Kotor: Perast and Lady of the Rocks Tour by Speedboat

Exploring Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor by Speedboat: Our In-Depth Review of the Perast and Lady of the Rocks Tour

If you’re dreaming of a quick yet captivating escape to Montenegro’s iconic coastal sights, a speedboat tour from Kotor to Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast might just be your perfect choice. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but from what travelers rave about—and what the tour details reveal—it promises a balance of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and effortless convenience.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor, seen from the water. Second, the chance to visit two of Montenegro’s most picturesque sites—the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks and the charming old town of Perast. Third, the informative commentary from friendly captains, making the journey as enriching as the destinations. And one thing to keep in mind? The tour is quite brief—just two hours—so it’s best suited for travelers short on time but eager to soak up the essence of the region.

If you’re someone who loves scenic boat rides, cultural sights, and a relaxed pace, this trip caters well to you. It’s a perfect addition to a Montenegro itinerary, especially if you want to avoid long tours or large crowds. That said, if you’re looking for a full-day exploration or detailed museum visits, this might feel a bit rushed.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: It’s a quick 2-hour tour, ideal for limited schedules.
• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast provide a glimpse into local traditions.
• Comfortable & Intimate: Small group size (max 9 people) enhances the experience.
• Includes Drinks & Wi-Fi: Stay refreshed with local wine, beer, water, and stay connected.
• Flexible & Cancelable: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, with the option to reserve and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting from Rijo Speedboat Tours at Kotor’s harbor, the adventure begins with a quick check-in. The small group setting, limited to nine participants, promises a more personal experience, and the friendly crew—who speak English and Serbian—are known for sharing interesting insights about the sights.

The boat ride itself sets the tone for the day—fast, smooth, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the shimmering waters and rugged coastlines. The tour’s first stop is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, which is famous for its enchanting church and museum. Here, you’ll get about 20 minutes of free time to explore and take pictures. According to reviews, this island “gained a particularly unreal dimension,” thanks to its unique history of being created by local inhabitants over centuries and its iconic church.

Walking around the island, you’ll notice the quaint details—like the small boats tethered nearby and the vibrant frescoes inside the church. The museum, which charges a separate entry fee, offers a closer look at the island’s religious artifacts and history, but many visitors find the 20-minute visit ample for a quick photo and a glance at the exhibits.

Next, you’ll hop back on the boat to visit the old town of Perast. This is where Montenegro’s coastal charm truly shines. The town’s well-preserved baroque architecture, narrow cobbled streets, and scenic waterfront create a perfect setting for a 20-minute free stroll. While brief, many travelers appreciate the opportunity to peek into the local cafes and shops or just soak up the atmosphere.

Finally, the tour concludes with a relaxing boat ride back to Kotor, offering sweeping panoramic views of the bay. The captain often shares interesting tidbits about the history, geography, and legends of the region, making the return trip both scenic and informative.

Value and Practicalities

This tour costs what you might expect for a quick, curated experience—plus, it includes complimentary pick-up from a pre-arranged location (usually in the city), free Wi-Fi on board, and drinks like local wine, beer, and water. It’s a smart choice if you want a hassle-free, guided experience without the extra costs of entrance tickets or lengthy transfers.

While the tour doesn’t include entry to the Our Lady of the Rocks museum (which costs 2 euros), many find that the combination of the church, the island’s scenery, and the scenic boat ride justifies the price. For those keen on local drinks, the tour’s inclusion of wine and beer adds a relaxing touch after sightseeing.

One thing to consider: since the visit times are limited, it’s best for travelers who don’t need extensive exploration. If you’re after a deep dive into local history or want to spend hours in each spot, you might find this tour a bit too quick.

The Authentic Feel: What Reviews Tell Us

While reviews are mostly glowing, two points stand out. One traveler mentions, “Veldig fint å se kystlinjen fra sjøen! Absolutt nok tid på begge steder om man bare vil kikke,” which translates to “Very nice to see the coastline from the sea! Definitely enough time for both places if you just want to take a quick look.” This highlights how the tour offers a perfect snapshot, especially for first-timers or those on a tight schedule.

Another reviewer simply describes it as “Good,” reflecting the straightforward, no-frills charm of the experience. The small group size and friendly captain, often sharing stories in both English and Serbian, create a comfortable environment.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If your goal is to see the highlights of Bay of Kotor without getting caught up in lengthy excursions, this tour is a fantastic choice. The scenic boat ride combined with quick visits to two of the region’s most photogenic sites offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group travel, want to avoid large crowds, and enjoy informative commentary during scenic rides. The inclusion of drinks and Wi-Fi adds a touch of comfort that makes the two-hour journey feel cherishable rather than rushed.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors eager for a taste of Montenegro’s coastal beauty, short-term travelers with limited time, and those looking to enjoy a relaxed yet scenic adventure. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with a small group or family and prefer a more intimate setting.

If you’re someone who loves snapping photos, soaking in scenic vistas, and experiencing local culture briefly but meaningfully, you’ll find this tour both satisfying and enjoyable.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes free pick-up from a pre-arranged location in Kotor and the boat ride itself.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 2 hours, with specific stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, you’ll enjoy local wine, beer, and water during the tour.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
It’s recommended to reserve ahead, especially since the tour is limited to small groups, but you can also reserve and pay later with flexible cancellation policy.

Can I visit the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks?
The tour provides a 20-minute free visit to the island, but entry to the museum costs an additional 2 euros.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, the short visit times and focus on scenic views make it particularly good for adults and older children. Always check with the provider if you have very young kids.

To sum it up, the Kotor: Perast and Lady of the Rocks Tour by Speedboat offers a well-balanced, scenic glimpse into Montenegro’s coast. It combines stunning vistas, brief cultural stops, and Relaxed comfort—all within a manageable 2-hour window. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a quick, picturesque experience that captures the essence of the Bay of Kotor without the fuss of long excursions. Small groups, local drinks, and engaging guides make it a worthwhile addition to any Montenegro trip, especially for those eager to see the highlights from the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: