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

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

Planning a quick trip to Montenegro and want to see the highlights of Kotor Bay without wasting precious time? This speedboat tour offers a compact, scenic, and affordable way to explore two of the region’s most iconic sites: Perast Old Town and Our Lady of the Rocks. While it’s a short trip, it packs in plenty of sights and gives you a taste of Montenegro’s maritime charm.

What we love about this experience is its stunning boat ride, the chance to wander charming coastal streets, and the unique story behind the island. However, some reviews suggest that the guide component might be a bit hit or miss, and the experience feels more like a transfer rather than a full-blown tour. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick, scenic outing rather than an in-depth historical deep dive.

This tour suits those with limited time, families looking for a safe and easy activity, or anyone eager to capture postcard-perfect views of the bay. If you’re after a relaxing trip with memorable photo opportunities, this could be a great fit — just keep your expectations aligned with the concise nature of the experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Affordable and Time-Efficient: At $33 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience Kotor Bay’s highlights in just two hours.
• Scenic Speedboat Ride: The highlight is the boat trip itself, offering excellent vantage points of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
• Visit Key Sights: Includes a stop at the famous Our Lady of the Rocks island and a stroll through Perast Old Town.
• Limited Tour Guide Engagement: While a guide is included, some reviews note the lack of historical commentary or suggestions during the trip.
• Short Duration, Sweet Experience: Perfect for travelers with limited time, but might leave those seeking detailed insights a bit disappointed.
• Consider the Value: For the price, you get a snapshot of the bay’s beauty, but skip the museum if you’re after more in-depth exploration.

A Detailed Look at the Speedboat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Journey Duration

The tour kicks off at the Garni Hotel Tianis in Kotor, a convenient central location. From there, you’ll hop onto a comfortable speedboat for about a 20-minute ride across the crystal-clear waters of Boka Bay. The boat ride itself is a highlight, with plenty of chances to snap photos of the striking coastline, lush hills, and historic towns in the distance.

First Stop: Our Lady of the Rocks

Your first destination is the man-made islet of Our Lady of the Rocks, known for its distinctive church and museum. The island was created by local seamen, who laid stones in the water to build this place of worship over centuries. The story is fascinating—some reviews mention that the boat crew might not offer much commentary, but you can’t help but be captivated by how this island was formed entirely by human effort.

Inside, you’ll find beautiful religious artifacts, and the church’s paintings and icons give a glimpse into its long history. Expect to spend around 20 minutes here, enough to take photos and get a sense of the island’s story. Be sure to bring your camera, especially for the panoramic views from the boat and the island’s vantage points.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Scenic Pause and Photos Outside Perast

Next, the boat glides over to a viewpoint just outside Perast. Here, travelers have a chance to pause and soak in the breathtaking scenery—think steep hills, ancient stone houses, and the shimmering water. This is a favorite moment for many, as the vantage point offers a perfect backdrop for photos.

Exploring Perast Old Town

The final stop is Perast, a picture-perfect coastal town with baroque architecture and a quiet, welcoming vibe. The tour allows around 30 minutes for a leisurely walk through its narrow streets. You can visit landmarks like the Maritime Museum or simply relax at a seaside café, watching boats bobbing in the water.

Some reviews mention that the guide may not provide detailed historical insights, which might feel disappointing if you’re expecting a more educational experience. However, just wandering the streets and soaking up the atmosphere is in itself a charming experience.

Returning to Kotor

After exploring Perast, the boat makes a quick 5-minute ride back to the starting point, completing a 2-hour round trip. The return journey also offers chances for stunning views of the bay and mountains, perfect for final photo ops.

What’s Included and What You Should Consider

This tour includes the speedboat ride, the Our Lady of the Rocks island visit, a guide, water, and safety equipment. However, it’s worth noting that entry tickets to the museum on the island are not included (cost around 3 euros). If you’re interested in exploring the church interior or the museum, budget accordingly.

Some reviews highlight that there’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated location in Kotor. The group size is limited to 8 people, which makes for a more intimate experience, but also means it’s best to book in advance during peak season.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts 2 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. It’s a quick jaunt, so plan your day accordingly—this isn’t a full-day tour but a perfect addition if you want a scenic break from other activities.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring your passport or ID (for potential museum entry), wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and pack sunglasses to shield against the sun. Since the boat ride can be bumpy, avoid large or heavy luggage, and note that pets, large bags, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Details

From reviews, it’s clear that the boat ride itself is the star of this experience. Multiple travelers appreciated the stunning vistas and the chance to see the bay from a different perspective. One reviewer mentioned that the boat driver was helpful with simple suggestions like where to buy tickets or what to check out in Perast, even if there wasn’t much historical commentary.

The Our Lady of the Rocks island’s story adds a layer of cultural depth—created by locals over centuries, it represents human resilience and maritime traditions. Visitors will enjoy the artifacts inside the church, but those expecting a comprehensive museum visit might find the 3-euro fee a modest addition rather than a full experience.

The Bottom Line on Value

At $33, this tour is a cost-effective way to check two major sights off your list in a short timeframe. The price reflects the simple, scenic nature of the trip rather than a detailed guided experience. If you’re after stunning views and a relaxed boat ride, it delivers well; if your interest is in deep historical insights, you might need to supplement this with more in-depth tours later.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This speedboat tour is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to see the beauty of Kotor Bay. It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy photography, as the boat offers superb vantage points. Families or small groups seeking a charming, safe, and straightforward excursion will find it fitting.

However, if you’re craving a more educational or guided experience, be prepared for a tour that’s primarily about the scenery and quick visits. It’s perfect as a scenic highlight rather than a history lesson.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to meet at the reception of Hotel Tianis in Kotor.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours, including the boat rides and stops.

Are tickets to the museum included?
No, the museum entry fee (around 3 euros) is not included.

Can I bring large luggage or pets?
Large bags and pets are not allowed on the boat.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, along with sunglasses and possibly a hat, are recommended.

Is the guide providing detailed commentary?
Some reviews mention minimal guidance, mainly basic directions and suggestions.

What if I want more historical info?
You might need to look for additional tours or resources, as this one is mainly scenic.

Is the tour suitable for kids or people with limited mobility?
It’s best for those who can sit comfortably on a boat and walk short distances. Pregnant women and individuals with mobility issues might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat trip offers a snapshot of Montenegro’s stunning coastline, emphasizing quick access to breathtaking views and iconic sights. While it might lack in-depth storytelling or extensive museum visits, it compensates with its beautiful scenery and relaxed pace.

It’s a clever choice if you’re short on time but want to experience the character and charm of Kotor Bay from a fresh perspective. Just remember, it’s more about the ride and the views than a comprehensive tour—perfect for capturing memories and relaxing in the sun.

If you’re after a beautiful, affordable escape with minimal fuss, this tour will suit you perfectly. For those who want to learn more, consider adding a more detailed tour later, but for now, enjoy the stunning vistas that make Montenegro so special.

You can check if your dates are available here: