Kotor: Boat Tour to Perast Old Town & Our Lady of the Rocks

Exploring Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor by Speedboat – A Review of the Tour to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks

If you’re craving a quick yet memorable escape from the labyrinth of cobblestone streets and bustling harbor of Kotor, a boat tour to Perast and the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks might just be the perfect option. This two-hour adventure, run by Montenegro Submarine & Speed Boat Tours, offers a glimpse into the tranquil beauty of Boka Bay, combined with fascinating stories and picturesque stops. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and descriptions paint a clear picture of a trip that’s both visually stunning and surprisingly well-organized.

What I really like about this experience is the chance to see the UNESCO World Heritage site on the water, along with the chance to explore Perast, a charming town full of baroque architecture and legends. The highlight for many is the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island with an intriguing story, frescoes, and a small museum. Plus, the small group size—often just a handful of people—means the journey feels intimate and personal. A minor consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent, so if the wind kicks up, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, but that’s true for most outdoor activities.

One of the best parts? The knowledgeable guides like Nicola or George, who share stories about the area’s history and legends, making the experience more than just a pretty boat ride. From reviews, you’ll also find that the boat itself is comfortable and fast, offering a smooth glide across the bay, with some even mentioning free WiFi and water onboard. And with multiple stops—each lasting around 20 to 30 minutes—you get enough time to take photos, explore, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small-Group Experience: Many reviews mention that the tour feels almost private, especially with just a few people, which enhances the overall enjoyment.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Nicola or George are praised for their friendly, informative commentary and ability to take things at your pace.
• Beautiful Stops: The islands and towns visited—Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast—are genuinely charming, with plenty of photo opportunities and stories to learn.
• Value for Money: For what you pay, this tour offers a mix of scenery, history, and convenience that many say feels well worth the cost.
• Flexible Timing: The tour duration is about two hours, and you can check availability for specific starting times, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
• Weather Sensitivity: Being an outdoor boat tour, it’s dependent on good weather, and cancellations can happen if conditions are unsafe.

The Journey: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The adventure starts at the Kotor seaport, where you’ll meet your skipper and guide—often a friendly local like Sara or George—at a designated point near the security checkpoint. Arriving at least 30 minutes early is recommended, especially during busy summer months or if you’re driving, because parking in Kotor can be tricky and the area can be crowded.

Once aboard the speedboat, the journey begins with a 20-minute cruise across the bay, giving you a chance to enjoy the breeze and soak in spectacular views of the rugged coastline. Your guide will share snippets about the area’s history, the legend of Our Lady of the Rocks, and the significance of Perast.

The first stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island built over centuries by sailors who laid stones to honor the Madonna after safe voyages. Here, you’ll visit the church and museum—though keep in mind, entry tickets are about 3 euros, and you’ll need to dress modestly to enter. The church’s frescoes, votives, and tapestries are said to tell stories of the island’s maritime past. Many reviews highlight the charm of this stop, with some saying it’s a “small church with a big story,” and others appreciating the opportunity to snap photos from the boat or on the island itself.

Next, the boat swiftly moves to Perast, a UNESCO-heritage town packed with history. You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore the narrow streets, see the Venetian palaces, and marvel at the defensive towers. Many visitors mention how picturesque and well-preserved Perast is, with reviews like “The architecture reflects the wealth of Venetian rule,” and “Enough time to wander and take photos.” The town’s small size means you can get a good feel for its ambiance without rushing.

The return leg is a 25-minute cruise back to Kotor, giving you more chances for photos or simply relaxing and absorbing the scenery. Some tours offer the option of timing the trip for sunset, which many find particularly beautiful.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Many reviews praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Nicola and George, who make history come alive with stories and local insights. Their relaxed approach and willingness to answer questions add a lot to the experience. The small boat size makes a noticeable difference—no loud engines or crowded decks—creating a peaceful environment to enjoy the ride.

The scenic beauty is undeniable. Whether it’s the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, built by sailors over centuries, or the baroque architecture of Perast, every view offers a perfect photo opportunity and a reminder of Montenegro’s maritime richness.

The value for money is often highlighted. Compared to larger cruises, this trip feels more personal and less commercialized. The tour includes water, safety equipment, and the guide, which many reviews agree makes it a solid deal for a two-hour escape.

Some reviews mention the importance of wearing warm clothes during spring and autumn or on cooler days, because the boat can get chilly, especially when moving at speed. Plus, while the tour is flexible, it’s worth noting that the museum at Our Lady of the Rocks is only open until certain times (5-7 PM depending on the season), so plan accordingly if you want to visit inside.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour suits travelers who love authentic, scenic experiences with a touch of storytelling. It’s perfect for those who want to see a UNESCO site without a lengthy or overly commercialized excursion. The small group style and friendly guides make it especially appealing to couples, small families, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, intimate outing.

If you’re looking for a luxurious, all-inclusive cruise or a private charter, this might not meet those expectations, but for the price, it offers a genuine taste of Boka Bay’s charm. It’s also a good fit if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive snapshot of the area’s highlights.

The experience might not be ideal if you’re sensitive to motion or prone to seasickness, as the boat moves at speed and can get choppy in windy weather. Also, if you have mobility issues or are traveling with pets, note that the tour involves some walking and no dedicated accessibility services.

Practical Tips for Your Boat Tour

• Arrive early: Aim for at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid stress and find the meeting spot easily.
• Dress in layers: It can be chilly at times, especially on the water, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
• Bring essentials: Sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen—these will enhance your comfort and photo opportunities.
• Plan your timing: To catch the best light, consider booking a late afternoon tour, especially in summer.
• Respect dress code: If visiting the church at Our Lady of the Rocks, wear modest clothing—no swimsuits or revealing attire.
• Prepare for weather: The tour may be canceled in heavy rain or wind, so check the forecast.
• Book in advance: Tours can fill up, especially in high season, and booking allows you to choose your preferred time slot.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Kotor Experience for You?

For travelers eager to see the stunning scenery of Boka Bay from a comfortable and intimate speedboat, this tour offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, history, and local stories. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to connect with Montenegro’s maritime culture in a relaxed setting.

If you’re after a cost-effective way to visit Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast with enough time for photos and exploration, this tour is a solid choice. The reviews highlight the value for money, stunning views, and friendly service, making it a popular pick among visitors.

However, keep in mind the weather’s influence and the need for modest clothing when visiting the church. If you want a personalized, scenic excursion that captures the essence of Montenegro’s coast without breaking the bank, this boat tour is worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred schedule.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the small boat ride and stops are generally family-friendly, but children should be comfortable on boats and in outdoor environments.

What’s included in the tour?
The package covers the speedboat ride, guide, water, and safety equipment.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, entry to the Our Lady of the Rocks museum costs about 3 euros and is not included.

Can I visit the church inside?
Yes, but you’ll need to dress modestly, and note that the church is open until certain hours depending on the season.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and layers for warmth.

Is the tour weather dependent?
Yes. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You should plan to meet at the designated starting point.

Can I get a private tour?
Yes, private groups are available for those seeking a more personalized experience, but check availability and pricing.

In short, this boat tour to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks offers an excellent way to enjoy Montenegro’s coast, especially if you appreciate good storytelling, stunning vistas, and small-group intimacy. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking authentic experiences with a reasonable price tag.