Blue Cave Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Kotor Speed Boat Tour 3H

The Blue Cave Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Island Speed Boat Tour offers an exciting 3-hour adventure through the waters of Kotor, Montenegro. Priced at $43.45 per person, this tour is highly recommended and consistently booked 36 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. This guided speedboat trip includes visits to Our Lady of the Rocks, a Yugoslavian submarine tunnel, Mamula Island, and the breathtaking Blue Cave—a set of stops that combine history, natural beauty, and fun.

The tour features a friendly skipper, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, WiFi onboard, and an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable transfers. A notable point is that this experience has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from 43 reviews, with 100% recommending it, making it an appealing choice for travelers seeking a well-organized, memorable sea excursion. While the tour lasts just 3 hours, it delivers a rich array of sights and experiences, suitable for anyone eager to explore Kotor’s coast from the water.

Key Points

• Price: $43.45 per person for a 3-hour speedboat tour
• Stops include: Our Lady of the Rocks, a Yugoslavian submarine tunnel, Mamula Island, and the Blue Cave
• Highlights: Stunning sea views, swimming opportunities, and historical sites
• Includes: Bottled water, snorkeling gear, WiFi, fuel, and air-conditioned transfers
• Tour group size: Up to 24 travelers for a personalized experience
• Booking: Usually reserved 36 days in advance, high demand indicates good availability if booked early

Starting Point and Overall Experience in Kotor

The tour begins at Spomenik Palim Za Slobodu in Kotor, where a friendly skipper greets guests and helps with boarding. The speedboat ride instantly sets an energetic tone, with the skipper providing commentary on the sights, ensuring everyone feels informed and engaged. The 3-hour duration allows a comfortable pace to see the key sites without feeling rushed, with enough time to enjoy each stop.

Travelers praise the personalized attention from the crew, especially noting the enthusiastic and knowledgeable skippers like Milas and Nikola. The experience combines stunning scenery with informative stories, making it suitable for those interested in both sightseeing and learning about local history.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks and its Church

The first stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, an island created in honor of a special stone with an image of St. Mary. The story behind its creation involves local fishermen throwing stones on the site of the stone, which has led to the island growing over time. The church interior features a collection of votive tablets and works by renowned painter Tripo Kokolja. The Icon of Our Lady of the Rocks is a key attraction, showcasing religious art and craftsmanship.

While admission tickets are not included, the site offers a glimpse into local traditions and religious devotion. The short 20-minute stop allows ample time for exploration and photos, making this an essential highlight of the tour.

Exploring the Bay of Kotor from the Water

The speedboat glides through the majestic fjord of the Bay of Kotor, providing sweeping views of the coastline, mountains, and towns. The skipper shares interesting facts about the area, enriching the experience. This part of the tour is a great way to see the scenic landscape and get a sense of the area’s natural beauty.

This segment is free of charge, and the vessel’s comfort ensures a smooth ride through the waters, ideal for photo opportunities and enjoying the fresh sea breeze.

Visiting the Yugoslavian Socialist Submarine Tunnel

Next, the tour takes visitors to a former submarine tunnel from the Yugoslavian Socialist period. Although abandoned, the tunnel remains open for exploration, offering a rare glimpse into Cold War history. The 10-minute stop is brief but impactful, allowing curious minds to observe military architecture and imagine the past.

There are no admission fees for this site, and the walkaround is safe and straightforward. It’s a unique addition that provides insight into Montenegro’s more recent history.

Mamula Island: From Prison to Resort

The mysterious Mamula Island stands at the bay’s entrance, once serving as an Austro-Hungarian prison. Today, it has been transformed into a beautiful island resort, offering panoramic views and a mix of history and leisure. The short 5-minute stop showcases the island’s dramatic fortress walls and historical significance.

Guests can appreciate the views across the bay and take photos of the fortress-like structure, which creates a compelling contrast between its past and current use. The stop’s brevity leaves plenty of time to enjoy the surrounding scenery.

The Enchanting Blue Cave and Swimming Opportunities

The Blue Cave is the tour’s highlight, famed for shimmering waters that give the cave its name. The 30-minute stop here offers a chance to swim inside the cave’s entrance, an experience described as enchanting and visually stunning. The first sight of the cave often leaves visitors breathless, as the vivid blue water and play of light create a surreal atmosphere.

The swimming session is a perfect way to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of the cave. The clear waters and unique acoustics make this a memorable finish to the trip, with plenty of time to enjoy the moment.

Visiting Perast Village and Local Maritime Heritage

After the boat tour, the village of Perast welcomes visitors with its Baroque architecture and mountainous backdrop. The palaces across the town belonged to notable captains of Montenegro’s illustrious navy. The maritime Museum offers a deeper understanding of the region’s seafaring history, appealing to those interested in local culture and architecture.

While not part of the main stops, the nearby village provides a charming setting for a leisurely stroll and some final sightseeing.

Practicalities and Comfort on the Tour

Guests receive bottled water and have access to snorkeling equipment for extra fun in the water. The tour includes fuel and is conducted on an air-conditioned boat, ensuring comfort during the journey. The group size of up to 24 travelers fosters a more intimate experience, and the meeting point is centrally located in Kotor.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with good weather being essential. It features short stops, making it accessible for a wide range of physical abilities, though swimming at the Blue Cave does require comfort in the water.

Why This Tour Stands Out from Others

What sets this speedboat tour apart is its combination of natural beauty, history, and fun within a compact 3-hour window. The skipper’s enthusiasm and knowledgeable commentary have earned high praise, making it a lively and informative outing. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the WiFi onboard enhance the overall experience, appealing to modern travelers.

Compared to similar offerings, this tour delivers excellent value with a perfect rating, especially for those seeking a quick yet comprehensive exploration of Kotor’s coast. The short booking window suggests high demand, so early reservation is advisable.

Final Thoughts on the Blue Cave Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Island Tour

This 3-hour speedboat trip provides an engaging way to discover Kotor’s most iconic sites from the water. The stunning Blue Cave and historic Mamula Island are the tour’s crown jewels, offering both visual spectacle and historical context. The friendly guides and comfortable boat ensure a smooth, enjoyable outing suitable for a broad audience.

While the tour’s brevity means it covers only a few sites, each stop is thoughtfully chosen to maximize impact and enjoyment. The value for money and positive reviews confirm that this trip delivers a memorable experience in Montenegro’s beautiful bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

What is included in the price?
The price includes bottled water, snorkeling equipment, WiFi onboard, fuel, and air-conditioned transfers.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Spomenik Palim Za Slobodu in Kotor.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, admission tickets for the Our Lady of the Rocks church are not included and need to be purchased separately.

Is swimming allowed at the Blue Cave?
Yes, guests can swim inside the cave’s entrance, making for an enchanting experience.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of participants is 24 travelers.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour’s short stops and swimming activities may not suit all mobility levels, but it generally accommodates most travelers.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking is typically made 36 days in advance, but availability remains high if booked early.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of scenic sites, historical stops, and the stunning Blue Cave in just 3 hours offers excellent value and a lively experience with highly praised guides.