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

Anyone who’s been to Montenegro will tell you that the Bay of Kotor is a place of extraordinary beauty, blending dramatic mountains with charming coastal villages. This boat tour from Kotor offers a compact yet immersive way to experience some of the area’s most iconic sights—without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

We particularly love the exhilarating speedboat ride, which gives you a genuine rush while you soak in the stunning views. The visit to Our Lady of the Rocks offers a glimpse into local faith and history, while Perast’s Baroque architecture transports you back in time. That said, it’s worth keeping in mind that weather conditions can influence the experience, so flexibility is key.

This tour appeals especially to those craving a blend of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and a touch of adventure—all in a short timeframe. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time in Kotor but eager to see its highlights from the water.

Good To Know

• Fast-paced but comprehensive: The 1.5-hour duration packs in a lot of sights without feeling rushed.
• Stunning views: Expect breathtaking scenery and photo opportunities, especially during the boat rides.
• Cultural insights: Guided visits to Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast provide meaningful context.
• Group size and guides: Small groups or private options mean more personalized attention.
• Weather-dependent: The tour may be rescheduled or canceled if weather turns bad.
• Cost and value: The experience balances price and quality, offering a lot in a short period.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Park Slobode

The tour kicks off from Park Slobode, a convenient and central location in Kotor. From here, you’ll hop onto a speedboat that whisks you through the Bay of Kotor. The initial ride, about 20 minutes long, sets the tone—fast, fun, and brimming with scenic vistas. Expect to feel the wind in your hair and get your first real sense of how dramatic and wide-open this bay is.

The Speedboat Ride

Traveling on a speedboat isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s part of the experience. The quick rides between stops—like the 20-minute jaunt to Our Lady of the Rocks and then later to Perast—are lively and give you a fresh perspective of the rugged coastline.

Reviewers have praised the boat captain’s skill and friendliness, noting that the thrill of the ride complements the peacefulness of the scenery. It’s a great way to cover ground quickly, especially if you want to maximize your sightseeing in a short window.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

The first major stop, Our Lady of the Rocks, is a tiny islet just off Perast. Here, you’ll visit a 15th-century church and a small museum, with a guided tour that brings alive the island’s history. The church, built atop a man-made islet, is known for its stunning interior and mosaic artworks.

Taking photos here is practically mandatory, particularly of the church’s distinctive exterior, which looks like it’s floating on the water.

A highlight from reviews is how the guides manage to give visitors meaningful stories in just a short 15-minute visit, making the experience both educational and visually captivating.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Perast

Next, the boat returns to Perast itself, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its well-preserved Baroque architecture. The 30-minute stop is an excellent opportunity to stroll along cobblestone streets, admire ornate villas, and get a feel for the town’s elegant past.

Many travelers rave about the town’s charm, noting that it’s a picture-perfect setting for photos and a relaxing spot for a quick exploration. Some reviews mention wine and food tastings during their time here, adding a culinary dimension to the visit.

While the tour doesn’t include museum tickets, the town itself offers plenty to see and do, whether that’s admiring the architecture or sitting down for a local snack.

Returning to Kotor

After a final 20-minute boat ride back to the starting point, the tour wraps up. The whole experience is about 1.5 hours—just enough to satisfy those who want a quick but rich taste of the bay’s highlights.

Reviews highlight that the tour is well-organized, with many appreciating the clear communication and helpful guides. A reviewer mentioned the trip was “very well organized, the best moments on the trip, and great fun,” which sums up what many feel about this experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Scenic Speedboat Rides

This is not your average boat trip. The speedboat aspect adds adrenaline, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy a bit of thrill while enjoying panoramic views. The boat’s maneuverability offers close-up views of the cliffs and islands, which are often missed from land.

Cultural and Historical Highlights

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks offers more than just a pretty view. The church’s 15th-century origins and religious significance make it a meaningful stop, especially since it’s built on a man-made islet created by local fishermen over centuries. Plus, the museum gives an inside look into the local traditions and history.

Perast’s Architectural Charm

This UNESCO-listed town provides a tangible sense of history, with Baroque buildings and scenic streets. The brief window to explore allows you to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed, especially if you take time to sample local wine or tapas — a common addition during the visit.

Professional Guides and Small Groups

From reviews, it’s evident that guides like the experienced crew of Boka Boat Tours provide engaging commentary in multiple languages, including English, Turkish, and Serbian. Smaller group sizes or private options mean more personalized attention, making the experience more intimate and informative.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Timing

The total experience runs approximately 1.5 hours, though exact start times vary. It’s best to check availability and plan accordingly, especially if you want to coordinate with other activities in Kotor.

Cost and Value

While the tour doesn’t include museum tickets, the overall cost is justified by the combination of scenic rides, cultural visits, and the chance to see both natural and man-made wonders in a short period. For many, it’s an efficient way to get a broad overview of the bay’s highlights.

What to Bring

A sun hat and sunscreen are essential, especially during summer months. The boat rides are mostly outdoors, and you’ll want to stay comfortable. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around Perast.

Weather and Cancellations

The tour is weather-dependent. If seas are rough or conditions poor, the tour might be rescheduled or canceled, so flexibility is useful. Always check the cancellation policy—full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Not Suitable For

People prone to seasickness or with back problems might find the speedboat rides challenging. If you’re sensitive to motion, consider this before booking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for history enthusiasts who enjoy learning about local landmarks, as well as scenic lovers eager to snap beautiful photos. It’s perfect if you’re limited on time but want a comprehensive taste of the Bay of Kotor’s highlights.

Travelers seeking a thrilling boat ride will appreciate the speed and fresh air, while those interested in authentic culture and architecture will find Perast’s charm captivating. It’s also suitable for small groups seeking a more intimate experience, with options for private tours.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including boat rides and stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast.

Where does the tour start?
From Park Slobode in Kotor, a centrally located spot easy to reach from most accommodations in the area.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or who are prone to seasickness, which is important to consider if traveling with children or older adults.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Most likely, yes, but keep in mind the speedboat rides can be bumpy, and the tour duration is short. Kids who enjoy boat rides and sightseeing should find it fun.

Do I need to buy museum tickets separately?
Yes, museum tickets are not included. If you’re keen on exploring the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks, you’ll need to purchase tickets in advance or on-site.

What should I bring?
A sun hat, sunscreen, and camera are recommended to maximize comfort and capture the scenery.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Is the tour private or group?
Both options are available, with small groups or private tours offering a more tailored experience.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Kotor offers a lively, scenic, and culturally enriching snapshot of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. The combination of fast-paced boat rides, visits to Our Lady of the Rocks, and the charming streets of Perast makes for a memorable half-day outing.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a balance of adventure and culture without spending a full day in transit. The guides’ local knowledge, paired with the stunning vistas, ensures you’ll come away with both great photos and a deeper appreciation for the area.

While weather can influence the experience, most guests find the tour delivers excellent value—an exciting way to see the bay’s highlights without the hassle of multiple separate trips. Whether you’re a history buff, a photo enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day on the water, this tour is well worth considering.

In summary, if you’re after a lively, scenic, and culturally insightful trip that fits into a half-day schedule, this boat tour from Kotor checks all those boxes. Its blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and small-group intimacy makes it a standout activity for any Montenegro itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: