Tour Kotor – Perast Old Town – Island Our Lady of the Rocks – Every 2 hours

Starting with a quick overview:
For just under $28 USD, you can hop onto a 2-hour speedboat tour that whisks you from Kotor’s lively harbor to some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. You’ll cruise along the Bay of Kotor, visit the UNESCO-listed old town of Perast, and step onto the mystical Our Lady of the Rocks island, famous for its art-filled church and legendary origin story. The tour departs every 2 hours, making it flexible for your schedule, and is suited for most travelers given its accessible nature.

What we love about this experience is first, the breathtaking views of the bay from the water — the coastline dotted with ancient villages and lush hills looks especially stunning from a speedboat. Second, the informative yet relaxed atmosphere created by the crew, especially the guides who share snippets of local lore and history, enriches the trip. The value for money is also a highlight, as the tour combines transportation, a scenic cruise, and a visit to two fascinating sites for a reasonable price.

One thing to consider is that the time at each stop is limited, with roughly 20-30 minutes at each location, which might feel rushed if you love to explore thoroughly. But for most, the quick visits serve as a perfect introduction rather than an exhaustive tour. If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic overview of Kotor’s highlights with some authentic charm, this tour fits the bill well.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a smooth, affordable way to see the Bay of Kotor’s key sights without the hassle of organizing separate transportation or guided visits. Those with a sense of adventure, an appreciation for stunning scenery, and a desire for authentic experiences will find this tour particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Breathtaking views from the water give a new perspective of Kotor Bay’s rugged coastline.
• Efficient itinerary covering Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks, with a good balance of sightseeing and cruising.
• Informative guides who share interesting stories, adding depth to the experience.
• Affordable price that includes all fees, taxes, and bottled water, offering great value.
• Limited time at each site encourages quick exploration, not deep dives.
• Weather-dependent activity so check the forecast if you want a smooth trip.

A Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

This tour begins in Kotor’s bustling harbor, where the boat departs every two hours, giving you plenty of options to fit your plans. Expect a roughly 1-hour cruise along the Bay of Kotor, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and tiny villages clinging to the hillsides. The crew provides commentary that enhances your understanding of the area’s natural beauty and its historical charm without turning the trip into a long lecture. From the reviews, it’s clear that many guests find the boat ride relaxing and scenic, with “music playing and a friendly crew” making for a comfortable journey.

Next, you’ll arrive at Perast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, defensive towers, and palazzi. With about 30 minutes to wander, you can stroll through narrow alleys, admire the facades of centuries-old buildings, and soak in the atmospheric surroundings. Many visitors comment that it’s a “beautiful area,” and some mention it’s “a must-see in Montenegro.” But, as several reviews note, the time is limited, so you’ll want to prioritize your favorite sights or simply enjoy the peaceful vibe of this historic town.

The highlight for many is Our Lady of the Rocks, a small artificial island built on legend — two sailors supposedly discovered a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary there, prompting the church’s construction, which continues to be an inspiring sight. The island features a church filled with artworks and a small museum. Expect to spend about 20 minutes here; entry into the church costs a few euros, and, as noted, swimming or drones are not permitted.

From the Reviews: Authenticity and Guides

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew. Comments like “Captain Andrea was great and informative,” and “Luca was very nice and fun” highlight the personal touch that makes this tour memorable. We loved how many reviews mention the smooth boat ride, with some describing it as “silky,” reflecting the high-quality experience on the water.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The meeting point at Kotor’s Submarine Park is easy to find, and the tour departs promptly. Most travelers find the group size manageable — limited to 25 participants — which allows for a more personal experience. The cost includes all fees, taxes, water, and insurance, so no hidden costs. The tour is designed to be easy and accessible, with most travelers able to participate, and the boat is well-suited for comfort.

Weather plays a crucial role. The tour only runs in good weather conditions, and if canceled, you’re offered a different date or a full refund. Several reviews mention that, even when it drizzled briefly, the captain quickly set up rain covers, which shows the crew’s preparedness.

The Value and Who Will Enjoy It

At under $30, this tour offers a fantastic value considering it includes scenic cruising, a visit to two unique sites, bottled water, and commentary. Compared to more expensive guided tours, it’s a straightforward way to tick off key sights while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Travelers who love photography, quirky legends, or simply want a laid-back day on the water will find this experience highly rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who want an easy introduction to Montenegro’s coast or are visiting Kotor via cruise and need an efficient way to see the highlights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic cruise that highlights the best views of Kotor Bay, this trip is hard to beat. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing and leisure. The limited time at each stop means it’s less suited for those wanting to deeply explore Perast or spend hours on the island. However, for a quick, picturesque overview, it hits the mark.

Travelers with limited time, or those who prefer a more relaxed pace, will appreciate how well-organized and straightforward this tour is. The friendly guides and stunning scenery make it a memorable addition to any Montenegro itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable, especially since it’s a short, scenic boat ride. Just keep in mind the limited time at each site, so young children might get restless if they prefer longer explorations.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sunhat, sunscreen, a camera, comfortable shoes or sandals, and a jacket for cooler weather. If you plan to enter the church, avoid swimwear — a T-shirt is required. Also, a towel and flip-flops are handy if you want to relax after the trip.

Can I swim during the tour?
No, swimming is not permitted during the tour, and drones are also forbidden at Our Lady of the Rocks. The focus is on sightseeing and the boat cruise.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour only runs in good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. Rain or shine, the crew is prepared to make the experience as comfortable as possible.

How much time do I get at each location?
Expect approximately 20-30 minutes at each of the stops — Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks. The boat ride itself lasts about 45 minutes each way, so plan your visit accordingly.

Is there an option for a guided tour?
This specific experience is more about transportation and scenic cruising, not a guided, in-depth historical tour. However, guides do share interesting stories and local legends during the trip.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 23 days ahead, indicating good availability for most travelers planning their visit well in advance.

This speedboat tour from Kotor offers an authentic, affordable way to enjoy Montenegro’s stunning coastline, with knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re after a quick overview, a scenic escape, or a family-friendly adventure, it’s a reliable choice that combines natural beauty with cultural highlights in a relaxed, fun setting.