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

If you’re visiting Montenegro, particularly the enchanting Bay of Kotor, a speedboat tour offers an exhilarating way to see its most iconic sights. This 1.5-hour adventure from Kotor combines scenic rides, charming towns, and fascinating islands—perfect if you’re short on time but still want a rich experience.

What makes this tour especially appealing are factors like the knowledgeable guides, the stunning photo ops, and the comfortable speedboat ride. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this experience isn’t suitable for those prone to seasickness or seeking in-depth historical tours. It’s ideal for travelers who love quick, picturesque excursions with a touch of local storytelling.

This trip is best suited for visitors who want a captivating introduction to the Bay of Kotor’s highlights without committing to a full-day cruise. It’s perfect for cruise ship passengers, couples, or small groups craving a fun, scenic outing with photo opportunities and local insights.

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Key Points

Scenic ride through the Bay of Kotor offering fantastic photo opportunities.
Visit Perast, a charming town famed for Venetian architecture and maritime history.
Explore Our Lady of the Rocks, a fascinating artificial island with a historic church.
See Saint George Island, home to a medieval monastery surrounded by legends.
Learn from friendly, knowledgeable skippers who share intriguing stories.
Small group size (limited to 12 participants) ensures a personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You’ll Love This Speedboat Tour

We loved the way this tour offers a quick yet comprehensive peek into the Bay of Kotor’s most captivating highlights. The ride itself is smooth, safe, and comfortable, making it accessible even for those who might be wary of choppy waters. The guides, like Aki, are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling—you’ll learn about the history, legends, and significance of each site as you cruise along.

One of the best parts? The photo opportunities are abundant. With breathtaking views around every corner, you’ll want your camera ready to capture the medieval monastery on Saint George Island or the charming Venetian-style facades of Perast. Plus, the friendly skipper adds a personal touch, sharing stories that bring these locations to life.

A possible consideration is the duration—at just 1.5 hours, this tour is a quick overview, so if you’re looking for a more immersive experience or in-depth history, you might want to combine it with other activities.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic water trips, authentic local sights, and compact tours that maximize highlights without overwhelming your schedule. It’s especially good for those who want to tick off multiple must-see spots in a short time while enjoying the thrill of a speedboat ride.

Looking for more options in Kotor? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point & First Leg of the Journey

The tour begins at Hawai Boat Tours in Kotor, located near the Old Town within the main marina. Once aboard, you’ll immediately feel the promise of an exciting water adventure. The boat itself is well-equipped, with comfortable seating and shade, making the ride pleasant even on sunnier days.

First Stop: Perast

The first major stop is the charming town of Perast, a favorite for its Venetian architecture and historical significance. During their 20-minute visit, travelers can stroll through narrow streets, admire baroque churches, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

Recent reviews highlight how guides like Aki make the visit engaging, sharing stories that deepen your appreciation for Perast’s maritime past. One guest noted, “Aki was very knowledgeable about Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks,” which shows how much added value you get from a guide with local expertise.

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Second Stop: Saint George Island

Next, the boat offers a panoramic view of Saint George Island, a stone island with a medieval monastery. While the island itself isn’t a stop, you’ll get a perfect photo opportunity of its mysterious presence and natural beauty. The guide provides context about its legends and historical importance, making the view more meaningful.

There's plenty more to explore in Kotor

Third Stop: Our Lady of the Rocks

The highlight for many, Our Lady of the Rocks, is a fascinating artificial island built by local fishermen over centuries. The 20-minute stop here allows visitors to explore the historic church, which is home to numerous artworks, relics, and a museum.

Reviewers often mention how the story of the island’s creation adds a layer of intrigue—local legends say it was built after a sailors’ miracle, and the guide will share these tales. Many guests find this stop a highlight, appreciating the chance to walk around the island, take photos, and learn about its significance.

Final Leg & Return

After visiting the island, the boat heads back to Kotor, completing the loop. The entire experience is just enough to spark your curiosity without feeling rushed, leaving you with memorable views and stories to tell.

What to Expect on the Water

The speedboat ride itself is smooth and safe, with a friendly skipper ensuring everyone feels comfortable. You can expect to be seated comfortably, with some shade, and plenty of opportunities for photos. A typical tour lasts around 1.5 hours, but flexibility is possible depending on availability.

Safety & Comfort

Guests praise the tour’s safety equipment, including life jackets, and the small group size (limited to 12 participants) offers a cozy, personal feel. The boat’s design ensures a comfortable ride, even if the waters are a little choppier than expected.

Photography & Tips

Bring your camera or smartphone because the views are simply stunning—think medieval monasteries, colorful coastal houses, and rocky islands. Wearing a hat, sunscreen, and water is recommended, especially on sunny days. Reviewers mention that Aki shared interesting stories along the way, making the photos even more meaningful.

Duration & Practicalities

The tour is about 1.5 hours—perfect for a quick excursion or as a part of a larger day exploring Kotor. It departs from within Kotor’s main marina area, and the meeting point is clearly marked. Bookings can be flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind.

Value and Cost Analysis

Considering what’s included—scenic boat ride, visits to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks, expert guides, and plenty of photo opportunities—the tour offers great value. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personalized and engaging.

While the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, the experience itself—covering multiple highlights in just 90 minutes—delivers a lot of bang for your buck. If you’re after a compact, scenic adventure with rich stories and picture-perfect views, this tour could be a worthwhile investment.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This activity is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the essence of Kotor’s bay. It suits cruise visitors, couples, and small groups looking for a fun, scenic, and informative water experience. It’s also ideal if you want a light outdoor activity that combines sightseeing and relaxation.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, you may want to consider your comfort beforehand, as it’s a speedboat ride on open water. Those seeking a deeper historical or cultural visit might find this tour a bit light, but it’s excellent as an introduction or a quick highlight reel.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a beautiful, fast-paced tour showcasing some of the most iconic sights around Kotor, this speedboat trip hits the sweet spot. Its friendly guides, comfortable boats, and breathtaking scenery make it a memorable addition to any Montenegro itinerary.

While it’s not designed to dig into detailed history, the stories and legends shared by guides like Aki, combined with stunning views of islands and coastal towns, create a delightful experience. It’s especially appealing for travelers who enjoy photography, outdoor water activities, and small-group adventures.

If you’re after a light, scenic, and fun way to explore the bay, this tour offers excellent value and a genuinely enjoyable experience that captures the magic of Montenegro’s coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 1.5 hours, including stops at Perast, Our Lady of the Rocks, and Saint George Island.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Hawaii Boat Tours in Kotor, near the main marina inside the park area close to the Old Town entrance.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, but children should be comfortable on a boat ride. Children prone to seasickness might need to consider their comfort.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activity.

Are food or beverages included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Will I get good photos?
Absolutely. The views of the islands, coastlines, and historic sites are perfect for photography.

What if I get seasick?
The boat ride is on open water, so if you’re susceptible to seasickness, consider taking precautions or consulting your doctor beforehand.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more intimate, engaging experience.

Whether you’re seeking a quick scenic escape or a fun photo opportunity, this Kotor speedboat tour offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s coastal charm in just 90 minutes.