Blue Cave Tours from Budva | Boat Trips & Cruises

From Budva’s bustling beaches to the glowing waters of the Blue Cave, this boat tour shows you the wilder side of Montenegro. In just a few hours, you’ll swim in a glowing sea, cruise past island fortresses, and explore sights you can’t reach by road.

Why take a trip from Budva to the Blue Cave?

Our Lady of the Rocks island with church, Kotor Bay, speedboat tour in Montenegro.

Easy day trip from the coast

The Blue Cave is about 1 to 1.5 hours by boat from Budva. You’ll cruise past the dramatic coastline, skipping traffic and enjoying open sea views along the way.

A change of scenery from beach life

Budva is known for its nightlife and sandy beaches, but a boat tour gives you access to sea caves, island forts, and rocky peninsulas. It’s a refreshing change from the crowds and a chance to see Montenegro’s coastal beauty.

Guests swimming in the blue caves of Kotor, Montenegro.

Swim in a natural sea cave

When sunlight reflects through the water, the inside of the Blue Cave lights up in a vivid electric blue. You can swim or float inside, with most tours stopping long enough to take it all in, and get that perfect photo.

Speedboat on Kotor Bay with passengers enjoying scenic views, part of a private tour with organic lunch.

Multi-stop coastal route

Tours from Budva often include Mamula Island, the submarine tunnels, and sometimes Our Lady of the Rocks, combining history, and nature in one trip.

No planning needed

Tours include skipper, snorkel gear, and entry to some stops. Just book your seat, show up, and enjoy the ride, perfect for travelers who want ease and spontaneity without missing the highlights.

Must-see spots on a Blue Cave tour from Budva

Blue Cave

The star of the show. You’ll enter by boat and get the chance to swim in glowing water caused by sunlight bouncing off the cave floor. It’s a short stop—but one that stays with you.

Old fort overlooking Boka Bay with surrounding mountains in Montenegro.

Mamula Island

A 19th-century Austro-Hungarian fortress turned WWII prison. While the island is now being converted into a resort, many tours circle close, giving you striking views and insight into its dramatic history.

Submarine canal view on Private Blue Cave & Bay of Kotor Speedboat Tour, Montenegro.

Submarine Tunnels

Cut into the cliffs during Yugoslavia’s military era, these narrow, dark tunnels were used to hide submarines. Boats glide quietly through them today—an eerie but fascinating reminder of Cold War strategy.

Our Lady of the Rocks

Some longer tours head into Boka Bay for a stop at this floating island chapel. It’s known for its baroque interior, centuries-old paintings, and panoramic views of the surrounding bay.

Aerial view of Kotor Bay with mountains and coastline in Montenegro.

Open Adriatic Views

Budva tours spend more time on the open sea compared to trips from Kotor or Tivat. You’ll get expansive views, salty air, and that open-water thrill as part of the journey.

Frequently asked questions about visiting the Blue Cave from Budva

How far is the Blue Cave from Budva?

It takes about 60–90 minutes by boat, depending on the type of tour and sea conditions. Some boats make scenic stops along the way, adding to the overall experience.

Is the water calm? Will I get seasick?

Budva tours cross some open water, which can be choppier than Boka Bay. If you’re sensitive to motion, consider taking seasickness tablets beforehand as a precaution.

Do tours include swimming time?

Yes, the tours give you 30 minutes to swim in or around the Blue Cave, and snorkeling gear is also provided onboard.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear swimwear under your clothes, bring a towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and ideally water shoes. A light jacket is helpful on windy days. If you’re visiting Our Lady of the Rocks, bring something to cover shoulders and knees.

Can I take photos inside the Blue Cave?

Yes, but phones and cameras can get wet easily. A waterproof case or dry bag is highly recommended if you plan to shoot inside the cave or while swimming.

LailaJan, 2024

4/5

Ms.May, 2022

5/5

See Kotor’s coastal beauty and vibrant underwater world in one seamless semi-submarine tour.

Everything you get: 1-hour semi-submarine experience with 40 minutes of panoramic sightseeing from the deck and 20 minutes of underwater exploration from the cabin with a licensed English-speaking skipper/guide, insurance, life jackets, and music on board.
Why choose this: This tour combines above-water and underwater sightseeing which is perfect for families and curious explorers seeking a unique perspective of Kotor Bay. You get to see Kotor’s Old Town, medieval churches, and charming fishermen’s villages in addition to the world underwater.

Inclusions

1-hour sightseeing submarine tour
Licensed English-speaking skipper and guide
Free Wi-Fi
Fresh water
Insurance
Fuel

Boat Equipment

Life jackets (available in all sizes)
Safety & emergency equipment
Boat shade (sun protection)
Music (USB, AUX, and Bluetooth)
Swimming stairs
Raincoats
12V socket

Exclusions

Transfers

Beverages

Smoking and travel baggage are not allowed on this experience.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
This experience is suitable for wheelchair and pram/stroller users if their chairs are foldable.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

LaurenJul, 2024

5/5

Mr.Jan, 2024

4/5

LuisJul, 2023

5/5

Cruise the Bay of Kotor, swim in the Blue Cave, and relax on Zanjice Beach—all in one day.

