Sarande: Hidden Cave, Gremina, Kakome & Krorez Boat Tour

Sarande: Hidden Cave, Gremina, Kakome & Krorez Boat Tour offers a compelling way to explore Albania’s spectacular coastline without the hassle of planning. Whether you’re visiting Sarande for a few days or just passing through, this tour promises a day filled with natural beauty, fun swimming spots, and memorable scenery.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the diverse stops, from caves to beaches, give you a taste of Albania’s untouched coastal treasures. Second, the knowledgeable guides like Ilir and Sokol, who are praised for their friendliness and local expertise, elevate the trip with insider tips and good humor. Third, the value for money shines through when you consider the long stops at Krorez Beach and the variety of scenic locations you visit—many tours don’t include such extensive beach time or multiple cave visits.

A potential drawback? The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so you’ll want to bring supplies if you plan to stay for the full three hours at Krorez. Also, hotel pickup isn’t included, meaning you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point, marked clearly by a sign saying “lilyboatturi.” But for those who love a flexible, adventure-packed day on the water, these are minor considerations.

This boat tour suits travelers craving authentic nature experiences, active swimming, and unforgettable coastal views. It’s ideal for those who value engaging guides and a mix of exploration with downtime at a pristine beach.

Key Points

• Scenic Stops: Highlights include Hidden Cave and Anchor Cave, with about 20 minutes at each for photos and marveling at the natural formations.
• Secluded Beaches: The tour features stops at Gremina, Kakome, and Lovers Bay, perfect for swimming or relaxing in crystal-clear waters.
• Krorez Beach: A 3-hour free time stop to swim, snorkel, or unwind on sunbeds, with facilities like toilets, a bar, and a restaurant (cash only).
• Flexible Options: Available as a shared group or private boat tour, catering to different preferences for intimacy and cost.
• Professional Guides: Reviewers rave about guides like Ilir and Sokol, who are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the local spots.
• Good Value: The tour includes fuel, a bottle of water, and a free umbrella, making the experience both enjoyable and reasonably priced.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off from Sarande, with the exact starting time depending on availability—check ahead to find a slot that works for you. It lasts around 6 hours, which gives plenty of time to explore, swim, and relax.

The Cave Experiences

The first stops are Hidden Cave and Anchor Cave, each about 20 minutes long. These caves aren’t just visually stunning but also hold an air of mystery. The Hidden Cave, as the name suggests, offers a sense of discovery, while Anchor Cave’s dramatic formations make for fantastic photos. Reviewers consistently mention how the guides help point out interesting features and ensure everyone gets a shot at capturing the perfect moment.

Scenic Swimming Spots

Next, you’ll cruise to Gremina Bay and Kakome Bay, both renowned for their clear waters. Guests often comment on the relaxing atmosphere and the opportunity to snorkel or just float in the calm, blue waters. Lovers Bay provides a more secluded vibe, ideal for those wanting some peace away from crowds. Expect to spend some time swimming, and don’t worry—you’re provided with snorkel gear, making it easy to observe the lively fish and underwater scenery.

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Krorez Beach: The Highlight

The 3-hour stop at Krorez Beach is a major highlight. This spot is praised for its pristine environment—surrounded by lush hills and forested scenery, it feels like a slice of paradise. Reviewers mention amenities like toilets, a bar, and a restaurant, but also warn to bring cash as card payments aren’t accepted there.

Guests typically spend their time swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying the vibe with food and drinks. Ilir, the captain, often goes above and beyond, even offering to let guests stay longer if they’re enjoying themselves. The atmosphere here is laid-back, with some reviewers noting that the optional late start for the tour helped avoid crowds, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Additional Stops and Scenery

Throughout the day, expect a leisurely cruise along Albania’s rugged coastline, with plenty of opportunities for photos—think dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and lush green hills. The guides often share local insights, making the journey both scenic and educational.

What’s Included and What Not

The tour provides the boat, a captain, fuel, a bottle of water, and a free umbrella. These essentials make it easy to relax and focus on enjoying the scenery. However, food and drinks aren’t included, so it’s wise to bring snacks, especially for the lengthy stop at Krorez. Also, since hotel pickup isn’t part of the package, you’ll need to get to the meeting point marked by the “lilyboatturi” sign.

The Experience from the Guest Reviews

Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and expertise, with Ilir and Sokol often singled out for their helpfulness and humor. One reviewer compared the experience to a VIP ride, noting how Ilir slowed down for a nervous child and kept the fun lively for everyone.

Snorkeling and swimming are frequent highlights; many mention spotting fish, octopuses, and even dolphins, thanks to the guides’ good spotting skills. The stops often last longer than scheduled due to the group’s enjoyment, making the trip feel unhurried and relaxed.

Food-wise, the bar and restaurant at Krorez are appreciated, but travelers are reminded to bring cash. The three hours there gives enough time to unwind, play beach games, or just soak up the sun—many reviewers describe it as “paradise” with crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring cash for on-site purchases at Krorez Beach.
• Sun protection is essential—bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Consider packing snacks and drinks for the longer stop, as these aren’t provided.
• If you want to avoid crowds, ask about the best time to go or opt for a private tour.
• Wear comfortable swimwear and bring a towel, snorkeling gear, and waterproof camera if you like capturing underwater moments.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to find your guide easily and avoid last-minute stress.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For those eager to see Albania’s coastline without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings, this tour offers great value. The combination of caves, bays, and beach time makes it a full-day adventure that balances exploration with relaxation. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor enhance the experience, often turning a simple boat trip into a memorable story.

While it’s not a culinary tour, the optional stop at Krorez offers a chance to enjoy good food and drinks in a stunning setting. The length of the stops means you get plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing—key ingredients for a fun, enriching day.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the flexible options (shared or private) mean you can tailor the experience. For nature lovers and water enthusiasts, this trip hits the spot.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for travelers who love outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and authentic coastal experiences. It’s ideal if you want to avoid crowded tourist spots and seek peaceful beaches, hidden caves, and crystal-clear waters. If you enjoy guided trips with knowledgeable hosts and flexible schedules, this tour will tick all the boxes.

It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a day of sun, sea, and stunning scenery—just remember to come prepared with cash and a sense of adventure!

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You will need to meet at the designated spot marked by the “lilyboatturi” sign.

How long is the boat tour?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, including stops for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on Krorez Beach.

Can I choose between a shared or private tour?
Yes, the tour offers both options. Private tours provide a more personalized experience, while shared groups are more budget-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for on-site purchases, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, snacks, water, and snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a bar and restaurant at Krorez Beach where you can buy snacks and beverages.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak English, Albanian, and Greek, so communication is accessible for diverse travelers.

To sum it up, Sarande’s boat tour to Hidden Cave, Gremina, Kakome, and Krorez Beach offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. The mix of caves, bays, and a lengthy beach stop makes it a fantastic option for anyone eager to experience Albania’s coast authentically. With friendly guides, stunning scenery, and good value, it’s a memorable way to spend a day on the water—perfect for nature lovers, water enthusiasts, and those looking for a break from city sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: