Kotor: Private Blue Cave Tour with Swimming & Local Guide

Summary

Private speedboat tour to Blue Cave from Kotor with stops

You’ll cruise by speedboat from Kotor to Montenegro’s famous Blue Cave for swimming in glowing blue water, explore hidden submarine pens with your local guide, visit Our Lady of the Rocks island, and stroll through historic Perast. Expect laughter, fresh sea air, and moments that linger long after you’ve dried off.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen water this blue?” our guide Luka grinned as we slowed near the mouth of the Blue Cave. I’d been squinting at the sunlight bouncing off the bay since we left Kotor, but nothing prepared me for that electric color inside — it almost glowed against the stone. The engine cut out and suddenly it was just us, echoey laughter, and cool air brushing my arms. I hesitated before jumping in (it’s colder than you think), but honestly, floating there under that shifting light felt like being inside some secret pocket of Montenegro.

The ride itself was a blur of wind and salt spray. Luka pointed out Mamula Island — apparently it used to be a prison, which I wouldn’t have guessed from how peaceful it looked now. We ducked into an old submarine pen too; it smelled faintly metallic and damp, and Luka told us stories about Yugoslav submarines hiding out here. He had this way of mixing history with jokes so you never felt like you were getting a lecture. At one point he tried teaching us a few words in Montenegrin — I managed “hvala” (thank you), but my accent made everyone laugh.

After drying off in the sun, we stopped at Our Lady of the Rocks. The little island was dotted with wildflowers and old stones warm underfoot. There was a quietness there — except for the soft clatter of church bells and someone’s voice drifting over from another boat. We wandered through Perast next; narrow streets, faded shutters, locals sitting on benches watching us pass by like they’d seen it all before. I grabbed a coffee at a tiny café while Luka chatted with someone he knew (everyone seems to know everyone here). I still think about that view back toward Kotor, mountains folding into the bay — something about it sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Speedboat tour to Blue Cave and sights

• Depart from Kotor by speedboat
• Pass by Mamula Island
• Visit and swim in Blue Cave
• Visit submarine pen
• Explore Our Lady of the Rocks church
• Explore old town of Perast
• Return to Kotor

Top questions

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

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Is swimming included during the Blue Cave tour?

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

What places are visited on this speedboat tour?

You’ll visit Mamula Island, submarine pens, Our Lady of the Rocks island, and Perast village.

Is hotel or cruise ship pickup included?

The tour includes pickup arrangements; cruise ship passengers should provide ship details when booking.

Are guides local on this private tour?

Yes, your driver/guide is local and shares insights along the route.

Is bottled water provided during the trip?

Bottled water is included for all guests on board.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the ride.

Are service animals allowed on this boat tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted on board.

What’s included

Your day includes private speedboat transport with a local guide who also drives, bottled water throughout the journey, all fuel costs covered so you don’t have to worry about extra fees, plus flexible pickup arrangements including for cruise ship passengers if needed before returning to Kotor at the end.