Perast Kotor Bay: boat ride to Our lady of the Rocks & back

A boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks in Kotor Bay offers an authentic peek into Montenegrin tradition combined with breathtaking scenery. This tour begins at the Museum of Perast, where a small, friendly crew welcomes travelers like us for a quick, 1-hour adventure on the water. For around the price of a nice dinner, you get a 10-minute boat ride to the island, a chance to visit the iconic church, and plenty of time to snap photos of the shimmering bay framed by dark mountain peaks.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly it’s organized—five-star reviews highlight the helpfulness of guides and the scenic beauty, making it clear that the trip offers great value for a short outing. The boat crew is flexible, letting you decide when to return, which adds a layer of relaxed enjoyment.

That said, if you’re keen on exploring the church itself thoroughly, keep in mind that entry is not included in the price, so you might want to budget extra for that. This tour suits travelers looking for a quick, scenic escape that combines legend, culture, and natural beauty in a small-group setting. Perfect for those who prefer intimate adventures with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Scenic views: You’ll appreciate the stunning landscape of black mountains and blue water that surrounds Kotor Bay.
• Cultural legend: The story of Our Lady of the Rocks adds a layer of charm and history to your visit.
• Flexible timing: The boat crew lets you decide when to head back, making the experience relaxed and personalized.
• Authentic experience: The tour emphasizes local tradition, including the annual Fasinada festival when locals throw rocks into the sea.
• Value: At a reasonable price, you get a memorable boat ride and a chance to visit a significant religious and cultural site.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to six participants, fostering a more personal and engaging experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point: The Museum of Perast

Our journey begins next to the Museum of Perast at the Barbeta Speedboat meeting point. This location is easy to find and provides a friendly, informal start to your adventure. The team greets you warmly, setting a relaxed tone for the trip. This initial meeting point is more than just a logistics hub; it’s a gateway into the charming atmosphere of Perast, a town famed for its tradition and historical architecture.

The Boat Ride: A Quick but Scenic Transit

Within about 10 minutes, the boat departs, skimming across the calm waters of Kotor Bay. The boat itself is likely a small, nimble vessel—perfect for the intimate group size—allowing for unobstructed views. During this short ride, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to marvel at the landscape: jagged black mountains rising dramatically from the water, their reflections shimmering in the bright blue sea.

Travelers have commented on the “very beautiful scenery” and the “stunning landscape,” which truly comes alive from the water’s perspective. This part of the trip is about soaking in the natural beauty—something that photos alone can’t quite capture. Expect a sense of tranquility, punctuated by the occasional call of seagulls and the gentle splash of water.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

After arriving at the small, man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks, you’ll have about 30-40 minutes to explore. The story behind this island is quite captivating. Legend says it was formed when two local brothers found a Madonna icon washed ashore, inspiring them to throw rocks into the sea to build the island. Today’s island still hosts a religious sanctuary—a Roman Catholic church—and an attached museum.

While entry to the church isn’t included in the basic package, most visitors find the visit worth a small extra fee. The church interior is modest but filled with religious artifacts and artwork that reflect local devotion. The museum offers insights into the island’s history, including its annual Fasinada festival, when locals throw rocks into the sea in a tradition that celebrates the island’s origins.

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The Return Journey

The boat ride back is just as leisurely, with the skipper letting you set the pace. Travelers have mentioned that “you can easily agree with your skipper when it’s time to come back,” which contributes to a relaxed atmosphere. The return trip offers more opportunities for photos, especially of the bay’s dramatic coastline.

Practical Details

The entire experience lasts roughly an hour—about 10 minutes to reach the island, 30-40 minutes on land, and 10 minutes back. The meeting point is conveniently located at the Museum of Perast, making it easy to combine with other explorations in the area. The small group size (limited to six) enhances the intimacy and flexibility, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and ask questions freely.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are the boat transfers to and from the island and the friendly welcome from the crew. However, entry to the church and museum is not included, so if you’re interested, budget a few extra euros. Food and drinks are also not part of this tour, so it’s best to bring a snack if you plan to spend the day in Perast afterward.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on authentic Montenegrin traditions—like the legend of the island’s creation and the annual Fasinada. You’ll gain a tangible sense of the local culture that’s often missed in larger, more commercialized excursions. The boat ride itself offers a true taste of Kotor Bay’s natural beauty, with breathtaking views that look even more stunning when framed by the dark, jagged mountains and shimmering water.

Many reviewers praise the well-organized nature of the trip and helpful guides, making it clear that this isn’t just another quick water taxi but a thoughtfully arranged experience. The fact that you can customize your return time makes it perfect for those who like a relaxed schedule or want to combine this with other activities in Perast or Kotor.

Who This Tour Is Best Suited For

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic beauty, local legends, and small-group intimacy. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to enjoy a meaningful snapshot of the bay’s charm. It also appeals to those curious about local traditions like the Fasinada festival, which adds a layer of cultural richness.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, you’ll find the small-group setting comfortable and engaging. It’s less suitable for those looking for a full-day tour or wanting extensive access inside the church but perfect for a quick, authentic taste of Kotor Bay.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a modest investment, this tour delivers impressive value. The stunning scenery, combined with the fascinating legend of Our Lady of the Rocks, makes it a highlight for many visitors. The friendly guides, flexible timing, and intimate group size create a relaxed, enjoyable environment that encourages connection with both the landscape and local culture.

If you’re after a short, scenic, culturally meaningful experience that leaves you with memorable photos and stories, this boat ride is a smart choice. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value authenticity and a personal touch over mass tourism.

While the visit to the church is optional and requires an extra fee, the overall experience is well-rounded—delivering natural beauty, cultural depth, and a sense of connection to Montenegro’s traditions—all in just an hour on the water.

FAQ

How long does the boat ride last?
The total experience lasts about 1 hour, including the boat trip to and from the island, with roughly 30-40 minutes spent on land exploring Our Lady of the Rocks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Museum of Perast, with the meeting point at the Barbeta Speedboat area, and the return is to the same location.

Is the entry to Our Lady of the Rocks included?
No, the church and museum entry are not included in the tour price, so budget extra if you plan to visit inside.

How flexible is the return time?
The skipper typically allows you to decide when to come back, giving you the option to linger or depart sooner based on your preference.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a small, friendly group with plenty of opportunities for personal interaction.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not part of the package, so bring your own if you plan to stay longer in Perast.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to adjust your plans.

What languages are spoken?
The tour is conducted in Serbian and English, accommodating most travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the short duration and family-friendly setting suggest it’s suitable for children, provided they are comfortable on a boat.

This boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks in Kotor Bay offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, local legend, and cultural insight—all wrapped up in a relaxed, small-group setting. It’s an experience that leaves many travelers with picturesque memories and a genuine appreciation for Montenegro’s traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: