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

Overview: An Exciting Day on the Water and in History

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of Boka Bay in a speedy boat, with the fresh sea breeze on your face and a friendly skipper guiding your way. For just $33 per person, this speedboat tour from Kotor to Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast Old Town offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and a bit of adventure. The tour lasts roughly a few hours, making it a perfect half-day escape from typical tourist crowds.

What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic coastlines with hidden historical gems. First, you’ll visit the legendary island of Our Lady of the Rocks, with its small church and intriguing museum. Then, you’ll stroll through Perast, a charming town that whispers stories of Venice and centuries of seafaring life. The friendly guides and beautiful views really bring each stop to life.

A small consideration? The weather can influence the experience — choppy seas or rain might lead to cancellations or early closures, especially at the church. If you’re sensitive to boat rides or have mobility concerns, keep in mind the tour is primarily a boat excursion with some walking on uneven surfaces.

This tour suits history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone eager to see Montenegro’s coast from a different perspective. If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates authentic experiences, picturesque scenery, and stories of sailors and legends, you’ll find this tour worth every penny.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery with dramatic cliffs and fishing villages
• Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a legendary island with a church and museum
• Stroll through Perast, a UNESCO-listed town full of baroque architecture
• Friendly, professional guides who enrich the experience with stories
• Affordable price point for a scenic boat tour with cultural highlights
• Weather-dependent — activity may be canceled or rescheduled in bad weather

An In-Depth Look at the Speedboat Tour Experience

Setting Sail from Kotor: Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins conveniently at the reception of Hotel Tianis in Kotor. From there, you’ll board a speedboat, which, for many, is part of the thrill. The boat is equipped with safety gear, and a professional English-speaking skipper will be your guide, sharing local stories and pointing out sights along the way.

Expect the ride to be lively but smooth enough to enjoy the views. The scenic cruise along Boka Bay is one of the highlights. You’ll pass dramatic coastal landscapes, with towering cliffs, quaint fishing villages, and historic Romanesque churches dotting the shoreline. The boat’s speed adds an element of fun, especially if you’re someone who enjoys a bit of a breeze and a splash of sea spray.

Our Lady of the Rocks: Legend and Serenity

The first stop is the famous island of Our Lady of the Rocks. According to local legend, sailors built this tiny island after discovering an image of the Madonna and Child on a sea rock, as a gratitude for safe voyages. Over centuries, the site has been transformed into a sanctuary adorned with votives, tapestries, and paintings.

You’ll visit the small church, which holds sacred relics, and its museum, where you can learn about the island’s history and legends. Entrance fee is €3 per person (not included in the tour price), and it’s worth considering if you want to see more than just the outside. The church and museum have seasonal hours, so check the schedule if you’re visiting outside peak months.

Many reviews highlight the informative guides who make the visit engaging. Héctor, for example, mentioned “super attentive tour guides” and described the experience as incredibly personalized. Even if the church is closed, the island still remains accessible for a walk around, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a tranquil atmosphere.

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Continuing to Perast: A Step Back in Time

After exploring the island, your boat will take you to the historic town of Perast. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a beautiful example of Venetian architecture. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll see baroque palaces, ancient churches, and views that have remained unchanged for centuries.

Perast’s maritime history is evident everywhere, from the old fortifications to the elegant palaces that once housed wealthy merchants. The town isn’t large—most visitors spend about an hour wandering and soaking in the authentic charm. Many reviews praise the atmosphere of Perast, calling it a “window into a bygone era” and “incredibly picturesque.”

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Timing: The tour typically lasts a few hours, leaving plenty of time for photos and strolling. Be aware that the church on Our Lady of the Rocks has seasonal operating hours—until 5 PM in April, May, September, and October; until 6 PM in June; and until 7 PM in July and August. If the church closes early, you’ll still be able to walk around the island and enjoy the views.
• What to bring: Passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and camera. These items help you make the most of your visit and stay comfortable.
• Weather considerations: The tour is weather-dependent. Bad weather or rough seas can lead to cancellations or early closures, so check the forecast and be flexible.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers the speedboat ride, the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, and water for refreshment. Guides are English-speaking, making the storytelling easy to follow. Safety equipment is provided, adding peace of mind.

However, entrance to the church museum costs an additional €3, and hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to find your way to the meeting point at Hotel Tianis. Parking in Kotor can be tight, especially during summer, so arriving early helps.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers much more than just a boat ride. It’s a chance to see two of Montenegro’s most iconic sites with local guides who bring stories to life. The small group setting and personalized attention make it stand out, especially compared to larger, impersonal tours.

At $33, the tour provides excellent value—combining transportation, cultural insights, and access to a UNESCO site for a reasonable price. Many travelers, like Héctor, have expressed how “incredible” the experience was and how attentive staff made it memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love coastal scenery, historical sites, and local legends, this tour is a perfect choice. It suits small groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience. It’s especially ideal if you want a memorable snapshot of Montenegro’s coast without committing to a full-day excursion.

Final Thoughts

In all, this speedboat tour from Kotor to Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast offers a wonderful blend of nature, history, and culture. The scenic cruise alone makes it worth considering, but the added visit to the legendary island and charming Old Town elevates the experience. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude make it genuinely enjoyable.

While weather can be a factor, most visitors find the experience well worth the price and the effort. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of scenic views, or simply seeking a break from typical tourist spots, this tour promises a memorable day on Montenegro’s beautiful coast.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts a few hours, typically enough time for the boat ride, island visit, and a walk through Perast.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, children who enjoy boat rides and walking around scenic towns should find it enjoyable. Always check if children are comfortable with boat trips.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy months, and you can choose to pay later.

Is there a dress code for the church on Our Lady of the Rocks?
Yes, modest dress is required to enter the church, and swimwear is not allowed.

Can I visit the church if it’s closed?
Yes, the island can still be visited, and you can walk around it and take photos even if the church is closed for the season or day.

Are there any hidden costs?
The tour price covers the boat ride and guiding. Entrance to the church museum is extra, at €3 per person, and is worth considering if you want to explore further.

This detailed, honest review aims to help you decide whether this speedboat tour matches your travel style, providing you with memorable sights, stories, and experiences along Montenegro’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: