Sarandë: Boat Tour to North side of Sarandë

Exploring the coast of Albania by boat offers a chance to see some of its best-kept secrets — and this shared boat tour from Sarandë promises just that. Whether you’re craving crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, or awe-inspiring caves, this trip covers all the highlights with a relaxed, friendly vibe. It’s a fantastic way to escape the crowds and connect with Albania’s natural beauty in a comfortable setting.

What we love about this tour is how it combines authentic scenery, variety of stops, and knowledgeable guides who are eager to share local insights. The stops at Gremina Bay, Kakome Bay, and Kroreza Beach are especially eye-catching, and you’ll appreciate the laid-back pace that allows plenty of swimming and photo moments. A potential hitch is that some reviews mention logistical hiccups — like boat checks and limited time at certain sites — so setting your expectations accordingly is wise. This tour suits travelers who want a taste of the coast, enjoy water activities, and value expert guidance blending natural beauty with local stories.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery with accessible and hidden beaches only reachable by boat
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling spots to enjoy the clear waters at each stop
• Expert guides providing local knowledge and safety, making the experience smooth
• Short, flexible duration ideal for a half-day adventure; check availability for times
• Small group size (up to 10 people) increases comfort and personalized attention
• All-inclusive pricing with no hidden costs, including fuel and docking fees

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This 4-hour boat tour covers a carefully curated series of stops along Albania’s northern coast, each offering a different flavor of the coastline’s natural treasures. Starting from Sarandë, the boat sets out with the promise of discovery, excitement, and tranquility all rolled into one.

Gremina Bay: The Calm Before the Adventure

Your journey begins with a cruise toward Gremina Bay, which sets the tone with its peaceful, untouched environment. Surrounded by steep cliffs and thick forests, the approach is visually stunning. The bay’s calm, deep-blue waters are perfect for a gentle swim or just relaxing on deck. The tranquility of Gremina makes it a favorite for travelers looking to escape the noise and simply enjoy nature’s quiet beauty.

Qefal Bay: Relax and Snap Photos

Next up is Qefal Bay, a small but photogenic spot famed for its scenic views. Here, you might choose to stay on the boat’s shaded deck or dive into the cool, inviting waters. As one reviewer pointed out, it’s an excellent location for capturing breathtaking coastal photos. The mixture of clear waters and rocky surroundings makes it a charming, postcard-worthy stop.

Turtle Cave: A Magical Encounter

One of the tour’s highlights is the Turtle Cave. Though small, this sea cave offers a surreal experience — sunlight filtering through the opening reflects off the water, casting glowing patterns on the walls. Depending on sea conditions, your skipper may guide you inside, giving you a close-up view of this natural formation. It’s a brief but memorable encounter, often praised for its enchanting atmosphere.

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Roidhe Bay: Secluded and Scenic

Roidhe Bay is another dreamy destination accessible only by boat. With its striking white-pebbled beach, towering cliffs, and wild olive trees, it feels like discovering a private paradise. The waters here often glow in shades of blue-green, inviting swimmers to float and relax. As one guest put it, this bay is the perfect mix of nature and serenity, making it a prime spot for unwinding.

Kakome Bay: Picturesque and Peaceful

A highlight for many is Kakome Bay, characterized by its wide sandy shores and hills that surround it. An abandoned monastery adds an air of mystery, and its calm waters and soft sands make it ideal for sunbathing or beach games. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for those wanting a more laid-back experience away from bustling crowds.

Kroreza Beach: The Ultimate Secluded Escape

The final notable stop is Kroreza Beach, accessible solely by sea. This pristine stretch of soft white sand and shallow turquoise waters offers a quiet retreat. Its pine-clad cliffs provide a stunning backdrop, and here you’ll have extra time to swim, relax, or snack on board. Some travelers have noted that Kroreza’s serenity and untouched beauty make it a highlight of the trip.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

The tour includes all the essentials for a carefree day on the water. You get a professional skipper and crew with local knowledge, ensuring safety and insightful commentary. Snorkeling and swimming stops are plentiful, giving you many chances to cool off in crystal-clear waters. The boat offers shaded and sunbathing areas, so you can choose your comfort style, whether you prefer to relax in the sun or stay out of it.

Onboard music and a relaxing atmosphere enhance the experience, making it feel like a floating chill zone. Light refreshments, bottled water, and sometimes seasonal fruit or drinks are provided, so you stay hydrated and energized. Importantly, all fuel and docking fees are included — no hidden costs here.

Meeting Points and Practicalities

Start your adventure from the Vergo Tours stand — a big blue sign making it easy to find. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, making logistics simple. The duration is around 4 hours, with available departure times that you should double-check beforehand. Small groups (up to 10 people) make for a more intimate experience.

What to Bring and What to Know

Pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a camera, and cash for any extras. Don’t forget a sun hat and sandals for comfort. Alcohol and drugs are not permitted, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those over 80, or people with motion sickness.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Booking is flexible — you can reserve now and pay later — and cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. This makes planning a bit easier, especially if your schedule isn’t 100% fixed.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Several reviews shed light on the real experience. One comment praised Mario, the guide, for his friendliness and local knowledge, though another noted that some information about the sites could be clearer — a reminder that guides are human and sometimes logistical hiccups happen.

A traveler who called the tour “exceptional” emphasized that swimming at multiple stops was a must, despite some cold water, because the experience is so rewarding. Conversely, a less favorable review mentioned a mismatch between expectations and the actual route — with a focus solely on the coast instead of nearby islands like Ksamil, which some visitors hope to see.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for those who love nature, tranquility, and water activities. If you’re keen to enjoy Albania’s rugged coastline and don’t mind a few logistical surprises, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed pace and small group intimacy, especially if your main goal is to capture stunning photos and swim in pristine waters.

It’s less suited for anyone looking for a full-day, multi-destination experience or those with mobility issues. The tour’s focus on natural beauty and calm waters makes it a calming, scenic escape.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a refreshing way to appreciate Albania’s coast, especially for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized trip with genuine natural beauty. The variety of stops ensures plenty of chances to swim, sunbathe, and take photos, while the knowledgeable crew helps enhance the experience with local insights.

The small group size means you’re more than just a number — you’ll likely have a more personal, relaxed experience. Although some logistical hiccups have been noted, the overall value and stunning scenery make this a worthwhile outing for those wanting to explore Albania’s hidden coastal treasures.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this boat tour delivers a memorable snapshot of Sarandë’s untouched coastline and the peaceful beauty that surrounds it.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with specific starting times available depending on the day.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat trip, visits to all key destinations, multiple swimming and snorkeling stops, safety equipment, onboard music, light refreshments, and fuel/docking fees — no hidden costs.

Is it suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify age restrictions, the tour’s focus on water activities and small group size makes it more suitable for older children and teens comfortable with swimming.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear isn’t explicitly included, so bringing your own is recommended if you want to explore underwater more thoroughly.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, sun hat, sunglasses, sandals, and sunscreen. You may want to bring shorts for comfort on deck.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to check directly with the provider.

Are drinks available on board?
Light refreshments and bottled water are included. Some tours may also offer seasonal fruit or soft drinks. Alcohol and drugs are not permitted onboard.

This boat tour from Sarandë beautifully showcases Albania’s coastlines and hidden coves, offering a laid-back, scenic escape for water lovers and nature seekers alike. It’s a fantastic way to gather memorable photos, enjoy peaceful beaches, and experience the country’s untouched marine environment in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: