Speed Boat Tour to Perast Old Town & Our Lady of the Rocks

If you’re considering a quick jaunt from Kotor to explore some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights, a speed boat tour to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks might catch your eye. This excursion promises a snapshot of the region’s beauty, history, and legends, all wrapped into a compact two-hour experience. But as with any tour, it’s good to go in with your eyes open about what it offers—and what it doesn’t.

We like that this trip offers stunning views across the Bay of Kotor and gives you a chance to step onto the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks, famed for its unique story and beautiful church. It’s also a chance to wander the tranquil streets of Perast, a quiet coastal town full of baroque charm. On the flip side, a few travelers have found that, despite the description, this tour can sometimes feel more like a boat transfer than a guided experience with rich commentary. If you’re after deep stories or a leisurely exploration, this might not fully deliver.

That said, this tour is best suited for those craving a quick, scenic escape from Kotor rather than a deep dive into Montenegrin history. It’s ideal if you want a taste of the coast with minimal fuss, particularly if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: A concise 2-hour trip that hits the main highlights.
• Affordable price: At around $33 per person, it offers a budget-friendly way to see the bay.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect plenty of stunning views across the bay and from the boat.
• Limited guided commentary: Some reviews suggest the experience may lack detailed history or suggestions.
• Strict timing: The itinerary is tight, with limited time at each stop.
• Not family-friendly for kids with mobility issues: The tour has restrictions for pregnant women, seniors, or those with mobility concerns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting from Garni Hotel Tianis in Kotor, you’ll meet your guide or skipper, depending on the day, and board a comfortable speedboat. The boat ride itself is a key highlight—gliding across the clear waters of Boka Bay, you’ll get an up-close view of the scenic coastline. The 20-minute ride to Perast is short but offers plenty of chances to soak in the crisp mountain air and spectacular vistas.

Once you arrive at Perast, you’ll have a brief panoramic stop outside the town, which is perfect for capturing the sweeping views of the bay and its two notable islands: Our Lady of the Rocks and Saint George. This is one of those moments where, if you’re into photography or just want a stunning shot, you’ll be glad you paused.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

Next, the boat takes you to the man-made islet of Our Lady of the Rocks, which has a fascinating story—how the island was built stone by stone over centuries. Here, you’ll explore the church and museum, learn about the legends, and admire the interior artifacts. This site is a highlight because it’s so visually striking and steeped in local lore.

The 20-minute visit provides just enough time to appreciate the beautiful interior, snap some photos, and learn a bit about the island’s history. Keep in mind, entry tickets to the museum are not included, so if you’re keen on exploring the interior thoroughly, you’ll want to plan for an extra expense.

Strolling Through Perast

After returning to Perast, you’ll get about 30 minutes to wander through the town’s narrow streets. You can explore landmarks like the Maritime Museum or admire the grand palaces built by local sea captains. There’s also time to grab a coffee, relax by the water, or hunt for souvenirs. The town exudes a peaceful charm, and you’ll love the chance to see a genuine coastal community away from the tourist crowds.

One reviewer mentioned that while the tour’s description suggests a guided experience, in reality, the guide mainly provided timing instructions and no historical commentary. So, if you’re hoping for in-depth stories, you might find yourself doing most of the sightseeing independently.

The Return Journey

The final leg is a 25-minute boat ride back to Kotor, completing your quick but scenic journey. The entire tour wraps up at the same place you started, making it easy to plan the rest of your day.

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Is It Worth It?

At $33, this tour is quite affordable, especially considering the beauty of the bay views. The main value lies in the stunning vistas and the unique experience of visiting Our Lady of the Rocks. However, it’s important to set expectations: this isn’t a deep historical tour, nor does it include guided commentary or extensive time at each stop. It’s more about the experience of being on the water, seeing iconic sights, and having a snapshot of the coast.

Some travelers, like one reviewer from the US, described their experience as more of a speedboat transfer rather than a tour with full narration. “It was no guide, no history, just a boat ride,” they said. Others appreciated the efficient route and beautiful scenery, even if the trip didn’t match the detailed description.

Practical Tips

• Bring your passport or ID—it’s necessary for the island visit.
• Dress comfortably—sun protection like sunglasses and a hat can make the boat ride more pleasant.
• Be aware that entry to the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks costs extra if you want to go inside.
• The tour is restricted for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or wheelchair users.
• The group is limited to 8 participants, which keeps it intimate but also means you should book in advance if you want a spot.

The Sum Up

This speed boat trip to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks offers a quick glimpse of Montenegro’s coastal charm, perfect for travelers short on time who want to enjoy breathtaking views and a taste of local legend. It’s a straightforward experience—no frills, just a scenic boat ride and a chance to see some of the region’s most photographed sights.

If you’re looking for an affordable, picturesque outing that emphasizes the natural beauty of Boka Bay, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace, with the understanding that deep historical insights or guided storytelling might be limited. It’s also well-suited for travelers wanting a convenient way to visit Our Lady of the Rocks without the hassle of arranging transportation or tours on your own.

For anyone wanting a short and scenic escape from Kotor that captures the essence of Montenegro’s coast, this trip provides a lovely, if succinct, snapshot of the region’s charm—and plenty of opportunities for stunning photos.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
This tour is generally not recommended for children under a certain age or those with mobility issues, as it involves a boat ride and some restrictions for pregnant women, seniors, and mobility-impaired travelers.

How long does the entire tour last?
The actual experience lasts about 2 hours, from start at Garni Hotel Tianis to return.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the speedboat ride, visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a guide, water, and safety equipment. Entry tickets to the museum are not included.

Can I buy tickets on the day?
Since the group size is limited to 8, it’s best to book in advance to secure your spot.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, entry to the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks costs extra if you want to go inside.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, and casual clothes suitable for a boat trip.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather can affect the schedule. It’s best to check the forecast and confirm with the provider.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
There’s some time to browse shops in Perast if you wish, but the tour itself does not include shopping.

What if I want more time in Perast or at Our Lady of the Rocks?
You might want to explore other tours that offer more comprehensive visits; this one is designed for a quick overview.

How are the guides?
Reviews indicate that the guide mainly provides logistical instructions rather than in-depth historical commentary, so keep your questions ready if you want details.

This tour is a lovely way to tick off some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights with minimal fuss. Just keep your expectations in check, and you’ll likely enjoy the scenic ride and charming stops.

You can check availability for your dates here: