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

If you’re visiting Montenegro and want to combine scenic beauty, cultural charm, and a touch of adventure, this speedboat tour from Kotor offers a compact yet rich experience. For about $33 per person, you get to cruise through Boka Bay, explore the legendary Our Lady of the Rocks, and wander through the historic streets of Perast—all in just an hour and a half. It’s a quick escape that packs a punch, perfect for those who want a taste of Montenegro’s seafaring heritage without dedicating a full day.

One of the top features we love about this tour is the intimate group size—limited to 10 participants—making it feel personalized and allowing for some genuine interaction with your friendly skipper and guide. Plus, the views you’ll enjoy from the boat and the island are truly unforgettable. However, since the tour relies on weather conditions, there’s a chance of rescheduling or cancellations if conditions turn rough, so flexibility is key.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty combined with cultural stops, and who are comfortable on small boats. If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging activity that balances sightseeing and scenic cruising, this tour will hit the mark.

Key Points

Short but Impactful: It’s a quick 1.5-hour trip, ideal for tight schedules.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized vibe.
Rich Cultural Stops: Visit the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks and explore Perast’s baroque streets.
Stunning Views: Expect dramatic coastal landscapes and picturesque islands.
Expert Guidance: A professional, English-speaking skipper provides insight throughout.
Great Value: At $33, it offers a memorable taste of Montenegro’s coast without breaking the bank.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Beginning at the Garni Hotel Tianis reception, you’ll meet your skipper and small group, ready to set sail on an adventure that focuses on natural beauty and history. The boat ride kicks off with a 20-minute cruise across Boka Bay, where you’ll quickly realize why this fjord-like bay is often called one of the most beautiful on the Adriatic. The draped coastlines, rugged cliffs, and charming villages pass by in a blur of blue and green, perfect for snapping memorable photos.

More ways to experience Kotor from the water include these boat tours

Our Lady of the Rocks: A Sacred Islet

Your first stop is the famous Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island built by local sailors who placed an image of the Madonna on a sea rock. You’ll get about 20 minutes to explore, including a visit to the church and its small museum. The church’s interior is decorated with votives, tapestries, and paintings, giving a glimpse into centuries of devotion and maritime tradition. Reviewers have highlighted the possibility of visiting even if the church is closed, though the museum might be seasonal, opening until 5 PM in spring and autumn, and later in summer.

A major highlight here is the folklore behind the island’s creation—sailors built it as a thank you for safe voyages, which adds a layer of meaningfulness to the visit. The island’s sacred relics and panoramic views of Kotor Bay are also noteworthy.

Cruising to Perast

After the island visit, the boat makes a quick 5-minute ride to Perast, where you’ll have 30 minutes to wander. This UNESCO-listed town is the epitome of Venetian coastal charm, with baroque palaces, ancient churches, and narrow cobbled streets. It’s the perfect place to soak in the atmosphere, take photos of the colorful facades, and perhaps enjoy a quick coffee or ice cream at a local café.

Reviewers remark on the well-timed stops, allowing for relaxed exploration without feeling rushed. One noted, “We loved the way you get to see the town’s grandeur while still having time to enjoy it.”

Return Cruise & Final Tips

The boat wraps up with a 25-minute cruise back to Kotor, giving you more chances to appreciate the coastline and reflect on the trip. The entire tour clocking in at about 1.5 hours means it’s easy to fit into a busy day, making it especially suitable for travelers with limited schedules.

Throughout the tour, your English-speaking skipper offers insights into the sights and shares local legends, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Water, safety equipment, and a friendly atmosphere round out the package, ensuring comfort and peace of mind.

What We Think About the Value

At $33, this tour is quite reasonably priced given the number of highlights packed into such a short window. You’re paying for the scenic cruise, cultural entry, and the personalized service of a professional guide. Many reviews emphasize the good value for money, especially compared to larger, more commercial boat trips.

While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to the church museum (which is only $3), the overall experience of cruising, sightseeing, and cultural exploration makes it a worthwhile investment. Plus, the small group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the personalized attention can make a real difference.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

Arrive early at Garni Hotel Tianis, especially in summer when parking can be tricky.
Bring your passport or ID, as it might be needed for the church visit.
Dress comfortably with appropriate shoes, and pack sunglasses, sun hat, and camera for the best experience.
Be aware of seasonal opening hours for Our Lady of the Rocks church and museum.
The boat ride can be rougher in bad weather, so stay flexible with your plans.
This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or mobility issues—small boat rides can be jarring.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a short, enriching adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural insights. It’s perfect for history buffs, photographers, or anyone wanting a quick escape from the bustling streets of Kotor. The small group setting makes it a good choice for couples, solo travelers, or small families.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic experience with the added bonus of storytelling and can handle a small boat, this tour will leave you with plenty of beautiful memories. However, those with mobility issues or who prefer larger, more leisurely cruises might want to consider other options.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire tour lasts about 1.5 hours, including cruising, sightseeing, and stops at Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the reception of Hotel Tianis, located at Tabaina 16, Kotor.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the speedboat tour, visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, professional English-speaking skipper/guide, water, and safety equipment.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a small entrance fee of 3 euros to visit the church museum on Our Lady of the Rocks.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and your camera. Weather can vary, so dress accordingly, especially in spring and autumn.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Given the small boat ride and the nature of the stops, it’s best suited for older children and adults. Infants or very young kids may find the boat ride uncomfortable.

Can I visit the church if it’s closed?
Yes, you can still visit the island and see the exterior and museum, which is seasonal.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled in case of rough seas or bad weather, so keep an eye on weather forecasts and be flexible.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour from Kotor offers a compact yet captivating taste of Montenegro’s coast. It’s a wonderful way to see the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks and explore Perast’s charming streets without committing a full day. The expert guides, stunning views, and value for money make it a standout choice for travelers who appreciate scenic beauty and cultural stories in a small-group setting.

While it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or seeking an extended cruise, it’s perfect for those who want a short, scenic, and engaging experience. Whether you’re snapping photos, listening to legends, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air, this tour is sure to leave you with lovely memories of Montenegro’s coast.