Sarande, on Albania’s stunning Ionian coast, isn’t just about sunbathing and beaches. It’s a surprisingly rich spot for wine tours and boat excursions that combine scenic views, local flavors, and a splash of history. Whether you’re into relaxing sunset cruises, adventurous snorkel trips, or learning about Albanian wine-making traditions, Sarande offers options for all tastes. From a peaceful sunset boat ride with local wines to snorkeling near WWII shipwrecks, each tour promises a different way to experience this rugged coastline.
Some of our favorite experiences include the Sunset boat tour with local wine (more details here), which offers a peaceful way to end the day, or the Speedboat to Ksamil, Shipwreck, Monastery, Arameras (see itinerary here), combining history, adventure, and pristine nature. For those who want a more comprehensive day, the Mesopotam Monastery, Winery & Lekursi Castle Tour (details here) offers culture along with wine tasting and breathtaking views. All these options highlight Sarande’s versatility as a wine and scenic tour destination.
1. Sarandë: Cruise with Drinks, Snorkel at Shipwreck Swim Stops
At number 1 on our list, this boat tour (full details here) offers an adventurous way to explore Sarande’s northern coast. It’s a 4 to 5.5-hour journey that takes you to secluded beaches, rugged coves, and eye-catching rock formations, accessible only by boat. You’ll swim, snorkel, and uncover a WWII shipwreck mystery that adds a dash of history to this natural escape.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of scenery and activity. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full day of sun, water, and nature with a relaxed vibe. You’ll enjoy scenic stops at places like Kepi i Qefalit and Kakoma Beach, with chances to take photos, swim, and snorkel. The highlight is the secret shipwreck site, where you can explore underwater relics from WWII. Plus, it’s quite affordable at just $43 per person, making it an excellent value for a half-day adventure.
Bottom Line: If you crave a mix of natural beauty, history, and water fun, this tour delivers it all in a lively, engaging package.
2. Sarandë: Sunset boat tour with local wine
Number 2 on our list offers a more serene experience—a sunset cruise with local wine (details here). This 2-hour tour, rated a perfect 5/5, is ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy Sarande’s stunning evening sky from the water. Starting at Kristal Boat Tours, you’ll cruise along the coast, stopping at Shpella e Milotit for a quick swim, then heading to the main event—watching the sunset from a prime spot.
Guests consistently praise how peaceful and beautiful this trip is, especially the moment the sun dips below the horizon, turning the sky into a canvas of orange and pink. The small group setting fosters a cozy atmosphere, perfect for sharing wine and conversation. The tour includes a swim stop and ample time to take photos of Sarande’s coastline bathed in golden light.
Good for: Couples, small groups, anyone who loves a relaxed, picture-perfect sunset experience. The only caveat: availability varies, so check ahead.
Bottom Line: This tour is a top pick for a romantic, calming end to your day, with the added pleasure of local wine and stunning scenery.
3. Sarandë: Exclusive Relaxing Sunset Tour with Wine & Fruits
For those looking for a more personal and luxurious experience, the Exclusive Sunset Tour (details here) offers a private speedboat ride for up to 8 people. Priced at $286 per group, this 2.5-hour trip focuses on discovering hidden scenic spots along Sarande’s coast while enjoying a curated selection of local wine and fresh fruits.
The trip emphasizes tranquility and exclusivity—perfect for anniversaries or special occasions—and features stops for swimming, snorkeling, and capturing breathtaking views during the golden hour. It’s ideal for travelers who want a premium experience with personalized attention. Since it’s a small-group tour, you can tailor the experience to your interests, whether that’s more swimming or simply soaking in the sunset.
Bottom Line: This option suits those seeking a high-end, intimate way to enjoy Sarande’s natural beauty at sunset, with the bonus of gourmet snacks and drinks.
4. Sarandë: Speedboat to Ksamil, Shipwreck, Monastery, Arameras
Number 4 brings a full-day adventure combining history, nature, and leisure. Starting from Kristal Boat Tours, this 5-hour trip (full itinerary here) takes you snorkeling at a WWII shipwreck, exploring Pigeons Cave, and relaxing at Ksamil’s beaches. It also includes visits to the ancient Arameras, with time for swimming, photos, and lunch in Ksamil.
What makes this tour stand out is its diverse itinerary. You get to swim at a real shipwreck, which is rare and fascinating, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Ksamil, a popular spot for its white sandy beaches. It’s priced at $53 per person, offering excellent value for the variety packed into this trip. Guests love its mix of adventure and cultural sights, with one review noting the tour’s balance of snorkeling and sightseeing.
Best for: Active travelers who want to explore multiple sites without sacrificing comfort. The only downside is the longer duration, so it suits those ready for a full day.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for history lovers, beach fans, and snorkelers who want a bit of everything.
5. Sarande: Blue Eye & Lekuresi Tour w/ Wine Tasting
Number 5 offers a combination of natural wonders and wine tasting. This 4-hour tour (more info here) takes you from the stunning Blue Eye spring to the panoramic Lekuresi Castle. You’ll explore the deep blue spring, said to be endlessly fascinating, then ascend the castle for spectacular views of Sarande.
A highlight is visiting a local winery where you can taste authentic Albanian wines and learn about regional wine production. The tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of nature, history, and culinary discovery. Reviews appreciate the guide’s knowledgeable commentary, making this tour both educational and relaxing.
Best for: Culture and nature lovers who enjoy wine tasting in a scenic setting. An advantage is the combination of outdoor exploration with a wine experience in one trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a balanced day of sightseeing and tasting, with plenty of photo opportunities.
6. Saranda: Wine and Raki tasting, local products
Number 6 is a shorter, 3-hour experience focused on sampling local drinks and products. For $65 per person, you’ll visit a local greenhouse and olive oil factory, tasting three types of wine (red, white, rose) and traditional raki. This tour emphasizes authentic flavors and regional production methods.
It’s a good option if you’re interested in Albanian culinary traditions and want a relaxed, informal tasting session. Reviews mention the freshness of the products and the opportunity to learn about olive oil and wine-making firsthand, making it a hands-on experience. The small group size allows for personalized attention.
Best for: Foodies and those curious about regional alcohol production. It’s shorter and more budget-friendly than some of the broader tours.
Bottom Line: A tasty, intimate way to dive into Albanian wine and raki, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
7. Mesopotam Monastery, Winery & Lekursi Castle Tour
Last on our list, this 6-hour tour (full details here) combines cultural sites and wine tasting. You’ll visit the ancient Mesopotam Monastery, explore the Kantina Isak winery with tastings of local wines and rakia, and enjoy panoramic views from Lekursi Castle.
This tour is perfect for those wanting a deeper cultural experience along with their wine tasting. The guide provides insights into the region’s history, and the lunch included is made from fresh ingredients. Reviewers note the tour’s comprehensive nature and the stunning views from Lekursi Castle.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts who want a full-day experience with history, wine, and scenic vistas. It’s more expensive and longer but offers a rich, in-depth taste of Sarande.
Bottom line: A well-rounded option for travelers with time who want to combine history, wine, and breathtaking vistas.
How to Choose Your Sarande Wine Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: Are you seeking a romantic sunset (Sunset boat tour with local wine), an active snorkel adventure (Cruise with Drinks, Snorkel at Shipwrecks), or a cultural day exploring castles and monasteries (Mesopotam Monastery, Winery & Lekursi Castle)? Budget and time are also key: The shorter raki and wine tasting (Wine and raki tasting, local products) offers a quick, authentic experience, while the full-day Krorez boat tour provides a mix of history, beaches, and snorkeling.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular sunset cruises, and check availability for tours with limited schedules. Think about what excites you—relaxing wine sipping, snorkeling adventures, or cultural immersions—and choose the tour that best suits your trip’s vibe.
Final Thoughts
Sarande offers a surprisingly diverse selection of wine and boat tours that cater to a range of interests. Whether it’s the peaceful beauty of a sunset cruise, the thrill of snorkeling at WWII shipwrecks, or exploring Albanian castles and monasteries, there’s something for all. For a romantic evening, the Sunset boat tour with local wine is hard to beat. For those seeking adventure, the Speedboat to Ksamil and shipwreck tour delivers. And for travelers eager to learn about local traditions, the Wine and raki tasting experience will satisfy.
No matter which tour you pick, booking ahead is wise, especially during the summer months when Sarande’s tours fill up fast. With so many options, you’re sure to find a memorable way to experience the coast’s natural beauty, history, and flavors.