Kotor boat tour, submarine and speedboat

Description

There’s something about the way the sunlight hits the Bay of Kotor that makes you stop and stare for a moment. The sea glimmers like liquid glass, the limestone cliffs rise dramatically, and the air feels thick with history. A Kotor boat tour—whether by sleek speedboat or a quirky semi-submarine—isn’t just another sightseeing activity; it’s the kind of experience that sticks with you long after you’ve left Montenegro. I remember the first time I hopped on one of those tours—half excited, half skeptical—and by the end, I was grinning like a kid who’d just discovered treasure. And honestly, it kind of feels like that. You’re exploring hidden coves, ancient fortresses, and even secret submarine bases left behind from Yugoslav times. It’s part adventure, part history lesson, and part pure Mediterranean bliss.

What sets the Kotor boat tours apart is how personal they feel. The captains often double as storytellers, weaving legends of pirates, Venetian traders, and local fishermen as you glide through the bay. Some boats have transparent bottoms or semi-submarine viewing decks, so you can watch fish darting below while the mountains loom above. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin or two playing in the wake. The tours are well-organized, yet relaxed—typical Montenegrin style. You can book online, pay easily with cards or mobile payments, and just show up ready to soak in the view. It’s efficient but never rushed, which is exactly how travel should be.

Sure, not every moment is perfect—sometimes the sea gets choppy, or a popular stop like Our Lady of the Rocks gets crowded—but that’s part of the charm. The best experiences often come from the unexpected: a spontaneous swim in the Blue Cave, a quiet conversation with a local guide, or that moment when the sun dips behind Lovćen Mountain and paints the bay in gold. That’s the Kotor boat tour in a nutshell—a mix of beauty, adventure, and a few surprises along the way.

Key Features

• Choice of speedboat, semi-submarine, or private charter tours for every travel style
• Stops at iconic landmarks like Our Lady of the Rocks, Perast, Mamula Island, and the Blue Cave
• Opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters and explore hidden beaches
• Professional, friendly guides who share local stories and historical insights
• Modern boats equipped with safety gear, shaded seating, and onboard refreshments
• Flexible booking options, including online reservations and mobile payments
• Onsite and private tour options for families, couples, or small groups
• Scenic routes through UNESCO-protected Boka Bay with panoramic photo stops
• Optional snorkeling and underwater viewing through semi-submarine windows

And if you’re the kind of traveler who loves a bit of spontaneity, some operators even offer custom itineraries. You can decide how long to stay at each stop or add a secluded beach visit if the weather’s right. It’s flexible, fun, and feels a lot more personal than the typical group tour bus experience. I once joined a small group that ended up detouring to a tiny fishing village for lunch—unplanned, but easily the highlight of the day.

Best Time to Visit

If you ask locals, they’ll tell you that the best time to hop on a boat in Kotor is between May and September. That’s when the Adriatic is warm enough for swimming, and the skies are usually clear. But here’s a little secret: late May and early October are magical. The crowds thin out, the prices drop a bit, and the bay feels like it belongs to you. I’ve done a tour in July—beautiful, yes, but also packed—and another in early October, when the air was still warm but peaceful. Guess which one I’d recommend?

During high summer, the midday sun can be intense, so morning or late afternoon tours are ideal. The light is softer, the sea calmer, and the photos? Absolutely stunning. If you’re into photography, bring your camera or at least clear your phone storage—you’ll need it. And don’t worry about rain; even on cloudy days, the bay has a moody, cinematic charm that’s equally worth seeing.

How to Get There

Getting to your boat tour in Kotor is pretty straightforward. Most tours depart from the main marina near the Old Town, just a short walk from the city walls. If you’re staying in the area, it’s easy to reach on foot. For those coming from Budva, Tivat, or Herceg Novi, taxis and local buses run frequently, and the drive offers some beautiful coastal views along the way. If you’re driving, there’s paid parking nearby—either in designated lots or along the streets close to the marina. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s convenient.

And if you’re arriving by cruise ship, you’re in luck. The pier is practically next door to most tour operators, so you can step off your ship and be on a speedboat within minutes. Just make sure to book ahead during peak season; the best tours fill up fast, and you don’t want to be left watching from the dock while others zoom off toward the Blue Cave.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s where a bit of insider advice goes a long way. First off, bring sunscreen—lots of it. The Montenegrin sun doesn’t mess around, and even with shade on the boat, you’ll feel it. A hat, sunglasses, and a light cover-up are your best friends. Oh, and don’t forget water. Some boats offer drinks onboard, but it’s always smart to have your own bottle, especially on longer tours.

Next, wear swimwear under your clothes if you plan to dive into the Blue Cave or any of the hidden coves. Changing on a boat isn’t exactly glamorous, trust me. Waterproof shoes or sandals are also a good idea; decks can get slippery. And while it’s tempting to bring your fancy camera, make sure it’s protected—sea spray has a sneaky way of finding everything.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, grab a seat toward the back of the boat where it’s more stable. I learned that the hard way after underestimating the Adriatic’s mood swings one windy afternoon. A quick tip: ginger candies or tablets work wonders if you forget your medication. Also, keep a bit of cash handy for small tips or snacks at local stops—many tiny cafes and kiosks still prefer it over cards.

And here’s something people don’t often talk about: the stories. Talk to your guide. Ask questions. Most of them grew up around the bay and have tales that no travel brochure could ever capture. One guide once told me about diving near the old submarine base as a kid, long before it became a tourist stop. That’s the kind of detail you can’t Google.

Lastly, be patient and open to the unexpected. Sometimes the sea dictates the route, or a stop might take longer than planned. But that’s the beauty of it—this isn’t a rigid schedule; it’s an experience that unfolds naturally. And when you’re sitting on the deck, the wind in your hair, the mountains mirrored in the water, you’ll realize that’s exactly how it should be.

So, whether you’re chasing adventure, history, or just a few hours of peace on the Adriatic, a Kotor boat tour delivers. Between the speedboats slicing through turquoise waves and the semi-submarines revealing the quiet world below, it’s an adventure that feels both thrilling and deeply personal. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll leave already planning your next visit.

Location

Places to Stay Near Kotor boat tour, submarine and speedboat

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides