If you’re dreaming of a day spent soaking up sun, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and discovering Albania’s lesser-known coastal gems, this boat tour from Sarande might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, a thorough review of the experiences, reviews, and details paints a vivid picture of what to expect.
What really catches the eye? The chance to visit five breathtaking spots along the Albanian coast, the option to paddleboard and snorkel, and the opportunity to spend a full two hours at Kroreza Beach—a rarity for such tours. There’s also the ease of a well-organized schedule starting at 10:00 AM and wrapping up around 4:00 PM, making it perfect for a day trip without feeling rushed. Of course, a possible consideration is that some might find certain stops a bit choppy or crowded, but overall, this tour offers genuine value for those seeking authentic, scenic, and active coastal experiences.
This tour is ideal for travelers who love a mix of relaxation and adventure, appreciate stunning scenery, and are happy to bring their own snacks. If you’re looking for a leisurely yet lively day exploring Albania’s coastline, this could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Scenic coastal stops with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding
- Extended 2-hour stop at Kroreza for relaxing, eating, or exploring
- All necessary gear like snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and umbrellas included
- Good value at $41 per person, including drinks and equipment
- Group size tends to be manageable, with reviews mentioning around 8-18 people
- Ideal for active travelers comfortable with boat rides and outdoor water activities
Exploring the Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special
This tour covers five distinct beaches and bays along the Albanian coast, each offering its own vibe and scenery. The day begins at Limani Harbor in Sarande at 10:00 AM, where you’ll meet the friendly crew who will be guiding your adventure. From there, the boat heads out into the water, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic ride and get a feel for the coastline.
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Gremina Bay and Kakome
Your first stops are at Gremina Bay and Kakome, which are known for their tranquil waters and natural beauty. These spots are perfect for a quick dip or trying out the snorkeling gear provided. Reviewers have noted how easy it is to jump into the water and explore the marine life, with some mentioning goggles and snorkels being available for free. Expect short 10-15 minute stops, giving just enough time to cool off before moving on to the next location.
Kroreza Beach — The Highlight
The highlight of this tour is absolutely the 2-hour stop at Kroreza Beach. Here, you’ll find yourself in a crystal-clear cove with golden sands—an ideal place for lounging, swimming, or exploring. Guests have called it “fantastic,” with some noting that it’s not overly crowded, despite other boats being there. The review from Richard points out how the beach was “fantastic, and not too busy” with about 15 other boats, making it a peaceful escape.
You can relax on the provided umbrerellas, try paddleboarding, or snorkel directly from the shore. If hunger strikes, bring along your own food or visit the charming beachside restaurant, which serves freshly grilled fish, chicken, salads, and cold drinks—a true treat after a swim.
Military Bay and Rrojdhe Bay
On the journey back, the boat makes additional stops at Military Bay and Rrojdhe Bay. These are lesser-known spots, but reviews suggest they’re equally stunning, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photo-taking. The boat’s small size and the flexible stops mean you can enjoy each location at a relaxed pace.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat to Expect Onboard and During the Tour
This tour offers a comfortable boat ride suited for groups of around 8-18 people, ensuring a more intimate experience. The boat is equipped with life jackets, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and umbrellas, all included in the price. The reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the guides are, especially someone named Lad, who was praised for his attentiveness and helpfulness—like carrying supplies ashore to keep them dry.
The timing of the stops is designed to give you plenty of time for a swim and exploring, with about 10-15 minutes at most locations and two full hours at Kroreza. This allows travelers to really unwind and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.
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Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not
Included:
- Life jackets and snorkeling gear, which makes exploring underwater safe and accessible
- Paddleboards for a bit of active fun—great for all ages and skill levels
- Refreshing drinks to cool off during the day
- Umbrellas for shade when relaxing on the beach
Not included:
- Food, so plan to bring snacks or dine at Kroreza’s beachside restaurant if you want a proper meal.
Meeting Point & Timing
Meet at Limani Harbor, located along Sarande’s main promenade, at least 20 minutes before the scheduled 10:00 AM departure. The activity concludes back at the starting point around 4:00 PM, making it a manageable day trip.
What to Bring
Travelers should pack sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for extras or souvenirs. It’s wise to arrive early to ensure smooth boarding and to avoid missing any part of this lively day.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
The reviews give a vivid sense of what to expect. Commenters mention how friendly and helpful the guides are, with one reviewer saying, “Lad was very helpful, accommodating and helped take supplies and bags ashore.” The stunning scenery earns repeated praise, with one describing Kroreza as “absolutely stunning,” and others appreciating the small boat size, which adds to the intimate, lively atmosphere.
Many travelers highlight the good value of $41—especially considering that equipment like snorkels, paddleboards, and umbrellas are provided. Reviewers also appreciate the relaxed vibe, with some mentioning the guides letting them play music and enjoy the stops at their pace.
The food and drinks are highlighted as simple but satisfying, with some stating that the beachside restaurant offers freshly grilled fish and cold drinks, adding a nice touch to the day.
The Practical Value
For travelers seeking an active, scenic, and relaxed day, this tour delivers well. The two-hour stop at Kroreza is a major selling point—it allows ample time to swim, sunbathe, or explore without feeling hurried. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and paddleboards means you can make the most of each stop, regardless of your experience level.
At a cost of $41, the tour offers great bang for your buck, especially considering the included equipment, drinks, and the chance to visit five different locations. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and downtime in a beautiful setting.
Who This Tour Suits Best
This experience is ideal for active travelers who don’t mind a boat ride and enjoy exploring multiple beaches in one day. It works well for small groups who want a more personal touch, and for those who appreciate authentic, unspoiled spots rather than heavily commercialized beaches.
While it’s suited for most visitors, families with children over 3, and adults without mobility issues, will find it easier to enjoy the stops and water activities. Respecting safety guidelines, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, or those prone to seasickness.
Final Thoughts
This boat tour from Sarande offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, water activities, and relaxation. The extended stay at Kroreza Beach is a standout feature, giving you plenty of time to unwind and soak up the Albanian coast’s charm.
The friendly guides, included gear, and manageable group size make it a dependable choice for travelers seeking an authentic day on the water. Whether you want to snorkel among colorful fish, paddle around tranquil bays, or simply enjoy sunbathing on the sand, this trip delivers.
For those who love discovering hidden beaches and enjoying some active downtime in a rustic setting, this tour is a solid investment. It’s particularly suited for curious, sun-seeking explorers eager to see a different side of Albania’s coast.
Is food included in the tour?
No, food is not included. You should bring your own snacks, or you can dine at Kroreza’s beachside restaurant, which offers grilled fish, chicken, salads, and drinks.
What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash. Arriving 20 minutes early will help ensure smooth boarding.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children over 3 years old. The water activities and boat ride are generally safe, but very young children or those with mobility issues might find the boat or water stops challenging.
Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.
What equipment is provided?
Snorkeling gear, paddleboards, umbrellas, and life jackets are all included in the price.
How long is the stop at Kroreza Beach?
You’ll have around 2 hours to relax, swim, or explore the area, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
This boat tour from Sarande stands out as a fantastic way to see Albania’s coast in a relaxed, fun, and active manner, perfect for those wanting authentic experiences with plenty of scenic and water-based activities.
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