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

Planning a day around the Kotor Bay can be both exciting and a little overwhelming — especially when choosing how to best explore its iconic spots. This speedboat tour promises a quick, scenic trip out to Perast and the legendary Our Lady of the Rocks. For just $33 per person, you get a chance to see some of Montenegro’s most photogenic views, learn a bit about local seafaring stories, and enjoy the outdoors on water.

What we especially like about this experience is the speedy, comfortable boat ride that offers a fresh perspective on the bay’s gorgeous waters, and the opportunity to explore Perast’s charming streets at your own pace. Plus, the visit to the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks is a highlight, with its fascinating story and beautiful interior.

That said, a key consideration is that this tour may not deliver the guided experience some travelers expect. Reviews mention that the guide’s role is limited mainly to logistics, and some may find that the narrative or historical insights are missing. It’s best suited for those who want a hassle-free, scenic jaunt rather than a deep dive into local history. If your goal is quick sightseeing with stunning views, you’ll likely enjoy this trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Scenic speedboat ride offers a fresh perspective of Kotor Bay’s natural beauty.
Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks includes learning about its creation and exploring the island’s church and museum.
Leisurely stroll through Perast’s historic streets reveals charming architecture and local landmarks.
Price point makes it accessible for most travelers seeking a snapshot of Montenegro’s coastal highlights.
Limited guide commentary means you might need to do some homework or explore on your own afterward.
Good for those craving quick, picturesque experiences without extensive tours or hikes.

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A Detailed Look at the Speed Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins at Hotel Tianis in Kotor, which makes it easy for anyone staying nearby. The meeting is straightforward — just gather at the reception — and the boat departs directly from the port or the Old Town gate. Since the tour is designed as a quick boat ride, you’re not expected to spend long waiting around. From the outset, the focus is on enjoying the ride, not a lengthy process.

The actual speedboat itself is described as comfortable, with safety equipment provided. So, if you’re wary of rough waters or feel uneasy on boats, rest assured that the vessel is suited for a short, smooth cruise.

The Speedboat Ride: A Showstopper

Once underway, the ride through Boka Bay is undoubtedly the highlight for many. We loved the way the boat cuts across the water, offering stunning views of the rugged coastline and the shimmering bay. It’s a lively, invigorating way to get from Kotor to Perast.

One of the most notable parts of the journey is the panoramic viewpoint outside Perast, where you can take in sweeping views of the entire bay and the two islands. Many travelers appreciate this quick photo stop, as it offers a perfect chance to capture the scenery before landing.

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Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

The first official stop is at the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks. This tiny island has a story as compelling as its setting — it was built stone by stone over centuries, creating a unique religious and cultural site. The church and museum inside are beautifully preserved, providing a glimpse into Montenegro’s maritime traditions and spiritual life.

According to reviews, the island visit is well-organized, with a guide explaining the legend behind the island’s creation. Visitors can explore the church’s interior, see centuries-old artifacts, and learn about local legends. The ticket to the museum costs around €3, which is a fair price for the experience.

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Exploring Perast

After the island visit, the boat returns to Perast for a leisurely exploration. This small baroque town is filled with elegant palaces, centuries-old churches, and narrow cobblestone streets. It’s easy to get a sense of the town’s seafaring history just by wandering around.

You’ll have some free time to visit local landmarks like the Maritime Museum or just sit at a seaside café, enjoying fresh coffee and watching the world go by. Many travelers find Perast’s peaceful atmosphere a perfect contrast to the bustling cobbled streets of Kotor.

What’s Missing?

While the scenery and the island are fantastic, some reviews note that the tour lacks depth in historical commentary. One traveler pointed out, “There was no guide, no history provided, no pause for panoramic photos outside of Perast, no stop in Dub for the cable car.” So, if you’re expecting a guided tour with rich stories, you might find this experience somewhat limited.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for those looking for a quick, scenic escape from Kotor, with an emphasis on stunning water views and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect if you’re on a tight schedule or want a straightforward boat transfer with some sightseeing thrown in. If you’re a history buff wanting detailed storytelling or a large-group adventure, this might not fulfill all your expectations.

Practical Details and Tips

Price and Value

At $33 per person, this tour offers a decent value for a half-day experience. The fee covers the boat ride, the visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a guide (mainly for logistics), and water. Compared to private tours or full-day excursions, this is a budget-friendly way to see these iconic sites.

What to Bring

You’ll want to pack your passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes for walking around Perast, and bring sunglasses for the boat ride. Light, breathable clothing is advised, especially in summer. Don’t forget to bring a camera — the views are spectacular.

Restrictions and Considerations

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues due to boat and walking elements.
Large luggage or pets are not allowed on the boat.
No smoking, alcohol, or drugs are permitted during the trip.
To keep your plans flexible, you can reserve and pay later with the provider.

Final Thoughts

This Speed Boat Tour to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks offers a straightforward, scenic taste of Montenegro’s beautiful bay. With its stunning water vistas and the chance to explore a charming historic town and an island steeped in legend, it’s an appealing option for travelers seeking a quick, picturesque escape.

While it may lack detailed guiding or in-depth storytelling, the experience’s visual highlights and relaxed pace make it a worthwhile addition to a Montenegro itinerary — especially if you want a memorable water-based adventure without a lot of fuss.

If your main goal is to capture beautiful views, enjoy a boat ride, and explore small coastal towns, this tour will serve you well. Just be aware that it’s more about the scenery and less about history or guided commentary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for young children?
It might be, provided the children are comfortable on boats and walking around Perast. Keep in mind the boat ride can be swift, so supervise children closely.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially during peak season, but you can also book closer to the date if space allows. You can keep plans flexible by booking with the “pay later” option.

Can I visit the Blue Cave on this tour?
No, this tour specifically visits Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks. However, some similar experiences include Blue Cave visits, which you might find listed as other tours.

What are the opening hours of Our Lady of the Rocks?
The museum and church are generally open during daytime hours, but specific times aren’t listed here, so plan to visit during daylight for best experience.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, a guide is included, but reviews suggest their role is mainly logistical, with limited commentary. If you want detailed historical insights, you might need to do extra research.

How long is the entire tour?
The trip typically lasts around half a day, including the boat ride, island visit, and free time in Perast.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, and light clothing. It’s advisable to bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.

Are drinks or food provided?
Water is included, but there are no provisions for meals or additional drinks. You might want to bring snacks or extra water.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and boat considerations.

In the end, this tour ticks the box for scenic water views and easy exploration, making it a good choice if you’re after a relaxed, beautiful day out on the water in Montenegro.