Private boat tour Kotor – Perast and Lady of the Rocks

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a scenic escape along Montenegro’s coast, a private boat tour from Kotor to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. This 1.5-hour journey, operated by Rijo Speed Boat Tours, promises a relaxed yet immersive experience, showcasing some of the most iconic sights in the Bay of Kotor.

What truly stands out about this tour is the stunning views of the bay and the chance to visit two distinct locations: the enchanting Our Lady of the Rocks island and the picturesque old town of Perast. While the trip is quite short, it offers a peaceful and visually captivating way to appreciate Montenegro’s coastal treasures.

One thing to keep in mind is that, since it’s a private tour, the timing and pace can be tailored to your preferences—making it ideal for those seeking a more personalized experience. However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into history or extensive time at each stop, this shorter option might leave you wanting a little more.

This tour suits travelers who love breathtaking scenery, enjoy a leisurely boat ride, and want a taste of Montenegro’s coast without committing to a longer cruise. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager for a quick but beautiful escape.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of the Bay of Kotor and the unique Our Lady of the Rocks island.
• Flexible private experience tailored to your schedule and interests.
• Includes drinks such as water, local wine, and beer—refreshing on a sunny day.
• Comfortable boat ride with panoramic views and expert commentary from the captain.
• Convenient pick-up from a pre-arranged location, usually in Kotor city.
• Additional costs for museum entry tickets and extra beverages, which you can arrange beforehand.

What to Expect from the Experience

This boat tour is designed for those who want a quick, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxation. While it lasts only about 1.5 hours, the journey is packed with eye-catching sights and meaningful stops.

The tour kicks off at Rijo Speedboat Tours in Kotor harbor, where you’ll meet your captain—usually an English and Serbian speaker—who will guide you through the trip and share stories about each location. The boat is modern, comfortable, and equipped with Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected or snap that perfect shot without hassle.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

The highlight for many travelers is the Our Lady of the Rocks island, which is an artificial island created by local inhabitants over centuries. The island is famous for its church, which is filled with votive offerings and mosaic artworks. We loved the way the island looks like it’s floating on the water, especially when viewed from the boat. The accompanying museum offers insights into the island’s history, traditions, and the community’s persistent faith.

From reviews, it’s clear that the scene of the island against the bay is truly mesmerizing. One traveler noted: “The view of the island from the boat was just unreal—something I’ll never forget.” Keep in mind that entry to the museum costs extra, so if you’re keen to explore further, plan accordingly.

Exploring Perast

Next, the boat glides toward the historic town of Perast. This tiny gem is famous for its well-preserved architecture, charming streets, and the scenic hill of St. Elijah that overlooks the town. We appreciated how the boat ride provides a different perspective of Perast’s old stone buildings and the peaceful waters surrounding it.

The tour usually includes a photo stop and some free time in Perast, allowing you to wander the cobbled streets, browse local shops, or relax at a seaside cafe. One reviewer mentioned, “Perast’s old town feels like stepping back in time, with its quiet streets and stunning views.”

Panoramic Boat Ride Back to Kotor

After exploring, the boat heads back toward Kotor, offering panoramic views of the bay. This final leg is often highlighted as one of the most beautiful parts of the trip—so keep your camera ready. The captain’s commentary enriches this experience, sharing insights into the bay’s geography and history.

Details That Matter

Transportation and Comfort: The tour includes a pick-up service from a pre-arranged location, usually within Kotor, making it hassle-free to start your adventure. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, with Wi-Fi available for the entire duration, so you can share your photos instantly or check your messages—an underrated perk during island visits.

Timing and Group Size: As a private experience, this tour is ideal for small groups or couples. The flexible schedule means you can choose from available start times, which vary throughout the day. With a duration of just 1.5 hours, it fits well into a busy itinerary, providing a scenic escape without taking up your whole day.

Pricing and Value: The tour cost includes drinks—water, local wine, and beer—adding to the relaxed vibe. However, it’s worth noting that entry tickets for the Our Lady of the Rocks Museum aren’t included, so if you’re interested in that aspect, budget for an additional small fee. Considering the private aspect, personalized attention, and scenic highlights, the price offers solid value for a short but memorable experience.

Additional Considerations: If you’re prone to motion sickness, be aware that boat rides can be a bit choppy, especially on windy days. The tour isn’t overly long, but it’s enough to get a good feel for the area. And with flexible cancellation policies—up to 24 hours in advance—you can plan with confidence.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently highlight the breathtaking views as a major selling point. One shared, “The scene of Our Lady of the Rocks against the water was worth every penny,” capturing how the scenery leaves a lasting impression. Others appreciated the personalized touch of a private tour, noting that the captain provided interesting facts and tailored the experience to their interests.

Some reviews mention that the timing is perfect for photography—the golden hour views can be spectacular, especially with the island and town framed against the sky. A few travelers mentioned that the short duration was ideal for a quick sightseeing boost but recommended combining it with other activities if they wanted a deeper exploration of Perast or Kotor.

While most praised the organization and comfort, a couple of reviews pointed out that entry fees for the museum are separate, so plan accordingly if you want to visit inside the church on the island.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour offers a balanced blend of stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and personalized service. It’s ideal for travelers who value breathtaking views and authentic coastal charm without spending an entire day away from Kotor. With flexible scheduling, drinks included, and the chance to see two beautiful locations from the water, it’s a great introduction to Montenegro’s coast.

If you’re short on time but want a memorable, picture-perfect experience, this tour provides excellent value and a relaxed pace. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to enjoy the coast with a personal touch.

For those craving more extensive exploration, this can be combined with other longer tours or activities. But as a standalone, it’s a delightful way to soak in the iconic sights and enjoy Montenegro’s natural beauty with minimal fuss.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation from a pre-arranged pickup point, Wi-Fi during the ride, drinks (water, local wine, and beer), and the guided commentary from your captain.

Are the stops on the island and in Perast long enough?
The stops typically include a photo opportunity, free time in Perast, and a visit to the island’s church and museum. While the time is enough to enjoy the scenery and snap photos, you might want additional time if you wish to explore more deeply.

How much does entry to the Our Lady of the Rocks Museum cost?
The museum entry isn’t included in the tour price, and visitors can purchase tickets separately if they want to explore inside.

Can I customize the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, you can often choose from available start times and potentially tailor the experience slightly to your interests, within the 1.5-hour framework.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. If you plan to visit the museum, consider a small amount of cash for entry tickets or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the relaxed pace and scenic nature make it suitable for families, but always check with the provider regarding any age restrictions or safety recommendations.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent—if conditions are unsuitable, you may be able to reschedule or cancel with a full refund if done at least 24 hours in advance.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this private boat trip matches your travel style and expectations. With its unbeatable views, intimate setting, and easy logistics, it’s a fantastic way to tick Montenegro’s coastal highlights off your list.