Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks 1,5 hours tour – ticket tour

Kotor’s Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks 1.5-Hour Tour: An Authentic Maritime Escape

Travelers often find themselves captivated by Montenegro’s breathtaking coastlines and charming towns, and this Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks boat tour promises a slice of that magic in just 90 minutes. Starting from the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor, the journey combines scenic boat rides, historical sites, and cultural surprises—perfect for those looking to soak in the essence of Boka Bay without committing to a full-day expedition.

What makes this experience especially appealing is its balance of striking views and manageable duration. The highlight for many is the visit to the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a storied past and a beautiful church and museum. Plus, the tour offers a glimpse of Perast’s elegant architecture and the legends that surround it. One thing to consider, however, is that some sites, like the island museum, have additional entrance fees not included in the ticket price.

This tour tends to suit travelers who appreciate a relaxed yet enriching experience, want good value, and don’t mind a bit of boat travel. It’s ideal for those with a limited schedule or families seeking a short, scenic adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic sights of Boka Bay’s villages, mountains, and the sea during a 20-minute scenic boat ride.
• Historical Highlights: Visit Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast’s beautiful old town, both rich in stories and architecture.
• Expert Guides: The reviews highlight knowledgeable and friendly skippers who enhance the experience with stories and insights.
• Flexible Itinerary: The tour offers enough time at each stop to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.
• Great Value: At around $23, the tour packs a lot of scenic and cultural value for the price.
• Comfort and Convenience: Mobile tickets, WiFi on board, bottled water, and snorkeling gear make the experience hassle-free.

Overview of the Experience

This 1.5-hour boat tour is a quick yet comprehensive way to see some of the most photogenic and culturally significant spots around Kotor Bay. It’s operated by Sea Horizon, which offers a smooth and professional service. The tour begins from a convenient meeting point in Kotor’s Old Town or other designated spots like Muo or Stoliv—a bonus for travelers staying outside the city core.

The boat ride itself lasts about 20 minutes, giving you a sweeping view of the smaller villages tucked into the mountains and along the coast. This is the perfect way to get a sense of the area’s layout and charm without having to explore on foot for hours.

Itinerary Breakdown

Start: Kotor Old Town or other Bay locations

Your adventure kicks off with a quick check-in, and from here, the boat departs for the scenic ride. Many reviewers mention how smooth and well-organized the pickup process is, with some noting that their guides, like Lily, were helpful in adjusting schedules to maximize their experience.

Stop 1: Tre Sorelle Palace in Pranjs

Just a short hop from Kotor, this Gothic-style palace is a highlight, especially for architecture buffs. Built in the fifteenth century, it stands out as a rare example of Gothic architecture in the Bay. Legend has it that a love story is tied to this spot, adding a romantic touch. Visitors can ask the skipper about this tale—adding a sprinkle of local lore to your visit. Visitors can admire its façade, even from the boat, but there’s no entry fee.

Stop 2: Our Lady’s Temple of Prcanj

Another significant site, this Baroque church dedicated to the Holy Virgin took over 120 years to build. It’s one of the largest religious monuments in the Adriatic, and its impressive size and ornate design make it a visual feast from the water. It’s worth noting that entry is free, though the tour does not include access inside.

Stop 3: Our Lady of the Rocks

The most iconic stop, this man-made island is a must-see. The story is both charming and romantic—the story of two fishermen who found an icon of Our Lady on a rock, inspiring the creation of this island and church. You’ll have around 20 minutes here to visit the church and its museum, which contains religious artifacts, old paintings, and historical items. The island is picturesque, with its white church contrasting sharply against the blue bay.

Reviewers mention how the island is “glorious,” and many appreciate being able to walk around and take photos of the church, the island’s small museum, and the views of Perast across the water.

Optional: Saint George Island

While not part of the main tour, travelers have the chance to see the natural island of Saint George, which hosts an ancient monastery. However, access is off-limits for visitors, meaning you’ll only get a good view from afar.

Stop 4: Perast Village

Finally, the boat stops at Perast, a tiny baroque town with a population of just 350 but packed with history. Its narrow streets, old houses, and the famous Church of Saint Nicholas with its unfinished 55-meter tower make it a photographer’s dream. Here, you’ll have about 20 minutes to stroll, browse local shops, or grab a quick snack.

According to reviews, many visitors enjoy the relaxed pace, which allows them to soak in the town’s charm without feeling rushed. A couple of reviews mention that the tour could be extended, and some travelers opt for private arrangements for more time.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

From firsthand accounts, the guides stand out as a major plus. Guest reviews describe the skippers as “friendly,” “professional,” and “trying to please every request,” which elevates a simple boat ride into an engaging experience. The stories about Tre Sorelle Palace and the legend of Our Lady of the Rocks add depth that makes the visit more meaningful.

The views are another consistently praised aspect. Travelers mention how the panoramas of the bay, the villages, and the mountains are “breathtaking,” making this a visually rewarding outing. For many, the opportunity to capture stunning photos of the churches, islands, and scenery is the highlight.

The value for money is also frequently noted—considering the price of around $23, the tour provides a quick, scenic, and culturally rich snapshot of the area. The inclusion of amenities like bottled water, WiFi, and snorkeling gear adds to the convenience.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While most reviews are glowing, there are a few points worth noting. The museum on Our Lady of the Rocks has an entry fee not included in the tour, so if you’re particularly interested in religious artifacts and history, you might consider allocating extra time or budget for this. Also, the tour duration is relatively short, which is perfect for a quick visit but might not satisfy those looking for an in-depth exploration.

Weather can impact the experience—poor conditions may cause cancellations, but the provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options. The tour is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience, but it’s wise to book well in advance, as it’s popular—often booked 25 days ahead.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This half-day adventure offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, history, and culture. The short duration makes it ideal for travelers who want a taste of Montenegro’s coast without the commitment of a full-day tour. The expert guides, who are friendly and knowledgeable, help bring the stories and sights alive, making the experience memorable.

The stunning views of the bay, combined with visits to significant landmarks like Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast, ensure you’ll leave with plenty of photos and stories. Plus, the value for money is hard to beat when considering the convenience, amenities, and the quality of sights.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy boat rides, scenic towns, and historical sites—and those who appreciate a well-organized, small-group experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Kotor and want to see the bay’s highlights without spending a whole day on the water, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s a perfect blend of beautiful scenery, cultural insights, and easy pacing, all wrapped into a very reasonable price.

The tour’s success lies in its simplicity and the authentic charm of the places visited. It’s especially great for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a quick but meaningful taste of Montenegro’s maritime treasures.

While it’s not a comprehensive deep-dive into every historical detail, it offers enough to spark your curiosity and leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of photos to revisit later.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the boat ride, visits to the island and town.

Where does the tour start?
From Park SlobodeE65 in Kotor or other Bay locations where the speedboat can dock, such as Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota.

Is there an entrance fee for the sites visited?
The tour price covers the boat ride and visits to places like Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast but does not include the museum entry fee on Our Lady of the Rocks.

What’s included in the price?
Bottled water, WiFi on board, use of snorkeling equipment, and fuel surcharge are included. The museum entry fee isn’t.

Can I customize the schedule?
Some reviews mention that guides are flexible; for example, one visitor was able to extend their time in Perast with the guide’s help.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers find it family-friendly, especially since it’s a short, scenic trip with plenty of photo stops.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The tour provides snorkeling gear if you wish to explore.

Is this tour weather dependent?
Yes, poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling. Check the forecast and confirm your booking ahead of time.

To sum it up, this Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks boat tour from Kotor offers a wonderful snapshot of Montenegro’s legendary coastline. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a mix of scenic views, cultural sites, and relaxed exploration—all at an accessible price point. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, you’ll likely find this short cruise both enjoyable and memorable.