Turtles Cave, Gremina, Kakome and Krorez Boat Tour from Sarande

If you’re planning a trip to Saranda and looking for a way to see its coastline from a different perspective, this boat tour might just be worth considering. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to combine scenic views, swimming spots, and a relaxed vibe all in one day. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, based on the info available and reviews, it seems like a solid option for those wanting a taste of Albania’s beautiful waters.

What really draws us to this experience are the stunning scenic stops—like Turtles Cave and Krorez Beach—and the chance to spend a relaxing chunk of time at Krorez with three hours for exploring, swimming, or just soaking up the sun. Plus, the option of a private or shared boat means you can choose a more intimate experience or save some money by joining a group.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the potential for weather-related cancellations. Since this is an outdoor experience on the water, poor weather can mean rescheduling or refunds, which might affect your planning. But overall, this tour is well-suited for travelers who love scenic boat rides, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring lesser-known spots along the Albanian coast.

If you’re someone who appreciates a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and a touch of adventure, this tour could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that it’s not designed as a cultural or historical deep dive but more of a scenic, leisure-focused day out.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastline views and clear waters make this a photo-worthy experience.
• Flexible options include both shared and private boat tours.
• Extended beach time at Krorez offers plenty of opportunity to relax or swim.
• Stops at unique spots like Turtles Cave and Anchor Cave provide memorable photo moments.
• Moderate cost at around $50 per person offers decent value, considering the full day’s activities.
• Weather can impact plans, so flexibility is good to have in mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Booking

The tour kicks off from Limani Bar Restaurant in Saranda, which is conveniently located near public transportation. Booking in advance is advisable, with most travelers reserving about 34 days ahead. The cost is approximately $50.44 per person, which seems fair for a six-hour adventure filled with multiple stops and swimming opportunities.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Krorez Bay – The Launchpad

The journey begins with a departure from Saranda, heading north along its beautiful coastline. The first stops are the Turtles Cave and Anchor Cave—each about 20 minutes long. These caves are known for their natural rock formations and photo opportunities. From reviews, it sounds like these spots are definitely the highlights visually, giving you a chance to marvel at untouched nature and possibly capture some memorable shots.

What to expect: You’ll get a chance to peer into these caves, enjoy the scenery, and take photos. The caves are small but photogenic, and the boat ride itself offers a good view of the coast.

Gremina, Kakome, and Lovers Bay

Next are the stops at Gremina, Kakome, and Lovers Bay. These are perfect for a swim or just relaxing on the boat. The water is described as crystal-clear, inviting for a quick dip or snorkel if you’re inclined. These spots are less about major attractions and more about enjoying the water and scenery.

Traveler insights: One reviewer mentioned, “Make a stop in each and swim in the crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the boat and soak in the scenery.” It sounds like these stops provide the perfect blend of adventure and chill time.

Krorez Beach – The Main Attraction

The crown jewel of this tour is Krorez Beach, where the boat anchors for about three hours. This extended period is a major plus because it allows ample time to explore the beach, swim, snorkel, or just unwind. The beach itself looks stunning, offering a peaceful setting away from crowds, making it a lovely spot for a leisurely lunch, reading, or sunbathing.

What we love: The three-hour free time isn’t rushed, giving you enough opportunity to really relax, go for a longer swim, or explore the surroundings. It’s a great way to break up the day and enjoy Albania’s natural beauty.

The Return Journey

After Krorez, the boat heads back toward Saranda, ending at the starting point. The whole experience lasts around six hours, making it a manageable day trip that leaves plenty of time for dinner or evening plans.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• Bottled water – Staying hydrated is key on a boat trip, and it’s nice that they include it without extra charge.
• Admission ticket for Krorez Beach – a significant part of the experience, given the 3-hour stop.

Not Included

• Lunch – You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat somewhere in Saranda before or after the tour. The tour doesn’t offer food, but with three hours at Krorez, you might find some snack options nearby or pack a picnic.

Additional Info

• The tour has a cap of 30 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded.
• You can choose between a shared or private experience, with each boat accommodating up to 12 seats.
• The tour is rain or shine, but poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so keep an eye on the forecast.

The Real Traveler Perspective

One traveler, Quentin, shared that their original boat had a problem, but the tour operator was quick to respond, offering a refund and an alternative trip. They went later and loved the experience, indicating good customer service and flexibility. Another reviewer, Serhad, called the trip “fantastic,” praising the friendly welcome and snorkeling opportunities at the scenic spots.

From these reviews, it’s clear that the experience can be quite enjoyable—especially if the weather cooperates. The scenic stops and swimming are what make this tour stand out. However, keep in mind that some parts of the boat ride might be affected if the water or weather conditions aren’t ideal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is best suited for nature lovers, water enthusiasts, and those who want a relaxed day on the water. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic escape with plenty of swimming time and stunning views, this will meet your expectations. It’s also helpful for travelers who prefer a flexible experience—either joining a group or opting for a private boat.

This isn’t a cultural or archaeological tour, so if your main interest is history or museums, you might want to look elsewhere. But if your goal is to enjoy Albania’s natural beauty from the water, this is a good pick.

Final Thoughts

The boat tour around Saranda offers a relaxed way to see some of Albania’s finest coastal spots. Its major strengths lie in the beautiful scenery, diverse stops, and the generous three-hour break at Krorez Beach. While weather can impact the trip, the overall experience seems highly rated for its value and natural charm.

It’s a good choice for travelers wanting a straightforward, scenic day with opportunities to relax or swim. The price is reasonable considering the full-day format, and the flexibility of private or group options adds appeal.

If you’re after a peaceful, picture-perfect day on the water with plenty of swimming, this tour should be on your radar. Just be prepared for outdoor conditions, and consider packing snacks to make the most of your time at Krorez.

FAQ

Is there a minimum or maximum group size for this tour?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, with each boat having a maximum of 12 seats. You can opt for a shared group or a private boat.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, and possibly snacks or a small picnic for Krorez Beach. Bottled water is provided, but extra hydration might be nice.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. It’s generally suitable for those comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

How long is the free time at Krorez Beach?
You get roughly 3 hours to relax, swim, snorkel, or explore the beach.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, you can choose between a shared group or a private boat, each with 12 seats, providing a more personalized experience.

This boat trip offers a solid balance of scenic beauty, relaxation, and a taste of Albania’s coast. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy some of the best outdoor spots in Saranda without fussing over complicated logistics.