Private tour Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks 1.5h

A compact, scenic boat trip that combines history, natural beauty, and cultural charm — all in just 1.5 hours.

Starting from the historic port of Kotor, this private tour takes you on a 90-minute journey through some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. For $150.49 per group (up to 10 people), you’ll enjoy a personalized experience that includes a 20-minute panoramic ride across the bay, a visit to the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks, and 30 minutes exploring the UNESCO-protected old town of Perast. The tour wraps up with another 20-minute boat ride back to Kotor, with a bottle of water provided to keep you refreshed along the way.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances stunning views with cultural insights—you’ll see the beautiful bay from the water, and walk through a town that looks like it’s frozen in time. Plus, the snorkeling masks offered for swimming add an extra layer of fun.

A possible consideration is that the tour’s short duration means you’ll only scratch the surface of each location. If you’re craving an in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. However, if you’re looking for a flexible, scenic trip that fits easily into a day, this is a top choice.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy quick, picturesque excursions with a touch of local history. Families with children, small groups, or anyone short on time will find it particularly appealing, especially given the adaptable, personalized nature of the private tour.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Private tour for up to 10, ensuring flexibility and personalized attention.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy panoramic views of Kotor Bay, especially from the boat’s open-air deck.
• Cultural Sights: Explore the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks and the 17th-century streets of Perast.
• Value for Money: Includes bottled water and snorkeling masks, with a straightforward pricing structure.
• Short & Sweet: Perfect for those with limited time seeking iconic sights without long tours.
• Ease & Convenience: Pickup offered from Kotor and mobile tickets make booking simple.

Why This Tour Works

We loved how this tour combines the visual appeal of Montenegro’s bay with its cultural charm. The 20-minute ride through the bay offers sweeping views of the rugged coastline and small islands, setting a scenic tone for the day. The visit to Our Lady of the Rocks is especially memorable — a man-made island with a history that dates back centuries, topped with a church and museum. The fact that exploring the island is free, but with a small fee for the church and toilet, keeps things straightforward and transparent.

What really makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach. The skipper is praised for adapting the trip — one review mentions how they tailored it for a family with young children, making it suitable for all ages. We also appreciate the small group setting, which creates a relaxed atmosphere and makes it easier to ask questions or take photos.

The stop in Perast is a highlight. This UNESCO-listed town feels untouched by modern development, with its Venetian architecture and narrow streets. You’ll have enough time to wander, snap photos, or browse local shops. One reviewer called it “the same as it was in the 17th century,” which gives you a good idea of its preserved charm.

The boat ride back adds an extra layer of enjoyment, especially with snorkeling masks at your disposal, offering a chance to dip into the clear waters. The included bottled water helps keep everyone hydrated without extra fuss, a small but appreciated detail.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Our Lady of the Rocks
This artificial island is a striking sight, rising from the water with a church and a small museum. While the exploration is free, entering the museum or church costs a modest 3 euros, and the toilet is 1.5 euros. The 20-minute stop gives enough time to walk around, enjoy the views, and get a sense of the island’s significance — a place built by local fishermen who started laying rocks to create this island in the 15th century.

What You’ll Experience:
– Picturesque views of the bay with the island as a backdrop
– An opportunity to peek inside the church, renowned for its collection of votive tablets donated over centuries
– A quick walk around the island’s perimeter, perfect for photos or a peaceful moment away from the busy mainland

Stop 2: Perast Old Town
In just 30 minutes, you’ll get to stroll through narrow streets lined with Venetian-style buildings, with views over the bay. This town’s architecture remains largely unchanged since the 17th century, making it a visual delight.

What You’ll Experience:
– An authentic taste of maritime Montenegrin life
– Opportunities to admire baroque churches and historical homes
– Potential for casual browsing at local shops or cafes

Return Ride:
The final 20-minute boat ride takes you back to Kotor, offering more sweeping views and a chance to reflect on what you’ve seen. The boat ride itself is relaxing, and snorkeling masks are available if you want to cool off or explore the water at certain spots.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

Reviews confirm this is a well-run, flexible experience. One reviewer mentioned how the skipper “adapted it for us,” which is a significant advantage. Booking through WhatsApp also makes it accessible and straightforward.

The price at just under $150 for a private group means you’re paying for exclusivity and flexibility. When you consider the included bottled water and snorkeling gear, it’s a fairly reasonable cost for a tailored, scenic experience. Compared to larger group tours, you gain intimacy and the chance to customize your stops — ideal for families, small groups, or couples seeking a personalized touch.

Transportation:
The tour starts from a designated meeting point in Kotor, with pickup offered. The boat itself provides an excellent vantage point, with open-air seating that maximizes views and photo opportunities. The boat’s size and the private setting make for a comfortable journey, especially appreciated in good weather.

Timing & Duration:
Its 1.5-hour length fits easily into a day of sightseeing in Kotor. You get a quick yet comprehensive taste of the bay’s highlights, perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful experience.

Weather & Cancellation:
The tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund offered if canceled due to poor conditions. This is reassuring, especially during the shoulder seasons when weather can be unpredictable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, scenic, and culturally interesting outing. Families with children will appreciate the flexible, shorter stops and the chance to swim or snorkel. Small groups seeking a more intimate adventure will enjoy the tailored approach and relaxed pace. It’s also perfect for anyone who wants a quick but memorable introduction to Montenegro’s bay, especially if you’re keen on photography or simply soaking in the views without long bus rides or crowded tours.

This private boat tour offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, cultural exploration, and personal attention. Its short duration makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want a snapshot of Montenegro’s highlights without overcommitting time. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and bottled water adds practicality, while the flexible, private setup guarantees a comfortable, unhurried experience.

While it may not satisfy those seeking deep historical immersion or extensive wandering, it’s perfect for those wanting a beautiful, straightforward introduction to the bay’s most iconic sights. It’s especially suited for families, small groups, or anyone wanting a scenic, hassle-free adventure with authentic local flavor.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and easy-to-book experience that balances views with cultural charm, this tour deserves a spot on your Montenegro itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including boat rides and stops.

What is included in the price?
You get a private boat trip with bottled water and snorkeling masks. Entry to Our Lady of the Rocks museum and church costs an additional 3 euros, and the toilet on the island costs 1.5 euros.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the skipper is praised for adapting the trip to your needs, making it suitable for families or small groups.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Reviewers mention traveling with young children and having a positive experience, especially with the flexible schedule.

What about weather cancellation?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book?
Booking is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about a week in advance via WhatsApp or directly through Viator.

This private tour offers a well-rounded, scenic taste of Kotor Bay, perfect for those wanting an authentic, relaxed experience in a beautiful setting.