Kotor: Speedboat Tour to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks

Exploring the Kotor Speedboat Tour to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks

This review covers a popular speedboat tour offered in Kotor, Montenegro, that takes you on a quick yet scenic trip to visit the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks and the charming village of Perast. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve gathered insights from travelers’ experiences, official descriptions, and practical details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour appealing is how it combines beautiful scenery, short but meaningful stops, and affordable pricing. We like how it offers a compact way to see some of Boka Bay’s most notable sights without the hassle of full-day commitments. That said, a potential drawback is the relatively brief stop times—some travelers find 15 to 30 minutes on each site isn’t enough to fully explore, especially if you’re eager to linger at each location.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who want a quick, visually stunning overview of the bay, appreciate informative guides, and prefer a small group atmosphere. It’s also great for those who enjoy boat rides and prefer a more relaxed, intimate setting over large group tours. If you’re on a tight schedule or looking for a gentle introduction to Montenegro’s coastal gems, this tour could be a perfect fit.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Affordable and concise: At $26, it offers great value for a scenic boat ride with multiple stops.
• Stunning views: You’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of Kotor Bay, the old fisherman villages, and the surrounding mountains.
• Authentic sites: Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast provides a taste of local history and architecture.
• Small group experience: Typically limited to 8-10 people, making it more personal and less crowded.
• Limited time on stops: Stops are around 15–30 minutes, enough for photos and a quick walk but not deep exploration.
• Guide insights: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories and local context.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Park Slobode

The tour kicks off from a convenient meeting point at Park Slobode in Kotor, marked clearly near a tall monument and the Sea&Sun Adventures office. If you’re staying nearby, it’s a straightforward location to find. Make sure to arrive a little early to meet your guide and get settled before departure.

Speedboat Journey (20 minutes)

The boat ride itself is a highlight. Traveling through Kotor Bay, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the bay’s rugged coastline, the craggy hills, and traditional fishing villages dotting the shoreline. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you wish you had a camera ready at all times. The small size of the boat (usually accommodating 8-10 people) means you’ll get an intimate experience, along with the chance to chat with your skipper or fellow travelers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Stop at Our Lady of the Rocks (about 30 minutes)

The first major stop is Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificially built island that’s been a site of pilgrimage for centuries. According to reviews, the island was constructed during the 15th and 16th centuries by local fishermen who laid stones and built a church. The 17th-century church is open for visits, and visitors can walk around the small island, soaking in the views and stories shared by guides.

While the tour offers about 25 minutes of free time here, some travelers have expressed that it’s just enough to snap photos, visit the church, and possibly walk around the island’s perimeter. As one reviewer noted, it’s a “must-see place,” with its striking church and treasure trove of legends. Keep in mind that entrance tickets to the church aren’t included, so if you want to go inside, you should be prepared for an additional cost.

Perast: The Baroque Village (about 50 minutes)

Next, the boat heads to Perast, a village famous for its baroque architecture and scenic setting. With a 50-minute free period, you’ll have a decent window to stroll through the narrow streets, admire the historic buildings, and perhaps climb the stunning 57-meter-high church tower for sweeping views of the bay.

Many reviews highlight the charm of Perast, describing it as a “timeless beauty” that’s perfect for a quick exploration. Some travelers choose to relax at seaside cafes, enjoying local refreshments and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. It’s also a good chance to take photos of the well-preserved old town and the bay’s sparkling waters.

Return Journey (20 minutes)

The trip back to Kotor is a relaxed 20-minute sail, giving you time to reflect on the sights. It’s a brief but scenic wrap-up to a compact tour that packs in some memorable moments.

The Practical Details and What You Should Know

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, including the boat rides and stops. The actual sightseeing time is limited to about 1 hour and 15 minutes, so plan your expectations accordingly. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time or those who prefer quick, picturesque excursions.

Price and Value

At $26 per person, the price point is quite reasonable, especially considering the inclusion of gasoline, the skipper, water on board, and the boat ride. Entrance fees to the church on Our Lady of the Rocks are not included, so budget for that if you plan to go inside. The short stops and small-group setting make this tour good value, but don’t expect exhaustive exploration—think of it more as an introduction.

Group Size and Guides

Most tours are in small groups, around 8-10 people, which enhances comfort and interaction. Guides are generally knowledgeable, sharing stories about the sites and the history behind the islands and villages. One reviewer specifically appreciated their guide’s insights, which added a layer of depth to the experience.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point at Park Slobode is easy to find, with clear signage. The tour operator, Sea&Sun Adventures, is well-reviewed for its professionalism. Remember, smoking isn’t allowed on the boat, and church visits are optional and require shoulder coverings.

What Travelers Are Saying

A few reviews shed light on what to expect. One traveler from France mentioned that their tour was shorter than expected: “We booked a 2-hour tour but were put on a 1.5-hour one without being told.” Always clarify the duration when booking, especially if your schedule is tight.

Another reviewer from the Netherlands enjoyed the small group size and the “stunning views,” though they felt the stops were a bit brief for a deeper exploration. They summed it up as a “nice first impression,” which is exactly what this tour aims to deliver—just enough to pique your interest and leave you wanting more.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for:

• Travelers seeking a quick, scenic overview of Kotor Bay’s highlights.
• Those interested in small-group, intimate boat rides.
• Visitors eager to see Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast without dedicating an entire day.
• Anyone appreciating stunning views combined with light historical storytelling.
• Travelers on a budget, as it provides significant value for the cost.

However, if you’re someone who prefers longer visits and in-depth exploration of sites, or if you’re traveling with someone who wants to climb every tower and visit every museum, this might feel a bit too brief.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour offers a practical, scenic, and affordable way to experience some of Kotor’s most recognizable sights. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of Montenegro’s coastal charm, with the added benefit of small-group intimacy and knowledgeable guides. The stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast give you a glimpse into local history and architecture, all while enjoying spectacular bay views from the water.

While the short time on each stop might leave some wanting more, the tour’s value lies in its convenience and the stunning vistas it showcases. It’s especially suitable if you’re constrained by time but still want an authentic and memorable experience of Kotor’s coastal beauty.

This tour balances practicality and charm, with enough highlights to satisfy first-time visitors and those looking for a relaxing, picturesque excursion.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, including boat rides and sightseeing stops.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, gasoline, the skipper, water on board, and life jackets. Entry tickets to the churches are not included.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Park Slobode in Kotor, near a tall monument and the Sea&Sun Adventures meeting point.

Are the stops long enough to explore?
Stops are approximately 15–30 minutes, enough to take photos, walk around, and visit the church on Our Lady of the Rocks.

Is food or drinks available during the tour?
You’ll enjoy some water on board, but for meals or refreshments, you might want to bring your own or plan to enjoy seaside cafes in Perast.

Can I climb the church tower in Perast?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to climb the 57-meter-high church tower during your free time, offering great views.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people over 95 years old, but generally, it’s accessible for most ages.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, small groups and the short boat rides make it family-friendly, but keep in mind the limited stop times if traveling with young children.

Do I need to book in advance?
Booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, but check availability to see specific start times and group options.

This speedboat tour in Kotor provides a compact, scenic, and insightful introduction to Montenegro’s bay. Whether you’re short on time or just want a relaxed way to see the sights from the water, it’s a solid choice—just be prepared for a quick visit to each site and plenty of stunning views.

You can check if your dates are available here: