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

If you’re exploring Montenegro and want a quick but memorable way to see some of its most iconic sights, a speedboat tour from Kotor might be just what you need. This tour promises a lively 1.5 hours on the water—visiting the charming town of Perast, the intriguing Our Lady of the Rocks, and the imposing Saint George island. It’s designed to give you a taste of the Bay of Kotor’s beauty, with enough stops to capture photos, learn a bit, and soak in the scenery.

What we really like about this experience is the combination of stunning landscapes and informative guides. Plus, it’s a small group, which means more personalized attention. On the flip side, the short duration means you’re mainly enjoying the scenery rather than having time to explore each site in depth. It’s perfect for those with limited time or seeking a fun, scenic ride rather than a full-day expedition. If you love being on the water, appreciate local stories, and want a taste of Montenegro’s coast, this tour is likely to appeal.

Key Points

• Short & Sweet: 1.5-hour tour ideal for a quick scenic experience.
• Small Groups: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert Guides: Friendly skippers share stories about each stop.
• Beautiful Views: Expect stunning sights of the Bay of Kotor and surrounding islands.
• Ideal for Limited Time: Great if you’re tight on time but want a memorable water experience.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly, easy to join if you prefer a small group.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Speedboat Tour

This tour is tailored for travelers who want to see some of Kotor’s most famous sights without committing to a full-day venture. With a total duration of 1.5 hours, it’s perfect for fitting into a busy schedule, or as a fun break from more extensive sightseeing.

Starting at Hawaii Boat Tours Kotor, you’ll meet your guide near the marina inside the park area, close to the Old Town. The guide will be easy to spot, typically wearing a branded T-shirt or cap, and will be ready to get you on your way. The experience begins with a 20-minute ride out into the bay, where you’ll start taking in the beautiful views.

The Stops and Highlights

Our Lady of the Rocks is the first major destination. You’ll enjoy about 20 minutes here, which includes a photo stop, a walk around the island, and a quick visit to the church. The church itself is a fascinating site—built on a man-made island with a history tied to local legends and maritime tradition. Be aware that the church has seasonal opening hours, and if it’s closed, you can still walk around and enjoy the views.

Next, you’ll hop back on the boat for a short 5-minute ride to pass by Saint George. This island isn’t open for visits, but you’ll get a good view of the medieval monastery that sits atop it, adding a sense of history and mystery to your trip.

The second main stop is Perast, where you’ll have another 20-minute period for photos, exploring, and soaking in the Venetian-style architecture. According to reviews, guides are very knowledgeable and make the history come alive, which adds to the enjoyment. One visitor from the UK mentioned, “Aki was an amazing tour guide and very knowledgeable about Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks,” highlighting how much a good guide can enhance the experience.

The ride back includes a few quick passes by other scenic spots, making the entire adventure a mix of sightseeing and relaxed cruising. You’ll be back at the marina after about 1.5 hours.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start at Hawaii Boat Tours Kotor: The meeting point is easy to find, just look for the marina near the Old Town. It’s a hassle-free start, and the staff are friendly, making sure everyone feels comfortable.
• First Speedboat Ride (20 mins): You’ll get a good dose of the breeze and panoramic views of the bay as you cruise toward your first stop.
• Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks (20 mins): This artificial island is steeped in legend, with a church built on top of a collection of stones and boats. The guided tour here helps bring the site to life, sharing stories of local traditions.
• Pass by Saint George (5 mins): The island’s medieval monastery looks dramatic from the water, adding a sense of history even if you’re just looking from afar.
• Second Stop at Perast (20 mins): This tiny town’s Venetian architecture and harbor views are postcard-perfect. Guides often share interesting tidbits, making this stop more than just a photo op.
• Return Cruise (20 mins): The ride back is a relaxing way to soak in the scenery one last time.

What Travelers Say

Rachel from the UK, one of the reviewers, described the experience as “beautiful,” especially during the golden hour. She appreciated the guide, Aki, calling him “amazing and very knowledgeable,” which tells you that the guiding quality is high on this tour.

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The Practical Bits

Pricing is not explicitly detailed here, but considering the focus on small groups and quality guides, you can expect a fair value for a half-hour of water-based sightseeing. It’s a more affordable way to see these sites compared to full-day options, especially given that you’re getting guided insights and scenic views.

Duration and Group Size: At just 1.5 hours and limited to 12 people, this tour strikes a balance between intimacy and efficiency. Smaller groups mean less crowded decks and more personal interaction.

Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good choice if you have mobility concerns.

Weather Considerations: Tours may be canceled if the weather is bad—safety first. During spring and autumn, a light jacket is recommended because a breeze on the water can be chilly.

Entry Tips: Visiting the church on Our Lady of the Rocks might require adhering to a dress code, as swimsuits and very casual beachwear are not permitted. The church has varying hours, so check if you want to explore the inside.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of the bay with lots of natural beauty and some history thrown in. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to check off key sights with a friendly guide leading the way. Given the small group setting, it also works well for those who prefer a more relaxed, personal experience.

It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a deep dive into the history or want extended time on each site. Also, if seasickness is a concern, be aware that the boat ride involves some rolling water, but it’s generally quite smooth.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this speedboat tour from Kotor offers a lovely snapshot of the bay’s highlights, with enough charm and scenery to satisfy most travelers. The guided aspect and small group size add value, making it more than just a boat ride. It’s a flexible, easy way to enjoy Montenegro’s coast for a short window of time.

If you appreciate friendly guides, gorgeous views, and a well-paced itinerary, you’ll find this tour worth your while. It’s especially appealing for those who want a taste of the bay without committing to a longer or more expensive experience. Just be prepared for a quick ride and some moments on the water, which are part of what makes this trip memorable.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including all stops and transfers.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Hawaii Boat Tours Kotor, near the marina inside the park area, close to the Old Town.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for those with mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and light clothing are recommended.

Can I visit the church on Our Lady of the Rocks?
Yes, you can walk around the island even if the church is closed, but note that entrance to the church has seasonal hours and a dress code.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled for safety reasons, so check the weather forecast and be flexible.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

In the end, this small-group speedboat tour offers a friendly, scenic, and informative way to enjoy some of Montenegro’s most picturesque sights. It’s a great choice if you want to experience the bay’s beauty without a long day of touring, especially if you’re traveling with a curious guide who loves sharing stories about the places you see.

You can check availability for your dates here: