Explore Secrets of Ionian Sea in Saranda, lunch included

Travelers looking for a full-day adventure in Albania’s coastal waters might find the Explore Secrets of Ionian Sea tour in Saranda to be quite appealing. This all-inclusive boat experience promises access to hidden beaches, delicious meals, and the chance to see underwater life, all within a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the accessibility to remote beaches that can’t be reached by car, giving you a sense of exclusivity. Second, the inclusive nature of the package—from tickets and lunch to unlimited drinks—ensures no stress over extra costs. Third, the opportunity to see the Italian shipwreck and explore the beauty of the Ionian Sea’s underwater world via the semi-submarine, a rare attraction in Albania.

One possible drawback is the loud music, a common complaint from past guests, which can interfere with conversations or quiet moments. This tour is best suited for those who love lively atmospheres and stunning scenery but may not be ideal if you’re seeking tranquility or a more subdued experience.

This boat trip is perfect for adventurous travelers, food lovers, and those eager to discover lesser-known beaches. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—and plenty of reasons to come back.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package covers tickets, lunch, and unlimited drinks
• Remote beaches accessible only by boat, such as Krorez Beach
• Delicious on-board lunch with options for different appetites
• Unique semi-submarine experience at a 20% discount
• Multiple swimming stops with snorkeling opportunities
• Lively atmosphere with music that might be too loud for some

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off around 10:00 AM at the Limani in Saranda, setting sail for a day filled with beautiful sights and relaxing stops. The journey ends back in Saranda around 5:00 PM, making it a full, well-paced day on the water.

Starting Point & Early Morning: Depart from Limani in Saranda, with the crew welcoming guests aboard a spacious boat known as Si Saranda. The group size appears to be moderate, allowing for a relatively intimate experience but still lively and social.

First Stops – Gremina, Soldiers Beach & More: The boat makes its way to the coast, with stops at iconic spots like Gremina and Soldiers Beach. These stops are prized for their pristine waters and photo opportunities. While some reviewers noted that the stops are “nice” and provide a chance to snap photos and relax, others mentioned overcrowding at certain spots, which can affect comfort. Still, the views and crystal-clear water make these moments worthwhile.

Krorez Beach: The highlight for many guests is Krorez Beach, a stunning, remote stretch of sand and pebbles only accessible by boat. Here, travelers can stay for up to 2.5 hours for swimming and sunbathing. Bring your snorkel gear if you can, as the water clarity makes for great underwater exploration. Reviewers mention that the water here is “crystal-clear,” and some even jumped into the sea from the deck—a highlight for thrill-seekers.

Lunch & Relaxation: After Krorez, lunch is served on the boat, with options tailored to different appetites—from simple sandwiches to generous seafood platters. The food quality gets positive mentions, especially the fish dishes, and the included meals save travelers from hunting for local restaurants during the busy day. Many reviews note that the lunch arrives later in the afternoon, around 2:00-2:30 PM, which might be a little late for some.

Swimming & Snorkeling at Bay of Kakome & Rojdhe: The next stops include the Bay of Kakome and the Bay of Rojdhe, where guests can snorkel and swim in calm, clear waters. These are some of the most praised parts of the trip, with reviews highlighting the beautiful, accessible snorkeling spots. Expect about 30-45 minutes at each location for underwater exploration.

Semi-Submarine Option: For an extra cost, guests can opt for a semi-submarine tour, exploring the seabed and underwater flora and fauna. This is quite a unique offering in Albania, and guests have appreciated the chance to see the underwater world without getting wet. Those who took advantage of the 20% discount praise it as a “unique” aspect of the day trip.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Access to Hidden Beaches

The remote Krorez Beach is the star of this tour, providing a peaceful retreat away from crowded coastal resorts. The fact that it’s only reachable via boat adds an element of exclusivity, and the two and a half hours allocated gives ample time to swim, sunbathe, and just relax.

Quality Food & Drinks

The lunch served onboard is surprisingly good, with options ranging from sandwiches to seafood. Guests especially appreciate that the package includes unlimited soft drinks and beer, making it easy to stay refreshed all day. The family-run vibe of the boat also shines through in friendly service, as noted by many reviewers.

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Unique Underwater Experiences

The semi-submarine tour, available at a discount, offers a rare chance in Albania to peek beneath the surface at underwater life and WWII shipwrecks. This feature elevates the trip from a simple boat ride to a mini-adventure.

Relaxed Atmosphere & Scenic Views

The boat’s spacious design and the breezy, open deck make for comfortable lounging, and the scenery is truly stunning. Many guests mention how beautiful the coastline and water are, making it a perfect backdrop for leisurely photos or just soaking in the views.

Things to Keep in Mind

The Music & Atmosphere

One recurring critique is the loud music played throughout the day. Past guests have found it overwhelming, to the point where conversations are difficult, and some simply waited for the trip to end. If you prefer serene surroundings, this might be a consideration.

Timing of Meals and Crowding

While the lunch is tasty, it can come quite late in the day, around 2:00-2:30 PM, which may not align with everyone’s schedule. Plus, some reviewers mention the boat can get overcrowded, especially at popular stops, affecting comfort and seating arrangements.

Weather & Cancellations

Weather plays a role in whether the tour runs smoothly. Several reviews mention cancellations due to wind, with one reviewer noting poor communication about cancellations. If wind or rough seas are forecasted, the tour might be canceled, but the staff generally offers alternative days or refunds if you cancel within the policy window.

Price & Overall Value

At $59 per person, the tour offers reasonable value, especially considering the included meals, drinks, and unique spots visited. The all-inclusive setup eliminates worries about extra costs, making it a good deal for those who want a hassle-free day.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This boat trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who love scenic, accessible beaches and are happy with a lively atmosphere. It’s a good pick for those seeking good value for money, delicious food, and the chance to see underwater sights without extra hassle.

Families and couples will appreciate the relaxed pace and beautiful scenery, though those sensitive to loud music or overcrowding might want to prepare accordingly. If your idea of a perfect trip involves peaceful, quiet moments, this might not be the ideal choice. However, if you’re after a fun, social day on the water with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour hits many marks.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
The tour includes boat tickets, lunch, and unlimited soft drinks and beer. You can choose from three packages depending on your appetite, from sandwiches to seafood.

How long is the tour?
It departs around 10:00 AM and returns approximately at 5:00 PM, giving you a full day of exploring, swimming, and relaxing.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Gremina, Soldiers Beach, Krorez Beach, Bay of Kakome, and Bay of Rojdhe. Krorez is the highlight for swimming and sunbathing.

Is snorkeling available?
Yes, at the Bay of Kakome and Rojdhe, with about 30-45 minutes at each spot. The water clarity makes for great underwater views.

Can I experience the underwater world without getting wet?
Absolutely. The semi-submarine offers a chance to see the seabed and underwater life without diving in, and there’s a discount available for this experience.

What about the food?
The onboard meals are well-reviewed, with options ranging from sandwiches to seafood, and are served late morning or early afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
While generally suitable for most, it’s not recommended for people over 230 lbs (104 kg), and those who prefer a quieter, less crowded environment might find the loud music and busy stops challenging.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Saranda offers a lively, scenic day exploring some of the Ionian Sea’s best-kept secrets. Its biggest strengths lie in the remote beaches, tasty food, and the semi-submarine experience, which appeals to travelers eager for both relaxation and adventure.

The all-inclusive pricing saves hassle, and the staff’s friendly, family-run service adds a personal touch. While some guests find the music loud and the crowding a bit much, most agree the overall experience delivers good value for money, especially given the stunning scenery and the chance to discover underwater treasures.

This tour is ideal for group travelers, families, or anyone wanting a fun and scenic day at sea. Just be prepared for a lively atmosphere and the possibility of weather-related cancellations. If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic boat adventure along the Albanian coast, this trip is definitely worth considering.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before booking, and remember that cancellations due to wind are possible but typically involve rescheduling or refunds if you cancel in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: