Saranda: Boat Tour to 6 Destinations + Free Drink & Umbrella

Exploring the Albanian Riviera by Boat: Saranda’s 6-Hour Tour Review

Taking a boat trip along the rugged coast of Saranda offers a fantastic way to see some of Albania’s most beautiful and lesser-known spots. This 6-hour excursion, operated by Kelvin Boat Tours, promises a combination of scenic views, crystal-clear waters, secret caves, and peaceful beaches—all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat. Whether you’re after a relaxing day lounging in the sun, swimming in turquoise waters, or snapping photos of dramatic coastlines, this tour seems designed to deliver on all fronts.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the chance to visit seven distinct destinations—from Turtle Cave to Krorez Beach—means you get a real taste of the region’s diversity. Second, the option of a shared or private tour allows flexibility for different group sizes and preferences. Third, the quality of the inclusions—lifejackets, snorkeling masks, a free drink, and shade umbrellas—adds comfort and safety for everyone onboard. However, one point to consider is the lack of included food, so bringing your own snacks or planning to dine at Krorez Beach is advisable.

This boat tour is perfect for travelers who love scenic outings, want to explore hidden spots inaccessible by land, and value a laid-back, customizable experience. It’s especially suitable for groups and families looking for a memorable day on the water, but those with mobility issues or seasickness might want to think twice.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose between a shared group or private boat for a personalized experience.
• Stunning destinations: Stops at caves, bays, and beaches offer incredible photo opportunities and swimming spots.
• All-inclusives for safety: Lifejackets, snorkeling gear, and umbrellas are provided, making the trip comfortable.
• Time at Krorez: A generous 2.5-hour stop at Krorez Beach allows ample relaxation or exploring.
• Value for money: The price covers a broad itinerary, access to all beaches, and boat amenities, making it a good deal.
• Authentic local experience: Knowledgable guides provide insights into each stop, enhancing the trip’s authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Saranda Boat Tour

Starting Point and Flexibility in Meeting Locations

The tour appears to offer two main starting points—Rruga Jonianet or Bar Restaurant Limani—making it convenient for travelers staying near Saranda or the port area. This flexibility in meeting points helps avoid unnecessary travel and fits easily into your day.

Duration and Group Size

With a duration of around 6 hours, the tour packs in plenty of sights and experiences without feeling rushed. The maximum group size for the shared option is 11 people, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social vibe. For those wanting complete privacy, a private boat option is available, which could be ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a tailored experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour visits seven stunning spots with carefully planned timing to maximize enjoyment and exploration:

• Turtle Cave: The trip kicks off here, offering a chance to take photos of unique rock formations. Interestingly, some may even spot a sea turtle swimming nearby. This sets a playful tone for the day, and the cave’s natural beauty is a photographer’s dream.

• Secret Cave: A peaceful, less-visited spot suited for relaxing, taking pictures, and enjoying the tranquility. The review from aneta highlights how helpful the guides are—her mother, with mobility issues, was picked up on a scooter and helped throughout, showing the attentive service provided.

• Gremina Bay: With a 30-minute stop, you’ll swim in super-clear waters or sunbathe on the boat. The transparency of the water makes it perfect for snorkeling, although some may find the water still a bit cold depending on the season—one reviewer mentioned water temperature being a factor in not snorkeling much during their trip.

• Kakome Bay: Another scenic stop surrounded by lush green hills, great for photos and swimming. This bay’s beauty is complemented by its accessibility, with plenty of space for sunbathing on the rocks or floating in the water.

• Krorez Bay: The highlight of the trip, with a lengthy 2.5-hour stop. This is where most guests relax, swim, and enjoy the peaceful sands or large rocks. You can bring your own food and drinks (“cooler to store your drinks and food,” as included in the tour), or opt to eat at seaside restaurants. Multiple reviews emphasize how relaxing and worthwhile this stop is, with some calling it the main reason to choose this trip.

• Soldier Bay & Rrojdhe Bay: The final stops offer quick photo opportunities and a last chance to swim or relax before heading back. These brief stops round off the day with more scenic views and a sense of closure.

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Amenities and Comfort

The tour provides lifejackets, snorkeling masks, Bluetooth music, and umbrellas for shade, making it suitable for all ages and comfort levels. Reviewers appreciated the boat’s cleanliness and the friendly, knowledgeable guides, who make stops enjoyable and informative.

Food and Drinks on Board

While the trip includes a free drink, food and additional drinks are not included. The cooler on board allows you to bring your own snacks, which many reviewers found convenient and economical. There are also seaside restaurants near Krorez Beach where you can choose to dine, adding flexibility.

Price and Value

Though the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest the price offers good value for a full day’s adventure. The fact that you get access to all beaches visited and the ability to snorkel or relax at multiple spots makes it a worthwhile expenditure, especially considering the scenic diversity and guided facilitation.

Customer Experiences and Tips

From the reviews, it’s clear guides like Kelvin and his team go above and beyond. One reviewer mentioned how helpful the captain was, especially for guests with mobility issues, highlighting the tour’s accommodating nature. Another loved catching and giving away a fish, adding a fun, authentic touch to their day.

Seasickness might be a concern for some, and the water could be cold depending on the season. So, prepare accordingly—bring warm clothes if needed, and consider timing your trip during warmer months for the best experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This boat trip suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day exploring Albania’s coastline. Nature lovers will enjoy the caves, bays, and beaches, while those interested in photography will appreciate the spectacular vistas and photo stops. It’s ideal for families or groups wanting a private experience—the option for a private boat makes this especially attractive.

If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s also perfect for those wanting a flexible, budget-friendly way to see multiple spots in one go, with the added comfort of experienced guides.

Final Thoughts

This Saranda boat tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy Albania’s coastal beauty, blending adventure and relaxation in a single day. The carefully curated stops, friendly guides, and inclusive amenities make it a hassle-free way to see some of the region’s most photogenic and peaceful spots.

While not offering included meals, the option to bring your own food or dine seaside makes it versatile. The tour’s size and flexibility ensure a personalized experience, whether you want a social shared trip or a private escape.

This trip is a solid value for anyone wanting to see the Albanian Riviera from a different perspective—on the water, away from crowds, and amidst nature’s best.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind that younger children or infants might be less comfortable on a boat or in cold water. The tour is not recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 70.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Absolutely. The cooler on board is for storing your snacks and beverages, as food and extra drinks are not included in the tour price.

What should I pack?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a camera, cash for extras, and beachwear. Don’t forget your towel and a hat for sun protection.

Is the tour private or shared?
You can choose between a shared group (max 11 people) or a private boat just for your group.

How long is the stop at Krorez Beach?
Approximately 2.5 hours, giving plenty of time to swim, relax, or grab a bite at nearby seaside restaurants.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, perfect for exploring the clear waters around the bays.

What if I get seasick?
The tour involves some time on open water, which might affect those prone to seasickness. Bringing medication or avoiding the trip during rough weather is advisable.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any physical limitations to be aware of?
People with mobility issues should consider the assistance available, but the guides are helpful. The tour isn’t suitable for those with heart problems or severe mobility restrictions.

What is the weather like?
Weather can impact water temperature and visibility. Most trips run in warm conditions, but always check the forecast and dress accordingly.

This boat tour from Saranda offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery—an experience that will leave you with beautiful memories and plenty of photos to show for it.

You can check availability for your dates here: