Sarande: Hidden Cave, Gremina, Kakome & Krorez Boat Tour

Exploring the north coast of Sarande by boat offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation — especially if you’re keen on discovering hidden caves and untouched beaches. This 6-hour tour, rated 4.7 out of 5 from over 260 reviews, is praised for its friendly guides, breathtaking scenery, and excellent value.

What really gets us excited about this experience is how it combines the thrill of exploring caves like Hidden Cave and Anchor Cave with ample opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun on Krorez Beach. The fact that you can choose between a private or shared boat makes it flexible for different travel styles.

One thing to bear in mind is that food and drinks aren’t included, so if you’re a snacker or need extra hydration, bring some snacks and cash — especially since Krorez has a bar and restaurant that only accepts cash. This tour suits travelers who love scenic boat rides, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and discovering lesser-known corners of Albania’s stunning coastline.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: The tour showcases some of the most beautiful coastlines of Sarande, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Caves and Hidden Spots: Explore two mysterious caves — Hidden Cave and Anchor Cave — each with unique natural features.
• Secluded Beaches: Enjoy significant free time at Krorez Beach and stops at Gremina, Kakome, and Lovers Bay for swimming and relaxing.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Ilir and Sokol are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile.
• Excellent Value: For around six hours of boat time, the experience offers a lot of variety at a reasonable price.
• Flexible Options: Choose between group or private boat tours, tailoring the experience to your preference.

An In-Depth Look at the Sarande Boat Tour

Starting Out: From Sarande to Hidden and Anchor Caves

The tour begins with a boat ride from Sarande, usually departing in the morning or early afternoon — check availability for exact times. The first stops take you to Hidden Cave and Anchor Cave, each about 20 minutes of exploration. These caves are highlights because of their natural formations and the chance to capture some impressive photos.

Travelers have shared how these caves reveal the raw beauty of Albania’s coastline. Reviewer Ellie mentions the “amazing” experience of visiting several spots for swimming and snorkeling, with equipment provided. Guides like Ilir are lauded for their local knowledge — Ilir even took a group to a nearly private beach, which added a special touch.

Snorkeling and Swimming at Beautiful Spots

Next, the boat makes its way to Gremina Bay, Kakome Bay, and Lovers Bay, all known for their clear waters and scenic surroundings. These stops are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with many reviewers noting the presence of abundant fish and the pristine quality of the water. Aryana raves about spotting an octopus and being in a “most amazing boat trip,” emphasizing how guides like Sokol are attentive and answer all questions.

The boat’s flexibility allows guests to simply relax on deck or jump in for a swim. The water quality is consistently praised, with many reviewers saying it’s some of the clearest they’ve seen — ideal for snorkeling or just wading in the shallow waters.

Krorez Beach: The Day’s Highlight

The final major stop is Krorez Beach, where the boat anchors for about 3 hours. This is a standout feature of the tour. Krorez is described as a stunning, almost untouched beach with lush green hills framing the blue waters.

Here, guests can snorkel, sunbathe, or grab a bite at the on-site restaurant or bar, though it’s worth noting that they only accept cash. Many reviews mention how the time at Krorez feels like a mini holiday — relaxing, scenic, and well worth the visit. Several guests appreciated the opportunity to unwind in a less crowded environment, especially since the tour suggests a later departure to avoid the busiest times.

The Experience: Guides, Value, and Atmosphere

Throughout the trip, guides like Ilir and Sokol are consistently praised for their friendliness, helpfulness, and knowledge. Ellie describes Ilir as “super friendly, helpful, and very knowledgeable,” often going above and beyond, including taking guests to secluded spots. Leah and Marta mentioned how their guides made the experience fun, informative, and relaxing.

The tour offers live commentary in English, Albanian, and Greek, helping international travelers feel included and informed. The boat itself is comfortable, with free umbrellas and a nice atmosphere — music is usually playing, and the experience feels more like a shared adventure than a rushed sightseeing trip.

Practical Details: Booking, Cost, and Inclusions

The tour lasts roughly 6 hours, with departure times depending on availability. Pricing is reasonable given the variety of stops, the length of the trip, and the quality of the experience. The cost includes the boat, the captain, fuel, a bottle of water, and a free umbrella, making it a solid value.

Note that food and drinks aren’t provided, so bringing snacks and cash for Krorez’s bar is advisable. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so travelers should arrange their own transport to the meeting point marked “lilyboatturi.”

The Experience You Get

This tour isn’t just about ticking off popular sights — it’s about soaking in the natural beauty in a relaxed, unhurried way. The stops are well spaced out, giving you plenty of time to swim, relax, or just take in the scenery. The guide’s local knowledge — especially about the best swimming spots and caves — adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers find valuable.

Why It Offers Great Value

With reviews emphasizing good value, this trip provides a full day of activity for a fair price. The ability to choose a private tour adds a touch of exclusivity if you prefer a more personalized experience. Plus, the option to swim in waters teeming with fish, explore caves, or lounge on a nearly deserted beach means it appeals to a wide range of travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who love being on the water, discovering hidden natural treasures, and taking plenty of photos. It’s also suited for those who appreciate a laid-back pace and want to escape the crowds — Krorez Beach is often described as a peaceful haven.

Families, couples, and solo travelers can all enjoy it, thanks to the flexible options and friendly guides. If you’re interested in snorkeling or just relaxing on a pristine beach, this tour hits the spot. It’s also perfect for anyone wanting to see the less commercialized side of Albania’s coastline.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour is Worth Your Time

This boat tour from Sarande offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic natural beauty. You’ll get to explore caves, swim in crystal-clear waters, and unwind on one of Albania’s most picturesque beaches. The guides, especially Ilir and Sokol, help elevate the experience with their local knowledge and friendly attitude, making it feel more like a day spent with friends than a typical tour.

The value for money is evident, considering the length, variety of stops, and quality of the sights. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the coastline away from the crowds, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photos along the way. If you’re after a day of fun, photo-worthy scenery, and discovering some of Albania’s best kept secrets, this trip is a fantastic choice.

For travelers who prioritize comfort, memorable sights, and a relaxed pace, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to bring cash for Krorez, snacks for the day, and your camera — you’ll want to capture every moment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families and kids enjoying the stops for swimming and relaxing. Just ensure children are comfortable in a boat and swimming.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks, cash (for Krorez’s bar and restaurant), sunscreen, swimwear, towels, and possibly snorkeling gear if you prefer your own.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, boat tours generally depend on good weather. Check the forecast and cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is the free time at Krorez Beach?
You get about 3 hours to relax, swim, or explore the beach.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private groups are available if you prefer a more tailored experience.

Are drinks or food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are options at Krorez, and you should bring cash for those.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak English, Albanian, and Greek.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to reserve early, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and group size.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the “lilyboatturi” sign, the designated meeting point.

This Sarande boat tour offers a fantastic way to experience the coast’s natural wonders, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it promises a memorable day on Albania’s stunning waters.