Everything you get: An English-speaking skipper-guide leads this 6-hour speedboat tour through Boka Bay’s top sights—Kotor, Herceg Novi, and Tivat. Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, snap photos at Mamula Island, go swimming in the glowing Blue Cave, and relax at scenic Zanjice Beach.
Why choose this: This tour is tailor-made for explorers who want the full Boka Bay experience. See historic sites, secret military tunnels, island legends, and a swim in the Blue Cave, all in one seamless adventure without the hassle of having to navigate it all yourself.

Inclusions

6-hour sightseeing boat tour
English-speaking guide/skipper
Visit to Blue Cave
Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks Island (tickets for the church museum not included)
Visit to Zanjice Beach
Drinking water
Snorkel mask

Exclusions

Tickets to the church museum at Our Lady of the Rocks Island (€2)

Smoking and travel baggage are not allowed on this experience.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
This experience is suitable for wheelchair and pram/stroller users if their chairs are foldable.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Discover Montenegro’s wild beauty with a boat ride on Lake Skadar and a stroll in Biogradska Gora.

Day out to: Lake Skadar and Biogradska Gora National Park, with round-trip group transport, English-speaking guide, scenic drives, and a boat ride on Lake Skadar. Enjoy photo stops at Sveti Stefan and Pastrovacke Strane, a local breakfast in Virpazar, and a traditional lunch overlooking the Tara River (meals not included).
Everything you get at Lake Skadar and Biogradska: Guided boat ride on Lake Skadar, the Balkans’ largest lake, spot wildlife, swim in summer, and soak up panoramic views. Then wander through one of Europe’s last primeval forests, circling the tranquil Lake Biograd. Plus, all-day transport, and expert commentary.
Why choose this: Get two of the most picteresque sights in thr country, in one convenient combo ticket, with added convenience of transport and a guide to give you the details you'd otherwise miss.
Upgrades: Choose your pickup point—Kotor, Budva, Tivat, or Herceg Novi—for a seamless start to your adventure.

Inclusions

Day trip to Lake Skadar & Biograd
Professional English-speaking guide
Boat ride on Skadar Lake
Full-day transport by mini-bus or mini-van
Pick-up from Kotor/Budva/Tivat/Herceg Novi (as per option selected)

Exclusions

Entrance fees (€10 total – two national parks, cash only)

Food & drinks (breakfast from €7, lunch from €10)

What to bring

Bring water, sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, and camera.
Bring warmer clothing if joining in the pre/post-summer season.
Entrance fees (10€ total for two national parks) must be paid in cash.

What’s not allowed

Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on the tour vehicle.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the tour.
Keep in mind food & beverages are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

The tour may experience heavy traffic in the coastal area on the return journey.
The tour operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately.
Tips for the guide are not included and are at your discretion.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Please arrive at your designated pickup point at least 10 minutes before departure.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

LailaJan, 2024

4/5

Ms.May, 2022

5/5

See Kotor’s coastal beauty and vibrant underwater world in one seamless semi-submarine tour.

Everything you get: 1-hour semi-submarine experience with 40 minutes of panoramic sightseeing from the deck and 20 minutes of underwater exploration from the cabin with a licensed English-speaking skipper/guide, insurance, life jackets, and music on board.
Why choose this: This tour combines above-water and underwater sightseeing which is perfect for families and curious explorers seeking a unique perspective of Kotor Bay. You get to see Kotor’s Old Town, medieval churches, and charming fishermen’s villages in addition to the world underwater.

Inclusions

1-hour sightseeing submarine tour
Licensed English-speaking skipper and guide
Free Wi-Fi
Fresh water
Insurance
Fuel

Boat Equipment

Life jackets (available in all sizes)
Safety & emergency equipment
Boat shade (sun protection)
Music (USB, AUX, and Bluetooth)
Swimming stairs
Raincoats
12V socket

Exclusions

Transfers

Beverages

Smoking and travel baggage are not allowed on this experience.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
This experience is suitable for wheelchair and pram/stroller users if their chairs are foldable.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

LaurenJul, 2024

5/5

Mr.Jan, 2024

4/5

LuisJul, 2023

5/5

Cruise the Bay of Kotor, swim in the Blue Cave, and relax on Zanjice Beach—all in one day.

