Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks 1,5 hours private tour

A private 1.5-hour boat tour exploring Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, historical charm, and intimate experiences. Starting either from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor’s Old Town or a convenient pick-up point along Kotor Bay, this tour takes you on a quick but memorable journey across the sparkling waters of Boka Bay. For around $154, you and up to five companions can enjoy a personalized adventure that’s both relaxed and packed with eye-catching sights.

What makes this experience stand out are two things in particular: first, the stunning panoramic views of small villages, palaces, and mountains from the boat, which truly captures the essence of Montenegro’s coastal charm. Second, the visit to the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks and the charming town of Perast, both brimming with stories and scenic beauty.

On the flip side, the 20-minute visit to the church and museum on Our Lady of the Rocks means you’ll need to manage your time carefully if you want to absorb everything. The island of St. George, a natural island with a 12th-century monastery, is off-limits, so it’s more about enjoying the view rather than exploring it.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate quick, scenic excursions, love picturesque villages, and want expert guidance without a long commitment. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized way to see some of Montenegro’s top sights off the beaten path, this tour hits the spot.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour for up to 6 people ensures a tailored and intimate outing.
• Stunning Bay Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas and learn stories behind the villages and palaces.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast, two must-see spots with rich stories.
• Flexible Pick-up: Options from Kotor Old Town or other points along Kotor Bay.
• Value for Money: The price includes private transportation, WiFi, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable skipper.
• Time-Efficient: Perfect for travelers with limited time but wanting a comprehensive taste of the bay.

A Deep Dive into the Isle of Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from Kotor’s UNESCO-listed Old Town or a designated pick-up point along Kotor Bay such as Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota. This flexibility is a big plus, especially if you’re staying outside the Old Town and want a more convenient start. Once aboard the boat, you’ll enjoy about 20 minutes of the spectacular panorama ride, where your skipper will point out picturesque villages, historical palaces, and churches set against the dramatic backdrop of mountains and sea.

The boat itself is described as a new, clean speedboat, equipped with WiFi and snorkeling gear, adding comfort and fun for those who like a bit of extra activity. The ride is smooth but lively enough to give you a real taste of the bay’s beauty without long travel times.

The Cultural and Scenic Stops

Our Lady of the Rocks is the tour’s star attraction. Legend has it that two fishermen found an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock protruding from the water, inspiring locals to create a man-made island and build a church in her honor. Today, the church and museum on the island offer insight into local traditions, history, and religion. Visitors are given about 20 minutes to explore, which is enough to appreciate the church’s art and artifacts but not long enough to fully absorb all the stories.

Next, the boat heads to Perast, a charming baroque town famous for its captains and elegant architecture. With a population of only 350, the town boasts 18 churches and 19 palaces, making it one of Montenegro’s most historically significant small towns. The highlight here is the church of Saint Nicholas, with its impressive 55-meter bell tower—though it was never finished due to lack of funds, it remains a striking sight.

The visit to Perast is about 20 minutes, giving you enough time to stroll its narrow streets, admire the old stone houses, and take photos of the bay’s stunning surroundings.

Additional Highlights and Considerations

While on the boat, you’ll also see the Island of Saint George, which is a natural island with a 12th-century monastery. However, it’s off-limits to travelers, so you’ll only enjoy the view, which still looks fantastic from the boat.

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, bottled water, private transport, and WiFi, making it a comfortable and flexible outing. The admission fee to Our Lady of the Rocks church isn’t included, so budget accordingly if you wish to go inside.

Authenticity and Traveler Feedback

The reviews paint a consistent picture of satisfaction. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular views they get from the boat. One review highlights the friendly skipper, Zeljko, and the charming assistant Lily, which suggests a warm and professional crew. Several mention how easy it was to book last-minute via WhatsApp and how the tour was excellent value.

A few travelers comment on the timing, noting that 1.5 hours is just enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed. The overall tone suggests this tour hits the sweet spot for travelers wanting a quick, scenic, culturally rich experience.

Practical Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, as this tour is popular—on average, travelers book it 115 days ahead.
• Be prepared for 20-minute stops at each site, which means you’ll want to pace yourself with camera shots and light exploration.
• If you’re interested in the church museum, bring money for the entrance fee.
• Dress comfortably and bring sun protection, especially during the summer months when the Montenegro sun can be intense.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private boat trip is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, scenic break from sightseeing. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the key sights of Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks without the hassle of large group tours. History buffs will appreciate the legends and stories shared, while photo enthusiasts will love the panoramic views. It’s also a great choice for couples or small families looking for a relaxing, intimate experience that balances beauty, culture, and comfort.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers excellent value for money with its private setting, beautiful scenery, and insightful stops. The friendly, knowledgeable guides and well-maintained boat ensure a smooth ride, while the carefully curated stops give you a genuine taste of Montenegro’s coastal charm.

While the 20-minute site visits mean you won’t get deeply immersed in each location, they’re enough for a memorable snapshot and some great photos. If you’re craving a quick but meaningful taste of Boka Bay’s highlights, this tour hits the mark.

It’s best suited for those who prefer small-group experiences over large tours, and for anyone eager to see iconic sights with minimal fuss. Whether it’s a romantic outing, a family adventure, or a small group of friends seeking a relaxed day on the water, this private trip delivers a perfect balance of scenery, stories, and comfort.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is private and can be tailored to your needs. Kids will enjoy the boat ride and the opportunity to see the stunning bay views. Just keep in mind the short stops and bring anything needed for shorter attention spans.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, WiFi on board, and the fuel surcharge. Entrance fees to Our Lady of the Rocks church are not included.

Can I book last-minute?
Yes, many travelers report it’s easy to arrange via WhatsApp or other quick communication methods, sometimes even on the same day.

How long do the stops last?
Each site, Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast, is visited for about 20 minutes, which is enough to glimpse the highlights but not explore in depth.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as new and clean, equipped with WiFi and snorkeling gear for extra fun.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date.

In the end, this private tour is a straightforward, scenic, and culturally rich experience that appeals to those wanting a compact taste of Montenegro’s stunning bay. With friendly guides, beautiful vistas, and a personal touch, it’s a simple way to add a memorable chapter to your Montenegro trip.