Ksamil, with its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and proximity to the Albanian Riviera, is a paradise for boat lovers. The area’s many boat tours and cruises offer everything from relaxing island excursions to hands-on mussel farming experiences. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset sail, a day exploring uninhabited islands, or a cultural voyage along the coast, Ksamil has options to suit all tastes. One experience we particularly recommend is the Mussel Sailing Tour with Food and Drink Tasting — it combines a local delicacy with a scenic boat ride, and it’s perfect for curious travelers eager to learn something new and enjoy fresh seafood.
If you’re looking for a full-day adventure, the Tongo Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch offers stunning coastal scenery, snorkeling, and a delicious outdoor meal. For a romantic end to your day, the Sunset Sailing to Ksamil Islands provides a peaceful way to soak in the sunset with fruits and drinks aboard a comfortable boat. For those who like to explore multiple islands quickly, the Ksamil: Boat Trip To 5-Islands Of Ksamil & Twin Islands is lively and full of photo opportunities. With so many options, Ksamil’s boat tours cater to travelers of all interests and energy levels.
Quick Overview of Ksamil Boat Tours & Cruises
This list covers a wide range of boat experiences in Ksamil, from immersive mussel farming adventures to island-hopping speedboat trips and romantic sunset sails. The tours vary in length, focus, and price, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler:
- Unique local experiences like the Mussel Sailing Tour, which includes hands-on mussel harvesting and tasting.
- Excursions to nearby islands with snorkeling stops, BBQ lunches, and scenic sightseeing.
- Specialized cruises like sunset sails and private boat tours for couples or small groups.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you decide which one best fits your vacation plans.
1. Mussel Sailing Tour with Food and Drink Tasting in Albania
At number 1 on our list, the Mussel Sailing Tour with Food and Drink Tasting offers a deeply local experience you won’t forget. Starting from the entrance of the ancient Butrint site, this 2.5-hour journey takes you onto a traditional boat to explore mussel farms at Lake Butrint. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to participate in mussel harvesting, wearing gloves and acting as a farmer — a rare glimpse into Albanian aquaculture. The guide explains the mussel life cycle while you work, making it both educational and meditative.
After harvesting, you’ll sail to a nearby restaurant, where fresh mussels are prepared on-site in different styles. The reviews emphasize how relaxing and authentic this experience feels, with visitors appreciating the chance to learn about local farming and enjoy a fresh seafood feast. For a small price and a big taste of local life, this tour is perfect for curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing.
Bottom line: An excellent blend of hands-on activity and regional cuisine, this tour suits those who appreciate local foods and authentic experiences.
2. From Ksamil: Tongo Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch
At number 2, the Tongo Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch is a full-day adventure perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with relaxation and good food. This trip sails through the Ionian Sea, with stops for snorkeling and scenic photo ops. The itinerary includes a visit to Ftelea Beach, where you can swim or just soak up the sun, and an underwater snorkel session that reveals the vibrant marine life of the region.
The highlight is the barbecue lunch on Tongo Island, featuring grilled fish, vegetables, and fresh local produce. Guests often comment on the stunning views and the chance to see dolphins if luck is on your side. The tour’s length makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a leisurely day out, combining active snorkeling, island hopping, and a hearty meal.
Bottom line: It’s a well-rounded trip for those wanting a mix of adventure, culture, and delicious food, with the added bonus of the marine wildlife sightings.
3. Sunset Sailing to Ksamil Islands with Fruits and Drinks
Number 3 features the Sunset Sailing to Ksamil Islands, perfect for romantic evenings or peaceful solo moments. This private 1-hour cruise offers a gentle sail through the Ksamil Islands as the sun dips below the horizon. The boat is comfortable, and the experience includes fresh fruits and water to refresh you after a day of exploring.
What makes this tour special is the quiet, intimate atmosphere, with the captain sharing stories about the coastline and islands. It’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for a calming end to their day. Passengers who have done this note that the views at sunset are spectacular, creating a truly memorable scene.
Bottom line: Best suited for romantics or those wanting a calm, scenic experience, with an unbeatable sunset view.
4. Ksamil: Boat Trip To 5-Islands Of Ksamil & Twin Islands
The Boat Trip to 5 Islands of Ksamil & Twin Islands is a fast-paced, 2-hour adventure that takes you to explore multiple small islands. Starting from Ksamil, the speedboat whisks you through the main Ksamil Island, the Twin Islands, and Pine Island, with plenty of swimming and relaxing on beaches.
This tour appeals especially to those who want a short, energetic experience and enjoy taking lots of photos of rugged coastlines and friendly wildlife, including rabbits and birds. The reviews highlight the careful handling by the captain and the flexibility to customize the trip. It’s a lively option perfect for families or groups looking for a quick but fulfilling island-hopping experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick, exciting ride and a chance to explore several islands in a short time.
5. Saranda: Ksamil, Ali Pasha Cave, and Krorëza Beach Boat Tour
At number 5, this extensive 8-hour tour offers a broader look at the Albanian Riviera. Starting from Saranda, it travels to Ksamil for swimming and snorkeling, then goes further to the Ali Pasha Cave, a natural wonder. The boat also stops at Krorëza Beach to relax and enjoy the scenery, with on-board fresh fruit and drinks.
The tour is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day on the water, including exploring caves and beaches that are not easily reachable on foot. While it’s longer and more involved, reviews praise the stunning coastline views and the chance to swim in crystal waters. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation with a knowledgeable crew.
