Kotor Bay: Private Speed Boat, Blue Cave & Our Lady of the Rocks

Summary

Speed across Kotor Bay to legends, blue water and island stops

You’ll ride a private speed boat across Kotor Bay with a local skipper, stopping at Our Lady of the Rocks island for stories and art before swimming inside Montenegro’s glowing Blue Cave. Expect salty air, laughter on board, and glimpses into local history along the way—plus time to just float and soak it all in.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the slap of salt spray on my face as our speed boat zipped away from Kotor’s harbor — that and the way our guide, Marko, grinned like he’d done this a thousand times but still loved it. The mountains were sharp against the sky, and every few minutes we’d pass tiny fishing villages with laundry flapping out front. There was this smell — part seaweed, part engine oil, honestly — that just stuck to my skin. I didn’t expect to feel so awake at 9am.

Our Lady of the Rocks looked almost unreal when we pulled up. Marko told us about how locals built it stone by stone after fishermen found an icon there (I probably missed some details because I got distracted by a group of old women lighting candles inside). You can’t go in with bare shoulders or swimwear — one guy forgot and had to borrow his girlfriend’s T-shirt. The church is small but packed with silver votives and paintings. It felt quiet in a way churches sometimes do — like everyone’s holding their breath.

After that, we cut through Tivat Bay and stopped briefly at this old submarine tunnel carved into the cliffs — Marko joked about hiding from his mother-in-law there (his English is good but he laughs at his own jokes more than anyone else). Then Mamula Island came into view, looking kind of haunted. He told us some heavy stories about its past during wartime; I caught myself staring at the water instead for a minute.

The last stop was the Blue Cave. It’s not huge, but when you jump in (the water’s colder than you think), everything glows this wild electric blue under you. People were laughing and splashing around — even Marko swam for a bit. I tried to take photos but mostly just floated on my back staring up at that weird light. Even now I can picture it if I close my eyes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kotor Bay and Blue Cave boat tour

• Boat trip along Kotor Bay coastline
• Visit Our Lady of the Rocks island
• Pass through Verige strait to Tivat Bay
• Stop at ex-submarine military base
• View Mamula fortified island
• Swim inside the Blue Cave

Top questions

How long does the private Kotor Bay speed boat tour last?

The duration varies depending on weather and group pace but typically covers all main stops within several hours.

Is swimming allowed inside Our Lady of the Rocks?

No, swimming is not permitted at Our Lady of the Rocks island.

Are there any dress codes for visiting Our Lady of the Rocks?

You must cover your shoulders—no swimwear inside; bring at least a T-shirt to enter the church.

Is pickup included for this Kotor Bay speed boat tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests should arrive at the meeting spot 30 minutes early due to traffic.

Can infants join this private speed boat tour?

Yes, infants can join; they must sit on an adult's lap or use a stroller/pram as needed.

What should I bring for swimming in the Blue Cave?

Bring swimwear, towel, flip flops, sunscreen, sunglasses, sunhat, camera, and possibly a jacket if it's chilly.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but involves boarding boats and some walking.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes all fuel costs and entrance fees for each stop along Kotor Bay plus bottled water throughout. An English-speaking skipper guides you between sights like Our Lady of the Rocks and Blue Cave—insurance is covered too—so you just show up ready to explore by boat (and maybe get a little salty).