Everything you get: An English-speaking skipper-guide leads this 6-hour speedboat tour through Boka Bay’s top sights—Kotor, Herceg Novi, and Tivat. Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, snap photos at Mamula Island, go swimming in the glowing Blue Cave, and relax at scenic Zanjice Beach.
Why choose this: This tour is tailor-made for explorers who want the full Boka Bay experience. See historic sites, secret military tunnels, island legends, and a swim in the Blue Cave, all in one seamless adventure without the hassle of having to navigate it all yourself.

Inclusions

6-hour sightseeing boat tour
English-speaking guide/skipper
Visit to Blue Cave
Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks Island (tickets for the church museum not included)
Visit to Zanjice Beach
Drinking water
Snorkel mask

Exclusions

Tickets to the church museum at Our Lady of the Rocks Island (€2)

Smoking and travel baggage are not allowed on this experience.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
This experience is suitable for wheelchair and pram/stroller users if their chairs are foldable.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Sightseeing Cruises

From Kotor: Boka Bay Panorama and Underwater Experience in a Submarine

See Kotor’s coastal beauty and vibrant underwater world in one seamless semi-submarine tour.

Everything you get: 1-hour semi-submarine experience with 40 minutes of panoramic sightseeing from the deck and 20 minutes of underwater exploration from the cabin with a licensed English-speaking skipper/guide, insurance, life jackets, and music on board.
Why choose this: This tour combines above-water and underwater sightseeing which is perfect for families and curious explorers seeking a unique perspective of Kotor Bay. You get to see Kotor’s Old Town, medieval churches, and charming fishermen’s villages in addition to the world underwater.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

1 hr.

Sightseeing Cruises

From Kotor: 6-Hour Blue Cave, Lady of the Rock & Zanjice Beach Guided Speedboat Tour

Cruise the Bay of Kotor, swim in the Blue Cave, and relax on Zanjice Beach—all in one day.

Everything you get: An English-speaking skipper-guide leads this 6-hour speedboat tour through Boka Bay’s top sights—Kotor, Herceg Novi, and Tivat. Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, snap photos at Mamula Island, go swimming in the glowing Blue Cave, and relax at scenic Zanjice Beach.
Why choose this: This tour is tailor-made for explorers who want the full Boka Bay experience. See historic sites, secret military tunnels, island legends, and a swim in the Blue Cave, all in one seamless adventure without the hassle of having to navigate it all yourself.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

6 hr.

Guided tour

Day Trips

From Kotor/Budva/Tivat/Herceg Novi: Lake Skadar & Biograd Day Trip with Boat Ride

Discover Montenegro’s wild beauty with a boat ride on Lake Skadar and a stroll in Biogradska Gora.

Day out to: Lake Skadar and Biogradska Gora National Park, with round-trip group transport, English-speaking guide, scenic drives, and a boat ride on Lake Skadar. Enjoy photo stops at Sveti Stefan and Pastrovacke Strane, a local breakfast in Virpazar, and a traditional lunch overlooking the Tara River (meals not included).
Everything you get at Lake Skadar and Biogradska: Guided boat ride on Lake Skadar, the Balkans’ largest lake, spot wildlife, swim in summer, and soak up panoramic views. Then wander through one of Europe’s last primeval forests, circling the tranquil Lake Biograd. Plus, all-day transport, and expert commentary.
Why choose this: Get two of the most picteresque sights in thr country, in one convenient combo ticket, with added convenience of transport and a guide to give you the details you'd otherwise miss.
Upgrades: Choose your pickup point—Kotor, Budva, Tivat, or Herceg Novi—for a seamless start to your adventure.

‌

Check availability

13 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers included

Discover Montenegro’s wild beauty with a boat ride on Lake Skadar and a stroll in Biogradska Gora.

Day out to: Lake Skadar and Biogradska Gora National Park, with round-trip group transport, English-speaking guide, scenic drives, and a boat ride on Lake Skadar. Enjoy photo stops at Sveti Stefan and Pastrovacke Strane, a local breakfast in Virpazar, and a traditional lunch overlooking the Tara River (meals not included).
Everything you get at Lake Skadar and Biogradska: Guided boat ride on Lake Skadar, the Balkans’ largest lake, spot wildlife, swim in summer, and soak up panoramic views. Then wander through one of Europe’s last primeval forests, circling the tranquil Lake Biograd. Plus, all-day transport, and expert commentary.
Why choose this: Get two of the most picteresque sights in thr country, in one convenient combo ticket, with added convenience of transport and a guide to give you the details you'd otherwise miss.
Upgrades: Choose your pickup point—Kotor, Budva, Tivat, or Herceg Novi—for a seamless start to your adventure.

Inclusions

Day trip to Lake Skadar & Biograd
Professional English-speaking guide
Boat ride on Skadar Lake
Full-day transport by mini-bus or mini-van
Pick-up from Kotor/Budva/Tivat/Herceg Novi (as per option selected)

Exclusions

Entrance fees (€10 total – two national parks, cash only)

Food & drinks (breakfast from €7, lunch from €10)