Shkoder is a fantastic place for boat tours, thanks to its stunning lakes, rivers, and mountain views. Unlike many tourist spots that offer only a glimpse, Shkoder’s water-based adventures let you experience the region’s true natural beauty. Whether it’s cruising across Komani Lake or exploring the Shala River, these tours offer a unique way to see the area up close and personal. A few favorites include the From Shkoder: Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour, which combines a scenic boat ride with swimming in turquoise waters, and the From Tirana: Shala River Boat Tour Full-Day Trip, perfect for travelers based in Tirana wanting a full-day escape. These experiences showcase the region’s natural splendor and are often praised for their breathtaking scenery and relaxed pace.
For travelers who love a mix of active exploration and scenic beauty, some tours include biking and canoeing around Lake Shkodra, like the Discover Lake Shkodra: Boat Ride & Hidden Shores Adventure. Meanwhile, those on a tighter schedule or budget might prefer shorter trips like the Komani Lake & Shala River Boat Tour from Komani Dam, which offers a quick, scenic boat ride with options for swimming and relaxing.
Below, we’ll explore each of these top boat tours in detail, helping you decide which fits your interests, schedule, and budget best.
1. From Shkoder: Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour
This tour from Shkoder is a long but rewarding day, perfect for those wanting a comprehensive experience of the region’s waterways. It kicks off with a pickup in Shkoder, followed by a 110-minute van ride to the lakeside, then a 70-minute boat ride across the stunning Komani Lake—a fjord-like body carved by glacial activity. The highlight is the time spent swimming or kayaking in the Shala River, renowned for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters. The entire trip lasts about 11.5 hours, making it a full-day dedication, but the scenery and activities justify the effort.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic sailing and active water fun. The itinerary includes multiple boat rides, a long swim, and peaceful breaks in the mountains. The reviews are mixed with a 3.3/5 rating based on 7 reviews, but many find the experience unforgettable, especially the chance to swim in untouched waters. The tour is ideal for outdoor lovers and those seeking a mix of thrill and tranquility. The return journey ends back in Shkoder, tired but enriched by nature.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a full immersion into Komani Lake and Shala River, combining scenic boat rides with swimming and kayaking—great for adventurous travelers looking for a long, active day.
2. From Pristina: Day Tour to Shala River with Boat Trip
Travelers based in Pristina can enjoy a day trip to Shkoder’s Shala River, which covers both scenic bus rides through the Albanian Alps and a boat trip. At just $35 per person, it’s an affordable way to experience nature’s beauty without committing to a long journey. The tour lasts a full day, with a focus on the lush Albanian Alps, or the “Accursed Mountains,” known for their rugged beauty.
Participants get to relax by the river, swim in its clear waters, and explore untouched natural areas. The highlight is the boat ride that allows you to experience the river’s tranquility firsthand. The tour emphasizes outdoor activities, scenic views, and relaxation—ideal for travelers who want a taste of the mountains and water in one day. However, with only one review and a rating of 1/5, it’s important to note that feedback is limited, so expect a straightforward experience rather than a highly polished tour.
Bottom Line: This day trip offers an economical, scenic escape from Pristina, combining mountain views with river swimming, perfect if you’re short on time but want an authentic nature experience.
$35 per person
3. Discover Lake Shkodra: Boat Ride & Hidden Shores Adventure
For those who like active, multi-sport days, the Discover Lake Shkodra combines cycling, canoeing, and a boat trip into a 3-hour adventure. It begins with a bike ride across Buna Bridge and through Shirokë village, then shifts to paddling a canoe across Lake Shkodra—towed safely by a boat. This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy combining physical activity with scenic landscapes.
The guide is experienced and ensures safety, making it suitable for active individuals. The tour emphasizes exploring lesser-known shores and enjoying the peaceful beauty of the lake. The canoeing experience is unique because it allows you to get close to the water’s surface, while the cycling provides a glimpse into local life. It’s a good option for those who want a hands-on experience and appreciate seeing both land and water.
Bottom Line: This active tour blends cycling, canoeing, and scenic boat rides, ideal for travelers who want a hands-on, varied day exploring Lake Shkodra’s hidden corners.
$80 per person
4. From Komani Dam: Komani Lake & Shala River -BOAT TOUR-
This shorter boat trip from Komani Dam lasts about 6 hours and is perfect if you want a quick, scenic journey with relaxation options. It starts with a boat ride from Komani Lake into the Shala River, a peaceful stretch where you can swim, unwind, or enjoy local cuisine at riverside restaurants. The highlight is the chance to take photos from the Balcony of Shala River, offering sweeping mountain views.
At just $24 per person, it’s an economical choice, especially for travelers with limited time or budget. The reviews are not rated, but the area’s tranquility and natural beauty make it a worthwhile outing. The tour is well-suited for families or those simply wanting a serene boat ride with optional swimming.
Bottom Line: A quick, inexpensive way to enjoy the scenic Komani Lake and Shala River without a full-day commitment—great for a relaxed afternoon or a quick escape.
$24 per person
5. From Shkoder: Koman, Shala River Boat Ride and Valbona Tour
This comprehensive tour is an 11-hour day combining the blue waters of Shala River with a scenic trip to the Valbona Valley. It starts with exploring the Shala River, where you can relax or swim, then continues into the mountains for a trip to Valbona, one of Albania’s most beautiful alpine villages.
The tour stands out for its balance of water activities and mountain scenery, perfect for those wanting a broad view of northern Albania. Reviews are mixed at 3.8/5, but many travelers appreciate the chance to enjoy both river and mountain environments. The highlight is the chance to play with the zip-line or relax with a picnic by the river.
Bottom Line: This is a versatile tour that combines river relaxation and mountain exploration—ideal for travelers wanting both water and alpine scenery in one day.
6. From Tirana: Shala River Boat Tour Full-Day Trip
For Tirana visitors seeking a full-day cruise with a touch of culture, this full-day trip is a standout. It features a private boat ride through the Shala River, exploring the Albanian Alps and North Albania’s rugged scenery. The itinerary includes a scenic boat cruise, a traditional Albanian lunch, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
With a 5/5 rating, this tour is praised for its memorable scenery and well-organized schedule. It’s especially good for those who want a more personalized experience, as it offers guided sightseeing and food tasting. The tour provides a relaxed pace with plenty of time to enjoy the mountain views, making it suitable for travelers who prefer comfort and quality.
Bottom Line: A top choice for an all-in-one day of scenic boat riding, local cuisine, and mountain exploration—perfect for comfort seekers.
7. N’Gegaj- Vau i Dejes Lake: Shurdhah Island and Boat Tour
This full-day tour from Vau i Dejës Lake takes you to see Shurdhah Island, known for its ancient ruins, along with the Pëllumbat Cave and remote villages like Gegaj. It’s a mix of history, nature, and local culture, with a traditional lunch included.
The boat cruise offers a peaceful ride around Vau i Dejes Lake, perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The guide shares insights into the area’s past, and the visit to Shurdhah Island feels like stepping back in time. The tour’s price is $53 per person, making it a good value given the full day’s exploration.
Bottom Line: This trip combines cultural history and natural beauty, ideal for those interested in ruins, caves, and mountain villages.
$53 per person
8. Tirana: Day Trip to Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour
This comprehensive full-day tour from Tirana offers a sweeping journey through Komani Lake and Shala River. It features boat trips, scenic views of the Albanian Alps, and an off-road safari ride, making it one of the most adventurous options. The trip includes a visit to Ohrid Lake, one of the largest lakes in the Balkans.
Rated highly with an unrated but enticing experience, this tour is excellent for those wanting maximum scenery and adventure in one day. It includes opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and even zipping over the water on a zipline.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want an adventurous day with multiple water activities and mountain vistas, all starting from Tirana.
$106 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Shkoder
When choosing a boat tour, consider your available time, budget, and interests. If you want a full immersion into both mountain and water scenery, tours like the From Shkoder or the Valbona combination provide extensive experiences. For shorter, more relaxed trips, the Komani Lake & Shala River offers a scenic, budget-friendly option.
Budget-conscious travelers should look at the shorter Komani Lake trip, while those seeking a full day with gourmet touches might prefer the Tirana full-day cruise. Active adventurers will enjoy the Lake Shkodra combining cycling and canoeing.
Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot. Remember, weather can influence water activities, so check the forecast before confirming your plans.
To sum it up, whether you want a leisurely cruise, an active day of kayaking and biking, or an adventurous mountain voyage, Shkoder’s water tours have something for all. The scenic beauty, combined with authentic local touches and well-organized itineraries, makes these experiences memorable. For the best value, consider your interests and schedule—many tours like the From Tirana offer excellent comfort and scenery, while shorter trips deliver a quick escape. Start planning early, and don’t miss out on these water-based adventures that reveal the true spirit of northern Albania.