Saranda: Boat tour to 7 destinations end snorkeling

Looking for a way to see the Albanian coast that feels both adventurous and relaxing? This boat tour from Saranda promises to take you on a 6-hour journey through some of the most beautiful and lesser-known spots along the Albanian Riviera. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting more than just a beach day or a quick ferry ride, offering a chance to explore multiple destinations in one go.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the variety of stops, including caves, beaches, and islands, and the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The tour’s relaxed pace means you get ample time at each stop to swim, explore, and enjoy the scenery. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that it’s not suited for those prone to seasickness or with certain health issues — the boat doesn’t have extensive amenities for comfort if you’re sensitive to motion or heat.

This experience works well if you’re after an active day on the water, love exploring hidden coastal spots, and enjoy chatting with friendly guides. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a balance of sightseeing and downtime, making it a solid choice for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to discover Albania’s coastline.

Key Points

• Comfortable, multi-destination boat trip along the Albanian Riviera
• Swim and snorkel in pristine Ionian Sea waters
• Visit Krorez island with 2-3 hours to explore and relax
• Learn local history and stories from multilingual guides
• Includes snorkeling gear, drinks, and onboard amenities
• Price point of $43 offers good value for a full day’s adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Saranda Boat Tour

If you’re considering this tour, you’ll want an honest picture of what to expect. It’s a well-reviewed trip, with a perfect 5-star rating based on 22 reviews, and from the feedback, it’s clear many travelers found it a highlight of their trip to southern Albania. But, as with any tour, there are some nuances worth noting.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins at the Cataleya boat in Saranda’s Limani harbor, where you’ll meet your captain, typically a multilingual guide who makes everyone feel at ease. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with good seating, a fridge, Bluetooth speakers, and a free drink included—these little touches enhance the overall vibe and make the trip more enjoyable.

You’ll cruise along the Albanian coast, stopping at 6 destinations such as Gremina, Kakome, and Soldiers Bay. Each stop lasts about 20 minutes, which is enough time to snap some photos or take a quick dip. While these stops are brief, they’re enough to give you a taste of each spot’s character—whether it’s a beach, a cave, or a hidden cove.

The real highlight is Krorez, the main destination, where you’ll have 2-3 hours free to swim, explore, eat at a local restaurant, or just relax on the beach. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the time here, with several saying it felt like the perfect balance of activity and downtime. One traveler described it as “a great place to swim and soak up the sun,” while others noted how serene and scenic it was.

On the way back, you’ll visit a “secret beach” and a turtle cave, which are perfect for photos and just soaking in the scenery. The guide also shares stories from Albania’s history during the communist era, adding an educational layer to the experience that many travelers found enriching.

Snorkeling and Swimming

Snorkeling is a major part of this trip. All necessary gear is provided, and you’ll find the water is refreshingly clear, perfect for observing marine life. Several reviews rave about the crystal-clear waters and the fun of floating in the Ionian Sea. Some travelers even mentioned that the snorkeling spots felt like discovering hidden treasures.

The Vibe and Atmosphere

The guide, often praised as friendly and knowledgeable, plays a key role in making this trip memorable. Multiple reviews highlight how guides like Fabian contributed to a relaxed, fun atmosphere with music, good humor, and helpful service. “Fabian is a friendly and experienced boatman,” one review quoted, “especially the speeding in the turns was fun,” conveying how the ride itself is lively and engaging.

Many reviews also note the good music and vibes onboard, making the trip feel like a friendly gathering rather than a formal tour. This relaxed atmosphere is a big plus for those wanting to unwind and enjoy the scenic cruise.

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Considerations and Downsides

No trip is perfect, and it’s fair to mention some potential downsides. The tour lasts around 6 hours, which can be a long time for those with limited stamina or small children. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, seniors over 95, or people with certain health issues like heart problems or epilepsy, mainly due to the nature of being on a boat.

Another point to consider is that food at the local restaurant isn’t included, so if you’re hungry after swimming, you’ll need to budget extra for meals. The tour doesn’t seem to offer extensive amenities beyond snorkel gear and some onboard drinks, so bring your essentials like sunscreen, water, and a camera.

The Value for Money

At $43 per person, this tour is quite reasonable, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and included gear. The reviews consistently mention how much they felt they received in terms of experiences for the price—visiting multiple spots, swimming in beautiful waters, and learning about Albanian history all in one day.

It’s a practical option for travelers who want an active, immersive experience without paying a premium. The small group size (implied by the reviews) and the friendly guide make it feel personalized and engaging, adding to the overall value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love adventure combined with relaxation, this is a good pick. It’s ideal for those who enjoy being on the water, exploring coastal caves and beaches, and snorkeling in clear waters. It suits travelers who are comfortable with boat rides and aren’t overly sensitive to motion or heat.

Those interested in local stories and history will also find the guide’s commentary enriching. But it’s less suitable for families with very young children or anyone with specific health restrictions related to seasickness or physical limitations.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Saranda offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and learning about Albania’s coastline. The friendly guides, beautiful stops, and reasonable price make it a worthwhile consideration for anyone wanting to get a deeper sense of the Albanian Riviera beyond the main beaches.

It’s especially good if you’re after a full day of adventure with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in stunning views. Be prepared for a long but rewarding day, and don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, water, and your camera.

This experience seems to deliver exactly what it promises: a memorable day exploring Albania’s hidden coastal treasures with good company and a friendly guide to boot.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including stops at various destinations and main sightseeing points.

What destinations are visited?
Stops include Gremina, Kakome, Soldiers Bay, Krorez island, a secret beach, and turtle cave, with Krorez getting 2-3 hours of free time.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkels are provided, and the waters are clear enough for good underwater viewing.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and water. The boat has a fridge and Bluetooth, but it’s best to come prepared.

Can I buy food on the trip?
Food isn’t included, but there are restaurants at Krorez where you can buy a meal and relax.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or those with health issues that could be affected by a boat ride or heat.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides speak Albanian, English, Italian, and Greek.

Are drinks included?
You get one free drink onboard, and additional beverages can be bought.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

If you’re looking for a lively, scenic, and diverse way to explore Albania’s coast, this boat tour could be just the thing for you. It combines adventure, education, and relaxation in a package that feels well worth its price.

You can check availability for your dates here: