Ksamil: Tongo Island Boat Tour with Lunch

If you’re looking to combine scenic beauty, authentic local flavors, and a touch of adventure, then a boat trip from Ksamil to Tongo Island might just be your perfect day out. While we haven’t personally been on this tour, detailed reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect from this 7-hour adventure. It’s clear that this experience appeals most to those craving a mix of stunning water views, relaxed island hopping, and a hearty, fresh meal to cap it all off.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see the famous Ksamil Islands and Tongo Island up close, snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and enjoy a delicious onboard lunch featuring local seafood. The relaxed pace and friendly guides make it easy to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. That said, one potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or very young children under one year, so it’s best suited for active travelers with a sense of adventure.

This trip would work beautifully for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy water activities, and want a taste of authentic Albanian cuisine—all wrapped into one day. If you’re looking for a manageable, engaging excursion that combines sightseeing with relaxation, this tour offers a solid value.

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Key Points

Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Albanian coastline and pristine waters.
Island Visits: Explore the famous Ksamil Islands and Tongo Island, perfect for photos and relaxation.
Snorkeling: Dive into clear waters abundant with vibrant marine life using provided gear.
Authentic Lunch: Savor a freshly prepared seafood meal or local dishes onboard.
Guided Experience: Friendly guides share insights about the area’s history and culture.
Suitable for Active Travelers: Not ideal for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or infants under 1 year.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins in Ksamil, a lively seaside village known for its turquoise waters and sandy beaches. The meeting point, provided by the crew, offers an easy start to what promises to be a full day of exploration and relaxation.

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Visiting Ksamil Islands and Tongo Island

The first stops take you to the Ksamil Islands—a cluster of small, picturesque islands that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Travelers report that the beaches here are incredibly clear and visually striking, making them a favorite for capturing memorable photos. As one reviewer mentioned, “The water was so transparent you could see all the way to the bottom, even with snorkeling gear.”

Tongo Island, often highlighted as the tour’s highlight, offers a more secluded feel. Its unspoiled beauty and peaceful ambiance make it a great spot to unwind. The boat usually anchors here for a while, giving you plenty of opportunity to relax, swim, or snorkel.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Snorkeling gear is included, and many reviews emphasize how vibrant the underwater world is—full of colorful fish and interesting rock formations. The crew is praised for their friendly attitude and helpfulness, making the snorkeling experience accessible for beginners and seasoned swimmers alike. One reviewer noted, “The guides pointed out different fish and even some small octopuses hiding near the rocks, which was a fun surprise.”

Lunch on Board

The highlight for many is the onboard lunch, which features fresh seafood or local dishes. The quality and freshness of the food are often praised, with travelers noting that the seafood is clearly sourced daily. The setting—enjoying a hearty meal with the sea breeze and panoramic views—adds to the overall experience.

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Additional Highlights

Throughout the day, guides share interesting tidbits about the area’s history and cultural background, enriching the trip beyond just sightseeing. The relaxed cruise, with time to sunbathe or just enjoy the scenery, makes the whole experience feel like a mini escape from daily life.

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Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts about 7 hours, with start times varying depending on availability. It’s recommended to check ahead for specific departure times to fit your schedule. Most travelers find the pace comfortable, with enough time at each stop to swim, relax, and enjoy lunch.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Though not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a friendly, small-group atmosphere typical of guided tours—ideal for those who enjoy a more intimate experience rather than large, impersonal boat trips.

Transportation and Meeting Point

The boat departs directly from Ksamil, with the meeting point provided by the crew. The return is to the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

Cost and Value

Pricing isn’t specified here, but considering the included snorkeling gear, guided tour, lunch, and boat transport, this tour generally offers solid value. The experience combines natural beauty, cultural insight, and delicious food in one package—more than just a sightseeing ride.

Environmental and Accessibility Notes

Because the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or children under 1, it’s best for those in good health and comfortable around water activities. Bring essentials like sunscreen, water, a hat, towel, camera, and swimwear for a comfortable day.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

Reviews reveal that many find the views breathtaking, saying, “You can’t beat the scenery, especially cruising past the rocky coastlines and islands.” The snorkeling often gets high praise, with comments like “The waters are so clear, it feels like swimming in an aquarium.” The food, in particular, receives compliments on its freshness and flavor, making it a highlight even for picky eaters.

One traveler noted how the guides made the experience special, saying, “They shared stories and pointed out little details, which made the trip more memorable.” The relaxed, friendly vibe is often mentioned as a key part of what makes this tour enjoyable.

The Sum Up

This boat tour from Ksamil to Tongo Island offers a well-rounded snapshot of Albania’s stunning coastal beauty. It’s best suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, water-based activities, and authentic local cuisine—all in a manageable, 7-hour window. The focus on natural scenery, snorkeling, and fresh seafood makes it a compelling choice for those looking to experience the Albanian Riviera beyond land-based excursions.

While it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or expecting a very relaxed, slow-paced trip, active travelers will appreciate the opportunity to swim, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. The guides’ friendly approach and the high-quality food elevate the experience from a simple boat ride to a memorable day of discovery.

If you’re after a taste of Albania’s coast with plenty of photo opportunities, chances to cool off in crystal waters, and a delicious meal in a beautiful setting, this tour offers excellent value and plenty of authentic charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 7 hours, starting in the morning and concluding back in Ksamil.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a boat trip visiting Ksamil Islands and Tongo Island, snorkeling gear, lunch and refreshments, and friendly guides.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or pregnant women, and the activity may be too active for very young children. It’s best suited for active travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is provided by the crew in Ksamil, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water for a comfortable day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for last-minute changes.

This boat trip combines the best of Albania’s coastline with relaxed island visits, snorkeling adventures, and tasty local food—it’s an experience suited for those seeking an active, scenic escape that highlights the natural beauty and flavors of the Albanian Riviera.