<!–
The 13 Best Boat Tours & Cruises in Shkoder
Shkoder isn’t just a place to admire mountain views and historic sites; it’s a paradise for boat lovers and water enthusiasts. The region offers a wide variety of boat tours—from the tranquil Komani Lake crossings to adventurous river rides and exploring remote islands. What sets Shkoder apart is its combination of crystal-clear waters, rugged landscapes, and opportunities for active fun like swimming, kayaking, and ziplining. If you’re craving a fresh perspective on northern Albania’s natural beauty, you’ll find plenty to choose from.
Among the favorites are the Shala River and Komani Lake boat tour, which combines a scenic cruise with opportunities to swim and hike, and the full-day Komani Lake and Shala River trip, offering a longer, more immersive experience. Whether you want a quick trip or a full-day adventure, Shkoder’s boat tours deliver unforgettable views and authentic outdoor fun.
Below, we’ll explore each of these top tours in detail. From short scenic cruises to all-day explorations, this guide will help you pick the perfect water-based activity for your trip.
1. Shala River and Komani lake: Boat Tour
With a solid 4.3-star rating from 32 reviews, this Shala River and Komani lake boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty and active options. Starting from Koman, it takes you on a 6-hour journey through crystal-clear waters surrounded by untamed nature. The tour includes a delicious lunch at Blini Park, several activities like swimming, canoeing, hiking, and even ziplining.
What makes this trip stand out is its combination of relaxing and adventurous moments. You’ll enjoy soaking in the wild alpine scenery, trying freshly picked fruits, and sipping cool drinks. The itinerary includes a flexible schedule with time for activities like kayaking and walking, making it ideal for those who want a taste of everything.
Bottom Line: A flexible, family-friendly choice that combines scenery, activity, and good food—best for travelers wanting a full-day outdoor escape.
2. Koman, Shala River Boat Ride to Fierze
This 11-hour trip, rated 4.3/5 from 3 reviews, takes you along the stunning Shala River to Fierze—a perfect long-day adventure for those who want to see the region’s natural highlights. Starting from Koman, the boat ride showcases the famous blue waters of the river, with plenty of time to relax or swim along the way.
You can also enjoy the rush of ziplining over the river or simply unwind with a picnic or dine at local restaurants by the water. The tour’s emphasis on relaxation and immersion in the landscape makes it suitable for travelers who appreciate both nature and leisure. It’s a great way to experience the crystal waters and lush scenery of northern Albania.
Bottom Line: An immersive day trip perfect for travelers who want a leisurely cruise and time to swim or picnic amid breathtaking views.
3. From Shkoder: Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour
Spanning 11.5 hours and with a 3.3-star rating from 7 reviews, this full-day tour offers a comprehensive experience. It starts with a van transfer from Shkoder, then a boat cruise across Komani Lake—an iconic journey that showcases Albania’s most dramatic landscapes. Afterward, you’ll enjoy swimming in turquoise waters of the Shala River, along with kayaking options.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a blend of sightseeing, water activities, and local culture. The itinerary includes multiple boat rides and enough downtime to relax or explore. Reviews suggest it’s a memorable trip, though some might find the long day challenging.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those looking to combine lake cruising with river swimming—great for active travelers and adventure seekers.
4. From Pristina: Day Tour to Shala River with Boat Trip
For around $35, this day trip from Pristina is a budget-friendly option that emphasizes scenic views and relaxation. It features a bus and boat ride through the Albanian Alps, with plenty of time to swim and enjoy the untouched beauty of the Shala River.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full-day escape without the hassle of planning, and it offers a taste of mountain scenery combined with water fun. However, with only 1 review and a 1-star rating, it’s worth noting that the experience may vary. Still, it’s an affordable way to get a sense of the region’s natural charm.
Bottom Line: Good for budget travelers or those short on time who want a straightforward day in nature.
5. From Komani Dam: Komani Lake & Shala River -BOAT TOUR-
This 6-hour boat tour, priced at around $24 per person, offers a focused experience starting from the Komani Dam. You’ll cruise on the spectacular Komani Lake, then visit the Shala River valley to swim, relax, or dine at local eateries. The scenery is characterized by mountains and lush greenery, and the boat ride provides fantastic photo opportunities.
The trip is ideal for travelers interested in a shorter, scenic water excursion with options for relaxation and photos. It’s a good value for the price, especially for those who want to explore Albania’s green landscapes without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: An accessible, budget-friendly cruise that offers great scenery and a chance to unwind by the river.
6. From Shkodra Center: Shala River Cruise – Bus & Boat Tour
Rated as an all-day adventure, this Shala River cruise is perfect for those wanting an easy, full-day outing. The tour departs from Shkodra, takes you on an 80-minute bus ride, and then a 75-minute boat cruise on the Shala River. It explores caves, waterfalls, and valleys only accessible by water.
The highlights include scenic cruising and opportunities for swimming and sightseeing. It’s suitable for families or travelers who want to avoid complicated logistics but still see remote, pristine landscapes.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded day trip with a mix of bus and boat, suitable for most travelers seeking accessible adventure.
7. Koman Lake and Shala River Boat Tour to Fierza
This 7-hour tour offers a scenic cruise from Koman Lake to Fierza, highlighting spectacular mountain scenery. The boat ride includes swimming and river exploration, with an optional transfer to Valbona National Park at the end. Its focus on tranquility and scenery makes it appealing for nature lovers.
Rated as no reviews yet, it’s a relatively flexible option that can be tailored to interests like relaxing by the water or quick sightseeing. It’s best for travelers who want a shorter, scenic journey with options to extend their adventure.
Bottom Line: A flexible, scenic cruise ideal for those wanting a shorter, peaceful water experience.
8. Koman: Lake Koman to Fierze Scenic Boat Trip
A quick 2-hour trip, this boat ride offers a stunning view of Lake Koman and the mountain scenery of the Albanian Alps. It is perfect for travelers with limited time or as part of a longer itinerary. The boat, operating seasonally, provides great photo opportunities of the lake’s green waters.
The trip isn’t long, but it’s packed with breathtaking landscapes. If you’re into quick scenic trips with ample photo stops, this is a solid choice.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a short but memorable snapshot of Albania’s mountainous lakes.
9. Komani Lake: Shala River Boat Trip with Pickup
This 6-hour trip combines a boat ride on Komani Lake with a river exploration of the Shala River. It features swimming, relaxing, and exploring remote spots, including options for ziplining over the river. The itinerary emphasizes adventure and scenic beauty.
Rated with no reviews yet, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a balanced day of activity and relaxation in fewer hours. The inclusion of ziplining makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: A versatile choice blending exploration and active water fun for outdoor lovers.
10. N’Gegaj- Vau i Dejës Lake: Shurdhah Island and Boat Tour
This full-day trip ($53 per person) takes you to Shurdhah Island and the Pëllumbat Cave. The tour includes a visit to the ancient ruins of Sarda, exploring tunnels and rock formations, and a traditional lunch in Gegaj village. The boat cruise around Vau i Dejës Lake offers striking lake and mountain views.
This experience is great for history buffs and those interested in cultural heritage combined with natural beauty. The trip is designed to be immersive, with stops for swimming, exploring caves, and enjoying local food.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a mix of history, nature, and culture in a full-day adventure.
11. Shkoder: Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour
Rated as no reviews yet, this 10-hour tour explores Komani Lake and the Shala River, emphasizing remote villages and local traditions. It includes opportunities for ziplining, kayaking, and hiking, making it ideal for active travelers who want to experience both scenery and local culture.
The boat rides and stops are carefully designed to maximize exposure to Albania’s natural and cultural riches. It’s a longer tour suited for those wanting a comprehensive day in nature.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers who enjoy active pursuits and cultural encounters in one trip.
12. Tirana: Day Trip to Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour
This day trip from Tirana (rated no reviews) offers an excursion into the Albanian Alps with boat trips on the Shala River and scenic views of Fjords of Albania. It includes a sightseeing drive, boat cruise, and even ziplining options. It’s designed for those who want to see the highlights of northern Albania with minimal fuss.
Ideal for travelers based in Tirana who wish to add a water adventure to their itinerary, but keep in mind that reviews are not available yet.
Bottom Line: A convenient option for those wanting an organized, full-day excursion from Tirana.
13. From Tirana: Shala River Boat Tour Full-Day Trip
Rated 5/5 from reviews, this full-day private boat tour is perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience. It features a guided tour of the Albanian Alps, with opportunities to swim, enjoy local food, and take in panoramic mountain views.
It’s particularly suitable for those who prefer a customized, intimate experience, with the flexibility to tailor stops and activities. The standout feature is the private boat, allowing for a more relaxed, exclusive day.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a private, flexible water tour with a focus on comfort and customization.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Shkoder
When selecting a boat tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a quick taste of the spectacular scenery, the Lake Koman to Fierze trip is ideal. If you’re after active adventures—like swimming, kayaking, or ziplining—look at options such as the Shala River and Komani Lake tour or the full-day Komani Lake and Shala River. Budget travelers might prefer the shorter Komani Lake cruise, while those seeking a private experience should consider the full-day private tour.
Timing is also important—many tours operate seasonally, especially during the warmer months, so book early for summer trips. Whether you want a quick scenic cruise or a full-day adventure, there’s a boat tour in Shkoder to match your style.
Final Thoughts
Shkoder offers a diverse array of boat tours and cruises—from short scenic rides on Lake Koman to immersive river adventures. For those seeking pure relaxation, the Komani Lake cruise offers iconic views with some swimming. More adventurous travelers will enjoy trips that include ziplining, kayaking, or hiking, like the Shala River and Komani Lake tour.
Travelers with a love of history and culture should consider the Shurdhah Island trip, which combines archaeological sites with stunning waterscapes. And for those who prefer a personalized journey, the full-day private boat tour provides custom experiences tailored to your interests.
No matter your preference, these tours promise a chance to see Albania’s spectacular natural landscapes from a different perspective—so book early, pack your camera, and prepare to enjoy some of the most beautiful waters in the Balkans.