From Kotor: Perast & Lady of the Rock’s boat tour – 2h

If you’re visiting Montenegro’s iconic Bay of Kotor, a boat trip to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks offers a compact yet memorable adventure. While this tour lasts just 1.5 hours, it packs in enough sights and stories to make it worth your while. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a quick, scenic excursion that combines history, culture, and stunning views without the need for a full-day commitment.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see two of the bay’s most photogenic and historically significant spots — the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks and the charming baroque town of Perast. The knowledgeable guides help bring the area’s layered past to life, making each stop intriguing and educational. On the flip side, the shorter duration means you won’t get as much time to explore each location in depth, which might be a consideration if you’re a history buff or want to linger longer.

This tour is perfectly suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed, scenic outing that doesn’t require strenuous walking or a long time on the water. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to get a taste of Montenegro’s coastal beauty without breaking the bank or overcommitting their day.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: A 1.5-hour boat tour, ideal for a quick overview.
• Iconic Sights: Visits to Our Lady of the Rocks and the historic town of Perast.
• Expert Guides: Learn about the area’s history from knowledgeable guides.
• Great Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Bay of Kotor from a comfortable boat.
• Cultural Highlights: See landmarks like Bujovic Palace, Viskovic Palace, and the Church of St. Nicholas.
• Value for Money: A well-priced experience that delivers authentic sights without extra fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Departing from Kotor

The tour begins with a boat departure from Kotor, a town famous for its winding medieval streets and fortress walls. While the start location isn’t explicitly detailed, travelers are advised to arrive 30 minutes early at the “SUNSET & RIJO” info desk for check-in, especially during busy summer months when traffic jams are common. Arriving early helps ensure a smooth start and allows you to settle in comfortably before the boat departs.

The Artificial Island of Our Lady of the Rocks

The first stop is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, which holds a special place in local tradition. Built upon a man-made foundation of rocks and debris, the island’s church was constructed in the 15th century, with layers of history and legend. The church you’ll see today is adorned with numerous votive offerings, reflecting centuries of local devotion.

From the boat, you’ll admire this unique island’s silhouette, with its prominent church steeple. Guides often share stories about the island’s origin, including the tradition of sailors placing rocks and paintings on the island to commemorate safe voyages. The church inside is a focal point, and photography is encouraged, but visitors should be respectful inside.

The Town of Perast: A Baroque Gem

Next, the boat glides towards Perast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s remarkably well-preserved. This small town, dating back to the 15th century, is lined with stunning baroque architecture and narrow streets that evoke a sense of stepping back in time.

Highlights include the Viskovic Palace and the Bujovic Villa, both built with Venetian wealth and craftsmanship. The Bujovic Villa is particularly notable for its elegant façade and the fact that it was financed by the Venetian Republic, highlighting the historical significance of this region as a Venetian outpost.

You’ll also stop at the Church of St. Nicholas, constructed in 1616, which is the main religious building in Perast. Its interior contains religious art and relics, and standing outside, you can enjoy views of the bay that seem to stretch endlessly.

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Learning from Your Guide

Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide offers insights into the area’s history, architecture, and local traditions. For example, the collection at the Perast museum includes nautical maps, ship models, portraits, weapons, and archival documents—offering a glimpse into the maritime history that shaped the town.

Many reviews mention the guides as a definite highlight, with one reviewer noting, “Honestly had such a laugh it was great, well worth the money.” Their enthusiasm and expertise make each stop more meaningful, turning a scenic boat ride into an engaging history lesson.

The Experience of the Boat Ride

The boat itself is comfortable and offers excellent viewing opportunities. The Bay of Kotor’s calm waters and scenic coastlines provide a peaceful backdrop for the entire experience. While the tour operates in all weather conditions, a sunny day will maximize your enjoyment, especially since you’re encouraged to bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

The tour is priced reasonably, considering you get close-up views of two major sites and a guided commentary. Since food and drinks aren’t included, you might want to bring water or a snack, particularly if you’re sensitive to sun or heat. Also, note that the visit involves a moderate amount of walking, especially at the church and museum, which includes some steps.

The small group size and the live English-speaking guide make for an intimate, personalized experience. However, this also means that if you arrive late or miss the departure, rescheduling might not be possible due to limited availability in other slots.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Kotor to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and historical charm. It’s a wonderful way to see two of Montenegro’s most treasured sites in a short amount of time. The knowledgeable guides add a layer of richness, making the experience both fun and educational. If your schedule is tight or you prefer a relaxed overview of the bay, this tour delivers a solid, worthwhile outing.

While the duration is brief, the sites visited are genuinely memorable. The views alone make it worth the price, and the stories shared by guides provide context that enriches your understanding of this enchanting part of the world. It’s especially well-suited for curious travelers, families, or anyone eager to get a taste of Montenegro’s coastal history without a lengthy commitment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a short, scenic, and informative outing with minimal fuss. Families with children, couples on a romantic escape, or solo travelers looking for a quick cultural fix will find it fits well into a busy itinerary. Since it doesn’t include lunch or extensive walking, it’s suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace.

If you’re a history buff or want more time exploring, you might consider a longer or private tour. But for an authentic, well-priced glimpse of Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks, this boat trip hits the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The boat tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick yet comprehensive introduction to two main sights in the Bay of Kotor.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Kotor, with check-in recommended at least 30 minutes early at the “SUNSET & RIJO” info desk to ensure smooth boarding.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes a 1.5-hour boat ride, a visit to the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks and its church, and a guided walk through Perast’s baroque old town.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not part of the package. It’s advisable to bring water, especially on warm days.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed, including inside the church, but please be respectful of religious and historical sites.

Are the sites accessible for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking and steps, especially at the church and museum, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While there’s no explicit age restriction, the moderate walking and short duration make it generally suitable for children, especially if they enjoy boats and history.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, camera, and a bottle of water are recommended to ensure you’re prepared for the outdoor environment.

This boat tour from Kotor offers a concise, scenic, and engaging way to experience some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. With knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Montenegro itinerary—especially for those eager for a taste of history and coastal beauty without a lengthy time commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here: