Tour Kotor – Perast Old Town – Island Our Lady of the Rocks – Every 2 hours

A Quick Look at the Kotor – Perast – Our Lady of the Rocks Speedboat Tour

If you’re considering a straightforward, scenic excursion around the Bay of Kotor, this tour offers a compact but memorable experience. It’s a popular option that combines beautiful views, a visit to a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a charming small island, all packed into just about two hours.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its excellent balance between sightseeing and relaxation. The speedboat ride itself is a highlight — with a friendly crew and smooth navigation, it’s a fun way to see the bay from a different perspective. Plus, the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a captivating artificial island, adds a touch of mystique and cultural interest.

However, keep in mind that timing can be tight. Many reviews point out that the time spent exploring each stop is relatively brief, especially at Perast, which might leave some wanting more. It’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a short, scenic trip with friendly guides, great views, and a good value for the price. It’s ideal for those with limited time in Kotor or anyone looking to tick off multiple highlights effortlessly.

Key Points

• Affordable at just under $30 per person, providing good value for a scenic boat ride and island visit.
• Scenic views of Kotor Bay that are often described as breathtaking, especially from the speedboat.
• Efficient itinerary covering Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks, perfect for a quick overview.
• Friendly guides who are knowledgeable and accommodating, enhancing the experience.
• Brief stops mean you see many highlights but with limited time in each location.
• Weather-dependent activity; poor weather can lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start with the Bay of Kotor – We loved the way this trip kicks off with a cruise along the bay, offering sweeping views of the coastline dotted with old fishermen villages and lush vegetation. Most reviewers mention how stunning and peaceful the scenery is, with some describing it as “Norwegian-like fjords” — really, if you love natural beauty, this bit alone is worth it.

The boat ride lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views, snap photos, and enjoy the gentle sway of the water. The crew’s friendly attitude and the smooth ride make this segment feel especially relaxing. One guest noted, “The boat was very smooth, and the guide shared interesting stories,” which indicates the crew’s attentiveness to keeping guests engaged without overwhelming them.

Next stop: Perast – This UNESCO World Heritage site is a tiny, beautifully preserved old town with buildings dating back to Venetian rule. You’ll find quaint palazzi, churches, and defensive towers that evoke a sense of stepping back in time. Typically, you get around 30 minutes here — enough to wander the narrow streets, admire the architecture, and maybe grab a quick coffee.

While some reviews mention that the time at Perast feels brief (“barely off the boat and had to reboard”), others appreciate the opportunity to get a quick taste of its charm. The limited time does mean you need to be mindful and plan your walk to see the highlights — but it’s a great chance to snap some photos and enjoy the atmosphere.

Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks – The highlight for many, this island is an intriguing mix of legend and artistry. According to local legend, two sailors created the island after discovering an icon of the Virgin Mary during a storm. Today, it houses a church filled with artwork and a small museum attached to the complex.

The visit typically lasts about 20 minutes — enough to appreciate the architecture, peek inside the church, and enjoy the views. It’s worth noting that entry to the church costs around 3 euros, and the tour doesn’t include this fee. Many appreciate the chance to see this unique site, but some mention that the time here feels rushed, especially if you’re keen to explore more thoroughly.

Additional notes from reviews highlight that visitors should be prepared for some rules — no swimwear allowed inside the church, and no drones or swimming around the island. Also, bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera is recommended, especially in the warmer months.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Many reviews enthusiastically praise the friendly guides and crew. For instance, one guest said, “The captain was great and very informative,” which shows the importance of having guides who blend friendliness with local knowledge. Others appreciated the music and relaxed vibe onboard, making the experience feel more like a leisurely outing than a formal tour.

The boat ride itself receives high praise for its smoothness and scenic beauty. Guests often mention how the views of Kotor Bay resemble Norwegian fjords, which can be surprising given Montenegro’s Mediterranean setting. This visual aspect is definitely one of the trip’s biggest draws.

While most reviews highlight the value for money, some note the limited time at each stop as a downside. For example, one person remarked, “Very limited time on destination location of Perast,” but also acknowledged the overall enjoyment of the ride and the scenery.

Another common sentiment is the flexibility and responsiveness of the operators. Several reviews mention they accommodated late arrivals or changed schedules due to cruise timings, which adds a layer of reassurance for travelers on tight itineraries.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Duration & Group Size – The tour lasts about 2 hours, with a maximum of 25 travelers. This small group size keeps the experience intimate and allows for better interaction with guides. The boat trip itself is about 45 minutes of speedboating, split into two segments, with time at each destination.

Cost & Value – At $27.81 per person, this tour offers solid value given the scenic beauty and ease of access. The price includes all fees, taxes, insurance, fuel, and bottled water, making it a hassle-free experience. Entry fees to Our Lady of the Rocks aren’t included, but they are modest.

Booking & Availability – The tour is usually booked around 23 days in advance, which indicates its popularity. It departs every 2 hours from the meeting point near Kotor’s submarine park, close to public transportation, so getting there is straightforward.

Weather & Cancellations – Since the activity is weather-dependent, poor weather can lead to cancellations. If that happens, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. This flexibility adds some peace of mind.

What to Bring – We recommend sunglasses, sunhat, sunscreen, a camera, comfortable shoes, a jacket for cooler days, and a towel if you want to sit on the boat. Remember that swimwear isn’t allowed in the church, and drones are forbidden around Our Lady of the Rocks.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re short on time but want to see some of Montenegro’s most photogenic spots, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and small island visits without the hassle of organizing separate transportation or tickets. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with a partner or small group and want a relaxed, fun outing.

Keep in mind that the limited stops and brief exploration time make it less suitable for those wanting a deep dive into local culture or history. If you’re eager to spend hours in Perast or explore the island’s museums more thoroughly, you might find this tour a bit rushed.

Travelers who appreciate friendly guides, stunning views, and good value will find this experience particularly rewarding. It’s also a good choice for families or groups who want a straightforward, enjoyable outing with plenty of photo opportunities.

FAQ: Your Quick Guide to the Tour

How long does the entire tour last?
It’s about 2 hours, including the boat ride, stop at Perast, and visit to Our Lady of the Rocks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s short duration and scenic nature generally make it family-friendly, but check for specific age restrictions or comfort levels.

Do I need to bring my own water?
No, bottled water is included, so you can stay hydrated without hassle.

What’s the best time to book?
Most people book about 3 weeks ahead, especially if you want a specific time slot. The tour departs every 2 hours, so plan accordingly.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entry into Our Lady of the Rocks costs about 3 euros, and that fee isn’t included in the tour price.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the activity is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size and friendly guides make it easy to join alone and still enjoy the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and possibly a light jacket are recommended. No swimwear in the church.

Can I swim around Our Lady of the Rocks?
No, swimming and drone use around the island are forbidden.

Is this tour guided?
It’s primarily transportation with a knowledgeable guide onboard, but it isn’t a guided tour of the stops. You’ll get some interesting stories, but not a detailed guided experience at each site.

In the end, this speedboat tour offers a lovely, low-stress way to see some of Montenegro’s top sights. With friendly guides, scenic views, and good value, it’s a solid pick for those wanting a quick but memorable outing. Just be prepared for limited time at each stop and enjoy the ride along one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines.