Our Lady of the Rocks two hours private tour

An Authentic Montenegro Experience on the Water

This private tour of Our Lady of the Rocks provides a refreshing way to explore Montenegro’s most picturesque sights from the comfort of a speedboat. Starting from the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor, the trip takes you across small Boka Bay villages, showcasing the stunning contrast between sea, mountains, and historic architecture. What I really appreciate is how this tour combines scenic views with cultural insight, all in a manageable two-hour window.

Two standout features of this experience are the personalized service—the guides and skipper are known for being genuinely friendly and helpful—and the opportunity to visit iconic spots like Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast with minimal hassle. The boat ride itself offers a quick but striking panorama of coastal villages, with charming palaces, ancient churches, and traditional houses dotting the shoreline.

A potential consideration is the cost, which at just over $150 for a group of up to six, is quite reasonable but might seem steep for some travelers who are price-sensitive. However, the exclusivity of a private tour, along with the convenience of pickup from various locations and the use of snorkeling gear, makes it a good deal for those seeking an authentic, hassle-free experience on the water.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Personalized Private Experience: Unlike crowded group tours, this private outing ensures your small group gets tailored attention. The guides, such as Lily, and the captain, Philips, are praised for their friendliness, making the journey feel more like visiting friends rather than just another tourist.

Stunning Views and Cultural Highlights: You’ll love the 20-minute panorama ride that offers sweeping views of Boka Bay villages, with a vivid display of history and architecture. The stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast are packed with historical significance and visual beauty, giving you plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights.

Accessibility and Comfort: One review mentions how the guides went out of their way to assist a family with a child in a power chair, illustrating the tour’s accommodating nature. Including bottled water, snorkeling gear, and WiFi adds to the comfort and convenience of the experience.

Authentic Cultural Sites: The visit to Our Lady of the Rocks—built on a legend of fishermen and a miraculous icon—offers both a visual treat and a glimpse into local traditions. The church and museum are highlights, though the museum admission is not included in the ticket price. The imposing Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, built over 120 years, is a landmark that is as meaningful as it is beautiful.

Entering the World of Montenegro’s Coastal Heritage

The Itinerary in Detail

Your adventure begins from the UNESCO Old Town of Kotor or a location of your choosing within Kotor Bay, such as Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota. The flexibility in pick-up points is a bonus, especially if you’re staying in a less central hotel. Once aboard, the speedboat kicks off a 20-minute scenic ride across Boka Bay. During this time, I recommend sitting back and soaking in the views of tiny villages, each with their own story, nestled between rugged mountains and the shimmering sea.

The first stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island built by locals who vowed to create a church after a miraculous event. The legend is charming and adds a layer of local folklore to your visit. You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore the church and museum, which display religious artifacts and the history of the island. Remember, the admission ticket isn’t included—so plan for a small extra fee if you want to see the museum’s exhibits.

Next, you’ll head to Perast, a tiny baroque town with a proud seafaring history. Its 18 churches and 19 palaces speak of its past wealth, and the church of Saint Nicholas with its impressive 55-meter tower is a must-see. You’ll have about 40 minutes here to wander the old streets, snap photos, and soak in the peaceful ambiance. While the admission is free, the charm of Perast is best appreciated just strolling through its centuries-old streets.

The tour also includes a visit to the Island of Saint George, a natural island that houses a monastery dating back to the 12th century. It’s off-limits to travelers, but viewing it from the boat is a treat on its own.

The Highlights That Make This Tour Special

• Knowledgeable and friendly guides like Lily, who are praised for their helpfulness and storytelling skills.
• The stunning panoramas during the boat ride, which provide perfect photo opportunities and a real sense of place.
• The historical significance of sites like Our Lady of the Rocks, built on legend, and Perast’s unique architecture.
• The convenience and comfort of private transportation, WiFi, bottled water, and snorkeling gear included in the price.
• The flexibility in pick-up points, making it suitable for travelers based across Kotor Bay.

The Value of a Private, Short-Format Tour

Priced at $151.26 per group (up to six), this tour offers good value considering the personalized service, private transportation, and expert guidance. For families, couples, or small groups seeking an intimate experience with minimal hassle, it’s an excellent choice. The inclusion of WiFi and snorkeling gear makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery comfortably.

What really makes this experience stand out, as highlighted by reviewers, are the friendly guides and the stunning views. One reviewer mentioned how the guides helped with transfers for a family member in a power chair, making the trip accessible and considerate.

The tour duration of about two hours is perfect for travelers who want to see a good slice of Boka Bay without committing to a full day. It’s especially suitable for those with tight schedules or who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and culturally enriching experience that’s easier to book and more intimate than large group excursions, this private tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for small families, couples, or friends who want to enjoy Montenegro’s coastal charm with knowledgeable guides to enhance the experience.

It’s also well-suited for travelers with mobility considerations, given the assistance noted by some reviews. Those seeking authentic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks without the crowds will find this tour particularly appealing.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This private boat tour offers a wonderful way to see Montenegro’s iconic sites with ease and comfort. The stunning views, friendly guides, and cultural highlights make it a memorable experience—one that balances value with quality. The flexible pick-up options and inclusion of snorkeling gear add to its appeal, making it a practical choice for travelers wanting an authentic, hassle-free adventure.

If you appreciate personalized service and want to see the highlights of Boka Bay from the water, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially perfect for those who value small group intimacy, local storytelling, and scenic beauty combined.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, including the boat ride and stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast.

Where does the tour start?
It begins from the UNESCO Old Town of Kotor or any preferred pick-up point within Kotor Bay, such as Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group of up to six people, ensuring a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation, bottled water, WiFi on board, snorkeling equipment, and fuel surcharge. Admission to Our Lady of the Rocks museum is not included.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. Cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any special accessibility considerations?
One review notes the guides assisted a family member in a power chair, indicating the tour can accommodate mobility needs with help.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the relaxed nature and family-friendly approach suggest it can be suitable for children, especially with attentive guides.

This private tour of Our Lady of the Rocks offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and personalized service—all within a compact two-hour window. It’s a wonderful way to experience Montenegro’s coast without the crowds, making it ideal for those who want an authentic snapshot of Boka Bay’s charm.