Shkoder is a top spot for boat trips and cruises, thanks to its impressive lakes, pristine rivers, and dramatic mountain scenery. Unlike some crowded tourist destinations, Shkoder offers authentic boat experiences that connect you directly with nature and local culture. One highlight we love is the From Shkoder: Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour, which combines a majestic lake cruise with a refreshing swim in turquoise waters. This trip exemplifies why boat tours here are more than just sightseeing—they’re about feeling immersed in Albania’s stunning landscapes. Whether you want a full-day adventure or a quick getaway, Shkoder’s boat options deliver unforgettable moments.
Travelers interested in exploring Albania’s natural beauty will find that the variety of tours offers something for every interest. From scenic lakes and mountain rivers to cultural excursions, these boat trips showcase the country’s rugged charm and untouched wilderness. To help you choose, we’ve ranked the top nine boat tours, providing details on what makes each one unique and worth your time.
1. From Shkoder: Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour
At number 1, this Komani Lake and Shala River tour is a full-day adventure that begins in Shkoder. It combines a scenic van ride through the Albanian countryside with a boat cruise across the stunning Komani Lake, often called the “Fjord of Albania” for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. The highlight, however, is the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Shala River and kayak if you want.
The itinerary is well-paced, with 11.5 hours of travel and activity time. The tour is perfect for those who love a mix of scenery and active exploration. While the reviews are modest (3.3/5 from 7 reviews), many visitors rave about the unforgettable views and the chance to experience Albania’s most iconic lake. The boat ride across Komani Lake is often described as the most scenic part, with towering cliffs framing the water. Some travelers note that the tour could improve with better organization, but overall, it offers excellent value for a day immersed in nature.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers craving a full-day experience that combines boat rides, swimming, and mountain scenery. It’s especially good for those who want to see Albania’s fjord-like lakes up close.
2. From Pristina: Day Tour to Shala River with Boat Trip
Number 2 on our list is a day trip from Pristina that takes you through rugged Balkan scenery to the Shala River. For just $35 per person, this tour offers a scenic bus ride plus a boat trip into the Albanian Alps—known locally as the “Accursed Mountains.” It’s the easiest way to access this untouched landscape without arranging your own transport.
The highlight here is the chance to swim and relax in the river’s clear waters, surrounded by steep mountain slopes. This trip is ideal for travelers based in Kosovo who want a quick escape from urban life. Reviews are limited (1 review, rated 1/5), but the description suggests a straightforward, no-fuss experience with plenty of time for swimming and exploring. It’s less comprehensive than other options but offers a taste of Albania’s wildside in just a day.
Bottom line: This tour is great for budget travelers or those short on time who want a simple, scenic river adventure with minimal fuss.
3. From Shkoder: Koman, Shala River Boat Ride and Valbona Tour
Number 3 is an extended day trip that combines a boat ride on the Shala River with a journey into the Valbona Valley. The boat ride alone showcases the river’s blue-colored, crystal waters, but the real highlight is exploring the surrounding mountains and possibly stopping for a picnic or at local restaurants.
Rated 3.8/5 from multiple reviews, this tour emphasizes relaxation and scenic beauty. Many travelers enjoy the chance to swim and kayak in the river, plus the option to indulge in local cuisine. The trip’s length (11 hours) makes it suitable for those wanting a full day immersed in Albania’s natural landscape. The inclusion of riverside rests and the chance to play on the zip-line make it lively for families and adventure seekers.
Bottom line: This tour offers a balanced mix of boat cruising and mountain exploration, fitting travelers looking for scenic downtime and outdoor activities.
4. From Tirana: Shala River Boat Tour Full-Day Trip
Number 4 brings us from the capital, Tirana, with a full-day boat tour. For around $119, you’ll experience the crystal waters of Shala River aboard a private boat. The tour features visits to the Albanian Alps, the river itself, and the North Albanian landscape, all wrapped in a scenic ride with a guide.
What sets this trip apart is the personalized experience—a private boat cruise, plus stops for lunch, swimming, and even food tasting. The itinerary includes a guided tour of the river, with plenty of time to relax and soak in views that many describe as “beautiful.” The tour is especially well-suited for travelers who want a more intimate, tailored experience, with the guide sharing insights about the local environment and culture.
Rated 5/5 based on reviews, it seems to be a favorite among travelers who value comfort and comprehensive sightseeing. It’s more expensive but offers a well-rounded day with memorable scenery and cultural flavor.
Bottom line: Perfect for those looking for an all-inclusive, full-day private experience with scenic boat cruising and in-depth exploration.
5. Shala River & Koman Lake Boat Tour from Tirana or Shkoder
The Shala River & Koman Lake tour ranks highly at number 5 with a perfect 5/5 review score. This 12-hour trip covers both iconic sites—Shala River, dubbed the “Thailand of Albania,” and Koman Lake, famous for its fjord-like scenery.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day that includes a boat ride on the most beautiful parts of the Albanian Alps. The itinerary involves exploring the mountains, lakes, and rivers, with opportunities for swimming, picture-taking, and enjoying local cuisine. The experience is tailored for those who seek both adventure and immersive scenery.
The value here is excellent, considering the full-day coverage of Albania’s most stunning waterways. It’s suited for active travelers who want a mix of boat cruising, sightseeing, and cultural stops.
Bottom line: If you have a day to spare and want to see the best of Albania’s lakes and rivers, this trip is a top choice.
6. N’Gegaj- Vau i Dejës Lake: Shurdhah Island and Boat Tour
Number 6 is a guided boat tour from Vau i Dejës Lake, priced at $53 per person. It takes you to Shurdhah Island, which was once the town of Sarda, and explores Pëllumbat Cave and the mountain village of Gegaj. The tour combines history, nature, and local culture with a scenic boat ride on Vau i Dejës Lake.
Rated not available yet, the tour promises a full-day exploration of lesser-known sites. Tourists can expect to learn about the history of the ruins, enjoy a traditional mountain lunch, and relax by the lakeshore, swimming or sunbathing. The small-group size and authentic experiences make it appealing for travelers wanting more than just scenery.
Bottom line: Best suited for history buffs and those wanting a mix of cultural sights and outdoor relaxation in a remote setting.
7. Tirana: Day Trip to Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour
Number 7 is a comprehensive day trip from Tirana. This 1-day tour features a boat cruise on Komani Lake, with spectacular mountain views, plus a visit to the Shala River. It also includes an off-road safari and visits to Ohrid Lake—one of Europe’s deepest lakes.
Rated without reviews, the itinerary is packed, making it ideal for travelers who want to see multiple highlights in a single day. The boat ride offers incredible photo opportunities and a chance to see the Albanian Alps’ rugged terrain. The tour’s length (about 10 hours) suits active travelers prepared for a busy day.
Bottom line: Suitable for those who want a full, sightseeing-packed day covering both lakes and mountains, with multiple transportation modes.
8. From Komani Dam: Komani Lake & Shala River Boat Tour
Number 8 offers a shorter experience—a 6-hour boat ride from Komani Dam to the Shala River, priced at $24 per person. This straightforward trip is perfect for travelers looking for a quick scenic cruise with options to swim and dine along the river.
The focus is on relaxation and photography, with plenty of time to soak in the mountain scenery and take photos from the “Balcony of Shala River.” It’s an accessible option for those with limited time or budget.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a short, scenic boat ride with options to relax and enjoy nature without a lengthy commitment.
9. Discover Lake Shkodra: Boat Ride & Hidden Shores Adventure
Rounding out the list is a more active, multi-sport tour. It combines cycling, canoeing, and a boat ride around Lake Shkodra. Starting from Puri, the tour takes you across the Buna Bridge, through villages, and onto the lake for canoeing to explore shoreline spots.
Rated without reviews, this experience appeals to travelers wanting a physical activity-based day that mixes land and water exploration. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor sports and want to see the less-visited shores of Lake Shkodra.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who want a hands-on, adventurous day combining cycling, paddling, and boat cruising.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Shkoder
Picking the perfect boat tour depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you want an all-day, immersive experience with scenic lakes and mountain activities, Koman, Shala River, and Valbona is hard to beat. For a more relaxed, private experience, the Shala River boat tour from Tirana offers excellent value. Budget travelers might prefer the Komani Lake & Shala River short cruise, which provides a scenic ride without the extra frills.
Consider your physical activity level—active travelers will enjoy the Lake Shkodra shore adventure, while those seeking cultural insights can opt for the Vau i Dejës Lake tour. For a full experience of Albania’s fjords and mountain lakes, the full-day Tirana trip is a fantastic choice.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (spring through early fall). Most tours operate from April to October, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Shkoder offers a diverse range of boat trips that showcase the country’s stunning lakes, rivers, and mountain scenery. For breathtaking views and active adventures, the Komani Lake and Shala River ranks highly, while the full-day private trip from Tirana provides a personalized touch. Budget-conscious travelers can enjoy shorter rides like the Komani Lake tour, and those seeking a mix of outdoors and cultural experiences will find plenty to choose from.
No matter which option catches your eye, booking early and considering your interests will ensure a memorable boat or cruise experience in Shkoder. With such a varied selection, you’re sure to find a trip that makes your Albanian adventure truly special.