Tirana might be better known for its buzzing city streets and rich history, but it’s also a surprisingly good starting point for boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the water, a scenic trip exploring Albania’s coastline, or a lively boat party, Tirana offers options that can suit every taste. One standout is the Private Tour to Blue Eye, Saranda & Ksamil—a well-reviewed, eight-hour journey that combines stunning scenery with cultural stops. And for those craving more adventure, the Speed Boat Trip to Sazan, Karaburun & Cave offers a high-energy day exploring secret caves and pristine beaches.
While many think of boat trips as just sightseeing, in Tirana you can also find wildlife-focused adventures like the Karavasta Lagoon tour, which immerses visitors in nature and birdwatching, or the 4-Day Albanian Riviera tour that mixes beach days with boat excursions to islands and archaeological sites. Many tours include local guides, snorkeling, swimming, and visits to iconic landmarks like Sazan Island or Blue Eye spring. For every budget and interest, Tirana’s sea routes make for memorable excursions.
Below, you’ll find a list of the 14 best boat tours and cruises in Tirana, each with their own unique appeal. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip, a scenic adventure, or a multi-day exploration, there’s something here for you.
1. Private Tour To Blue Eye, Saranda & Ksamil with Boat Tour
Rated 4.9/5 based on 152 reviews, this 8-hour private excursion provides a full experience of southern Albania’s highlights. It combines a comfortable van transfer with visits to the Blue Eye spring—famous for its cold, clear waters—and the beaches of Ksamil, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Plus, you’ll explore Saranda, a lively coastal town, and enjoy scenic views along the way. The tour includes photo stops, museum visits, and a guided walk at Blue Eye, making it ideal for travelers who want a mix of nature, culture, and comfort.
The itinerary is flexible with pickup options from Tirana, Durrës, or Vlorë, and the guides are praised for their friendly knowledge-sharing. The highlight? The Blue Eye spring with its stunning natural watercolors and the chance to relax on the beautiful beaches of Ksamil.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a comprehensive, private day with lots of scenic and cultural sights at a very high review rating.
2. Durres & Tirana: Speed Boat Trip to Sazan, Karaburun & Cave
This 10-hour speedboat adventure earns its 4.9/5 reviews with a mix of exploration and relaxation. Starting from Durres or Tirana, the tour whisks you across the water to visit Sazan Island, a largely uninhabited military base turned tourist site. You’ll cruise past the Haxhi Ali Cave, where you can enter by sea—an exciting highlight—and then relax on the Karaburun Peninsula’s quiet beaches. Snorkeling gear is provided, allowing you to explore underwater life.
The trip’s energetic pace is ideal for adventure lovers who want to see Albania’s coast from the sea. The guides are praised for their local insights, and the included snorkeling makes it more than just sightseeing. The scenic boat ride past rugged coastline and secret caves keeps the experience exciting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers eager to explore Albania’s offshore secrets by sea with snorkeling and cave adventures included.
3. From Tirana: Ksamil, Blue Eye & Saranda Tour with Boat Tour
This full-day tour is a popular choice for travelers wanting to combine natural wonders and coastal towns. It focuses on the Blue Eye, Ksamil beaches, and Saranda with a relaxed pace. The tour is appreciated for its straightforward logistics, including hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it easy for visitors staying in Tirana. Expect about three hours at Blue Eye, followed by free time in Ksamil and a visit to Lekursi Castle for panoramic views of Corfu.
Reviews highlight the friendly guide, the scenic stops, and the convenience. The tour balances sightseeing with ample free time for swimming and photos. It’s a good fit for those who want a relaxed, well-organized day in southern Albania with plenty of natural beauty.
Bottom Line: A comfortable, all-in-one day trip with enough time for swimming and sightseeing, ideal for travelers who prefer relaxed pacing.
