90min Boat Tour in Durres

Exploring the 90-Minute Boat Tour in Durres: A Honest Look

If you’re considering a quick, scenic escape on the water in Durres, this 90-minute boat tour seems to be a popular choice—and for good reason. It’s a fun way to take in some of the area’s best sights without committing a whole day, which is especially appealing if you’re short on time or traveling with a desire for a relaxed yet engaging experience.

What makes this trip stand out are two things we really like: first, the chance to snorkel over a WWI sunken shipwreck just 1.5 meters deep—an unusual find that adds a unique twist to your seaside adventure—and second, the intimate group size of up to 9 people, making it feel more like a private outing than a crowded tour.

A possible drawback? The tour’s focus is mainly on the scenic boat ride and snorkeling, so if you’re after a packed itinerary of cultural sites or longer exploration, this might feel a little limited. Still, for those craving a laid-back day with friends or family, it’s a solid choice.

This experience suits travelers who want a fun, relaxed ocean excursion with a touch of history and a lot of opportunities to unwind and enjoy nature. Perfect for those who appreciate small groups, engaging guides, and stunning views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: At 90 minutes, it’s a quick but memorable experience.
• Unique Sight: Snorkeling over a WWI shipwreck offers a rare glimpse into maritime history.
• Small Group Vibe: Max 9 people, ensuring a more personal, less crowded feel.
• Activities Galore: Swimming, snorkeling, music, dancing, and even a little singing keep the energy lively.
• Family Friendly: Great for friends and families who want a safe, fun sea adventure.
• Value for Money: The $54 per person fee includes boat rental, guide, and equipment, making it a straightforward, all-in-one package.

What Really Happens on the Tour

Starting Point: Durres Port and the Scenic Departure

Your journey kicks off at the Port of Durrës, a lively spot bustling with activity. The boat itself is shared, accommodating up to 9 participants, which keeps things cozy and manageable. As you set sail into the calm waters of the Adriatic Sea, you’ll immediately notice the peaceful vibe—ideal for unwinding and soaking in the sun.

Travelers often tell us how the captain or skipper adds a special touch, making everyone feel welcome and comfortable. One review mentions the sailor was “a really nice person” who made the cruise fun from start to finish. That personal touch helps turn this into more than just a boat ride; it feels like a friendly outing with a knowledgeable host.

The First Stop: Sunken WWI Austro-Hungarian Shipwreck

The highlight for most is the shipwreck snorkel spot. Sitting at only 1.5 meters deep, it’s perfect for all snorkeling levels—you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy it. Exploring this piece of history beneath the water is quite a cool experience, as one reviewer noted, “we loved the secret point,” emphasizing how special this spot feels compared to typical touristy destinations.

What’s interesting is that the wreck isn’t just a photo op; it’s an authentic relic from the past, giving you a sense of connection to history while enjoying the underwater scenery. The shallow depth makes it accessible, especially if you have kids or less experienced snorkelers in your group.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Second Stop: Fisherman Beach

After the underwater adventure, the boat heads to Fisherman Beach, a hidden gem that offers a relaxing break. Here, you can kick back, enjoy your snacks or cold drinks, and take in the tranquil surroundings. Many reviews mention how the group feels like they have the place to themselves, adding to the relaxed, intimate vibe of the trip.

Music and the sound of waves create a festive yet chill atmosphere—some even dance or sing onboard, making it feel like a mini beach party. It’s a simple way to enjoy the sea without a lot of fuss.

Return to Durres Port

After about 90 minutes, the boat heads back to the port. The experience is designed to be straightforward, giving you plenty of time to relax afterward or continue exploring.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee is $54 per person, which covers the boat rental, a skilled skipper, fuel, and all snorkeling equipment. This makes it quite a good deal, especially considering the personalized group size. The guide is there to help and ensure safety, which is reassuring if you’re new to snorkeling or boat trips.

However, note that food, snacks, and alcohol are not included. Many travelers bring their own drinks and a light snack to enjoy on the boat or during the stops, which can be a good idea to enhance your experience. Reviews often mention enjoying cold beers or cocktails on board, so bringing your preferred drinks is worth considering.

The Experience: From Booking to Return

Booking is flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—which adds peace of mind. You simply meet at public parking near the starting point, making it easy to access without fuss.

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it perfect for a half-day activity. The small group size and friendly guide create an engaging environment, with many reviews praising the captain’s kindness and the overall fun vibe.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Multiple travelers shared positive experiences, praising the stunning views, friendly staff, and diverse activities. For example, one said, “The boat is perfect and the captain is amazing,” highlighting how personal attention makes a difference. Another mentioned that it felt like a private tour because of the small group, which adds to the comfort.

The snorkeling, especially over the WWII wreck, was a favorite among many—“we had plenty of time to swim near the ship,” said one reviewer. And the fun onboard—music, dancing, even steering the boat—makes it clear this isn’t just a typical tour, but rather a lively, memorable experience.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Departure from Durrës

Your day begins at the bustling port, where you’ll hop onto a shared boat. The ride out into the sea is smooth, with good views of the coastline. The boat is comfortable, and the crew’s friendliness sets a welcoming tone.

Snorkeling the WWII Shipwreck

This is the main attraction. The wreck is right at the water’s surface—easy to reach and explore. It’s perfect for a quick swim and is often praised for its historical vibe. Since the depth is only 1.5 meters, even less confident swimmers can enjoy it safely.

One review describes the experience as “an authentic piece of history beneath the waves,” which is quite a special aspect of this trip. It’s not every day you get to snorkel over a ship from WWI.

Relaxing at Fisherman Beach

After the underwater exploration, the boat moves to Fisherman Beach—a lesser-known spot that feels like a private hideaway. You can relax on the boat, take photos, or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Many guests mention how they love the calm atmosphere and the chance to just unwind.

Return and Reflection

The trip wraps up back at the port after about 90 minutes. Many travelers find it’s just enough time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed. It’s a good balance of adventure and relaxation.

Overall Value and Who It’s Best For

Considering the $54 price point, this tour offers decent value—especially given the small group size, snorkeling gear, and the guide’s attentiveness. It’s an easy, engaging way to spend a couple of hours by the sea, combining history, nature, and fun.

This experience is particularly suited for adventurous travelers, families, or groups of friends who want a relaxed yet memorable sea outing. If you’re after a detailed cultural tour or longer sightseeing, you might find this a bit light, but if you’re looking for a simple, enjoyable boat ride with a historical twist, it’s a solid pick.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a short, scenic boat trip that mixes underwater exploration with scenic beaches, this Durres Blue Waters Boat Tour hits the mark. With friendly guides, a small group size, and the chance to explore a WWII shipwreck, it’s a distinctive way to see the coast.

While it’s not designed for those seeking a full day of sightseeing or complex logistics, it offers a genuine, fun, and fairly affordable way to enjoy Durres’s marine environment. Pack your sunhat, waterproof camera, and a few snacks, and you’re all set for a memorable, breezy adventure by the sea.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The boat tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the boat rental, skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment, and a guide.

Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
Yes, many travelers bring their own cold drinks and snacks to enjoy onboard or at the beach stop.

Is the snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The wreck is only 1.5 meters deep, so it’s accessible for all levels.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at public parking near the departure port in Durrës.

Is it family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for friends and families, especially those who enjoy simple sea adventures.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, and binoculars if you have them.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: