Sarandë: Boat Tour to North side of Sarandë

A Fresh Perspective on Sarandë’s Coastal Treasures

Offering a full-day boat tour along the north side of Sarandë, Albania’s coastline reveals some of its best-kept secrets. From shimmering secluded beaches to caves glowing with sunlight, this experience promises a mix of relaxation and adventure. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What I find appealing is the chance to explore coastal gems only accessible by sea — places like Roidhe Bay, Kakome Bay, and Kroreza Beach. These spots seem ideal if you’re craving untouched nature, quiet moments, and excellent photo opportunities. One standout feature is the knowledgeable local guides, who seem to make or break the experience. A guide named Mario, for example, is praised for his friendliness and helpfulness.

A potential consideration is the limited time at each stop — four hours might mean quick dips and photos rather than full exploration. Plus, some reviews hint at logistical hiccups, like boats not passing police checks on the first try or tours not covering all the anticipated destinations. Still, the overall value, especially given the included snorkeling, refreshments, and safety gear, makes this a compelling choice for travelers eager to see Albania from the water.

Key points / Takeaways

• Exclusive access to hidden beaches and caves that are unreachable from land, making each stop feel like discovering a secret.
• Professional guides with local knowledge enhance the trip’s authenticity and safety, according to multiple reviews.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters keep the tour active and refreshing.
• Small groups (limited to 10) provide a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those wanting a personal experience.
• All-inclusive pricing covers fuel, docking fees, and some refreshments — no hidden costs.
• Timing and itinerary may vary, and some travelers report not visiting all the anticipated spots, so flexibility is key.

Exploring the Coast: What the Tour Offers

This boat trip is designed as a full-day adventure that takes you along a stretch of Albania’s northern coastline, focusing on natural beauty and tranquility. The tour begins with the boat heading toward Gremina Bay, a quiet haven framed by cliffs and forest — perfect for photos and soaking in the calm waters. It sets the tone for the experience: peaceful, scenic, and away from crowded beaches.

The next stops reveal Qefal Bay, a favorite for relaxing or jumping into the cool waters, and Turtle Cave, a small but enchanting sea cave where sunlight creates glowing patterns on the walls. Some guides may take the boat inside — giving a close-up look at this natural wonder.

Roidhe Bay is a highlight, with towering cliffs and a white pebble beach accessible only by boat. Its vibrant waters invite swimmers and snorkelers alike, and the scenery is picture-perfect. Then there’s Kakome Bay, a broad sandy stretch with an abandoned monastery, exuding a peaceful, mysterious atmosphere — ideal for lounging or beach games.

Finally, Kroreza Beach offers a feeling of total isolation, with shallow turquoise waters and pine-covered cliffs. It’s described as a “hidden gem,” perfect for relaxing with snacks or taking a swim. The tour also includes plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos of the coastline, with guidance on the best spots.

What to Expect During the Tour

The trip lasts about four hours, with a professional skipper and crew ensuring safety and sharing local insights. The boat itself offers shaded seating and sunbathing areas, so you can choose to relax in the shade or soak up the sun. If you’re keen on taking photos, be sure to bring your camera — the views are striking.

Swimmers will appreciate the multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are described as crystal clear and inviting, even if the sea might be a little cold initially — a quick warm-up is usually enough to get you comfortable. The crew often plays onboard music, creating a relaxing atmosphere as you glide between destinations.

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Mario are appreciated for their friendliness and local knowledge. They help enhance the experience, offering tips on the best photo spots and ensuring safety. However, some travelers mention that the itinerary can be a bit fluid, and not every stop might be as long or as comprehensive as hoped. There’s also a note that the initial boat sometimes faces logistical issues, like failing police checks, which could lead to delays or changes in plans.

Price and Value: What You’re Getting

The tour’s price covers fuel, docking fees, and safety equipment, with no hidden costs. It includes light refreshments and bottled water, making it easy to stay refreshed during the trip. Given that you get to visit several exclusive coastal spots, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy a relaxed small-group setting, many travelers find this to be good value.

What I like is the all-inclusive nature — you’re not paying separately for snorkeling gear or snacks, and the small group size means more personalized attention. That said, if you’re hoping for a comprehensive tour covering more islands or additional stops like Ksamil, this particular experience might be more focused on the northern coast.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This boat tour is perfect if you’re seeking an authentic, scenic escape from the crowds and are comfortable with some flexibility in the itinerary. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, snorkeling, and small-group adventures. The experience isn’t ideal if you’re looking for a full-day exploration of all the nearby islands or are sensitive to boat motion — as some reviews note, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those over 80, or people with motion sickness.

The tour is led in English and Albanian, and the guide’s local knowledge shines through, making it a more enriching experience. It’s a good pick for those who want a relaxed, scenic day with chance to swim and take photos, rather than a rigorous sightseeing schedule.

Summary: Who Will Love This Tour?

For travelers eager to explore Albania’s coast from the water, this tour offers an intimate look at some of the most beautiful and untouched beaches and caves. Expect stunning scenery, friendly guides, and plenty of time to swim and relax. It’s especially pleasing for those who enjoy small groups, local insights, and natural beauty.

Keep in mind that the itinerary might change slightly and that the focus is on the north coast’s unique spots, not the islands or more popular destinations like Ksamil. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape that’s packed with photo opportunities, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The full trip lasts approximately four hours, with starting times varying — check availability when booking.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the boat trip, visits to all key destinations, snorkeling and swimming stops, safety gear, bottled water, and some light refreshments. No hidden fees.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most ages but not recommended for pregnant women, people over 80, or anyone prone to motion sickness.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sandals, sunscreen, a camera, and some cash for extras. Also, consider packing a change of clothes if you plan to swim.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Keep your plans flexible and confirm your booking accordingly.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price includes fuel, docking fees, safety equipment, and basic refreshments. There are no extra charges unless you purchase additional snacks or souvenirs.

What if the boat doesn’t pass police checks?
This has happened in some cases, leading to a quick turnaround or second boat. It’s a logistical hiccup rather than a regular occurrence, but it’s worth being aware.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenery offers many photo opportunities, especially at spots like Roidhe Bay and Kakome Bay. Guides are happy to advise on the best spots.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Sarandë offers a rich taste of Albania’s coast — from secluded beaches to spectacular caves. The combination of professional guides, small group intimacy, and the chance to swim in pristine waters makes it a worthwhile adventure for travelers seeking natural beauty and a relaxed pace.

While some reviews mention minor logistical issues or limited time at each stop, the overall experience seems to deliver on its promise of scenic discovery. It’s best suited for those who prioritize authentic, off-the-beaten-path destinations and enjoy a laid-back day on the water.

If your aim is to see Albania’s northern coast without the crowds, this tour could be a perfect fit — provided you’re comfortable with the possibility of some variability in the day’s plans. Just remember to pack your camera, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.