Sarandë: Boat Tour to Kroreza with Snorkelling and Umbrella

Encapsulating the Best of Sarandë’s Secluded Beaches in a Single Day

If you’re visiting Sarandë and craving a taste of the untouched Albanian coast, a boat tour to Kroreza and nearby beaches offers a fantastic way to escape the crowds. Based on dozens of glowing reviews, this 6-hour adventure takes you through five secluded spots along the coast, with plenty of swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing opportunities. What I love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with a laid-back vibe, all led by knowledgeable guides who keep the trip lively and informative.

Two features really stand out: First, the chance to visit beaches only accessible by boat, such as Kroreza Bay, which offers pristine white sand beaches and a cozy restaurant—perfect for those who prefer a quieter slice of paradise. Second, the friendly, energetic guides like Aldo, who are praised for their clear communication, making the trip both safe and fun. A potential consideration for travelers is that the overall experience is casual and not luxury-focused; the boat is comfortable but not opulent, and food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly. Nonetheless, many reviews highlight excellent value for money considering the number of stops and activities packed into the day.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Secluded beaches accessible only by boat ensure you’re visiting the quietest, most pristine spots along the Albanian coast.
• Multiple stops for swimming and snorkelling mean plenty of chances to cool off and explore marine life in crystal-clear waters.
• A relaxed, friendly atmosphere is often highlighted, with guides like Aldo making the trip enjoyable with their helpful and humorous approach.
• Kroreza Bay stands out as the main highlight—an idyllic spot with a restaurant and umbrellas to unwind comfortably.
• Informative guides provide interesting facts about the landmarks and natural features, enriching the experience.
• Great value for the price; with six hours of boat cruising, stops, swimming, and stunning scenery, travelers feel they get their money’s worth even without extra food or drinks included.

Exploring the Journey: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The adventure begins at Kristal Boat Tours, conveniently located in front of the Limani market and Limani Bar. Once you meet your captain—who’s often praised for being friendly and clear—you’re off to an unforgettable day. This small group experience usually keeps things intimate and lively, thanks to the upbeat music and the guides’ engaging commentary.

First Stop: Kepi i Qefalit – A Sculpted Rock Formation

Your first destination, Kepi i Qefalit, feels almost like an artwork carved by the sea itself. It’s a striking natural formation, perfect for photos or a splash in the waves. Around 30 minutes here is enough to swim, take pictures, or even dance to the guide’s playlist if you’re feeling adventurous. Reviewers like Yida and Morenike describe the water as “stunning,” and many mention how this spot sets the tone for a fun-filled day.

Second Stop: Kakome Beach – Crystal Clear Waters

Next, the boat heads to Kakome, renowned for its transparent waters that tempt you for a swim or snorkel. You’ll have about 20-30 minutes for this stop, which gives you enough time to float over colorful fish or relax on the shore. Eno shares that “the beaches were very beautiful,” and many appreciate how this stop offers a peaceful break from the busy mainland.

Main Event: Kroreza Bay – The Highlight

The longest stop, often around three hours, is at Kroreza Beach. This spot is a true gem—white sands, a cozy beach restaurant, umbrellas, and shallow water perfect for wading or snorkelling. Many reviewers, including Cindy and Laura, describe it as “the most beautiful beach” they’ve seen and praise the convenience of the beach amenities. The guides often share fun facts about the area, making this a more informative stop than just lounging.

Additional Short Stops: Soldiers Beach, Rrojdhe Bay, and Secret Beaches

On the return journey, the boat makes quick 20-minute stops at Soldiers Beach and Gjiri i Rrojdhes, giving you brief yet scenic moments to take photos or dip your toes in the water. Turtle Cave and Secret Beach are also part of the itinerary, adding a layer of adventure—though some reviews mention these are quick stops, the views are well worth it.

Practical Tips and Notable Details

Throughout the trip, you’ll be supplied with snorkelling masks (without snorkels), lifejackets if needed, and music to set the mood. Remember, food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing cash is a good idea, especially at Kroreza where only cash payments are accepted. The tour is led in several languages, including English, Italian, and Albanian, ensuring many travelers feel well-informed.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking adventure without luxury, those who want to explore the Albanian coast’s hidden gems, and anyone eager to swim in clear, uncrowded waters. The stops are suited for all swimming levels, especially since life jackets are provided and guides are attentive. It’s also a good pick for groups or families, as the pace is relaxed, and the scenery is breathtaking.

People who enjoy lively guides, fun music, and authentic interactions will find themselves right at home. If you’re after an all-inclusive experience with gourmet food or luxury comforts, this might not be your best match. But for a memorable day of exploring secret beaches, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun, it’s hard to beat the value.

Price and Logistics: What You Should Know

Cost-wise, this tour is regarded as very good value, especially given the six hours of activity packed into the day. The price doesn’t include food or drinks, which you’ll want to bring along for maximum convenience. The tour departs from Kristal Boat Tours, with a separate entrance to skip the lines—helpful during busy times. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Timing can vary depending on the day, so it’s best to check availability beforehand. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, babies under one year, or those with heart problems, mainly due to the boat’s casual nature and the outdoor environment. Also, electric wheelchairs aren’t permitted onboard.

Authenticity and Overall Value

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Aldo, for their clarity, friendliness, and helpfulness. The overall consensus is that this is a great way to see the less crowded beaches of the Albanian Riviera without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple boat trips yourself. The combination of stunning views, fun stops, and the laid-back atmosphere makes this a fantastic day out.

Guests often mention how the experience exceeds expectations in terms of value for money, with some noting they ended up staying longer or making extra stops because they enjoyed it so much. The vibe is casual and welcoming, perfect for those who want to enjoy nature and sunshine with minimal fuss.

FAQs

How long is the boat tour from start to finish?
The tour lasts around 6 hours, including multiple stops for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing at Kroreza Beach.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It starts at Kristal Boat Tours, located in front of the Limani market and Limani Bar, and finishes back at the same spot.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash. Remember that at Kroreza Beach, card payments aren’t accepted.

Are food and drinks included?
No, those are extra. There’s a restaurant at Kroreza Beach, and you can buy drinks or snacks there or bring your own.

Is this tour suitable for children or individuals with health issues?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or those with heart problems due to the outdoor nature and boat environment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel schedule.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Sarandë to Kroreza offers a wonderful blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic coastal scenery. The multiple stops ensure you get plenty of opportunities to swim in clear waters, explore hidden caves, and enjoy the peaceful beaches only accessible by boat. The guides, especially Aldo, make the experience lively and informative, which many reviewers find adds a lot of value.

It’s a great choice for travelers eager to see the Albanian Riviera’s best-kept secrets without fuss. The price point reflects the quality and variety of stops, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to add a memorable day to their trip. While it’s not a luxury experience, the natural beauty, friendly atmosphere, and excellent organization make it a highly recommended outing in Sarandë.

If you love discovering untouched beaches, snorkelling in crystal waters, and relaxing under the Albanian sun, this tour could be the highlight of your trip. Pack your snacks, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a day of stunning scenery and authentic coastal vibes.