Our Lady of the Rocks two hours private tour

Experience the Charm of Boka Bay with the Our Lady of the Rocks Two-Hour Private Tour

This 2-hour private tour in Kotor, Montenegro, offers a lively mix of scenic vistas, historical sites, and charming villages, all from the comfort of a speedboat. Starting from the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor (or a custom pick-up location around Kotor Bay), the trip is led by friendly guides and a knowledgeable skipper, making for a safe and relaxed adventure. At just $151.26 for up to six people, it’s a fantastic way to see some of Montenegro’s most photogenic spots without feeling rushed.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it blends stunning panoramic views with cultural highlights. The 20-minute boat ride offers sweeping vistas of small villages, palaces, and churches dotting the bay, giving you a real sense of the area’s charm. Plus, the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks—a man-made island with a church and museum—is both beautiful and captivating. The second highlight, Perast, with its old stone houses and impressive Saint Nicholas church, offers a glimpse into the region’s maritime past.

One thing to consider is that admission to Our Lady of the Rocks museum is not included, so you’ll need to buy tickets on site if you want to explore the church’s interior thoroughly. Also, as this is a private tour, it’s best suited for those who appreciate personalized attention and flexible scheduling—perfect for small groups, families, or couples seeking an intimate experience.

If you’re after a short, scenic, and culturally enriching trip—especially if you love boats, history, and stunning coastal views—this tour hits many sweet spots. It’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic snapshot of the bay’s highlights without a full-day commitment.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with flexible pick-up options around Kotor Bay.
• Beautiful panoramic views of villages, palaces, and churches from the water.
• Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks with time for a church and museum tour.
• Cultural highlight of Perast, a charming baroque town with old architecture and the iconic Saint Nicholas church.
• Knowledgeable guides and skipper make the trip engaging and safe.
• Good value for small groups, especially considering the private nature of the tour.

A Close Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting Point: Kotor and Beyond

The tour kicks off from the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town of Kotor, or a location of your choosing within Kotor Bay—such as Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota. The flexibility here is nice because you can arrange for pickup from your accommodation or a nearby spot. The boat can dock at your chosen location, making it convenient and hassle-free.

The Scenic 20-Minute Panorama Ride

Once on board, you’ll enjoy approximately 20 minutes of smooth sailing, during which your skipper will point out the tiny villages, palaces, churches, and the dramatic contrast between sea and mountains. This is a real highlight, especially if you love a good view. Several reviewers have called the scenery “stunning,” and it’s easy to see why. The boat ride itself sets the tone for the trip—light, breezy, and visually rewarding.

Stop 1: Our Lady of the Rocks

Your main stop is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, built by local fishermen who say they found an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the sea. As legend goes, they vowed to create a church and an island, and so they did. Today, the church and museum are open to visitors, offering a glimpse into local legend and religious devotion.

You’ll have about 30 minutes here to explore. The church’s interior is often decorated with ex-votos—small ships and objects donated over centuries—and the museum displays artifacts related to the island’s history. Keep in mind, admission is not included, so plan accordingly if you want to visit inside.

One reviewer fondly mentioned the story behind the island, adding a layer of charm to the visit. You’ll love the views of the bay from this tranquil spot, especially if you enjoy historical legends or photography.

Stop 2: Perast Village

Next, the boat takes you to Perast, a tiny yet historically significant town. With just around 350 residents, Perast once housed 18 churches and 19 palaces—a testament to its maritime wealth. Today, the town’s highlight is the church of Saint Nicholas, recognizable by its 55-meter-high bell tower. Although the tower was never finished due to lack of funds, it remains a striking feature of the skyline.

Here, you’ll spend roughly 40 minutes, wandering through cobbled streets, peering into old stone houses, and imagining the lives of Montenegrin sailors and merchants. The town’s charm is undeniable, and the views across the water to the mountains are simply lovely.

The Off-Limits Island of Saint George

Across the bay lies the natural island of Saint George, home to a 12th-century monastery. It’s off-limits to travelers, but its presence adds to the bay’s dramatic scenery. If you love history, it’s worth knowing it’s there, quietly watching over the bay.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

The knowledgeable guides and skipper receive praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. They enrich the experience with stories and local insights—like the legend of the Tre Sorelle Palace, which adds a romantic touch to your visit. Several reviews highlight how the crew made everything easy and enjoyable, especially if you’re traveling with family or need assistance.

The views are undeniably stunning—crystal-clear waters, pretty villages, and the dramatic backdrop of mountains frame your trip perfectly. Many travelers have described the scenery as “beautiful” and “stunning,” making this a great choice for photographers and nature lovers alike.

A Few Considerations

While the experience offers excellent value for a private tour, keep in mind that admission to Our Lady of the Rocks museum isn’t included. If you want to explore the interior, plan to buy tickets on-site. Also, since the tour is about 2 hours, it’s perfect for a quick taste rather than a comprehensive exploration, so history buffs might want to supplement with additional visits.

Lastly, the weather can impact the experience—bad weather might lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable boat ride, so check the forecast beforehand.

Who Will This Tour Suit Best?

This tour is perfect for small groups, couples, or families seeking an authentic, relaxed way to see the highlights of Boka Bay. If you love beautiful scenery, local legends, and a touch of culture, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s especially suitable if you prefer personalized attention and want to avoid large tour groups. Travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides combined with visits to iconic sites will find this experience a memorable slice of Montenegro.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

This private 2-hour speedboat trip offers an excellent balance of scenic vistas and cultural sites. The guides and skipper make it easy and enjoyable, and the views are simply unforgettable. For those looking to get a quick yet meaningful glimpse of Boka Bay’s highlights, this tour is a very good option.

The stunning panoramas, legend-rich Our Lady of the Rocks, and the charming Perast village combine to create a memorable experience that feels both special and authentic. Given the positive reviews emphasizing knowledgeable guides and good value, it’s clear that this tour manages to deliver a satisfying Montenegro experience without overloading your schedule.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Montenegro, this trip offers a taste of everything—history, scenery, and local color—making it worth considering if your time in Kotor is limited but you want a meaningful adventure on the water.

FAQ

How do I start this tour?
It begins from the UNESCO Old Town of Kotor or any preferred pick-up spot in Kotor Bay where the speedboat can dock.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, including the boat ride and stops.

What is included in the price?
You get private transportation, bottled water, WiFi on board, and use of snorkeling equipment. The fuel surcharge is already included, making the price straightforward.

Are entrance fees included?
No, admission to Our Lady of the Rocks museum is not included, so plan to purchase tickets if you wish to go inside.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your guides about preferred pick-up points and possibly adjust timings within the available schedule.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a camera, and cash or card for additional entrance fees or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The reviews mention helpfulness, especially with transfers, so it’s likely adaptable. However, check with the provider if you have specific needs, especially regarding access to the island sites.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour is weather dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 42 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan early, especially in peak season.

In all, this private speedboat tour of Boka Bay offers a well-rounded, intimate look at some of Montenegro’s most charming sights. It’s a wonderful choice for those craving scenic beauty, cultural stories, and the feeling of exploring at your own pace—on the water.