Kotor Blue Cave Tour: Swim, Mamula Island & Submarine Tunnels

Summary

Blue water caves, fortress islands and legends in Boka Bay

You’ll feel the sea spray as you speed across Boka Bay from Kotor, swim in glowing blue water inside the famous Blue Cave, circle Mamula Island’s fortress walls, and explore Our Lady of the Rocks with entry included. Expect laughter, local stories from your guide, and moments where time slows down under Montenegrin sun.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the boat—literally. The driver called out my name as I was fumbling with my sunscreen (should’ve done that earlier). But once we left Kotor’s harbor behind, the air changed. It smelled like seaweed and diesel, mixed with something sweet from a bakery onshore. Our guide Marko grinned at us and pointed out the old stone villages sliding past—he knew everyone, waving at a fisherman who just shrugged back. We zipped past cliffs that looked like they’d been carved by giants, and I realized I had no idea how big Boka Bay actually was until you’re right in it.

First real stop: Mamula Island. Marko told us about its weird history—fortress, then prison (not fun), now some fancy hotel. The walls looked sun-bleached and kind of haunted. There was this wind whistling through the old gun holes; it made me shiver even though it was hot. We circled but didn’t land—just enough to get a sense of it. Then came the submarine tunnels near Portonovi. Honestly, I thought they’d be bigger? Still, sliding into those dark concrete mouths felt eerie. Marko joked about Yugoslav spies but got quiet for a second after.

The main thing everyone talks about is swimming in the Blue Cave—and yeah, it’s wild. The water glows electric blue under your hands (I still think about that color). It’s cold when you first jump in but you forget fast because you’re busy laughing or trying not to swallow saltwater. Some folks snorkeled; I just floated and listened to our group echoing off the cave walls. Afterward we dried off in the sun while heading to Our Lady of the Rocks near Perast—tiny island, big stories. An old woman sold little candles outside; Li laughed when I tried to say “hvala” right (probably butchered it). We wandered inside quietly before heading back past Perast’s old stones and bell towers.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Boka Bay and Blue Cave

• Cruise through Bay of Kotor
• Pass submarine tunnels near Portonovi
• Circle Mamula Island fortress
• Swim inside Blue Cave
• Visit Our Lady of the Rocks island
• Explore Old Town of Perast

Top questions

How long does the Blue Cave group tour from Kotor last?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

Is swimming in the Blue Cave included on this tour?

Yes, there is time for swimming inside the Blue Cave during the tour.

Do I need to pay extra for entry to Our Lady of the Rocks?

No, entry fees for Our Lady of the Rocks are included in your tour price.

Are snorkelling equipment provided on this day trip?

Yes, use of snorkelling equipment is included with your booking.

Is this Blue Cave tour suitable for families with young children?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; infants can ride in a pram or stroller but must sit on an adult’s lap.

Does this day trip visit Mamula Island?

The boat circles Mamula Island so you can see its fortress and hear about its history but does not land there.

Are wheelchair users able to join this group tour?

The transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

What towns or attractions will we see besides Kotor?

You’ll pass Portonovi, submarine tunnels on Luštica Peninsula, Mamula Island, Our Lady of the Rocks near Perast, and see panoramic views of Boka Bay.

What’s included

Your day includes entry fees for Our Lady of the Rocks (no extra charge), use of snorkelling equipment for your swim at Blue Cave, plus all transport by boat from Kotor with stops at key sights around Boka Bay before returning to town together at the end.