Durres 1h Boat Tour discover sinked ship Antonjetta Costa

Exploring Durres by boat offers more than just a scenic ride; it’s an opportunity to uncover Albania’s maritime past while enjoying a lively, intimate adventure. The Durres Blue Waters Boat Tour, with its focus on discovering a sunk WWI ship, provides a blend of history, leisure, and good old-fashioned fun. This tour is limited to just 10 people, making it a cozy way to experience the Adriatic, and it’s perfect for those craving a small-group experience that balances adventure and relaxation.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how accessible it is—snorkeling in shallow waters at just 1.5 meters makes it suitable for all levels, and the inclusion of diving equipment means you don’t need your own gear. Also, the vibe onboard seems energetic and friendly, with music, dancing, and laughter, as highlighted by reviews describing the captain as engaging and the atmosphere as “unforgettable.” The only potential downside? If you’re expecting a full-day adventure or gourmet snacks, this one-hour trip is more about quick, memorable highlights than a comprehensive day at sea.

Key points/Takeaways:
Intimate Group Size: Limited to 10 people, creating a personalized experience.
Historical Highlight: Snorkel or explore the WWI sunken ship, just 1.5 meters deep—ideal for all skill levels.
Lively Atmosphere: Music, dancing, and drinks make the trip fun and social.
Beautiful Scenery: Views of Kallmi Beach and the Adriatic coast that are worth the trip alone.
Customer Service: Guides like the captain make the experience enjoyable and memorable, with reviews praising their friendliness.
Value for Money: Snorkeling gear, snacks, and prosecco included, and options for free cancellation and flexible booking add peace of mind.

Discovering Durres’s Underwater Secrets and Coastal Charm

If you’re looking for a short, yet memorable way to enjoy Albania’s stunning coastline and uncover a piece of maritime history, the Durres Blue Waters Boat Tour might be just what you need. The experience offers a brisk one-hour cruise that combines sightseeing, history, and social fun, all within a small-group setting that ensures personal attention.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on exploring the WWI shipwreck, Antonjetta Costa, which lies just beneath the surface at a shallow depth of 1.5 meters. This isn’t your average boat ride. It’s an accessible dive into the past, allowing snorkelers of all levels to admire the remains of a submerged vessel that’s been resting in the waters since the war. The shipwreck is described as an “authentic piece of history,” giving the tour a unique appeal for those interested in Albania’s maritime stories.

What You’ll Experience on the Water

The trip kicks off from the Port of Durrës, a lively hub where you’ll meet your skipper and the small crew. From there, the boat heads toward Kallmi Beach, a stretch of coastline that promises stunning views and calming sea breezes. As we set sail, I love the way the gentle Adriatic Sea opens up, offering panoramic vistas that are perfect for a relaxed day out. The breeze and sunshine make for a refreshing start that elevates the entire experience.

The first stop is the sunken Austro-Hungarian ship from WWI. At just 1.5 meters deep, this is a shallow, safe snorkel site suitable for all ages and skill levels. The clarity of the water allows for easy viewing of the ship’s outline, and your guide will likely assist with gear and instructions. This is a chance to float over a tangible piece of history—imagine the stories this vessel could tell if it could talk. Reviewers like Jerry highlight how this stop was “the highlight of our tour,” emphasizing how special it felt to explore such a well-preserved wreck.

Following the underwater exploration, the boat moves to Fisherman Beach, a quiet, tucked-away spot ideal for relaxing, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery. Here, you might enjoy cocktails or cold beers while the onboard music adds a lively touch. The option to bring back drinks like the three cartons of alcohol Gijs mentions is a big plus, especially if you’re looking to extend the fun back at your hotel.

The Details That Matter

The tour lasts just one hour, but it packs in enough activity and atmosphere to feel like a full day’s worth of adventure. The capacity of 10 people means it’s small enough to be intimate but lively enough to foster a good vibe. With included snacks and prosecco, you’re set for a light, enjoyable trip without feeling rushed or crowded.

While the tour’s brevity might seem like a downside for some, it actually encourages a lively, social environment. Guides like the captain are praised for their friendliness and for making the experience more engaging—something that reviews back up enthusiastically. Prosecco and snacks are included, adding a touch of celebration to the outing. However, alcohol like beer and other spirits are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to toast to a good day at sea.

The Value and Who It’s Perfect For

Given the modest price—considering the gear, drinks, and guided experience—this tour offers solid value for a quick yet immersive adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who want a snapshot of Albania’s maritime history combined with a fun social outing, especially those traveling with friends or family. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small-group settings and personalized attention from guides like the captain, whose friendliness clearly leaves a memorable impression.

It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year, so keep that in mind if your group includes very young children or mobility needs. The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes it a low-risk option for spontaneous plans or uncertain weather.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen—the Albanian sun can be quite strong, especially on a small boat.
• A towel or beachwear makes it easier to enjoy swimming or relaxing ashore.
• Camera and binoculars are recommended to capture the scenic views and underwater sights.
• Meet at the public parking near the port for easy access, and note that the activity ends back at the same spot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers seeking a quick, distinctive experience in Durres will find this tour appealing. It’s perfect for those interested in maritime history, especially the WWI shipwreck, but who also want some fun, social time on the water. Families, friends, and solo travelers who enjoy small-group adventures will appreciate the relaxed yet lively atmosphere.

If you’re a history buff or someone simply looking for a memorable way to enjoy the Albanian coast, this tour offers a compelling mix of both. It’s also a good choice if you want a straightforward, no-fuss activity that doesn’t require a full day or complex logistics.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour isn’t about grandiose luxury or long excursions but rather about quality and authenticity in a compact format. The opportunity to snorkel over a WWI wreck, combined with the cheerful atmosphere and friendly guides, makes it a standout option in Durres. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of adventure without sacrificing comfort or personal attention.

If your idea of a good day includes some history, a splash of fun, and stunning sea views, you’ll leave with plenty of stories—and maybe some souvenir photos of that sunken ship. For those seeking a relaxed yet lively sea outing, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The experience lasts approximately one hour, with starting times depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
You get a skipper, snorkeling and diving equipment, snacks, and prosecco.

Can I bring my own drinks?
You’re allowed to bring your own drinks, especially alcohol, since beer and other spirits are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or those with mobility issues, as it’s a small boat with some walking involved.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the public parking near the Port of Durrës and concludes back there.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups of up to 10 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, and beachwear are advisable.

Are there any restrictions?
Alcohol, glass objects, shoes indoors, chewing gum, and feeding animals are not permitted onboard.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexible planning options.

This small-group boat tour in Durres offers a memorable glimpse into Albania’s maritime past while providing plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beach lover, or just in search of a lively water adventure, it’s a compact experience that delivers on both scenery and stories.