Saranda: Full-Day Boat Tour with Beach Stops & Swimming

This full-day boat adventure in Saranda offers a wonderful way to explore some of the most scenic and secluded spots along the Albanian Ionian coast. For roughly six hours, you’ll glide past towering cliffs, secret coves, and untouched beaches that are only accessible by boat—meaning that you’re in for a peaceful, crowd-free experience. The tour’s highlights include swimming in crystal-clear waters, capturing stunning photos of natural rock formations, and relaxing on pristine beaches.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure with relaxation. You get plenty of time to swim, snap photos, and unwind in nature’s quiet corners. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make the journey engaging and informative, adding local insights that elevate the experience. A possible consideration is that it’s a long day with multiple stops, so travelers should be prepared for a full schedule.

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave authentic, scenic encounters with nature—perfect for photo enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a break from busy beaches or crowded tourist spots. If you’re eager to explore Albania’s hidden coastline and enjoy quality time in the water, this trip might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Secluded Beaches & Coveted Coves: Reach spots only accessible by boat, avoiding crowds.
• Stunning Photo Opportunities: Capture natural rock formations like Turtle Cave and serene bays.
• Long & Relaxing Stop at Krorez Beach: Plenty of time for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking.
• Expert Guides & Smooth Ride: Local guides with good knowledge, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
• Affordable Value: At $35 per person, this tour offers a lot of scenic value for a reasonable price.
• Ideal for Active & Nature-Loving Travelers: Good mix of adventure, relaxation, and photography.

An In-Depth Look at the Saranda Boat Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

The tour starts from a central point where you’ll hop onto a speedboat, giving you a quick, fun 30-minute ride along the coastline. From there, the adventure truly begins with a series of well-paced stops designed to maximize your experience of Albania’s unspoiled coastline.

First Stop: Turtle Cave (Shpella e Breshkave)
This is a quick but memorable visit to a unique sea cave. You won’t spend hours here, but stopping for photos of the iconic rock formations is well worth it. One review mentions that while the cave visit is brief, it’s perfect for capturing stunning shots—the natural scenery here is quite dramatic and photogenic.

Next: The Bay of Spiranca (Gjiri i Spirancës)
Another short stop to take in the peaceful, crystal-clear waters. It’s a favorite among photographers thanks to its serene setting and transparency. The reviews highlight how beautiful this spot is, offering a moment of calm before moving on to more active parts of the tour.

The Cliff (Gremina): A Swim & Quick Sightseeing
Here, the guide will give you about 30 minutes to jump off the boat and enjoy a refreshing swim. The deep blue waters are inviting, and the thrill of jumping off the boat adds a touch of adventure. Reviewers rave about the quality of the swim spot and the friendly, energetic guides who encourage everyone to enjoy the water.

Kakome Bay: Calm Waters & Relaxation
One of the tour’s highlights, Kakome Bay, is praised for its untouched beauty. You’ll spend around 30 minutes swimming or relaxing in its calm, clear waters. The peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for unwinding and snapping photos of the rugged coastline.

Long Stop at Krorez Beach (Krorez Plazh)
This is the centerpiece of the tour—spending 3 to 4 hours here allows for plenty of downtime. You can sunbathe, explore, or even enjoy a picnic or lunch on the beach. Multiple reviews mention how this pristine beach feels like a slice of paradise, with travelers appreciating the relaxed pace and natural beauty. It’s an excellent spot for a more leisurely break away from crowds.

Final Stop: Rroidhe Beach / Lovers Bay
The last stop is brief—around 30 minutes—but enough for one last swim or some photos to close out the day. Reviewers note that it’s a fitting finale, with clear waters and peaceful surroundings.

The Experience on the Water: Comfort & Connection

The boat itself is described as clean, comfortable, and spacious, contributing significantly to the overall enjoyment. The small group size—limited to 10 participants—means you’ll get personalized attention from guides who speak English, Italian, and Albanian. This makes communication easy and adds a friendly, intimate vibe, with many reviewers mentioning the guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge.

The ride along the coast offers stunning views of rocky cliffs and lush surroundings, making it a visual feast. The quick, 30-minute speedboat transfer between stops ensures you spend more time exploring than traveling, which maximizes your experience.

Guides & Local Insights

Multiple reviews highlight how guides like Angelo and others go above and beyond—not just taking you to the highlights but also suggesting lesser-known spots with fewer crowds. They’re praised for their humor, energy, and care, making the day more enjoyable and informative. Having a guide who knows the area well can be invaluable, especially when looking for the best photo angles or quiet beaches.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $35, the tour covers all the boat transportation, visiting Turtle Cave, Bay of Spiranca, Kakome Bay, Krorez Beach, and Rroidhe Beach. The price is quite reasonable considering the length and quality of the experience, especially with the long stop at Krorez. Meals and drinks aren’t included, so bringing your own snacks or cash for a picnic or refreshments is advisable.

Practical Details & Tips

• Timing & Duration: The full tour lasts about 6 hours, starting with a 30-minute boat ride, and includes multiple stops, some brief, others longer.
• What to Bring: Sunglasses, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, camera, and cash.
• Group Size & Language: Small groups (max 10), guides speak English, Italian, and Albanian.
• Suitability: Not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues, given the full-day nature and some physical activity involved.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

If you’re after a blend of adventure, relaxation, and genuine natural beauty, this boat tour hits the mark. The stops at secluded beaches and caves offer a chance to experience Albania’s coastline away from the crowds—something many travelers find invaluable. The long stay at Krorez Beach, in particular, is appreciated for its tranquility and scenic appeal, making it a highlight for those who want to truly unwind.

Pricing at $35 per person delivers a high-value experience—especially considering how much time you spend exploring different locations and swimming in clear waters. The guides’ local expertise and friendly demeanor elevate the experience further, making it more than just a boat ride but a memorable journey.

While the day is quite packed, the slow-paced stops and the natural beauty compensate for the long hours. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and water-based fun. If you love taking photos, snorkeling (if you wish to bring your gear), or simply soaking up peaceful coastal views, this tour will satisfy your wanderlust.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for those looking to escape the busy beaches and discover Albania’s hidden gems. It’s best for travelers who want a balanced day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing on untouched sands. The intimate group setting and knowledgeable guides make it suitable for anyone who appreciates authentic experiences and scenic adventures.

It’s also great for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized day without breaking the bank. The inclusion of multiple stops, ample swimming time, and the chance to enjoy some of the most beautiful coastline in Albania make this tour a standout option.

If your idea of a perfect day involves a boat, some natural wonders, and plenty of opportunities to dip into calm, clear waters—this is one experience you shouldn’t miss.

FAQs

How long is the boat tour?
The full tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat tour along the Ionian coast, visits to Turtle Cave, Bay of Spiranca, Kakome Bay, Krorez Beach, and Rroidhe Beach, plus swimming opportunities.

Are meals provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own snacks or cash for on-beach purchases is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or travelers with certain health issues, mainly due to the full-day schedule and some physical activities like swimming.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, and cash. Don’t forget to dress for the weather and pack some snacks.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, friendly group with personalized attention.

Do guides speak English?
Yes, guides are fluent in English, Italian, and Albanian, making communication easy for international travelers.

This Saranda boat tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and peaceful escape along Albania’s coast. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to experience the untouched beauty of the area while enjoying time in the water and snapping memorable photos. Whether you’re an adventure lover or just in need of a calm day by the sea, this trip delivers.