Private Kotor Bay Speed Boat Tour and Blue Cave Adventure

A private Kotor Bay speed boat tour offers an engaging way to explore Montenegro’s breathtaking coastline. Priced at $343.05 per group (up to 6 people), this tour lasts approximately 3 hours and provides an intimate experience on a speedboat with a Skipper/guide leading the way. It includes all fees, taxes, fuel, and water, making it a straightforward and worry-free adventure.

This tour is highly recommended — with a 5.0 rating from 147 reviews and 99% of participants suggesting it. Bookings are typically made around 40 days in advance, indicating its popularity among travelers seeking personalized experiences. It is ideal for those who want a scenic, flexible, and informative boat ride, especially for small groups or families looking for an exclusive outing.

While the tour offers spectacular views and swimming opportunities, potential visitors should be aware of weather dependency and the limited time at each stop. The tour’s emphasis on personalized service and customizable itinerary makes it suitable for travelers craving an intimate connection with the water and scenic spots of Kotor Bay.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 6 people at $343.05, lasting approximately 3 hours
• Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a unique man-made island with a rich story
• Swim in the Blue Cave and enjoy the iridescent waters created by centuries of wave action
• Expert, friendly guides share detailed explanations of each site
• Stops include Kotor Bay, Herceg Novi, Tivat, and the submarine tunnels, offering diverse scenery
• Weather-dependent, with cancellations possible if conditions are poor

How the Tour Starts at Kotor and Ends Back at the Marina

The tour departs from Kotor Boat Tours at Montenegro SubmarinePark Slobode. This central location is easily accessible, and the tour concludes back at the same spot, making it convenient for travelers arriving by boat or car. The meeting point is near public transportation and some local hotels, including Hyatt Regency Kotor and Heritage Hotel Perast.

Participants are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding. The tour is a private activity, so only your group participates, creating an exclusive atmosphere. Weather conditions are critical; if poor weather cancels the trip, travelers receive a full refund or alternative date.

Explore Kotor Bay’s Enchanting Coastline

The boat tour begins with a 20-minute cruise along Kotor Bay, offering spectacular views of the coastline, covered with medieval churches, lush vegetation, and ancient fishing villages. This segment provides a perfect introduction to the area’s natural beauty and architectural charm.

During this part of the trip, the guide offers insights into the history and significance of the surrounding sights, setting the stage for later stops. The fresh air and panoramic views make this a relaxing way to start the experience.

Discover the Story of Our Lady of the Rocks Island

The first key stop is a 20-minute visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island built by local seafarers. The island is notable for its icon of the Holy Mother Mary, which inspired its construction. Visitors can explore the church’s interior, which is filled with artworks, votives, and religious artifacts.

It’s important to note that swimming or using drones at the island is prohibited, and visitors should dress modestly — no swimwear inside the church, for example. The story of its creation, linked to local seafarers, adds a mystical charm to the visit.

Passing the Verige Strait and Tivat Bay’s Attractions

After leaving Our Lady of the Rocks, the tour moves through the Verige Strait, one of the narrowest parts of the bay. On the way, the boat passes the ex-submarine military base, which sparks curiosity about its history.

Next, the boat enters Tivat Bay, where travelers get spectacular views of Tivat town and its surroundings. The Mamula Fortress, a former military island with a haunting history from World War I and II, guards the entrance to Kotor Bay, adding a dramatic backdrop to the cruise. The 5-minute stop here offers a quick glance at this historic site.

Swimming and Exploring the Blue Cave

The highlight of the tour is the Blue Cave, a natural sea cave formed over thousands of years by crashing waves. The iridescent lighting inside the cave, caused by sunlight passing through cracks, creates a surreal blue glow that captivates visitors.

Guests are given about 20 minutes to swim and enjoy the water inside the cave. Because the cave is accessible only by boat, this swim offers a unique chance to experience the crystal-clear waters and stunning environment. The guide often finds quiet spots for swimming, avoiding crowded times, which adds to the tranquility of the experience.

Water, Safety, and Comfort on Board

The tour includes water for hydration and is led by an English-speaking skipper who provides commentary and safety instructions. The boat rides can be bumpy at times due to sea conditions, so it’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sunhat, sunscreen, and a jacket for cooler weather.

Guests are advised that the tour is feasible only in good weather, with cancellations possible if conditions worsen. During April, May, and October, some sites close earlier, so dressing warmer is advisable during these months.

The Tour’s Customization and Flexibility

The itinerary is flexible, with the skipper adjusting stops based on weather, timing, and guest preferences. This customization helps ensure a more personal experience, especially for those seeking specific sights or swimming spots.

The private nature of the tour means it’s perfect for small groups or families, providing a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere compared to larger group excursions.

Practical Tips for a Comfortable Trip

Travelers should dress appropriately: light clothing for sunny days, warm clothes for cooler months, and swimwear if planning to swim. Bringing a towel, flip flops, and camera is recommended for capturing moments.

The tour’s duration of around 3 hours makes it ideal for a half-day activity, fitting well into broader travel plans in Kotor. Be sure to arrive early to maximize your time and avoid missing the boat.

Who Will Love This Tour

This private boat experience is best suited for those who want personalized attention, flexible stops, and the chance to swim in the Blue Cave. It appeals to travelers interested in history, scenic views, and exclusive access.

The tour’s small-group setting and informative guides also make it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxing yet engaging adventure on Kotor Bay.

Final Thoughts on the Kotor Bay Speed Boat Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and swimming, led by knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories. The private nature ensures a personalized experience, and the variety of stops highlights Montenegro’s coastal beauty.

The main limitations are weather dependency and the short time at some stops, such as Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave. However, the flexibility of the itinerary and high-quality guidance make this tour a great fit for those seeking a memorable, intimate adventure.

In summary, the Private Kotor Bay Speed Boat Tour and Blue Cave Adventure provides stunning views, engaging stops, and a relaxed pace, making it an excellent choice for small groups or families wanting to explore Kotor’s waters in style and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with children, but keep in mind the sea conditions and potential bumpy rides. Children should wear appropriate clothing and be supervised during swimming.

What should I bring on the tour?
It’s best to bring sunglasses, a sunhat, sunscreen, a camera, comfortable shoes or sandals, a jacket, swimwear, a towel, and flip flops for the beach stops.

Can I swim in the Blue Cave?
Yes, the 20-minute swim inside the Blue Cave is a highlight, with the guide often finding quieter spots for better swimming experiences. Swimming is not permitted at Our Lady of the Rocks or with drones.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast before booking.

How many people fit in the boat?
The group size is up to 6 people, making for a personal and private experience. The boat is ideal for small groups seeking intimacy and flexibility.