The Best Routes and Stops for a Memorable Boat Tour

If you're looking for a truly unforgettable boating experience, look no further than the Bay of Kotor. This stunningly beautiful bay in Montenegro offers an incredible array of routes and stops, sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. On a boat tour of the Bay of Kotor, you'll have the chance to explore some of the most beautiful and historic destinations along the coast. From the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor itself to the ancient fishing village of Perast, there's no shortage of fascinating stops to discover.

One of the absolute must-see stops on any tour of the Bay of Kotor is the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks. This man-made island is home to a stunningly beautiful church, built in honor of the Virgin Mary, and surrounded by sparkling blue waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

According to local legend, the island was created over several centuries by seamen who found an icon of the Madonna and Child on a rock in the sea on July 22nd, 1452. Each time they returned from a successful voyage, they added a rock to the spot, slowly building up the island.

The centerpiece of the island is the stunning Our Lady of the Rocks Church, which is adorned with beautiful frescoes and paintings. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church and marvel at the intricate details of the architecture and artwork. One of the most notable features of Our Lady of the Rock is the masterful paintings of Tripo Kokolja that adorn its walls. Kokolja was a renowned Baroque artist and his work is regarded as some of the finest in the region. His vivid depictions of biblical scenes and local landscapes capture the imagination and transport visitors back in time to a bygone era.

In addition to Kokolja's paintings, there are also pieces by Italian artists, as well as an icon of Our Lady of the Rocks, crafted by Lovro Dobričević of Kotor in approximately 1452.

The church also houses a museum, which contains a number of fascinating artifacts, including ancient weapons, traditional clothing, and religious relics. Its highlight is a renowned votive tapestry created by Jacinta Kunić-Mijović from Perast. It took her a total of 25 years to complete the embroidery, during which time she waited for her beloved to return from a long journey and eventually became blind. The embroidery is especially famous because it features golden and silver threads, as well as the artist's own hair. She used her own hair for the angel’s hair and you can see how she has aged in those 25 years - the hair goes from brown to almost white.

But the beauty of the Bay of Kotor doesn't end there. The surrounding coastline is dotted with charming fishing villages, picturesque coves, and dramatic cliffs that are sure to take your breath away. And the crystal-clear waters of the bay provide ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and even diving.

If you glance at the nearby island, its beauty and a certain amount of serenity will leave you dazzled. The island of Saint George was named after the protector of the city of Kotor, and the locals were the first to use this name, which has remained unchanged. Like its mysterious and gray exterior, its history is filled with unfortunate destinies and a thirst for power.

Since its inception, the island has never experienced any joy or celebration due to an unusual twist of fate. Nevertheless, in Perast, Montenegro, a remarkable and sorrowful love story involving Katica and Ante unfolded, and the secret about them is now safeguarded by the very island of Saint George. They are known as Romeo and Juliet from Montenegro.

In 1813, soldiers of Napoleon Bonaparte walked through the Bay of Kotor, including the town of Perast, after the French conquest of this coastal region. Walking through Perast with his comrades, young Ante saw one of the most beautiful local girls of that time, Katica, and immediately fell in love with her. Although there are no precise records of their meeting, judging by the events that soon followed, it was love at first sight. They began to dream of a life together once the war was over.

Perast's people raised the occupiers' flag on St. Cross fortress, and the French commander ordered cannons to fire on the town. Officer Slović fired the first cannonball, but the people surrendered soon after. Ante rushed to see his beloved Katica after the attack, only to find out that she had died from the same cannonball he fired. Heartbroken, he became a monk and cared for her grave with fresh flowers and a daily candle. When the candle failed to shine one night, they found Ante dead on Katica's grave, holding a paper that read, "Bury me next to her." Perast granted his wish, and the Romeo and Juliet of Perast rest together on St. George Island with two cypress trees rising above their grave.

Of course, we cannot deny you a few words about beautiful Perast. It is a charming little town situated on the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. With its narrow cobbled streets, red-tiled roofs, and stunning sea views, it is a picturesque destination that enchants visitors from all over the world. The town is known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, particularly its numerous churches, palaces, and other historic buildings. The town has a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Thus, whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the water or an action-packed adventure, the Bay of Kotor has something for everyone. So why not book your boat Perast and Lady of the Rock tour today and discover the beauty of this hidden gem for yourself? With stunning scenery, friendly locals, and endless opportunities for adventure, you're sure to have the time of your life.