Our Lady of the Rocks two hours private tour

Explore the Unique Two-Hour Private Tour of Our Lady of the Rocks in Kotor Bay

This 2-hour private tour of Our Lady of the Rocks in Kotor, Montenegro offers an engaging mix of scenic boat rides and cultural visits. Priced at $151.26 per group (up to 6 people), it is ideal for travelers seeking an intimate experience with personalized service. The tour departs from UNESCO-listed Old Town or other convenient points in Kotor Bay, such as Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota, making it adaptable to your preferred start location.

The duration of approximately 2 hours includes a 20-minute speed boat ride, a 30-minute visit to the church and museum, and a 40-minute walk through Perast village. The tour is praised for its friendly guides, stunning scenic views, and good value—though it’s worth noting that the museum admission fee is not included. This tour suits those who want a compact yet enriching experience of Montenegro’s iconic sights, with a focus on breathtaking vistas and local architecture.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience for up to 6 people at a set price
• Includes a scenic 20-minute boat ride across Boka Bay
• Visits to Our Lady of the Rocks church and museum (admission not included)
• Exploration of Perast village, known for its baroque architecture and famous church
• Guides provide friendly, helpful service, ensuring smooth transfers and insightful commentary
• WiFi and bottled water provided on board, enhancing comfort and convenience

Starting Point in Kotor: From Old Town or Other Bay Locations

The tour begins at Park Slobode in Kotor, with the option to be picked up from additional locations like Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota. From there, a speed boat docks easily, ready to take you on the panoramic journey across Boka Bay. The boat ride lasts about 20 minutes and offers a beautiful view of small villages, palaces, churches, and the contrasting scenery of sea and mountains.

Travelers appreciate how smoothly the boat ride transitions into visits to the main attractions. The flexibility of pick-up points makes this tour accessible and convenient, especially for those staying outside the Old Town district.

The Significance of Our Lady of the Rocks

The Our Lady of the Rocks is a man-made island constructed by local residents of Perast. Its origin story involves two fishermen who found an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock emerging from the sea. In gratitude, they vowed to create an island and build a church dedicated to Our Lady of the Rocks. Today, visitors can explore both the church and its museum, which houses religious artifacts and historical items related to the island.

The church is notable for its baroque style and large size, taking over 120 years to build. The museum offers insights into the island’s history and religious significance. While admission costs are not included, the visit provides a meaningful look into local traditions and craftsmanship.

Visiting St. George Island: A Natural Gem

Across Perast lies the Island of Saint George—a natural island featuring the 12th-century St. George Monastery. Unlike Our Lady of the Rocks, this island remains off-limits to travelers, preserving its peaceful, unspoiled environment. The monastery is a notable historical site, though visitors cannot access it directly, adding a sense of mystery to the bay’s landscape.

This contrast between the man-made island and the untouched natural island highlights the diverse landscapes within Boka Bay, enriching the overall experience.

Discovering Perast’s Baroque Charm

After the boat ride, the tour includes a 40-minute visit to Perast, a small town famous for its baroque architecture and historical significance as a hub for famous captains. Despite having only around 350 inhabitants, Perast boasts 18 churches and 19 palaces, reflecting its prosperous past.

The church of Saint Nicholas is a highlight, with its 55-meter-high bell tower dominating the skyline, although it was never finished due to funding issues. Walking through Perast, visitors can admire well-preserved old houses and learn about the town’s maritime history, making this stop both scenic and culturally enriching.

The Guides and Their Friendly Approach

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and helpful skippers who accompany this tour. The guides are noted for their friendly demeanor and ability to share stories, like the legend associated with Tre Sorelle Palace, adding a personal touch to the experience.

The skipper is praised for being informative and assisting with transfers, especially for those with mobility considerations. Many mention how easy and enjoyable the boat ride and site visits are thanks to the attentive staff.

Practical Details: Booking, Payment, and Cancellation

This private tour includes bottled water, fuel surcharge, WiFi, and snorkeling equipment use, offering a comfortable outing. The meeting point is at Park Slobode in Kotor, with the tour wrapping up back at the starting location.

Pricing is $151.26 per group, accommodating up to 6 guests, making it an affordable group experience. Cancellation policy is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility should weather conditions force rescheduling. Since the tour depends on good weather, it’s advisable to check the forecast.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This private experience is ideal for small groups or families wanting a personalized, scenic adventure. The stunning views, friendly guides, and easy pacing appeal to those interested in cultural sites and maritime scenery. It’s suitable for travelers with mobility considerations, thanks to the helpful transfers.

However, visitors should note that museum admission fees are not included, and St. George Island remains off-limits for visiting. The tour’s short duration makes it perfect for those seeking a compact yet comprehensive glimpse of Boka Bay’s highlights.

Our Lady of the Rocks Private Tour: A Compact Cultural Journey

The 2-hour private tour of Our Lady of the Rocks in Kotor Bay offers an intimate and scenic exploration of Montenegro’s iconic sites. From the beautiful boat ride to the visits to historic churches and charming Perast, each element contributes to a well-rounded experience.

The friendly guides, stunning views, and personalized service make this tour a great choice for visitors wanting a brief but meaningful glimpse into the region’s maritime history and architecture. While museum entry fees are extra, the overall value and atmosphere justify the price, especially for those who enjoy small-group settings and customized itineraries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes private transportation, bottled water, fuel surcharge, WiFi on board, and use of snorkeling equipment. The museum admission fee for Our Lady of the Rocks is not included.

How long does the boat ride last?
The speed boat ride lasts approximately 20 minutes, offering a scenic overview of Boka Bay’s villages and landscapes.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, the tour starts at Park Slobode in Kotor, but pickup from Muo, Pranj, Stoliv, or Dobrota can be arranged, depending on your preference.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired guests?
The tour’s helpful guides and transfers make it accessible for families and those with mobility considerations. However, St. George Island is off-limits for visitors.

How much does the museum at Our Lady of the Rocks cost?
The admission fee is not included in the tour price and needs to be paid separately.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour offers free cancellation if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. Refunds are not available if canceled within 24 hours.

Is this tour customizable?
It is a private tour, so it can accommodate specific requests or pick-up points within available options.

How many people can join this private tour?
The group size is limited to up to 6 guests, making it perfect for small groups or families.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The tour features Our Lady of the Rocks, the legendary church and museum, Perast’s baroque architecture, and the panoramic boat ride across Boka Bay.

Is this tour a good value for the price?
Given the personalized service, scenic experience, and inclusion of transport and amenities, many consider it worth the cost, especially for those seeking a private and efficient way to explore the bay’s key sites.