4. From Durrës/Golem: Sazan & Ali Cave & Karaburun Boat Tour
Rated 4.5/5, this 10-hour tour takes you on a scenic journey exploring Sazan Island, the Haxhi Ali Cave, and the Karaburun Peninsula. Starting from Durres or Golem, you’ll travel by van and speedboat, allowing access to less-visited parts of Albania’s coast. The boat cruise includes stops for photos, swimming, and exploring the sea caves. The trip is praised for its beautiful scenery, with highlights such as marine life viewing and a visit to the historic military base on Sazan.
The tour offers a good mix of adventure and culture, with a focus on the natural environment. The inclusion of snorkeling and scenic coastal views makes it especially appealing. The guides are attentive, and the itinerary’s flexibility suits active travelers seeking a full-day coastal adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a balance of exploration, water activities, and sightseeing in a small-group setting.
5. Karavasta Lagoon Adventure: Boat & Wildlife Tour from Durrës
Rated a perfect 5/5, this 4 to 6-hour tour offers a peaceful escape into Karavasta Lagoon, known for its birdlife and scenic beauty. Starting from Durrës, the trip includes a boat ride through the lagoon, a walk on the Watch Tower 360, and a visit to the Karavasta Center for conservation insights. The tour is perfect for nature lovers, especially birdwatchers, and those wanting a relaxed boat experience.
The highlight is the chance to see flamingos and other wetland birds in their natural habitat while enjoying the tranquility of the Albanian countryside. The tour’s value lies in its focus on wildlife, with options to unwind at Divjakë Beach afterward. Reviewers love the scenery and the knowledgeable guides.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and those looking for a gentle, scenic boat experience.
6. Durres, Tirana & Golem: Karaburun & Sazan Boat Tour
Rated 5/5, this 9-hour full-day trip combines offshore exploration with cultural stops. Starting from Tirana, Golem, or Durres, it includes a boat cruise around Sazan Island, visits to Haxhi Ali Cave, and relaxing time on Karaburun’s beaches. The cruise offers opportunities to snorkel, swim, and admire rugged coastlines, making it perfect for active travelers who want a mix of adventure and scenery.
The tour is highly rated for its flexible itinerary and the chance to explore uninhabited islands and caves. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with a busy day, and reviews praise the friendly guides and the well-organized schedule.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive day for those seeking a mix of water-based exploration and coastal relaxation.
7. From Durres Golem: Vlora, Karaburun, Sazan Island Boat Tour
With a 5/5 rating, this full-day tour offers a deep dive into Albania’s coastal beauty from Durres or Golem. Traveling by bus to Vlora, the cruise explores Karaburun beaches, Sazan Island, and Haxhi Ali Cave. It features outstanding opportunities for snorkeling and sightseeing, with free time to wander or relax.
Many reviews emphasize the scenic boat ride, the unspoiled beaches, and the historical sights on Sazan. The trip is best suited for travelers who want a thorough exploration of the coastline and don’t mind a full day of activity.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting an immersive, full-day experience combining boat sailing with cultural and natural highlights.
8. From Tirana: Saranda, Blue Eye, Ksamil Islands Boat Tour
Rated 5/5, this day trip offers a scenic ride to Ksamil Islands, Blue Eye spring, and the charming Saranda. Starting from Tirana, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of southern Albania by water. Expect a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and photo stops, including visits to Lekursi Castle for panoramic views of Corfu.
The tour’s reviews praise its smooth organization and the chance to relax on beautiful beaches. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager to experience Albania’s coastal beauty from the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a comprehensive day trip combining natural wonders and coastal towns with minimal hassle.
9. From Tirana: Shala River and Komani Lake Boat Day Tour
Rated 5/5, this 12-hour tour explores the Shala River and Komani Lake, focusing on scenic boat rides and mountain scenery. Starting from Tirana, the trip includes a boat cruise through the lake and along the river, with stops for swimming and sightseeing. The guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery is stunning, especially for those who enjoy nature photography.