Bottom line: Best for travelers with a full day to spare, eager to explore caves, swim, and enjoy the scenic coastline in comfort.
$35 per person
6. Boat tours for Ksamil
Number 6 covers a 6-hour selection of boat trips in Ksamil, designed to give a flexible experience of the area’s most beautiful waters. This tour is excellent for anyone wanting to explore the magic of Ksamil’s beaches and see the famous Pigeons Cave. The trips include a relaxing cruise around the three main Ksamil islands and feature plenty of time for swimming and taking photos.
It’s a good choice for those who prefer not to commit to a set itinerary but want the freedom to customize their day on the water. The high rating (4.7/5) indicates consistent quality and customer satisfaction. This tour suits travelers seeking a blend of leisure and sightseeing with the ability to extend or shorten their experience.
Bottom line: A versatile option for flexible, relaxed exploration of Ksamil’s waters.
7. Ksamil Boat Tour To Pulebardha, Pigeon Cave & Snorkelling
Rated 5/5, this 2-hour tour offers a focused exploration of Pigeon Cave and nearby beaches like Pulebardha. The experience includes swimming and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and visiting scenic spots like Kep Merli and Shen Gjergji Monastery. The itinerary is designed for those who want to see multiple coastal highlights without a long day on the water.
Guests appreciate the friendly boat driver and the chance to snorkel in beautiful caves, making it a great option for families or adventure seekers. The tour’s short duration makes it a practical choice if you’re tight on time but want a taste of the coast’s underwater beauty.
Bottom line: Perfect for snorkelling enthusiasts and those with limited time who still want a comprehensive coastal experience.
8. Ksamil Sailing & Mussel Tasting Experience
This 6-hour tour combines scenic sailing with a mussel tasting that immerses you in local culinary culture. Starting from Ksamil, you’ll cruise across Lake Butrint, with opportunities to harvest fresh mussels and learn about their cultivation. The experience culminates in a feast of mussels paired with wine and local produce.
It’s a unique chance to combine sightseeing with hands-on farming — highly rated for its authenticity and the stunning sunset views on the return journey. This tour suits food lovers and those wanting a deeper connection to Albanian traditions. The price reflects the quality of experience and the intimate nature of the tour.
Bottom line: For travelers interested in food and culture, this is a memorable, immersive option.
$89 per person
9. Ksamil: Tongo Island Boat Tour with Lunch
Rated 4.7/5, this 7-hour tour from Ksamil offers a full day of exploring the Albanian Riviera’s beaches and islands, including Tongo Island. It features stops for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on scenic beaches. The highlight is the lunch, with fresh seafood or other local dishes served aboard.
This trip balances adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for families or groups wanting a leisurely day on the water. The itinerary emphasizes vibrant underwater life and beautiful coastline views, with plenty of time to explore and enjoy.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who want a comprehensive day of island exploration with good food and snorkeling.
10. Private Ksamil Tour – Pelagic Boat Tours in Saranda
This private tour offers the flexibility to customize your day around the pristine Ksamil Islands and Pigeon’s Cave. Lasting about 5.5 hours, it is ideal for couples or small groups seeking a personalized experience. The host is highly praised, with reviews highlighting the captain’s expertise and the beautiful scenery.
It’s perfect if you want intimate time on the water, with the option to visit specific sites or spend more time swimming and relaxing. The private nature of this tour guarantees a tailored experience, and the focus on pristine beaches and caves makes it a superb choice for those valuing exclusivity.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a customizable, private boat outing.
11. Sarande: Tour Boat Pegeon Cave, Manastir, Pulebardha, Ksamil
The final entry is a 6-hour tour from Saranda, covering Pigeon Cave, Manastir, Pulebardha, and Ksamil itself. This route offers a blend of coastal exploration, swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a rundown of the region’s best natural and historical sites.
With a 4.7/5 rating, the tour is praised for its professional crew and the variety of stops. It’s suitable for those who want a full day of adventure along the coast, with plenty of time to unwind or explore independently at each stop.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded coastal experience with multiple highlights.
How to Choose Your Perfect Ksamil Boat Experience
When selecting a boat tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re passionate about local food, the Mussel Sailing Tour (see details) offers a hands-on farming experience paired with a meal. For a full-day adventure, the Tongo Island Tour with BBQ lunch (see here) provides snorkeling, beach relaxation, and a delicious outdoor meal.
If you prefer a romantic or calm experience, the Sunset Sail (more info) offers a peaceful way to end your day. For those who love exploring multiple islands quickly, the 5-Islands Boat Trip (details here) is lively and efficient.
Consider whether you want a private experience, such as the Pelagic Boat Tour (see here), or a group tour. Booking early is advisable during peak season, especially for popular options like sunset cruises or full-day trips.
Final Thoughts
Ksamil offers a diverse array of boat experiences that cater to different interests — from hands-on mussel harvesting to relaxed sunset sails. For a culinary-focused adventure, the Mussel Sailing Tour is hard to beat. If you’re after a full-day exploration of islands and caves, the Saranda boat tours deliver excellent value. For romance and tranquility, the sunset cruises provide a perfect ending to your day.
No matter what you choose, booking early will secure your spot on these popular trips. Each offers a chance to see the region’s stunning coastline from a different perspective — so pick what excites you most and enjoy your time on the water in Ksamil.