Kotor: Perast and Lady of the Rock Private Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a quick but memorable way to savor Montenegro’s coastal charm, this private boat tour around Kotor Bay hits the spot. It covers two of the area’s most iconic sights—the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks and the historic town of Perast—all in just two hours. It’s a perfect excursion for travelers who want a blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a splash of adventure without the hassle of larger groups or rigid schedules.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, the private boat means you get personalized attention and a flexible pace, often with a guide who loves sharing stories about this unique corner of the world. Second, the stunning views of the bay combined with stops at two culturally significant sites ensure that your short trip feels rich and worthwhile.

However, it’s worth considering that this tour might not suit travelers with mobility limitations, as the boat ride and walking around the old towns involve some uneven surfaces. Also, if you’re not keen on small group experiences or prefer more extensive sightseeing, you may find the two-hour window a bit brief. That said, if you’re after an authentic, scenic taste of Montenegro’s coast, this tour is an excellent choice.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, culture, and a touch of adventure. It’s especially great for those with limited time in Kotor but who still want a meaningful experience that showcases the region’s highlights.

Key Points

• Private boat tour offers a personalized experience with flexible timings
• Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island built over centuries
• Explore the picturesque Perast old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Includes water, juice, beer, and insurance—good value for a two-hour trip
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 years old
• Tour is weather-dependent and may be canceled in bad conditions
• Easy meeting point near Kotor port, with optional pickup
• Perfect for travelers looking for a short, scenic, culturally rich experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This private boat tour offers a finely balanced mix of scenery, history, and local culture, all wrapped into a two-hour window. Starting from MontenegroGlobe, a tour agency conveniently located near Kotor’s port and shopping center Kamalija, the experience begins with a quick 20-minute speedboat ride. The boat itself is likely a small, nimble vessel that allows for close-up views of the coast while maintaining a casual, intimate vibe.

The Journey to Our Lady of the Rocks

Your first stop is the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks. According to legend, this tiny island was created over centuries by local seafarers who laid stones after discovering the Madonna and Child icon on a rock in 1452. The legend adds a sense of magic to your visit, and you’ll be able to see the church and museum—entrances generally cost around 2 euros per person. The island is a testament to local ingenuity and religious devotion, and it’s an iconic photo spot.

The boat ride itself is part of the fun. With a 20-minute speedboat trip, you’ll get a taste of the sea breeze and some of the best views of Kotor Bay. Travelers like Linda noted that “it’s a fabulous way to see the beauty of Kotor Bay,” and the thrill of riding on a speedboat adds a touch of excitement to the experience.

Exploring Perast: A UNESCO Heritage Gem

After the island visit, the boat takes you over to Perast, a charming ancient town that’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town’s architecture is predominantly Baroque, and its narrow, cobbled streets are lined with old palazzos, churches, and defensive towers that tell stories of a wealthy maritime past.

During your approximately 40-minute stay, you can wander freely through the town’s historic streets, soak in the atmosphere, or stop for a quick refreshment in one of the many local restaurants. The reviews speak to how much visitors enjoyed this part of the trip. Christine mentioned that her guide was helpful and accommodating, making the experience even better.

Ulrike called the day “wonderful and special,” praising the captain Milo for his skill and friendliness. The relaxed pace means you can truly savor the town’s charm, and the opportunity to explore at leisure makes the visit feel more authentic.

Return and Reflection

The boat then makes a few more quick stops before returning to MontenegroGlobe, completing the tour. The entire experience is designed to maximize scenic views and cultural insights in a tight timeframe, making it an efficient but rewarding outing.

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Transportation, Timing, and Practicalities

The tour includes boat transportation, water, juice, beer, and travel insurance—a nice package considering the short duration. The group is private, which means you won’t be sharing space with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Timing can be flexible, but it’s essential to check availability because the tour runs at specific times. The duration is about 2 hours, which is perfect for travelers on a tight schedule or those who want a quick, impactful outing.

Meeting point is at MontenegroGlobe, located near the port and shopping center Kamalija. While there’s a suggested pickup option, most travelers will find it easiest to meet there. Keep in mind that during summer, traffic jams and parking shortages near Kotor can make planning a little tricky.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are water, juice, beer, boat transportation, and insurance. Notably, the entrance fee to the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks is an additional 2 euros per person, which is quite reasonable. Food and additional drinks are not included, so if you’re hungry or want more drinks, plan to purchase those separately.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

The tour is weather-dependent—bad weather can lead to cancellations. Always check the forecast before booking, especially if visiting in shoulder seasons or during unpredictable weather months.

Real Traveler Perspectives

The reviews paint a vivid picture of what you can expect. Linda appreciated that it was “a fabulous way to see the beauty of Kotor Bay,” enjoying both the scenery and the guide’s explanations. She valued the opportunity to explore Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast with a small, private group, which made the experience intimate and relaxed.

Ulrike described her day as “wonderful and special,” highlighting the captain Milo’s excellent service. Christine appreciated the guide’s helpfulness and flexibility, noting the tour’s fun and helpful nature.

These reviews underline the tour’s focus on personalization, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour offers a compact yet comprehensive way to experience some of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. The combination of a scenic speedboat ride, a visit to a unique man-made island, and a stroll through a UNESCO-listed old town makes it a well-rounded short adventure. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want a personalized, low-pressure experience that combines history, culture, and spectacular views in just two hours.

For those who enjoy small-group tours, engaging stories from knowledgeable guides, and authentic local sites without the crowds, this trip delivers. Its affordability, inclusions, and flexibility make it a standout choice for a quick but meaningful taste of Montenegro’s coast.

If you’re a history buff, a photo enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a good story about seafaring legends, this tour will likely be a highlight of your time in Kotor. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring your camera and hat, and keep an eye on the weather forecast. It’s a small investment for a memorable, scenic, and culturally rich experience.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours total, including boat rides and time spent at each site.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during busy seasons, but you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers boat transportation, water, juice, beer, and travel insurance. Entrance to Our Lady of the Rocks museum costs an extra 2 euros per person.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at MontenegroGlobe near Kotor port and shopping center Kamalija and concludes there as well, making it easy to connect with other activities.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s suitable for most ages, but not for those over 95 or with mobility issues, as walking around the sites involves some uneven surfaces.

Will the tour be canceled if the weather is bad?
Yes, bad weather or rain can lead to cancellations. Always check the forecast before your booked date.

Can I customize the schedule?
As a private tour, there’s some flexibility, but it’s best to confirm any custom requests when booking.

By choosing this tour, you’re opting for an engaging, scenic, and culturally enriching experience that packs a lot into a short trip. It’s a fine way to see Montenegro’s coast with a personal touch, leaving you with memorable sights and stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: