Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks 1,5 hours private tour

Exploring the Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks Private Tour: What You Need to Know

If you’re contemplating a quick but meaningful boat tour around Montenegro’s stunning Kotor Bay, this Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks 1.5-hour private trip could be just what you’re looking for. Promising a personalized experience with expert guides and memorable scenery, it’s a popular choice among visitors wanting a taste of the region’s beauty with minimal fuss.

What makes this trip especially appealing is the short duration—just an hour and a half—ideal for fitting into a busy travel schedule. Plus, the private setup means you won’t be stuck with strangers, giving you the flexibility to customize the experience. And with plenty of glowing reviews praising the professionalism of the crew and the breathtaking views, it’s clear that many travelers find real value in this short but sweet adventure.

That said, a quick tour like this does come with some considerations. The admission fee for the church on Our Lady of the Rocks isn’t included, so be prepared for that extra expense if you want to go inside. Also, since the tour is focused on just a few stops, it’s best suited for those who are okay with a somewhat rushed visit rather than an in-depth exploration.

This tour will suit travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery, efficient itineraries, and highly professional guides. If you’re in Kotor and craving a snapshot of the bay’s most iconic sights without overcommitting your day, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience for up to 6 people.
• Scenic 20-minute boat ride offering great views of Boka Bay villages and landmarks.
• Visits to iconic sites such as Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast village.
• Cost-effective for a private tour, especially considering the included amenities.
• Additional costs apply for entry to Our Lady of the Rocks church.
• Ease of booking and flexible pickup options make it convenient.
• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 rating from 17 reviews, reflecting strong traveler satisfaction.
• Very good value according to multiple reviews praising the professionalism and scenery.

Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour kicks off from the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor or any other preferred pick-up point within Kotor Bay, like Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota. That flexibility is handy, especially if you’re based in or exploring nearby villages. The boat can dock at your chosen starting point, which means you don’t have to go out of your way.

Once aboard, the 20-minute scenic boat ride sets the tone. Expect expansive views of the bay’s tiny villages, their charming palaces, houses, and churches, all framed by the rugged mountains and shimmering sea. Many reviews mention how spectacular the views are, with travelers saying it’s “a must tour when in Kotor” and “the views of the bay from the boat were spectacular.”

The first stop is Our Lady of the Rocks—a man-made island built after fishermen found an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock outcropping. The story of the island is quite charming, and the church here is a highlight, especially if you enjoy religious architecture or local legends. Visitors get about 20 minutes to explore the church and its museum — a quick visit, but enough to appreciate its significance and beauty. Keep in mind, admission to the church isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget around a few euros if you want to go inside.

Next, you’ll visit the Perast village, a tiny baroque town packed with history. According to reviews, despite its small size—only about 350 residents—Perast was once a bustling hub for captains and sailors. The church of Saint Nicholas with its impressive 55-meter bell tower is a symbol of the town, although it was never finished due to financial constraints. You’ll get roughly 20 minutes here, enough to wander the streets, snap photos, and soak in the historic vibe.

Another point worth noting is the Island of Saint George, which is visible across Perast. However, the island is off-limits to travelers, as it contains a monastery dating from the 12th century. That’s a bit of a shame, but the view of this island adds to the overall impressiveness of the bay.

What Travelers Say

One of the most consistent praises across reviews is the knowledgeable guides and friendly skippers. Many reviewers mention how professional and helpful the crew is, with some praising their ability to adapt and communicate well in English. The boat ride itself appears to be a highlight, with travelers describing it as “amazing” and “spectacular,” often emphasizing how it enhances the experience of the stops.

Another common theme is the value for money. At around $154 for a group of up to six, considering the personalized service, private transportation, and scenic stops, most travelers feel it’s a good deal. Many reviews mention that they booked last-minute via WhatsApp, and the process was smooth and quick—adding to the overall convenience.

The Practical Aspects

The boat itself is described as new and clean, with amenities like WiFi onboard and snorkel equipment available, which can be fun if you want to dip into the water. The tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it an easy addition to a day trip or a relaxing break from sightseeing.

Pickup options are flexible, with the tour starting from various locations within Kotor Bay. This is particularly helpful if you’re staying in a nearby village or prefer not to drive into Kotor itself.

The cancellation policy is straightforward—full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, which offers some peace of mind when planning. Weather-dependent, of course, as rough seas could cause a cancellation or rescheduling, but the tour provider is clear that they’ll offer alternatives or refunds in such cases.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re into scenic boat rides, cultural sites, and efficient sightseeing, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s ideal for travelers who have limited time but want a quick, personalized glimpse of the bay’s most famous highlights. The private aspect is great if you prefer a non-crowded experience or are traveling with a small group.

It’s also suited for those who appreciate stunning views and stories—the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more meaningful. If you’re traveling with family, couples, or friends who enjoy history, culture, and beautiful scenery, this trip hits those marks.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If you’re after an in-depth exploration of each site or want to spend more time inside the churches and museums, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Also, travelers on a tight budget should consider the additional costs for entry tickets. Lastly, if you dislike boat rides or get seasick easily, this quick boat trip might not be your best choice.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a really efficient way to experience the highlights of Kotor Bay without the hassle of large group tours. The scenic boat ride, expert guides, and convenient logistics make it a popular choice among visitors. It’s particularly suitable if you’re in Montenegro for a short stay and want a snapshot of the region’s beauty with minimal time investment.

While it doesn’t include entry to all sites, the beautiful scenery, stories, and personalized service more than make up for it. The consistent five-star reviews suggest that most travelers leave satisfied, often praising the crew’s friendliness and the views’ breathtaking quality.

Overall, if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and engaging short trip that lets you see the best of Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember to plan for the extra fee if you want inside access, and be prepared for a quick but memorable adventure on the water.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with about 20 minutes at each stop and a scenic boat ride in between.

Where does the tour start?
It can start from the UNESCO Old Town of Kotor or other locations within Kotor Bay such as Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota, depending on your preference.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it is a private experience for your group of up to six people, ensuring a more personalized and flexible experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, the boat ride, WiFi on board, snorkel equipment, and fuel surcharge. Entry to the church on Our Lady of the Rocks is not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific considerations for children aren’t mentioned, so it’s best to assess if your kids are comfortable on boat rides.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is available from various points within Kotor Bay, making it a convenient option if you’re staying nearby.

What if the weather is bad?
If bad weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring you’re not left out of pocket for canceled plans.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s beautiful bay—perfect for those who want just enough time to enjoy stunning scenery, a bit of history, and a private, relaxed vibe.