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

Sarande: Hidden Cave, Gremina, Kakome & Krorez Boat Tour — An Authentic Albanian Coastal Experience

If you’re dreaming of exploring Albania’s breathtaking coastline, this boat tour around Sarande might just be the highlight of your trip. Covering six incredible spots—including mysterious caves and secluded beaches—it offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and picture-perfect moments. I’ve seen enough tours to know that the real magic lies in the details, and this experience delivers plenty of those.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour are the guides—especially Ilir, who gets glowing reviews for his friendly attitude and local knowledge—and the variety of stops. Whether you love a good swim, a scenic photo, or just soaking up the sun in peaceful surroundings, you’ll find something to love here.

One potential drawback? The price doesn’t include food or drinks, so if you’re planning to spend hours at Krorez beach, you’ll want to bring some cash for snacks and a drink. Otherwise, for the value—especially with private options and the chance to customize your day—this trip offers a lot.

Key points / Takeaways:

• Authentic local guides like Ilir and Sokol make all the difference in creating a relaxed, informative atmosphere.
• Multiple swim and snorkeling spots mean you’ll enjoy lots of opportunities to cool off in crystal-clear waters.
• Three hours at Krorez beach allows for ample relaxation, with amenities like toilets, a bar, and sunbeds (cash only).
• Flexible options include shared group or private tours, catering to different comfort levels and privacy needs.
• Unspoiled natural beauty at spots like Hidden Cave and Anchor Cave makes for both adventurous exploration and stunning photo moments.
• Attention to safety and comfort: free umbrellas, bottled water, and fuel included, with a friendly captain ensuring a smooth ride.

Discovering the Coastline of Sarande

The journey begins with a boat ride along the pristine Albanian coast, a stretch of water dotted with caves, bays, and lush scenery. This area, located in Vlorë County, offers a quieter alternative to crowded beaches, with many stops that encourage exploring untouched natural beauty.

The first highlights are the Hidden Cave and Anchor Cave — two of the most photographed spots on this route. Expect about 20 minutes at each location to marvel at their formations and snap some photos. These caves are not just pretty—they’re symbols of the area’s mysterious charm. One reviewer even noted Ilir’s local expertise in guiding them to the best viewpoints and secluded spots, making each visit personalized and memorable.

Exploring the Mysterious Caves

Hidden Cave has an air of secrecy, often drawing visitors for its natural arch and serene surroundings. The Anchor Cave, named for its shape, offers a dramatic backdrop for photos and a sense of adventure. Expect to spend around 20 minutes at each, giving enough time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Reviews consistently mention the knowledgeable and friendly guides—Ilir and Sokol—who make the experience stand out. “Ilir was super helpful and very knowledgeable about the local area with the best spots for swimming,” said one traveler. Many reviewers appreciated guides who went beyond just steering the boat, providing insights that enhanced the experience.

Crystal Waters at Gremina, Kakome & Lovers Bay

Next, the tour takes you to three different stunning swimming spots: Gremina Bay, Kakome Bay, and Lovers Bay. These locations are perfect for a dip in the crystal-clear waters, floating among schools of fish or just relaxing on the boat. The reviews highlight how peaceful and beautiful these spots are, with the water’s transparency dazzling visitors.

One guest shared, “The water was full of fishes,” emphasizing how vibrant and lively these spots can be. Expect around 30-45 minutes at each for swimming, snorkeling (equipment included), and relaxing. The flexibility of the stops means you can choose to swim or quietly enjoy the scenery from the boat.

Krorez Beach: The 3-Hour Relaxation Oasis

The tour’s jewel is Krorez Beach, where you’ll anchor for approximately three hours. This stretch of sand is more than just pretty—it offers facilities like toilets, a bar, and a restaurant, making it easy to spend a leisurely afternoon. Sun beds are free, but remember, they only accept cash, so come prepared.

This part of the tour receives rave reviews. Visitors describe it as a “stunning beach” with “crystal clear waters” and appreciate the freedom to explore, swim, or snorkel. One reviewer even called it “paradise,” noting that the length of stay is enough to unwind completely.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and leisure. If you love discovering hidden caves, swimming in clear waters, and relaxing on a beautiful beach, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guides with local knowledge—many reviews praise Ilir and Sokol for their friendliness and expertise.

This tour is also flexible, with options for private groups or shared trips, making it a good choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. Keep in mind, it’s about a 6-hour commitment, so it suits those ready for a full day on the water.

Practical Details and Value

At around 6 hours, the tour offers enough time to explore several stunning spots without feeling overly rushed. The price covers the boat, captain, fuel, a bottle of water, and a free umbrella—an affordable way to see Albania’s rugged coastline. Since food and drinks aren’t included, packing some snacks and cash for Krorez’s facilities is advisable.

The meeting point is straightforward, marked by a sign saying “lilyboatturi,” and the activity concludes right back at the start. Be aware that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

The tour runs in multiple languages (English, Albanian, Greek), and booking is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving peace of mind to planners.

Authenticity and Unique Experiences

What sets this tour apart from other similar trips in the area is the emphasis on natural, unspoiled beauty and personalized guidance. Many reviews mention how guides like Ilir or Sokol went above and beyond, even taking guests to private, almost deserted beaches. The snorkeling opportunities are praised, with some travelers spotting octopuses or schools of fish, adding a bit of underwater adventure.

The 3-hour stay at Krorez is a highlight—it’s enough to unwind, enjoy a drink or a snack, and soak in the scenery without feeling hurried. For those who love capturing the perfect shot, the caves and bays provide endless photo opportunities with their dramatic formations and vibrant waters.

The Value for Money

This tour combines scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxation at a reasonable price point. While food isn’t included, the overall experience offers excellent value through its flexible stops, knowledgeable guides, and the sheer variety of destinations visited. The reviews consistently mention how the trip exceeded expectations, especially in terms of the quality of guides and the stunning locations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a full day of exploring Albania’s coast, families or couples seeking relaxation and beautiful scenery, and solo travelers wanting to meet others on a shared trip. If you love snorkeling, swimming, or simply unwinding in a peaceful setting, this experience hits all the right notes.

It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a luxury experience with included meals or a very rigid schedule—this is all about discovering natural beauty at your own pace.

FAQs

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring cash for Krorez’s facilities and snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and some snacks if you want extra sustenance during the long beach stay.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including stops for swimming, caves, and the 3-hour beach stay.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the flexible stops and gentle pace make it family-friendly, especially for those comfortable with boat trips and swimming.

Can I book a private tour?
Absolutely, private groups are available, which can make the experience more personalized and comfortable.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat, captain, fuel, a bottle of water, and free umbrellas. Food and drinks are not included.

Where do I meet the tour?
Look for a sign saying “lilyboatturi” at the meeting point. The tour ends back at this same location.

Are snorkeling and swimming equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, and the stops are great for swimming in the clear waters.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option for travelers with uncertain schedules.

To sum it up, this boat tour around Sarande offers a genuinely rewarding mix of natural beauty and local expertise. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see unspoiled caves, swim in vibrant waters, and relax on a quiet beach—all in a day that feels personalized and hassle-free. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and flexible options, it represents good value for anyone eager to experience Albania’s remarkable coast beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or a family, this trip is likely to become a memorable highlight of your time in Sarande.