Private tour Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks 1.5h

Discovering the Charm of Kotor’s Bay: A 1.5-Hour Private Tour to Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast

This 1.5-hour private tour offers a beautifully balanced glimpse into Montenegro’s iconic bay, combining scenic boat rides with authentic cultural stops. Starting from Kotor, the tour takes you on a 20-minute ride through the tranquil waters of the bay, setting the perfect stage for what’s to come. The highlight is the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a centuries-old church, and the charming old town of Perast, a UNESCO-protected gem filled with Venetian architecture and history.

What I love most about this experience is how intimate and flexible it feels. Since it’s a private tour, your group gets personalized attention, and there’s room for spontaneous swimming or snorkeling—something many other tours might not offer. Plus, the scenic boat ride itself is a treat, giving you stunning views of the bay that are worth the price alone.

One thing to consider: with only 20 minutes on Our Lady of the Rocks and 30 minutes in Perast, this tour is best suited for those who want a quick but meaningful taste of the area. If you’re after an in-depth exploration, you might want to look for longer options. Still, for a compact adventure with great value, this tour hits the spot.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized private experience: Designed for groups up to 10, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed and tailored outing.
• Stunning bay views: The 20-minute panoramic boat ride offers sweeping scenes of Kotor’s waters, ideal for photography or just soaking in the tranquility.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup is available, and the tour includes bottled water, snorkeling masks, and a mobile ticket—making it straightforward and stress-free.
• Authentic stops: Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast gives you a taste of Montenegro’s maritime culture and Venetian architecture.
• Affordable access: At $150.49 for your group, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy several highlights with a knowledgeable skipper.
• Flexibility for swimming: Snorkeling masks are provided, and you might find the boat ride’s stops perfect for a quick swim in the bay’s clear waters.

Scenic Entrance to the Bay: Setting the Scene

Starting from Kotor, the boat ride through the bay is a gentle yet captivating introduction to Montenegro’s coastline. The 20-minute journey isn’t just transportation; it’s a chance to appreciate the landscape—rocky shores, lush greenery, and the distant mountain backdrop. I loved how the boat smoothly glided past the tiny islands and secluded coves, giving me a sense of the bay’s natural beauty.

From reviews, it’s clear that many travelers appreciate the skipper’s skill and friendly attitude—”the skipper was perfect,” as one reviewer put it. This personal touch makes the ride more enjoyable, especially when complemented by the provided bottled water in the warm weather. The boat’s pace is leisurely enough to take photos or simply relax and enjoy the view.

Our Lady of the Rocks: A Man-Made Island with a Story

Our Lady of the Rocks is the first major stop. This man-made island has an intriguing history—it was created in the late 15th century by local sailors who, legend has it, laid rocks in the bay after each successful voyage. The island’s small church is decorated with numerous votive tablets, and for just 3 euros, you can peek inside the church or visit the museum, which costs the same.

During my visit, I found the 20-minute window about right—enough to stroll around the island, snap pictures of the church, and enjoy the sea breeze. The reviews echo this sentiment, with one saying, “exploring the island was free, but the museum and toilet were modest, yet sufficient for our quick visit.”

While some travelers might wish for more time to explore, the short stop ensures the tour remains efficient and focused. Remember that the entrance fee isn’t included, so if you want to visit the museum, budget an extra 3 euros.

Perast: A UNESCO-Listed Old Town

The next stop is Perast, a charming town frozen in time. With 30 minutes on land, you have enough time to stroll its cobbled streets, admire the Venetian architecture, and perhaps indulge in a quick coffee or gelato. The town’s quiet elegance makes it feel like stepping back into the 17th century, with well-preserved palazzos and baroque churches lining the waterfront.

Many reviews highlight how easy it was to explore at their own pace. One traveler remarked, “I loved walking through the ancient streets, feeling like I had stepped into a history book.” The town’s small size means you won’t get overwhelmed, and the UNESCO designation helps preserve its authentic charm.

If you’re a photo enthusiast, Perast’s scenic views of the bay make for perfect pictures. Plus, since no entrance fees are required here, you get to enjoy its beauty without extra costs.

Return Journey & Snorkeling Possibilities

After exploring Perast, the boat ride back to Kotor takes approximately 20 minutes. This is a great time to relax, take in the views again, or even try snorkeling—an option that seems popular based on reviews. The skipper provides masks, and the clear waters around the islands are inviting for a quick swim.

Some travelers appreciated the flexibility, noting, “we visited the entire bay and swam in many attractive locations,” which suggests the boat can anchor in spots ideal for a refreshing dip. The provision of bottled water and snorkeling gear makes the experience comfortable and accessible.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is perfect if you’re after a short, scenic, and personalized trip. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a more exclusive outing rather than crowded group tours. Families with young children, as one reviewer noted, also find it accommodating, especially with flexible stops and snorkeling options.

If you’re a lover of stunning views and authentic towns, this tour hits all those notes. Conversely, if you want a comprehensive deep dive into each site or longer exploration, you might want to look for options with extended durations.

Price and Value

At around $150.49 for up to 10 people, this private tour offers good value—especially considering the personalized service, the boat ride, and the stops included. For a half-hour in Perast and a quick visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, the cost is reasonable, given the convenience and exclusivity. Plus, the tour includes bottled water and snorkeling gear, adding to the overall package.

Keep in mind the entrance fee to the museum is not included, so if that’s important to you, a small extra expense is needed. Still, with the tour’s flexibility and the opportunity to avoid the crowds, many find it well worth the price.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

• Book in advance: The tour is usually booked about a week ahead, so plan accordingly, especially in peak season.
• Arrive early or be on time: The meeting point at Tide And Wave Boat Tours in Kotor is straightforward, but punctuality helps keep the schedule smooth.
• Bring your own essentials: Though water and snorkeling masks are provided, consider bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, and possibly a towel if you plan to swim.
• Consider your timing: The 1.5-hour duration is tight but manageable; if you want more time at each site, look for longer tours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private tour offers a taste of Montenegro’s stunning bay, blending scenic boat rides with charming towns. It’s perfect for travelers who value flexibility, intimacy, and impressive views. The experience’s quick pace makes it suitable for those with limited time but who still want a meaningful snapshot of the region.

If you enjoy authentic, picture-worthy stops without the hassle of large tour groups, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good for families, small groups, or couples seeking a personalized adventure on the water. The favorable reviews highlight the professionalism of the skipper and the beauty of the bay, making it clear that many visitors leave satisfied.

While it’s not a full-day exploration, the balance of scenery, culture, and comfort makes it a worthwhile addition to your Montenegro itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including boat rides and stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast.

Is the tour private or can I join a group?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, which allows for a customized experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the boat ride, bottled water, snorkeling masks, and a mobile ticket. Entrance fees to Our Lady of the Rocks museum are not included.

Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling masks are provided, and the boat stops are suitable for swimming if you wish.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 7 days before the scheduled date, especially in high season.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, if you want to visit the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks, there’s a 3-euro entrance fee not included in the tour price.

This private Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks tour delivers a well-rounded, scenic, and authentic taste of Montenegro’s waterfront highlights. It’s ideal for those seeking a personalized, manageable, and picture-perfect excursion.