90min Boat Tour in Durres

90min Boat Tour in Durres: A Practical Dive into Albania’s Coastal Charm

Taking a boat trip along the Albanian coast is a fantastic way to see a different side of Durres—less crowded, more authentic, and wonderfully scenic. This 90-minute boat tour offered by Adventure Point combines a relaxed cruise with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and discovering hidden gems like a WWI sunken ship. With a limited group size of just nine people, it feels intimate but packed with enough fun to satisfy both families and friends alike.

What really stands out is how this tour balances adventure with comfort. The skilled guides keep the experience flowing smoothly, offering insights and helping you explore underwater history, all while ensuring everyone has a good time. A minor consideration? The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so planning ahead for snacks or beverages is wise. This trip suits those looking for a short, memorable sea experience that packs a punch—ideal for travelers who want a taste of the Adriatic without overcommitting.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Diving equipment and snorkeling gear are included, making exploration easy.
• Historic shipwreck at just 1.5 meters depth offers a unique underwater touchpoint.
• Highlights include swimming at Kallmi Beach, snorkeling the WWI wreck, and enjoying sea breeze with music and dancing.
• Value for money at $54 includes boat rental, skipper, fuel, and guidance.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or infants under 1 year, so plan accordingly.

An Authentic Sea Adventure in Durres

This 90-minute boat tour offers a practical and enriching way to explore Durres’s coastal waters. While short in duration, it’s carefully curated to give you a taste of both history and the lively, natural beauty of the Adriatic. The tour departs from the Port of Durrës, a convenient starting point for most travelers, and heads toward Kallmi Beach—a pristine strip of sand with calm, inviting waters.

The boat itself is shared, with a maximum of nine guests per trip, which means it avoids the crowded feeling of larger tour groups. The journey begins with a gentle cruise through the scenic waters, with the crew—friendly and knowledgeable—pointing out interesting sights along the way. As you glide toward the first stop, you’ll start to get a sense of the peaceful yet exciting vibe that sets this tour apart.

Exploring the Sunken WWI Shipwreck

Arguably the highlight for many, this tour’s underwater stop involves snorkeling at a sunken Austro-Hungarian ship from WWI, located just 1.5 meters below the surface. This shallow depth makes it ideal for snorkelers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned explorers. We loved the way the guide, who is both friendly and helpful, shared insights about the ship’s history, adding depth to the experience.

Reviewers like Dóra from Hungary praised the “amazing captain” and the “secret point” which turned out to be a surprisingly accessible and intriguing wreck. It’s a chance to float above a piece of maritime history, with plenty of time to snap photos of the surreal underwater scene. You don’t need special diving skills, just a sense of curiosity and a mask and snorkel—gear is provided.

Kallmi Beach and Relaxation Time

After the snorkel adventure, the boat gently moves toward Fisherman Beach, a less-visited corner of Durres with a relaxed vibe. Here, you can unwind with a cold drink while soaking up the sun and enjoying the gentle waves. Many reviews mention the “plenty of time to swim near the ship,” which is perfect for families or solo travelers wanting to cool off.

The crew often plays music onboard, adding a convivial atmosphere to the trip. Some guests, like Ella from Finland, appreciated the “very friendly staff,” making the whole experience feel like a small gathering rather than a commercial tour. It’s an unhurried stop, allowing everyone to take their time enjoying the water and scenery.

Additional Activities and Experience Highlights

Beyond snorkeling and swimming, this tour includes the chance to explore by boat, with some guests mentioning the fun of steering or simply relaxing with a cocktail or beer on deck. While drinks are not included, many travelers find that bringing their own adds to the enjoyment. The guide and skipper are attentive, ensuring safety and offering insights about the sights along the route.

For those interested in extra adventures, the tour’s inclusion of diving equipment and the opportunity to snorkel around a historic wreck truly enhance the value. Reviewers like Cappie from the Netherlands loved that they could do “snorkeling and even steer the boat,” making it more than just a passive cruise.

Practical Considerations: Timing, Cost, and Comfort

Priced at $54 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions—boat hire, fuel, a guide, and snorkeling gear. It’s a short, 1.5-hour experience, perfect for fitting into a busy travel schedule or as a warm-up activity before exploring Durres further.

The meeting point at Pilsen & Grill, near the port, is easy to find, and the small group size ensures a relaxed, personalized experience. The tour operates with flexibility; you can reserve now and pay later, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand—ideal for spontaneous plans or uncertain weather.

While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year, most other travelers will find it very accessible, especially with the shallow snorkeling spot and easygoing pace.

What’s Not Included & What to Bring

Keep in mind, food and alcohol are not included, so bringing snacks or drinks is recommended. Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, and a camera are essentials for enjoying the scenery and capturing the moment. Beachwear and a towel will come in handy for swimming or relaxing on deck. The crew emphasizes safety rules—no glass objects, no feeding animals, and no shoes indoors—so pack accordingly.

Authentic Feedback & What Travelers Love Most

Guests often praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge. Oladayo from the UK mentioned that “the sailor was a really nice person” who made every part of the cruise fun. Many reviewers, like Brigitte from the Netherlands, appreciated the “plenty of time to swim,” and Ella valued the “friendly staff” that made her experience memorable.

The most common compliments focus on the stunning views, the approachable guide, and the chance to enjoy a private-feeling tour without the hefty price tag. The opportunity to snorkel near a historic shipwreck also adds a special, educational twist.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip suits travelers seeking a short but genuine adventure on the water without the hassle of larger tours. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who value personalized attention and want to explore Albania’s coast in a relaxed setting. If you’re interested in history, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the sea breeze, this experience will serve you well.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children who might find the boat’s motion challenging. Also, if you’re after a full-day activity or gourmet food options, this quick trip might not satisfy those needs.

Final Thoughts: An Authentic Slice of Durres

This 90-minute boat tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, history, and relaxation, all within a small-group setting that ensures a personalized touch. You’ll love the way the guides seamlessly combine storytelling, fun, and safety, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. The opportunity to snorkel over a WWI wreck and swim at a quiet beach makes it stand out among more commercialized options.

Not only is it an excellent way to see the waters of Durres, but it also provides a memorable, authentic experience of Albania’s coastline. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, this trip delivers value, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure—making it a perfect addition to your Durres itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s ideal for kids over 1 year old, especially since snorkeling is at a shallow depth. Babies under 1 year are not suitable, and small children should be supervised at all times.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, and binoculars if you like. Snacks and drinks are not included, so consider bringing your own refreshments.

Can I snorkel if I don’t have much experience?
Yes. The snorkeling gear is provided, and the shallow depth of the wreck (1.5 meters) makes it accessible for all levels, including beginners.

Is the boat private or shared?
The boat is shared but limited to a maximum of 9 people, providing a more private and relaxed atmosphere.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy travel schedule without taking up a whole day.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat rental, skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment, and the guide.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind in case of changing plans or weather concerns.

This Durres boat tour combines the best of coastal exploration, history, and fun, all wrapped up in a cozy, small-group format. Whether you’re after a quick adventure or looking to add a splash of sea life and sun to your trip, it’s a worthwhile option for anyone eager to experience Albania’s maritime charm.