Kotor: Perast and Island- Lady of the Rocks-Speedboat Tour

Exploring Montenegro’s stunning coastline doesn’t get better than hopping onto a speedboat for a quick, scenic tour of Boka Bay’s top sights. This 2-hour adventure offers a blend of history, charming towns, and natural beauty, all delivered with a comfortable pace and a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re short on time or want a fun, photo-packed experience, this tour hits all the right notes.

What really stands out is how seamlessly the tour combines iconic landmarks like Lady of the Rocks with the quaint charm of Perast, all while offering plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing. Plus, the inclusion of free drinks and a friendly skipper make it feel more like a day out with friends than a rushed sightseeing trip.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is quite brief, so if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration or access to museums, you might want to consider other options. But for a snapshot of the area’s highlights, this tour is an excellent choice, especially suited for travelers wanting a fun, scenic, and value-packed experience.

Key Points

• Fast-paced but informative: This tour packs a lot into just 2 hours, making it perfect for short stays or busy schedules.
• Stunning photo opportunities: From the colorful island of Lady of the Rocks to the historic palaces of Perast, there are plenty of picture-perfect moments.
• Expert guides: Guests consistently mention the knowledgeable and friendly skippers, like Milos, who enhance the experience.
• Relaxing amenities: Free drinks and the chance to swim in the Blue Cave add a fun, refreshing element.
• Ideal for sightseeing and quick escapes: Great for those who want a taste of Boka Bay without committing to a full-day tour.
• Limited museum access: Entrance to the island’s museum isn’t included, so additional time or trips are needed if that’s a priority.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Park Slobode, where you’ll meet your guide and get comfortably settled onto your speedboat. The boat itself is designed for quick, smooth rides across the bay, providing an exhilarating yet stable journey. The short, 20-minute first leg gives you a taste of the vibrant scenery—craggy coastlines, colorful boats, and scattered islands.

Visiting Lady of the Rocks

The first stop is the legendary Our Lady of the Rocks, an island built over centuries with stories that fascinate. The island’s story of its creation over five centuries, along with the dedication of a woman who embroidered a tapestry waiting for her husband, adds a layer of romantic history to the visit. Here, you’ll have about 20 minutes to explore, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere.

While entry to the island’s museum isn’t included in the tour, the visit itself provides ample opportunity for photos and admiring the church and the island’s quaint charm. Reviewers say that the guide’s narration made the story come alive, adding a personal touch to the visit.

Passing Saint George and Perast

Next, the boat cruises past Saint George Island, home to a monastery, giving you a quick glance at another historical gem. The boat ride is only about 5 minutes here, just enough to take in the natural beauty without slowing down the pace.

Back on land, you arrive at Perast, a jewel of a town packed with 15th- and 16th-century palaces built by wealthy sailors. The town’s quiet streets and sea-front cafes make it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a quick shop, or a coffee break with views of the twin islands. You’ll have around 30 minutes here—ample time to explore, snap photos of the elegant architecture, or enjoy some local treats.

Swimming and the Blue Cave

A highlight for many guests is the chance to swim in the Blue Cave—a short, scenic 20-minute ride from Perast. The cave offers clear waters and a unique experience for swimmers, with the added bonus of free cold drinks on the boat to keep you refreshed. Many reviewers mention how the Blue Cave’s water was unexpectedly warm and inviting, making it a perfect little adventure within the tour.

Return Journey

After the swim, the boat makes its way back to Kotor, giving you one more chance to enjoy the incredible views and perhaps spot some seals or dolphins if you’re lucky. The entire trip wraps up in about 2 hours, leaving plenty of time to continue exploring Kotor or relax after your scenic adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The real charm of this experience is its blend of scenic beauty, historical storytelling, and relaxed pace. The guides, like Milos, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey more engaging. The small group or private options ensure that you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd.

The value for money shines through, especially considering the inclusion of drinks and the variety of sights covered. Many guests, including Natalia, appreciated how the tour was the highlight of their trip, with one mentioning it was “the best part of our weeklong holiday in Europe.”

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers a lot in a short time, it’s not suitable for those seeking in-depth museum visits or extensive exploration. The entrance to the museum on the island is extra, so if you’re keen on deeper learning, you’ll need to budget that separately.

Also, since the tour doesn’t include hotel pickups, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point at Park Slobode. The duration is flexible, but it’s best to check availability and confirm the start time that works for your schedule.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour from Kotor offers a beautiful, efficient way to see some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. It’s ideally suited for travelers who want a snapshot of Boka Bay’s highlights, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and soaking in the scenery. The knowledgeable guides and inclusive drinks make it feel relaxed and friendly, offering good value for the price.

For those who love boat rides, picturesque islands, and charming towns, this experience balances fun and cultural insight in a compact package. It’s particularly perfect if you’re short on time but still want a memorable taste of Montenegro’s coast.

However, if your interests lean toward detailed museums or full-day explorations, you might want to consider other options or supplement this tour with additional visits. But for a quick, scenic escape filled with highlights and good vibes, this adventure hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the starting point?
No, the tour begins at Park Slobode, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

How long is each stop?
The visit to Lady of the Rocks lasts about 20 minutes, and the time in Perast is approximately 30 minutes. The Blue Cave swim lasts around 20 minutes.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water and homemade juice are offered free on the boat, making it easy to stay refreshed.

Can I visit the museum on the island?
Entry to the museum isn’t included in the tour price, so you would need to pay separately if you wish to visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is family-friendly, especially with the opportunity for swimming and scenic views, but check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

What is the group size?
The tour can be private or small group, ensuring a more personalized experience. The reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, adding to the intimate feel.

This speedboat tour offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty, historical charm, and fun stops, making it a fantastic way to experience Montenegro’s coast without taking up your whole day.