Many reviewers highlight the crystal-clear waters and the impressive views of the Albanian Alps. It’s suited for active travelers who enjoy both a boat ride and time to explore.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for nature lovers seeking a full day of adventure and landscape photography.
10. From Himara: Albanian Riviera Boat Tour With Swimming Stops
This 3-hour private boat offers a laid-back limo-style experience along the Albanian Riviera, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing. It’s geared toward those wanting a relaxed, intimate outing with drinks, music, and scenic city views.
Perfect for a special night or an evening cruise, the tour explores hidden coves, pirate caves, and beautiful coastlines. The focus on comfort and exclusivity makes it ideal for couples or groups celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: Best suited for a relaxed, private experience with plenty of swimming and scenic views.
11. 4-Days Albanian Riviera- Beach and Boat Tour
This multi-day tour combines beach days, boat trips, and archaeological sites across the Albanian Riviera. Covering Zvernec Island, Butrint, and Ksamil, it’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience with plenty of time on the water and land.
The boat trips include visits to islands and caves, with scenic stops at Dhermi and Llogara pass. The itinerary emphasizes relaxing at beaches and exploring UNESCO sites. Reviewers find it a great value for the in-depth exploration of southern Albania.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a slow-paced, multi-day adventure with multiple boat excursions.
12. From Tirana: 5-Day Albanian Riviera Tour with Boat Trips
Rated highly, this 5-day tour offers a blend of beach relaxation, UNESCO sites, and boat trips. It includes visits to Butrint, Gjirokastra, and Ksamil, with multiple boat excursions to Krorez and Kakome. The tour is well-suited for travelers wanting a longer, immersive experience with local culture and seaside adventures.
Reviews appreciate the combination of historical sites and scenic boat rides, making it a great value for those wanting to explore more deeply.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a longer, relaxed exploration with multiple boat experiences across several days.
13. From Tirana: Vlora Boat trip to Karaburun and Sazan Island
This 12-hour boat trip starts from Tirana and explores the coasts of Vlora, Sazan Island, and Karaburun. The cruise includes music and cocktails, making it a lively, enjoyable day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a social, fun experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing on the boat.
The route focuses on coastal scenery and island visits, with a flexible itinerary. Many reviews mention the friendly guides and the relaxed atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a lively, social boat trip with scenic views and drinks.
14. Tirana: 3-Day Guided Tour with Boat Trip and History
This three-day tour offers a comprehensive Albanian experience, including Durrës, Berat, Apollonia, and a boat trip in Vlorë Bay. It combines visits to historical sites with scenic boat rides, perfect for travelers wanting a mix of culture and nature.
The tour is praised for its in-depth approach and balance of land and water activities. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a thorough exploration and don’t mind a busy schedule.
Bottom Line: Best for history and culture enthusiasts seeking a multi-day adventure with boat excursions.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Tirana
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your interests, budget, and time available. For a peaceful nature walk and birdwatching, the Karavasta Lagoon might be your best bet. If you’re after adventure and exploration, the Sazan and Karaburun boat trips or the full-day Sazan & Ali Cave offer plenty of action.
For those short on time but eager to see the highlights, the Tirana to Blue Eye & Ksamil day trip is perfect. Budget travelers might prefer the 4-day or 5-day Riviera tours, which offer multiple experiences over several days.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season (spring to early fall), to secure your spot and get the best times.
Final Thoughts
Tirana opens the door to a variety of boat tours and cruises that showcase Albania’s stunning coastlines, islands, and hidden coves. Whether you prefer a relaxed day exploring Blue Eye and Ksamil, an adventurous cruise around Sazan Island, or a multi-day exploration of the Riviera, there’s something for all.
For families, the scenic, relaxed tours like the Blue Eye & Ksamil are ideal, while adventure seekers will appreciate trips like the Sazan and Karaburun. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Now, all that’s left is to choose your favorite route and get ready to enjoy Albania from the water.