Kotor: Perast and Lady of the Rocks Tour by Speedboat

Exploring Montenegro often means winding through ancient towns and stunning coastlines, but a speedboat tour from Kotor to the Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast offers a different perspective — one that’s quick, scenic, and authentically memorable. This journey packs a lot into just about two hours, providing travelers with a taste of the region’s beauty, culture, and seaside charm without the hassle of long waits or complicated logistics.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this experience are the panoramic views from the boat — especially on the way back to Kotor, which offers a fresh angle on the bay — and the well-paced free time at each stop, giving you the chance to explore without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of local drinks and WiFi makes the ride both relaxing and convenient. A possible downside? The duration is short, so if you’re craving a deep dive into history or culture, this might serve better as a highlight rather than a comprehensive tour. Still, for those wanting a quick, scenic snapshot, it’s a strong choice.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning views from the boat: The panoramic vistas of the bay and coast are a highlight, especially on the return trip.
• Short but sweet visits: You get about 20 minutes on each site — perfect for a quick look, but not enough for in-depth exploration.
• Authentic charm of Perast: Small, slightly abandoned, with scenic photo opportunities and a quiet atmosphere.
• The artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks: Created by local tradition, it’s a photographer’s dream, with a church and museum worth a quick visit.
• Relaxing onboard amenities: Free WiFi, water, local wine, and beer keep you comfortable, and the captain’s commentary adds context.
• Small group size: Limited to 9 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience, with guides who speak English and Serbian.
• Value for the price: Compared to longer or more comprehensive tours, this offers a taste of the coast’s highlights at a reasonable cost.
• Flexibility with booking: You can reserve now and pay later, plus cancel 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, which adds peace of mind.

If you’re in Kotor and looking for a way to see some of Montenegro’s most scenic spots without committing hours, this speedboat tour by Rijo Speedboat Tours offers a quick yet rewarding escape. It’s ideal for travelers who want a snapshot of the coast’s beauty, with the added thrill of a boat ride. From the start at the Kotor harbor to the moment you return, this experience combines ease, stunning scenery, and a touch of local flavor.

The Itinerary: A Well-Designed Two-Hour Window

The tour kicks off at the Kotor harbor (Park Slobode), where you hop aboard a sleek speedboat. The first stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, an island that’s as captivating as it sounds. The boat ride itself is part of the fun, offering panoramic views of the bay that are best appreciated from the water. You’re given about 20 minutes to explore the church of Our Lady of the Rocks, which is perched atop this man-made island, and visit the accompanying museum. The guided commentary from the captain helps you appreciate the island’s fascinating history — it was created by local residents piling rocks and has a tradition intertwined with religion and community effort.

Next, the boat takes you to the old town of Perast, a peaceful spot filled with baroque architecture, narrow alleys, and scenic views of the bay. Here, you again get around 20 minutes to snap photos, stroll around, or just soak in the atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how quiet and picturesque Perast feels — a stark contrast to the busier Kotor. As one traveler described, “It’s a half-abandoned town, but full of charm, with breathtaking views” — perfect for a quick peek and some memorable snapshots.

Finally, your return trip to Kotor offers a chance to enjoy the breathtaking scenery from a different perspective. The boat ride is smooth, relaxing, and provides plenty of opportunities to appreciate Montenegro’s coastline — especially with the wifi onboard and the selection of local wine and beer.

What You’ll Experience on the Tour

The main appeal of this trip is how well it balances sightseeing and relaxation. With free time of 20 minutes at each stop, you can get a good look without feeling rushed. While you won’t be able to explore every detail of the Our Lady of the Rocks or Perast, the quick visits are enough to appreciate their beauty and significance. The guided commentary enhances your understanding of these sites, making the experience both informative and scenic.

The boat ride itself is arguably the highlight — gliding through calm waters, with stunning views of Montenegro’s rugged coastline and distant mountains. If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll find the scenery even more dramatic. The small group size (limited to 9) makes for a friendly, personalized atmosphere, and the free WiFi is a thoughtful touch that keeps you connected.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Book

• Duration: Just about 2 hours, so it’s a perfect add-on or a quick escape.
• Starting Point: The tour begins at Kotor city harbor (Park Slobode), easy to find and close to other attractions.
• Inclusions: You get complimentary pick-up, WiFi, drinks, and information from the captain.
• Extras: Entry tickets for the Our Lady of the Rocks museum are not included, so plan for a small additional expense if you want to enter.
• Pricing and booking: The tour offers flexibility — you can reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Group size: Small, making it more intimate and allowing for more personal attention.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want a quick, scenic overview of Montenegro’s coast without long walking tours or extensive commitments. It appeals to photographers, cruise passengers, or anyone who enjoys stunning vistas from the water. Couples, small groups, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the relaxed pace and small-group atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a deep dive into history or a lengthy cultural experience, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for a taste of Montenegro’s seaside beauty with the bonus of local drinks, it offers excellent value and memorable sights.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour around Kotor Bay is an excellent way to see some of Montenegro’s most photogenic spots without spending too much time or money. Its short stops at the Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast offer just enough time to enjoy their scenic and cultural charm, complemented by the spectacular views from the water. The small group, ease of booking, and thoughtful touches like WiFi and local drinks make it a practical, enjoyable choice for travelers seeking a relaxed yet visually rewarding experience.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a highlight reel of Montenegro’s coast, or for cruise passengers looking for a hassle-free shore excursion. If you love stunning scenery and want a quick taste of authentic seaside life, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including boat rides and visits to Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Kotor city harbour, specifically at Park Slobode.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy transportation, free WiFi, drinks (water, local wine, local beer), and commentary from the captain.

Are tickets for the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks included?
No, the entry ticket for the museum costs extra and is not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Is the tour suitable for families or small groups?
Absolutely. The tour is limited to 9 people, making it intimate and ideal for families, couples, or small groups.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and your camera are recommended. The tour provides some drinks, but you might want to bring extra if you prefer specific beverages.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions can affect boat trips. Check with the tour provider if they reschedule or cancel in adverse weather — your reservation can be canceled for a full refund if needed.

This Kotor speedboat excursion balances scenic beauty with practicality, making it a memorable way to experience Montenegro’s coastline without the fuss. Whether it’s your first visit or part of a broader tour of the area, you’ll come away with plenty of great photos and a little more appreciation for this stunning country.