Perast Kotor Bay: boat ride to Our lady of the Rocks & back

Our review of the Perast Kotor Bay boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks offers a glimpse into what travelers can expect from this popular excursion in Montenegro. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, the detailed information, reviews, and itinerary provided paint a clear picture of an experience that combines natural beauty with local legend and cultural charm.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the breathtaking scenery of the bay, framed by imposing black mountains and shimmering blue waters. Second, the historic allure of Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island steeped in legend and tradition. Lastly, the small group size and organized service promise a more intimate and relaxed outing.

However, a key consideration is that entry to the church is not included in the tour, so if you want to explore inside, you’ll need to pay extra. This may not appeal to travelers seeking a fully guided experience inside the site but works well for those who prefer a quick visit and photo opportunities.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love scenic boat rides, enjoy stories behind local landmarks, and prefer small groups for a more personalized experience. It’s ideal for those seeking a laid-back, yet culturally enriching day in the Kotor area.

Good To Know

• Stunning views of Kotor Bay, framed by rugged mountains and clear waters
• Authentic storytelling about the legend of Our Lady of the Rocks
• Small group experience limited to six participants for a more personal touch
• Flexible timetable with the ability to agree on the return time with the skipper
• Convenient pick-up and drop-off included, making logistics easy
• Entry fee for the church is not included, so plan accordingly

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The tour starts at the Museum of Perast, a perfect launching point to soak in some local atmosphere before heading out on the water. The guide or crew welcomes you here, and from this central spot, you’ll hop onto a speedboat for a quick, approximately 10-minute ride to Our Lady of the Rocks. The short duration of the boat ride highlights the intimacy of the trip—you’re not spending hours on the water, but rather, enjoying a scenic jaunt that packs in plenty of stunning views.

The main highlight is the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island created by locals over centuries. According to legend, the island was formed after two brothers found a Madonna icon washed up on a rock. The tradition of throwing rocks into the sea to expand the island continues today, especially during the annual Fasinada festival. The church, which dates back centuries, contains a fascinating museum with relics and stories that reveal the island’s cultural significance.

The Boat Ride: Style and Comfort

The speedboat used for this trip is described as swift and comfortable, transporting you across the bay in about 10 minutes each way. The crew, which speaks both Serbian and English, is praised for being helpful and welcoming—reviewers noted that guides make the experience more engaging. There’s flexibility on timing: the skipper will let you decide when to leave the island, giving you control over your visit.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

Once on the island, you’ll have around 30-40 minutes to explore the church and its museum. The church itself is a captivating sight, perched against the backdrop of the bay, with its interior filled with religious icons and artifacts. The attached museum adds historical context, with relics and stories that showcase the island’s centuries of history.

Please note, entry to the church is not included in the tour price. The extra fee is worth considering if you’re keen to go inside, but for many, just viewing it from outside and snapping photos is sufficient. The island’s scenic vantage points also make it a fantastic spot for photos, especially during the golden hours.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Return and Overall Duration

The entire experience lasts about one hour, including boat rides, visiting the church, taking pictures, and returning to Perast. The flexible schedule allows you to agree on your departure time with the crew, making it a relaxed outing without feeling rushed.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Pricing and Value

While the tour includes pick-up and drop-off, the main cost concerns entry fees for the church, which are not included in the initial price. Considering the overall experience—beautiful scenery, storytelling, and a gentle boat ride—the cost is generally seen as providing good value, especially for travelers wanting a quick, picturesque escape from more crowded attractions.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 6 participants, this tour offers an intimate vibe that’s perfect for small groups or couples. The small group setting encourages interaction with the guides and creates a more personalized experience, which is often appreciated by travelers seeking authenticity.

Language and Accessibility

The guides or hosts speak both Serbian and English, making communication straightforward for most international visitors. The meeting point next to the Museum of Perast is easy to locate, and the pickup/drop-off service simplifies the logistics.

Timing and Availability

The tour is valid for one day only, so checking availability and starting times in advance is essential. The flexible schedule and the option to reserve now and pay later make planning easier, especially if you’re juggling multiple activities.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers have praised the well-organized nature of the trip, with one calling it “very beautiful” and “worth the visit.” The scenic views of Kotor Bay are described as breathtaking, with some noting that the experience felt both relaxing and culturally meaningful.

One reviewer, Demi, appreciated the helpful and welcoming guides, adding that the trip was “very well organized” and that the scenery was “very beautiful.” Meanwhile, another reviewer found the overall experience to be somewhat simple but enjoyable, especially for those interested in quick visits rather than in-depth tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat ride suits travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic experience that combines a bit of local legend with stunning views. It’s ideal for those who prefer small group settings, want easy logistics, and enjoy short, meaningful visits rather than long excursions. It’s also a good value choice for visitors who want to see Our Lady of the Rocks without investing in full-day tours or expensive entry fees.

Who Might Want More?

If you’re eager to explore the interior of the church or desire a more comprehensive historical tour, this might feel a bit limited, as the entry fee isn’t included. Also, travelers looking for a longer, more immersive experience might prefer other options with extended visits or additional stops.

The Sum Up

This boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks offers a wonderful way to enjoy the natural beauty of Kotor Bay while soaking in local legends and culture. The small group size, flexible timing, and stunning scenery make it a great choice for travelers wanting a relaxed yet enriching experience.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate short, scenic outings with personal touches, and for anyone looking for a cost-effective way to see this iconic island. The quick trip, combined with the chance to learn about local traditions, makes this a memorable part of any Montenegro itinerary.

If you’re after a balanced mix of nature, history, and culture without overwhelming time commitments or costs, this tour might just be the perfect fit.

FAQ

Is the boat ride suitable for children?
Yes, the short boat ride and small group setting generally make it suitable for children, especially if they enjoy scenic views and quick trips. Just keep in mind the boat’s size and safety considerations.

Can I visit the church inside?
Entry to the church is not included in the tour, so if you want to go inside, you’ll need to pay the extra fee separately.

How long is the entire trip?
The entire experience lasts about one hour, including boat rides, visiting the island, taking photos, and returning to Perast.

Is this tour available every day?
Availability depends on the day, so it’s best to check in advance. The tour is valid for one day, and starting times vary.

What languages are available for guides?
The guides or crew speak Serbian and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring your camera, some cash for the church entry fee, and perhaps a light jacket, especially if the weather is breezy on the water.

Is the tour good value for money?
Given the scenic views, storytelling, and small-group intimacy, many find it offers good value, especially considering the convenience of included pickup and drop-off.

In the end, if you’re looking for a beautiful, short boat trip that combines nature, legend, and culture in Montenegro, this tour to Our Lady of the Rocks fits the bill nicely.

You can check if your dates are available here: