Private tour Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks 1.5h

Exploring the Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks Tour: A Practical Guide for Travelers

If you’re planning a trip to Kotor, Montenegro, and want a glimpse of its stunning coastline combined with a touch of history and charm, this private tour of Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a short but sweet package—about 1.5 hours—that offers a scenic and cultural taste of this beautiful area without requiring a full-day commitment.

What we really like is how this tour balances breathtaking views with a relaxed pace. The boat ride through the bay, with its panoramic vistas, is genuinely memorable. Plus, the tour’s flexibility—offering pickup and snorkeling gear—adds to its appeal. On the flip side, keep in mind that it’s a quick trip, so if you’re after a deep dive into local history or a more extensive experience, this might feel a bit limited.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, want a manageable half-day excursion, and enjoy a personalized touch. It’s especially handy for those with limited time in Kotor or for families looking for a smooth, hassle-free outing. If you’re after a laid-back, picturesque adventure with a touch of culture, this tour might be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Breathtaking views during the scenic boat ride through the bay.
• Flexible and private, with pickup options and only your group participating.
• Short but sweet, perfect for travelers with limited time.
• Includes bottled water and snorkeling masks—easy for quick swimming spots.
• Affordable price considering it’s a private tour accommodating up to 10 people.
• Authentic experience exploring a UNESCO-protected old town, untouched since the 17th century.

What to Expect on the Tour

This private 1.5-hour journey kicks off in Kotor with a 20-minute panoramic boat ride across the bay. The views from the water are spectacular, offering a great perspective of the coastline, with plenty of photo opportunities. The boat’s skipper is often praised for their skill and adaptability, which means you’re in good hands whether you’re a seasoned traveler or on your first trip.

Our Lady of the Rocks: Man-made Island

Your first stop is the Our Lady of the Rocks, a floating island created by local fishermen in the late 15th century. The island’s charm lies in its unique history and scenic backdrop. During your 20-minute visit, you can wander freely, admire the island’s quaint surroundings, and take photos. Entrance to the island is free, but note that visiting the church, museum, or using the toilet does attract a small fee (€3 for the church and museum, €1.50 for the toilet).

According to reviews, visitors often remark on the stunning views and the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal quick stop. One traveler shared, “Amazing views, good tunes and great skipper,” which captures the relaxed vibe of the voyage.

Perast: A UNESCO-Protected Old Town

Next, your boat heads to Perast, a well-preserved village with roots going back to the 17th century. You’ll have 30 minutes to explore this charming place, walking through narrow streets lined with Venetian architecture and historical buildings. Many visitors appreciate how unchanged the town has remained over the centuries, giving you an authentic feel of old Montenegro.

This part of the tour is particularly valued for the visual beauty—the streets look as if frozen in time, making it a photographer’s paradise. One reviewer noted, “We visited the entire bay and swam in many attractive locations,” emphasizing the scenic quality of the area.

The Return and Additional Highlights

After your exploration, the boat ride back to Kotor takes another 20 minutes, offering one last scenic perspective of the bay. As part of the experience, bottled water is provided, and snorkeling masks are available should you want to take a quick dip—an optional but appreciated feature. While snorkeling isn’t a formal part of the itinerary, some travelers have enjoyed the chance to swim in the calm waters.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $150.49 per group, this private tour offers good value, especially considering it’s for up to 10 people. You’re paying for personalized attention and the convenience of pickup, plus the chance to see two iconic sights with minimal hassle. The inclusion of bottled water and snorkeling gear adds to the value, making it a straightforward, hassle-free option for a quick taste of Montenegro’s coast.

Reviewers have highlighted how easy it was to book—some via WhatsApp—and how accommodating the skipper was, especially if there are delays or special requests. The flexibility and the private setting ensure a more relaxed experience compared to crowded group tours.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour is scheduled to last about 1 hour 30 minutes, which is perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful experience. It’s recommended to book at least a week in advance, as this tour tends to fill up, especially in peak seasons.

Meeting is straightforward at the Tide and Wave Boat Tours location in Kotor, and the activity ends right back at the same point. Since the tour is private, it’s suitable for any group size up to 10, making it versatile whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends or family.

Weather can impact this experience—if poor conditions cancel the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s worth noting that the tour is quite weather-dependent, so check the forecast on your day.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape with minimal fuss. If you love stunning views and a relaxed pace, you’ll probably find this a highlight. It’s also good for those interested in a bit of cultural exploration without committing to a full day of touring.

Families traveling with children might find it manageable, especially as the boat ride itself is comfortable and the stops are short. However, keep in mind the brief durations—if your kids get restless easily, this might be better as part of a broader itinerary.

FAQs about the Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks Tour

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized and flexible trip.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, bottled water, and snorkeling masks. Entrance to Our Lady of the Rocks museum and church costs €3, payable on-site.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

How long is the entire tour?
The total experience runs about 1 hour 30 minutes, including stops and transfers.

Is this suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat rides and short walks. The reviews suggest it’s adaptable for young children if managed properly.

Is snorkeling included or recommended?
Snorkeling masks are provided, and while swimming isn’t part of the planned itinerary, you are welcome to use the gear during the boat ride if the opportunity arises.

Where do we meet?
At the Tide and Wave Boat Tours location in Kotor, with the exact address given in the booking details.

What if the weather isn’t good?
If bad weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Always check the forecast before your scheduled trip.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks offers a compact but thoroughly enjoyable way to experience some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. The combination of scenic boat rides, historic charm, and the chance to snap plenty of photos makes it appealing for a wide range of travelers.

It’s best suited for those who value convenience and personalized attention and want a snapshot of the area without a full-day commitment. Its affordability, combined with the flexibility and stunning views, make it a worthwhile option—even if you’re only passing through Kotor or have a limited window for sightseeing.

If you’re after a laid-back, visually striking experience with just enough culture and history, this tour deserves a spot on your Montenegro itinerary. Just be sure to check the weather, book in advance, and prepare for a short but memorable journey through some of the bay’s most beautiful sights.