Sarandë: Boat Tour Turtle Cave Kakome & Krorez Snorkeling

Sarandë Boat Tour: Turtle Cave, Kakome & Krorez Snorkeling
Location: Vlorë County, Albania
Price: $41 per person
Rating: 4.9 from 262 reviews

A day out on the water exploring the Albanian Riviera sounds pretty appealing, doesn’t it? For around $41, you get a roughly 6-hour boat trip that whisks you along coastlines dotted with coves, beaches, and caves that are often inaccessible by land. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides like Kosta and Mario, this tour promises to reveal some of the best-kept secrets of Sarandë’s coastline—places like the Turtle Cave, Kakome Beach, and Krorez Beach.

What we love about this tour is the chance to visit secluded spots with stunning clarity of water and dramatic rock formations—it’s the kind of experience that feels like slipping behind the tourist scenes into authentic, untouched corners of the Ionian Sea. Plus, the snorkeling opportunities are plentiful, allowing you to swim in crystal-clear waters that many travelers describe as “turquoise” and “breathtaking.”

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the weather—since the stops are weather-dependent, your plans could shift, possibly limiting some activities like swimming or snorkeling. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those over 70 or over 209 lbs (95 kg), so if you’re in that category, it’s worth noting.

This boat trip suits adventurous travelers, families, or couples eager to see hidden beaches and enjoy some quality time on the water. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the flexibility to swim or relax, you’ll find this experience well worth the price.

Key Points

• Unbeatable access to secluded beaches and caves only reachable by boat
• Knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights into the area’s natural beauty and history
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops in crystal-clear waters
• Flexible options for group or private boat experiences
• Good value for a full-day adventure with all fuel and gear included
• Weather-dependent stops, which can shift based on conditions

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Complete Experience: Diving into the Details

Departing from Sarandë Marina

Your journey begins at Saranda Boat 1, located conveniently across from Guma Restaurant along the promenade. It’s a straightforward starting point, and the friendly staff makes check-in simple. You might want to arrive early, especially in peak season, to settle in and get a good spot. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with Bluetooth seats perfect for relaxing or enjoying music as you cruise.

The Itinerary: Six Stops with Seven Possible Locations

The tour visits six of the seven potential sites, with the final choices depending on weather and captain’s discretion. Each location offers a different aspect of the region’s natural beauty.

Turtle Cave: Named for its distinctive rock formations, this spot is a perfect photo op. You’ll marvel at rocks that resemble turtle shells—an unusual sight that makes for memorable pictures. It’s a quiet, peaceful location that allows you to soak in the scenery without the crowds.

Secret Beach: Known for the anchors left behind by local fish farmers, this spot is primarily a photo stop. No swimming here, but its history and mystery make it worth a quick visit.

Gremina: This site features a notable rock formation, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. With up to 25 minutes for each activity, you’ll get enough time to explore underwater life and enjoy the water.

Kakome: Often highlighted as a pristine, peaceful beach with crystal-clear waters, Kakome is a favorite among travelers. It’s perfect for those wanting a tranquil retreat with ample chances to swim or sunbathe.

Krorez Beach: Accessible only by boat, this picturesque stretch offers excellent swimming and lounging opportunities. Many reviews recommend grabbing some food at a nearby restaurant (cash only) and renting an umbrella for comfort. Expect around 2.5–3 hours here, making it the longest stop of the day.

Military Bay / Rrojdhes: Rich in both natural beauty and history, this site combines exploration with relaxation. It’s a quieter, less touristy spot ideal for a swim or simply soaking in the views.

What the Tour Includes

The tour package covers snorkel gear, fuel, and a knowledgeable captain who guides the boat and shares stories. The boat’s Bluetooth-equipped seating makes for a relaxed ride, and the focus on safety and comfort is clear from reviews.

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What You’ll Need to Bring

Travelers are advised to bring swimwear, towels, waterproof cameras, and cash for food, drinks, or renting beach umbrellas. Don’t forget sunscreen—preferably biodegradable to protect the environment—and a fully charged smartphone for photos. Light snacks and water are recommended, as the tour doesn’t include food or alcohol.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

With a 4.9-star rating from over 260 reviews, most travelers are thrilled with the experience. Many praise the knowledgeable guides like Kosta and Mario for their friendly attitude and interesting commentary. One reviewer notes: “We received clear and interesting explanations at every stop,” highlighting the value of guides who enhance the trip with local insights.

The stops themselves are consistently described as stunning and peaceful. “We visited hidden beaches and swam in turquoise water,” says Carolina, emphasizing the secluded beauty. Others appreciated the well-paced timing: “We had a good amount of time at each stop,” mentions Ella, which means you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed by too many sites in one day.

The boat’s comfort and safety are recurrent themes. “The boat was super comfortable and perfect for popping in and out of little coves,” states Billi. Many reviews also mention the small group size—around seven people in some cases—which adds a personal touch that larger tours often lack.

The Snorkeling and Swimming Experience

Most travelers find the snorkeling spots exceptional. The clear waters and colorful marine life make for memorable underwater moments. Felicity shares, “It was nice to get out of Sarande and see other parts nearby,” which underscores how these stops offer more than just sightseeing—an immersive water experience.

The Value for Money

At $41, this tour offers great value—covering fuel, gear, and expert guiding—especially considering it’s a full 6-hour experience. Reviewers like Elisa-Octavia say, “Overall a great experience, 10/10,” which indicates satisfaction with the price-to-value ratio.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is highly rated, some reviews mention overcrowding on other tours. Our tour seems well-managed, but weather conditions can affect some stops, which could impact your plans for swimming or exploring. The tour’s limited suitability for those over 70 or heavier than 95 kg is also worth noting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves hidden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and small-group experiences, this boat trip is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends eager to explore the lesser-known parts of the Albanian coast. Those seeking informative guides who can share local stories and history will appreciate the attention to detail.

However, if you prefer a full-day land-based tour, or if you have mobility issues or are in the over-70 age group, you might want to consider alternative excursions. Those who love snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing in scenic surroundings will find this trip particularly rewarding.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including time at each of the stops.

What locations are visited?
Stops include Turtle Cave, Secret Beach, Gremina, Kakome, Krorez Beach, and Military Bay/Rrojdhes—weather-dependent.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel gear is included in the price, making it easy to explore underwater life.

Can I book a private boat?
Yes, there are options to book the boat for yourself, either as a group or private experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, waterproof cameras, cash for food or rentals, biodegradable sunscreen, and a charged smartphone.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included, so plan to bring snacks and drinks if desired.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, but it’s not suitable for those over 70 or over 95 kg.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak Albanian, English, and Greek.

To sum it up, this boat tour from Sarandë offers an authentic, scenic, and relaxing way to explore some of Albania’s most beautiful and secluded coastal spots. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning nature, and generous snorkeling opportunities makes it a standout for those seeking a genuine water-based adventure.

Whether you’re a solo traveler craving tranquility, a family looking for a fun day out, or a couple wanting to explore hidden gems, this trip balances value and experience beautifully. Just be prepared for the weather’s influence and pack accordingly, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of stories—and maybe some great photos—to share.

You can check availability for your dates here: