Saranda: Aqua Prestige Boat Tour with Swimming and Drinks

If you’re considering a day on the water in Saranda, this Aqua Prestige Boat Tour promises a blend of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing views along some of Albania’s most beautiful coastlines. We’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it’s worth your time, especially if you’re into crystal-clear waters and scenic stops.

What really draws us to this experience are the opportunities to swim in caves like Turtle Cave and Pigeons Cave—those vivid blue waters are picture-perfect. Plus, the stops at hidden bays like Kakome and Krorez promise a peaceful escape from the busier spots, perfect for relaxing. One thing to keep in mind, however, is the relatively small group size—maximum 12 people—which can be both a plus for intimacy and a challenge if you prefer larger, more lively tours.

This tour suits travelers who love scenic coastlines, enjoy swimming in pristine waters, and want a mix of history and natural beauty, all wrapped into a half-day adventure. If you’re after a relaxed, intimate experience with plenty of photo ops, this one might just be a good fit.

Key Points

• Small group size (up to 12 people) creates an intimate, personalized vibe.
• Multiple swimming stops in caves and bays provide chances to cool off in crystal-clear waters.
• Scenic viewpoints like Lekursi Castle and Qafa e Gjashtës offer panoramic views.
• History and nature blend with visits to Saranda’s Synagogue Complex and Onhezmi Walls.
• Flexible options to bring your own snacks and drinks, since food isn’t included.
• Duration of 5.5 hours means a full but manageable day out, without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Saranda Aqua Prestige Boat Tour

If you’re like us, you’re probably curious about what exactly makes this boat trip tick—and whether it’s worth the investment. Let’s break down each part of the experience, what you’ll see, and why it matters.

Starting Point and Departure

You’ll meet your guide at a designated spot on Rruga Jonianët, close to the Saranda port. The actual meeting point is marked and easy to find, with staff ready to give you the rundown before you hop onboard. Expect a relaxed start, with your boat ready for a smooth 10-minute cruise along the coast.

The boat itself is small—capped at 12 guests—which means you won’t be part of a huge crowd. This is great if you’re after a quieter, more personal experience, or if you’re traveling with a small group of friends or family. The guide speaks both Albanian and English, making communication smooth.

First Stops: Exploring Sea Caves

The first highlight is Turtle Cave, an ideal spot for photos and a quick swim. The water here is bright blue, and the cave’s small size makes it a cozy, intriguing stop. You get around 10 minutes here, so it’s enough time to snap some photos or take a dip.

Next, Pigeons Cave, also known as Shpella e Pëllumbave, invites you to enjoy the cool water surrounded by rocky scenery. It’s quieter and less crowded, offering a peaceful escape. A guide might point out the birds flying around, adding to the tranquil vibe.

Following that, Shpella e Dafës is another hidden gem with clear waters perfect for a refreshing swim. These caves, especially Turtle and Pigeons, are often praised for their stunning, vibrant water colors and the chance to get in for a quick dip. Reviewers have called these stops “beautiful,” “peaceful,” and “great for photos.”

Scenic Bays and Relaxation

After the caves, the boat heads to Gjiri i Spirancës, a calm bay with untouched nature—ideal for relaxing before the big beach stops. The scenery here is particularly calming, with cliffs and clear waters providing a perfect backdrop for unwinding.

Then, you arrive at Kakome Bay, a wide stretch of soft sand and turquoise water. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying a leisurely swim. Kakome is one of the more well-known spots on this tour, loved for its natural beauty and fewer crowds.

Krorez follows as another highlight—this beach boasts soft sand and inviting water, often described as one of the most loved beaches in the area. It’s a great place for a longer break, with around 1.5 hours of free time. You can swim, relax, or take photos of the surrounding cliffs.

Gjiri i Roidhesë, your last sea stop, is a small and secluded bay. It’s a perfect final swim spot, with clear, peaceful waters. Several travelers mention how this bay feels like a hidden treasure, ideal for winding down the day in nature’s quiet.

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The Viewpoints and Historical Stops

On the return trip, the boat slows down beneath Lekursi Castle’s hills—offering a beautiful panoramic view of Saranda from the water. The sight of the castle perched on the hill is quite striking, especially as the sun begins to set or during bright daylight.

You also pass below Qafa e Gjashtës, a scenic viewpoint that frames the coastline beautifully. These moments of slow cruising give you opportunities to take in the landscape and snap some memorable photos.

Plus, the tour briefly touches on Saranda’s history, pointing out the Synagogue Complex and Onhezmi Walls from the shoreline. While the focus remains on the coastline, these historical sites add a layer of cultural interest that enriches the experience.

The Overall Experience and Value

Throughout the trip, expect stunning views, the chance to swim in crystal-clear caves, and peaceful bays. The boat is small, which keeps the experience intimate—reviewers appreciate the personal touch, often describing it as “relaxing,” “beautiful,” and “well-paced.”

You’ll love the way the guide shares insights about the coastline’s natural features, and the stops are well spaced out, avoiding feeling rushed. Since food isn’t included, bringing your own snacks is recommended, but the boat’s relaxed pace makes it easy to enjoy a picnic from anywhere you stop.

Practical Considerations

The trip runs for 5.5 hours, including multiple stops and scenic cruising. It’s perfect if you want a full day of activity without exhaustion. Wear comfortable swimwear, bring a towel, sunscreen, goggles, and a hat—those are essentials.

Keep in mind, the tour isn’t suitable for people with claustrophobia or motion sickness, as some cave stops involve small spaces or boat rides. Children are fine but should be supervised, especially around water.

Price and Value

Since food isn’t included, you can save by bringing your own snacks and drinks. The experience is priced for a small group, making it quite personal and not overly crowded. For the price, you get a day packed with varied scenery, swimming, and cultural sights—definitely a worthwhile choice if you’re after a relaxed, scenic boat day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers who love natural beauty and quiet shores but also enjoy a touch of history and panoramic views. It’s suitable for those who prefer a small-group setting for a more personalized experience. If you’re into swimming in caves and relaxing in bays, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s not suited for those with motion sickness or claustrophobia, and it’s best if you’re comfortable bringing your own food or snacks since none are provided.

Overall, it’s a well-rounded half-day experience that balances scenery, swimming, and a bit of local culture—perfect for a laid-back day in Saranda.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5.5 hours, including all stops, cruising, and sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, and goggles for swimming.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children can join, but they should be supervised, especially around water and caves. The tour might not be suitable for very young kids or those with motion sickness.

What are the main highlights?
Swimming in Turtle and Pigeons Caves, relaxing at Kakome and Krorez beaches, scenic views from Lekursi Castle, and glimpses of Saranda’s history.

Can I see historical sites?
Yes, your guide points out Saranda’s Synagogue Complex and Onhezmi Walls from the shoreline during the trip.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat accommodates up to 12 guests, making for an intimate experience.

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

Is it easy to find the meeting point?
Absolutely. The meeting point is at Rruga Jonianët, marked with the boat’s signage, and staff are available to guide you.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you love scenic coastal views, swimming in caves, and a relaxed pace, this tour is a solid choice. It balances natural beauty with cultural sights and offers a peaceful escape from the usual hustle.

This boat tour from Saranda offers a wonderful way to experience Albania’s stunning coastline in a personal, relaxed setting. Whether you’re there to swim, take photos, or simply enjoy the views, it’s a memorable way to spend half a day along the Albanian Riviera.

You can check availability for your dates here: