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

Exploring Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor by boat offers a unique blend of history, scenic views, and relaxed discovery. This particular tour, offered by Montenegro Submarine & Speed Boat Tours, promises a swift yet enriching experience that takes you from the lively port of Kotor to two of the region’s most iconic sights—the Our Lady of the Rocks island and the UNESCO-listed Perast town.

What we love about this trip? First, the expert guides bring history and stories to life, making the stops more meaningful. Second, the stunning panoramic views of the bay make for superb photos. Third, the speedboat ride offers a fun, exhilarating way to explore the coastline. A small caveat? The tour runs for about 2 hours, so if you’re looking to spend an entire day exploring, you’ll need to combine it with other activities.

This tour suits travelers craving a short, scenic escape with plenty of authentic charm. It’s perfect for those who enjoy quick but immersive experiences, want to see the highlights with expert commentary, or simply seek a refreshing way to enjoy Montenegro’s stunning coastline.

Good To Know

• Short and sweet: A 2-hour tour that hits the main sights of Kotor Bay without taking up your whole day
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Nicola and George enhance the experience with engaging stories
• Picture-perfect views: Marvel at the landscapes, quaint islands, and historic towns from the comfort of a speedboat
• Well-paced stops: 30-minute explorations at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast give enough time to take photos and soak in the atmosphere
• Good value: Includes guide, water, safety equipment, and island visits, making the modest price worthwhile
• Weather-dependent: Tours can be canceled if weather conditions turn unfavorable, so flexibility helps

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Booking and Meeting Experience

Booking this tour is straightforward through GetYourGuide, with options to reserve now and pay later, giving you peace of mind if your plans change. The meeting spot is conveniently located just after security at Kotor’s seaport, marked by an information desk where the friendly skipper and Sara, the tour coordinator, welcome guests. It’s advised to arrive at least 30 minutes early—an important tip considering the busy summer season and potential traffic delays, especially around the park area where the tour starts.

The Speedboat Ride: A Fun and Scenic Journey

Once onboard, the real thrill begins. The tour typically features a 20-minute speedboat cruise from Kotor’s harbor out into Boka Bay. The boat itself is described as comfortable and clean, with some reviewers mentioning extras like free Wi-Fi and drinks, which is a nice touch for the short ride.

Travelers consistently comment on the quality of the vessel and the professionalism of the skippers like Murad, Reo, and George. The boat’s speed allows for swift access to the sights, but also offers exhilarating moments, especially if you love a bit of wind in your hair.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

The first major stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, an island steeped in legend. The story goes that local sailors, after spotting a Madonna and Child on a sea rock, built this artificial island as a gesture of thanks. Today, the island hosts a church filled with frescoes, votive offerings, and tapestries, which guides like Nicola describe with enthusiasm.

The visit typically lasts around 20 minutes, a perfect window for photos and quick exploration. Reviewers like Deborah and Olga appreciated the well-paced visit, noting that the church and museum are small but packed with intriguing relics. Entry to the museum costs €3, and note that the church has a dress code—no swimsuits or casual beachwear—so dress appropriately if you want to go inside.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Perast

Next up, the tour continues to Perast, a charming town that’s part of UNESCO World Heritage. With its Baroque palaces, defensive towers, and historic churches, Perast is a visual feast. The 30-minute stop allows visitors to roam the narrow streets, snap photos of the picturesque harbor, and get a sense of the town’s storied past.

Many reviews emphasize how well-timed these stops are. Janna and Rhiannon appreciated the ample time to explore and take photos, noting that the stops felt just right—not too rushed, but not dragging on either.

The Return and Overall Experience

As the tour concludes, the boat heads back to Kotor, usually in about 25 minutes. Many guests comment on how the entire experience felt seamless and well-organized. Guides like George and Sam are praised for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and storytelling, which add depth to the journey.

The tour’s duration—about 2 hours—strikes a balance between seeing the highlights and leaving travelers eager for more. Considering the overall value, many reviewers, like Asif and Tracey, find this tour offers excellent value for its modest price, especially given the personalized feel of the small group size and the scenic stops.

Why This Tour Delivers Real Value

This boat tour covers the essentials—stunning views, meaningful stories, and authentic local sights—without the hassle of full-day commitments. The guided element enhances the experience, turning a simple boat ride into a story-rich journey. The stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast are well-chosen, offering both historical insights and beautiful scenery.

The small-group vibe—often with just eight guests—means you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Plus, the boat’s speed and ease of access make exploring the bay comfortable and exhilarating at the same time. The inclusion of water, safety gear, and a knowledgeable guide adds to the overall experience, making it more than just a sightseeing ride.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour shines for those who want to see iconic sights quickly but with enough depth to appreciate their significance. If you’re short on time but craving a taste of Montenegro’s coastal charm, you’ll love the efficient itinerary. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a guided experience with local stories, rather than navigating alone.

However, if you are particularly sensitive to weather or prefer to spend more time exploring each site independently, you might find the 2-hour limit a bit tight. Also, those with mobility issues should be aware that the tour involves some walking and stepping on and off boats and island stairs.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In short, this tour offers fantastic value if you’re after a beautiful, guided glimpse of Kotor’s highlights. The combination of a scenic speedboat ride, engaging guides, and carefully timed stops makes it a compelling choice for a half-day outing.

Travelers who appreciate authentic stories, picturesque scenery, and a relaxed pace will find this trip satisfying. It’s especially suitable for those new to Montenegro or anyone looking for a memorable way to see the bay without committing to a full-day tour.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides elevate the experience, making it feel personal and special. Plus, the chance to take stunning photos and learn local legends adds a layer of meaning to what might otherwise be a simple boat trip.

FAQ

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

What is included in the price?
The price covers the speedboat tour, guide, water, safety equipment, and the island visit. Entry to the museum costs an additional €3.

Is there a dress code for the church?
Yes, visitors entering the church at Our Lady of the Rocks should dress modestly—no swimsuits or casual beachwear.

Can I join the tour if I arrive late?
It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes early. If you miss your scheduled departure, you can join the next available slot with prior agreement.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunhat, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Consider a light jacket or sweater in cooler months.

Are the tours suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with mobility impairments, due to walking and boat boarding.

What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled if weather conditions are unfavorable. It’s wise to check the forecast and your booking policy for flexibility.

To sum it up, this speedboat tour of Kotor Bay is a smart pick for travelers seeking an efficient, scenic, and story-filled adventure. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and well-paced stops, it’s a fun, worthwhile way to experience Montenegro’s coastal charm—especially if you value authenticity and good value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here: