, as well as guides who share interesting stories. The fast boat ride and short stops make it suitable for travelers with limited time but eager to see key coastal sights.

The swimming in the Blue Cave is a big draw, but weather can affect access, so flexibility is key. The small group size and friendly guides ensure a personal experience, praised highly in reviews for their knowledge and humor.

Final Thoughts on the Kotor Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks Tour

This 3-hour boat adventure offers a practical way to explore the top sights of Boka Bay. It balances scenic views, cultural stops, and water activities effectively, making it a well-rounded choice for travelers seeking an active, engaging experience.

While the Blue Cave visit depends on weather conditions, the tour’s overall pace and variety make it a valuable addition to a Montenegro itinerary. For those looking for excellent value, friendly guides, and stunning coastal scenery, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes the 3-hour speedboat ride, visits to Our Lady of the Rocks, snorkel masks, water, safety equipment, and skip-the-line tickets (excluding the church museum entry fee).

How long are the stops at each location?
Most stops, such as Our Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Island, are around 20 minutes each, with the Blue Cave segment allowing for swimming and photos for about 70 minutes.

Is the Blue Cave visit guaranteed?
The Blue Cave visit depends on weather and sea conditions. If conditions are unsafe, the stop may be skipped, but guides will inform guests accordingly.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, weather permitting, there is time for swimming and snorkeling in the Blue Cave, offering a memorable aquatic experience.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable clothes, sun protection, swimwear, towel, camera, and small change for site entry tickets. Dress warmly in spring or autumn.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, wheelchair users, or those with mobility impairments.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is Kotor Boat Tours, Submarine and Speedboat, located near the small bridge and park by the sea. It’s best to arrive 15 minutes early.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour generally suits families, especially with children who enjoy boat rides and swimming, but the short duration and active pace are suitable for most.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellation is free if done up to 24 hours in advance. Rescheduling options are available to keep your plans flexible.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby