Private Speedboat Tour to Lady of the Rocks and Perast Old Town

Exploring Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor by Speedboat: A Detailed Look at the Private Tour to Lady of the Rocks and Perast Old Town

This private speedboat tour in Kotor offers a fantastic way to experience two of Montenegro’s most celebrated sights in just 1.5 hours. With a focus on cruising, historical sites, and intimate group settings, it’s designed for those who want a personalized, relaxed adventure on the water. Led by a former professional skipper born in Kotor, the experience promises not only scenic beauty but also insightful commentary, making it a well-rounded choice for curious travelers.

What we especially love about this tour is the flexibility it provides — a private, tailored experience that feels exclusive without the hefty price tag. Plus, the incorporation of WiFi, bottled water, and snorkeling gear adds extra value. That said, the ticket for Our Lady of the Rocks island isn’t included in the price, which is worth noting for those planning their budget. This tour works best for those eager to combine sightseeing with a bit of leisure and authentic local flavor.

Key Points

• Intimate, private experience with personalized service and flexibility
• Stunning views of Kotor Bay, complemented by expert narration from a seasoned skipper
• Two key stops: Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast Old Town, each offering unique cultural and scenic insights
• Good value for the cost, especially considering the private nature and included amenities
• Authentic local guides who are knowledgeable and engaging, enhancing the experience
• Ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed yet insightful tour

What to Expect from the Private Speedboat Tour to Lady of the Rocks and Perast Old Town

This tour, lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, strikes a balance between cruising through the Bay of Kotor and visiting two top destinations. The intimacy of a private group (up to 8 people) ensures a more relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions along the way.

The tour begins at Park Slobode in Kotor, where you’ll hop aboard a speedboat captained by a former navigation officer. From here, the adventure unfolds over two main stops: Our Lady of the Rocks and the village of Perast. The tour is designed to be flexible, with a careful balance of sightseeing, storytelling, and leisure.

Our Lady of the Rocks: An Artificial Island with a Mystical Charm

The first stop, Our Lady of the Rocks, is roughly a 20-minute visit. This is an island built over centuries by local seafarers who sunk old ships loaded with rocks and laid down the foundation of this man-made island. The story behind the island is as captivating as its appearance — legend says it was created by fishermen who found an icon of Madonna and Child on a nearby rock, and the island grew from their efforts to honor it.

The largest building on the island is the Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, which also hosts a small museum. Travelers often enjoy exploring the church and viewing its collection of religious artifacts and paintings. A small gift shop is nearby for souvenirs, and a navigation light marks the western end of the islet.

Reviewers mention that the admission is not included in the tour cost, costing about 2 euros per person. If you’re a history or architecture enthusiast, this adds an extra layer to your visit, though many travelers simply enjoy the scenic views and the legend behind the island.

Perast: A Quieter, Picturesque Village

The second stop is the charming town of Perast, with about 30 minutes allocated for wandering along its promenade. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often called the quietest town in Boka Bay, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility and authentic local flavor.

Perast’s history whispers of days when it was a prosperous, opulent settlement, with its baroque architecture and narrow alleys offering clues to its past grandeur. The town is small but packed with character, and even a quick stroll along the waterfront lets you soak in breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding mountains.

From the reviews, we see that even a short visit here is appreciated. One traveler emphasized how walking along the promenade and taking in the views was worth the time, especially with the peaceful atmosphere that Perast offers.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Knowledgeable Guides and Local Expertise

One of the most praised aspects of this experience is the expert guidance. The skipper, a former 1st navigational officer, provides insightful commentary, sharing stories about the islands, the bay’s history, and local legends. Travelers have praised guides like Milos, who’s described as kind, funny, and full of information, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Unmatched Scenic Beauty and Authenticity

The views of Kotor Bay from the water are genuinely stunning, with rugged coastline, lush hills, and historic towns sprawling along the shore. The boat’s speed allows for a quick but exhilarating ride, giving you the chance to see multiple sites comfortably.

Value for Money

At $189.66 per group, this private tour offers excellent value. For a small group, you get personalized attention, flexibility, and a chance to enjoy Montenegro’s coast without the crowd. Many reviews highlight that the price includes amenities like bottled water, WiFi on board, and snorkeling equipment — details that add comfort and fun to the trip.

Flexibility and Privacy

Unlike larger group tours, this experience offers privacy and flexibility. Whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, or small group of friends, you’ll feel more like guests on a friend’s boat rather than just another passenger.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start Point: Park Slobode, Kotor

From here, your adventure begins with a quick safety briefing and an introduction to the boat’s capabilities. The proximity to the Old Town means you’re easily accessible and can start your cruise without hassle.

Cruising to Our Lady of the Rocks

The ride to the island is part of the fun — quick, smooth, and scenic. Along the way, the skipper shares stories about the bay, its islands, and the legend behind Our Lady of the Rocks. Many reviewers appreciated the informative narration which added historical context to the stunning views.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

Once at the islet, you have free time to explore the church and museum. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the story of the island’s creation is captivating. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop for unique souvenirs.

Moving to Perast

After the island visit, the boat glides across the bay to the quaint town of Perast. Even with only 30 minutes, travelers often say the short walk along the promenade offers enough time to soak in the scenery and take memorable photos.

Return to Kotor

The journey back provides one last chance to enjoy the panoramic views, with the guide sharing additional insights. The entire trip is relaxed, with no rush.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes total, including travel, stops, and cruising.
• Price: $189.66 per group, up to 8 people — a reasonable rate for a private experience.
• What’s Included: Bottled water, WiFi on board, snorkeling equipment.
• What’s Not Included: €2 entrance fee per person to Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Meeting Point: Park Slobode in Kotor, easily accessible.
• Booking: Usually booked 24 days in advance, so plan ahead.
• Weather: Good weather is needed — if canceled due to bad conditions, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who crave a personalized, flexible morning or afternoon outing. It’s perfect for small groups, families, or couples seeking a relaxed way to see Kotor’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide. If you appreciate scenic views, local legends, and a touch of luxury without the high price, this tour is a great pick.

The Sum Up

This private speedboat tour by Compass & co. offers a seamless blend of scenic cruising, cultural insights, and authentic Montenegrin charm. With an expert guide, stunning vistas, and the intimacy of a private experience, it’s ideal for those wanting to escape crowds and dive into the bay’s stories at their own pace.

The tour’s greatest strength is its combination of value and personalized service that makes the experience memorable without feeling rushed or crowded. Whether you’re keen on discovering the legend of Our Lady of the Rocks or simply want to enjoy a peaceful boat ride with unbeatable views, this tour delivers.

For travelers who prioritize expert guidance, flexible timing, and scenic beauty, this is a superb choice. It’s especially worthwhile if you want to make the most of your short stay in Kotor, combining cultural highlights with a touch of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, this private tour suits families or small groups. The boat ride is generally safe and the experience is flexible, making it suitable for kids and adults alike.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including cruising, stops, and sightseeing time.

What is included in the price?
You get bottled water, WiFi onboard, and snorkeling equipment. The entrance fee to Our Lady of the Rocks (about 2 euros per person) is paid separately.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a new date or full refund.

Is the tour private or group?
It’s a private experience for up to 8 people, providing a more intimate and flexible outing.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is at Park Slobode in Kotor, which is easily accessible.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Most travelers book around 24 days ahead, so it’s best to plan early to secure your preferred date.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s $189.66 per group, making it an affordable luxury for small groups wanting personalized attention.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of stunning views, expert guides, and the private, flexible nature of the experience makes it a top choice for visitors to Kotor.

In essence, this private speedboat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and personalized service — a memorable way to experience Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor.