From Ksamil: Tongo Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch

If you’re considering a day out on the water around Ksamil, the Tongo Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch offers a refreshing mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and tasty food. This full-day excursion takes you across some of Albania’s most stunning coastal spots, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Ionian Sea. What makes this trip particularly appealing is its combination of scenic stops, friendly guides, and a delicious barbecue that makes the whole experience feel like a well-balanced adventure.

One of the standout features? The chance to see dolphins jumping parallel to your boat—if luck’s on your side—and the well-organized stops at Blue Lagoon, Tongo Island, and Ftelea Beach. A minor consideration is that the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll want to plan accordingly for your transportation to the meeting points. This tour suits travelers who love the ocean, want a taste of authentic Albanian coastal life, and enjoy a planned yet flexible day on the water.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and clear waters make for excellent photo opportunities and memorable swims.
• Flexible stops for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing — perfect for all ages and activity levels.
• Tasty BBQ lunch with fresh grilled fish, vegetables, and Feta cheese provides a true taste of the region.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience with helpful tips.
• Limited group size (about 20 people) creates an intimate atmosphere without feeling crowded.
• No hotel pickup included, so plan to meet at the designated points.

Exploring the Tongo Island Boat Tour from Ksamil

This boat trip offers a comprehensive look at some of Albania’s most picturesque seaside spots. It’s a full-day outing designed to balance activity and relaxation, making it ideal for those who love being on the water but also enjoy scenic breaks. The journey begins at Bora Bora Beach in Ksamil, where your adventure sets sail into the Ionian Sea, immediately promising mesmerizing views and a lively boat atmosphere.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Bora Bora Beach

Your day kicks off at Bora Bora Beach, a popular spot with a relaxed vibe and plenty of space to gather your gear. After a quick check-in, your boat, usually accommodating around 20 people, departs for the first scenic stop.

Photo Stop & Sightseeing (10 Minutes)

The first highlight is a viewpoint where you get a quick chance to snap photos of the coastline and the islands beyond. While brief, this moment gives you a taste of what’s to come—amazing vistas of the Ionian Sea and the rugged Albanian coastline.

Scuba Diving Stop (30 Minutes)

The next stop is a “secret” scuba diving spot. Reviewers mention that knowing where to look for fish can be tricky unless guided properly, so it’s a good idea to pay close attention if you want to spot marine life. The divers among us will appreciate the chance to explore underwater, while those who prefer to stay dry can enjoy the surrounding scenery.

Jungle Swing & Hidden Gem

The boat then moves on to a jungle swing, a fun addition that delivers some lightheartedness amid the natural beauty. Later, you’ll visit a hidden gem—a calm beach with scenic views, perfect for a picnic, a swim, or simply soaking up the sun. Here, the guides often set up a BBQ lunch — grilled fish or chicken, vegetables, feta, bread, and fresh fruits, served on the beach or aboard the boat.

Extended Relaxation & Activities

After lunch, you’ll have around three hours to relax on Ftelea Beach, a tranquil spot with soft sand and crystal-clear waters. According to reviews, the food served here is very tasty, with some guests noting the grilled fish and vegetables as highlights. Others mention the staff grilling the food directly on the boat, adding a fresh, authentic touch to the meal.

Return Journey & Final Stops

As the day winds down, the boat heads back toward Ksamil, passing scenic viewpoints and enjoying the sunset if timing aligns. Some reviews mention additional activities like rock jumping or swimming near the islands, adding to the sense of adventure.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes unlimited water and soft drinks, snorkeling gear, a barbecue lunch, fishing equipment, and an English-speaking guide. You’ll also have access to umbrellas for shade and friendly staff attending to your needs.

However, hotel pickup and sunbeds are not included, so preparing for your meeting point in Ksamil is essential. If you prefer lounging on a sunbed at the beach, be prepared to bring your own or seek nearby options.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Details

What sets this tour apart is the balance between organized stops and flexible free time. For instance, one reviewer mentions that the staff grilled the food on the boat, and guests could choose whether to eat on board or on the beach, giving you control over your comfort.

The tour’s group size offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for engaging with guides and fellow travelers. The guides, primarily speaking Albanian and English, are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. One review specifically notes that while the view and swimming opportunities are the main focus, some guests wished guides would accompany those wanting to dive deeper or explore further.

Timing-wise, expect the trip to last around a full day, with departure and return to Ksamil in the late afternoon. It’s worth noting that the cancellation policy allows full refunds if you cancel 24 hours in advance, adding some peace of mind.

The Experience on the Water

The overall experience is quite immersive. The boat rides are smooth, and the chance to see dolphins soaring alongside the boat is an exciting bonus—if you’re lucky, you might catch this lively spectacle. The crystal-clear waters lure you in for swims and snorkeling, where you’ll discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life, according to those who went snorkeling.

One reviewer mentioned that the bays visited are only accessible by boat, making this trip a unique way to see parts of Ksamil that are otherwise off-limits. The Blue Lagoon is especially praised for its turquoise waters—perfect for a quick swim or just floating in the calm sea.

Food and Drink

The BBQ lunch is a highlight, offering freshly grilled fish or chicken, along with vibrant vegetables, feta cheese, and fruits. Reviewers describe the food as very tasty and well-prepared, with some appreciating the casual, on-the-boat grilling that adds a layer of authenticity.

Soft drinks and bottled water are available freely, though some mention that beer (draft or canned) might come with an additional charge, so if you’re a beer lover, bring some cash.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a full day of seaside adventure without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It’s suitable for families, couples, and groups who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in scenic spots. Non-swimmers might find the snorkeling and swimming enjoyable, though cautious swimmers should stay close to the boat.

If you’re after authentic local flavors and a chance to enjoy Albania’s coastal beauty from the water, this tour hits all those marks. It’s less about structured sightseeing and more about relaxing in beautiful surroundings, making it perfect for those who want a laid-back but memorable day.

The Sum Up

The Tongo Island boat tour from Ksamil offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to explore Albania’s coast. With stunning vistas, the possibility of dolphin sightings, and a delicious BBQ lunch, it combines adventure and relaxation in a seamless package. The friendly guides, small group size, and flexible stops make it a great value for those wanting to experience the Ionian Sea authentically.

If you love the idea of swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden beaches, and sharing a tasty grilled meal with new friends, this tour is certainly worth considering. Keep in mind that it doesn’t include hotel transfers, so plan your meeting point in Ksamil accordingly. Overall, it’s a practical choice for travelers seeking a memorable, scenic day out on Albania’s beautiful coastline.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point in Ksamil.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Don’t forget your sense of adventure.

Can non-swimmers join this tour?
Yes, but they should be comfortable in the water, as snorkeling and swimming are part of the experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness may want to consider this trip carefully.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is a full day, usually departing in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Is food included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch with grilled fish or chicken, vegetables, feta cheese, bread, and fruits is included.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited water and soft drinks are provided; alcoholic drinks may be available at an extra cost.

What activities are available?
Snorkeling, swimming, sightseeing, rock jumping, and relaxing on the beaches.

Is the group size large?
No, the group typically includes about 20 people, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

What language do guides speak?
Guides primarily speak Albanian and English, making the experience accessible to most travelers.

This boat trip from Ksamil offers a practical, scenic escape perfect for those wanting a day on the water that combines stunning views, engaging activities, and delicious local food — all in one memorable package.