Pelagic Boat Tour7 destinations:drink+Snorkel+Umbrella

Get Ready for a Memorable Day on the Water in Saranda

If you’re planning a trip to Albania’s stunning coastline, the Pelagic Boat Tour in Saranda promises an experience packed with breathtaking views, secret caves, and peaceful beaches. This 5.5-hour journey takes you across several carefully curated stops, each offering a unique slice of the Ionian’s beauty. What makes this tour stand out is its perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and value—especially considering its modest price of $30 per person.

One of the biggest draws for many travelers is how well-organized and engaging the trip is. From knowledgeable guides to scenic photo stops, this tour delivers a lot for a very reasonable fee. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t ideal for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, given its focus on boat travel and snorkeling. Overall, if you’re an adventurous soul eager to explore hidden gems and enjoy some downtime on gorgeous beaches, this trip could be a highlight of your time in Saranda.

Key Points

• Affordable luxury: At just $30, this tour offers excellent value with multiple stops and activities.
• Diverse destinations: From caves to beaches, each stop reveals a different facet of Saranda’s coast.
• Expert guidance: Guides like Nikola are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentive service.
• Scenic photography: Plenty of photo stops to capture stunning landscapes and hidden spots.
• Snorkeling and swimming: Includes masks and plenty of opportunities to dip into crystal-clear waters.
• Relaxed pace: The 3 hours at Krorez Beach allows ample time to rest, swim, and enjoy the sun.

An In-Depth Look at the Pelagic Boat Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour kicks off at a designated meeting point in Saranda, where a comfortable speedboat whisks you across the water for about 10 minutes before reaching the adventure’s first stop. This short ride helps build anticipation, and the boat itself is equipped with a captain, music, life jackets, and a friendly guide—Nikola, who receives glowing reviews for his attentiveness and local knowledge.

The Scenic Stops: Discovering Hidden Wonders

1. Turtle Cave and Anchor Cave
These caves are among the most talked-about highlights. With their stunning natural formations and clear waters, they’re perfect for photos and exploring with snorkeling masks provided on board. Reviewers mention that Nikola’s guidance made the experience more enjoyable, pointing out interesting features in the caves that casual visitors might overlook. The water here is often described as turquoise and inviting, making it a great spot to cool off and snap pictures.

2. Rojdhe Bay and Soldiers Beach
After the caves, the boat stops at Rojdhe Bay, a peaceful spot ideal for taking in scenic views or just relaxing. Soldiers Beach, another favorite, offers a secluded environment for swimming and snorkeling. Many reviews emphasize the tranquility and beauty here, noting that the calm waters and gentle waves make it an excellent choice for a lazy swim. The tour includes masks, so you can see the underwater world—reviewers love the variety of marine life and clarity of the water.

3. Kefali Cape and Kakome
Next, you’ll visit Kefali Cape’s dramatic cliffs, which provide stunning photo opportunities. The rugged landscape contrasts beautifully with the sea, and the guides often point out interesting geological features. Kakome, a hidden cove, is praised for its untouched feel and quiet ambiance. It’s a lovely spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery.

4. Pllakoto and Kroreza Beach
The longest stop is at Kroreza Beach, where you’ll spend approximately three hours. This stretch offers plenty of time for a leisurely lunch, sunbathing under umbrellas, swimming, or snorkeling. The reviews highlight that Nikola and the crew are attentive, ensuring everyone is comfortable and has what they need. The white pebbles and gentle waves at Pllakoto add to the relaxing vibe.

What to Expect During the Day

The itinerary is designed to balance activity and downtime, with about 15-minute stops at most locations. The boat is spacious enough to avoid feeling crowded, and the crew’s friendly approach makes even first-time snorkelers feel at ease. The included snorkeling masks are a big plus, making it simple for beginners to enjoy the underwater sights.

Lunch at Kroreza Beach isn’t included in the price but is available during the three-hour stop, and many travelers mention that simply relaxing with a drink and soaking up the sun makes the entire trip worthwhile. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the moments.

The Final Stops and Return

After Kroreza, the boat makes a brief final stop, giving you one last chance to snap photos or swim before heading back to the starting point. The entire journey is leisurely, with a total duration of around 5.5 hours, including the boat rides, stops, and free time on the beach.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This boat tour is ideal for travelers seeking affordable adventure and genuine local expertise. The low cost doesn’t mean skimping on quality—the guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and committed to ensuring everyone has a good time. The stops are carefully chosen to showcase the best of Saranda’s coast, from caves to beaches, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and photography.

If you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone eager to relax in stunning surroundings, this tour checks all those boxes. However, if you’re not comfortable on boats, or if you’re not interested in snorkeling, you might find the experience less enjoyable. Also, keep in mind that weather conditions can affect the tour—adverse seas could lead to cancellations for safety reasons, so it’s wise to plan with flexible dates.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Reviews suggest a friendly, small-group vibe, with Nikola and the crew making sure everyone feels well cared for. The group isn’t overly large, allowing for a more personalized experience, and the music on board adds a lively, fun touch.

Practical Details

• Price: $30 per person — excellent value considering the multiple stops and included snorkel gear.
• Duration: 5.5 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Included: Snorkel masks, an included drink, beach umbrella, life jackets, captain, and music.
• Not Included: Food, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is recommended.
• Language: Guides speak Albanian and English, making communication straightforward.
• Reservation options: You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Pelagic Boat Tour offers a fantastic way to explore the coast of Saranda without breaking the bank. For just $30, you’ll visit some of the most photogenic spots, enjoy multiple opportunities to swim and snorkel, and relax on a pristine beach for hours. The knowledgeable guides, especially Nikola, elevate the experience, making it both fun and informative.

It’s best suited for travelers who love adventure, scenic beauty, and genuine local experiences. If you’re a confident swimmer, curious about caves and secluded beaches, and looking for a value-packed activity, this tour will likely become a memorable highlight of your trip. However, those prone to seasickness or not into water activities might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

Overall, for the price and the quality of the experience, this boat tour in Saranda is a smart choice for anyone eager to discover the Ionian coast’s best-kept secrets in a relaxed, friendly setting.

FAQ

Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, snorkeling masks are provided on board, making it easy for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike to enjoy the underwater scenery.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Most stops last around 15 minutes, except for Kroreza Beach, where you’ll have about 3 hours to relax, swim, and enjoy your time.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food isn’t included. You’re encouraged to bring snacks or a packed lunch for the Kroreza Beach stop.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, camera, sunscreen, water, and snacks. The boat provides a beach umbrella for shade at the stop.

Can non-swimmers join?
It’s not ideal as the tour involves snorkeling and swimming, so non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness should consider this carefully.

How large are the groups?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest a friendly, small-group atmosphere with attentive guides.

What if the weather isn’t good?
Tours can be canceled due to bad weather or sea conditions for safety reasons. It’s best to check the forecast before your trip and have flexible plans.

Is there a guide on the tour?
Yes, Nikola Vranadhima (or guides like him) lead the tour, providing insightful commentary and ensuring everyone’s comfort.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can reserve now and choose to pay later—perfect for flexible planning. Just check availability for your preferred date.

How long in advance should I book?
Given the popularity and limited spots, booking a few days ahead is recommended, especially in peak seasons.

This detailed review aims to prepare you thoroughly for your adventure on the water in Saranda. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, fun water activities, or simply a relaxing day at the beach, this tour offers a compelling package that’s hard to beat in terms of both value and experience.