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

This review covers a popular speedboat tour that whisks travelers from Kotor to the enchanting Our Lady of the Rocks and the charming town of Perast. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a genuinely memorable experience that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and a dash of seafaring legend.

What we love about this tour is the scenic cruise through Boka Bay, the opportunity to visit the legendary island of Our Lady of the Rocks, and the chance to wander through Perast’s historic streets. The tour offers an affordable way to see some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights from a unique vantage point.

A possible consideration for travelers is that this is a speedboat trip, which might not suit those prone to seasickness or seeking a more relaxed, slow-paced experience. Also, since it involves a short visit to a small island and a historic town, those looking for a lengthy or in-depth exploration might find it somewhat limited in scope.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate quick, picturesque escapes with a mix of cultural and natural sights, especially those who want an active, fun way to explore the coast without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes it a great value for a scenic boat trip.
• Expert guidance from friendly, knowledgeable skippers enhances the experience.
• Stunning views of Boka Bay, with photo opportunities galore.
• Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks combines legend, culture, and beautiful art.
• Historic Perast offers a glimpse into Venetian heritage and maritime history.
• Short duration suits travelers with limited time but may feel rushed for some.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This speedboat tour offers a dynamic way to see Montenegro’s coast, departing from the central location of Kotor. The small group size and professional English-speaking skipper—who’s also your guide—make it feel personal and informative. The tour typically costs around $33 per person, making it an accessible option for many travelers.

The journey begins with a quick meet-up at the reception of Hotel Tianis in Kotor, where you’ll hop aboard your boat. From there, the boat glides past dramatic coastal landscapes, characterized by rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and traditional fishing villages. The boat’s speed adds excitement, and the open-air experience allows for unobstructed views of the stunning scenery.

The Scenic Cruise

Expect to be captivated by panoramic vistas of Boka Bay, one of Europe’s most beautiful fjord-like inlets. As your skipper points out landmarks and shares stories, you’ll get a sense of the area’s seafaring past. The boat ride is typically peaceful, with enough breeze to keep you comfortable, and plenty of opportunities for photos.

The Island of Our Lady of the Rocks

Your first stop is the legendary Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island with a deep-rooted story. Legend has it sailors built the island after finding a Madonna and Child image on a sea rock, as thanks for safe voyages. Today, the island hosts a charming church with a museum, showcasing votives, tapestries, and religious relics.

The visit to the island is usually about 30-45 minutes, giving you enough time to explore the church, take photos, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Reviewers mention that the island remains accessible even if the church is closed for the season, which is helpful if you’re visiting outside peak hours.

Exploring Perast

After leaving the island, the boat heads to Perast, a UNESCO-listed town perfect for a quick wander. With its baroque palaces, ancient churches, and cobblestone streets, Perast offers a snapshot of Venetian influence on Montenegro’s coast.

Many travelers, including Héctor, appreciate the personalized experience, with guides sharing captivating stories about the town’s maritime history. Héctor mentions, “The place is incredible, and the guides are super attentive,” highlighting the value of having a local expert along.

Perast’s historic architecture and seaside vibe are perfect for a relaxed walk, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or grab a coffee before heading back.

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What’s Included and Not

The tour includes the speedboat ride, a visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, an English-speaking skipper, water, and safety equipment. It’s a straightforward package designed for ease.

Extras like entrance fees to the church museum at Our Lady of the Rocks, roughly $3 per person, aren’t included. The tour doesn’t feature hotel pickup or drop-off, which means you’ll need to meet at the designated point or organize your transport to the meeting location.

Important Details for Travelers

• Timing: The tour usually lasts about 2 hours, making it ideal for those with limited time.
• Weather dependence: It may be canceled or rescheduled due to bad weather or rough seas.
• Dress code: Modest attire is required for entering the church; swimwear isn’t allowed.
• What to bring: Passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and camera are recommended.
• Parking: In summer, parking in Kotor can be challenging—plan to arrive early.

Reviews Reinforce the Experience

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides and stunning views. Héctor highlights that the trip was “very personalized” with attentive guides, making it stand out. Another traveler from GetYourGuide describes the experience as “very good,” emphasizing the friendly staff and the value for money.

The Value for Money

At around $33 per person, this tour offers a competitive price for an engaging, scenic experience. With a small group size, personal guidance, and multiple highlights packed into just a couple of hours, it presents excellent value.

It’s worth noting that you pay extra for the entrance fee to the museum, but this small additional cost allows access to a treasure trove of religious art and relics, enriching your understanding of the island’s significance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers looking for a short, scenic, and cultural escape from Kotor. It’s perfect for those who enjoy photo opportunities, want to learn about local legends, or simply desire a fun boat ride with beautiful views.

It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a guided experience that combines history, legend, and nature without requiring a full day.

However, if you’re seeking a leisurely, in-depth exploration of Perast or the island’s interior, this tour might feel a little rushed. Likewise, those with mobility issues or who dislike speedboat rides should consider the potential discomfort.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour from Kotor to Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast is a fantastic way to experience Montenegro’s coast in a quick, fun, and picturesque manner. It offers stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and authentic local stories, all at an accessible price point.

Travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery combined with cultural highlights will find this to be a worthwhile addition to their Montenegro itinerary. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the chance to see these iconic sights from the water adds a memorable dimension to your trip.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed, scenic escapade that captures the essence of the area, this tour is hard to beat—especially if you love a good story and a great view.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best for children comfortable with speedboat rides. Check with the provider about age restrictions or safety considerations.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience typically lasts about 2 hours, including the stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast.

Do I need to bring my own water?
Water is included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you want extra hydration or specific drinks.

Can I visit the church if it’s closed?
Yes, the island can still be visited even if the church and museum are closed for the season or times of day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection like a hat and sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. Modest attire is required to enter the church.

Are there any restrictions on the size of bags or luggage?
Large bags or luggage aren’t allowed on the boat, as space is limited.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled due to inclement weather or rough seas, so check the forecast beforehand.

Is there a discount for groups?
Pricing is generally per person, with no specific mention of group discounts. Check with the provider for special arrangements.

This boat tour combines all the elements that make Montenegro’s coast so captivating—stunning landscapes, legendary stories, and charming towns—all delivered in a short, engaging trip. Whether you’re a photo enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun adventure on the water, it offers excellent value and a genuine taste of this beautiful region.

You can check availability for your dates here: