Durres, Albania’s bustling port city, offers more than just beaches and seafood. It’s a prime spot for boat tours and cruises that reveal the country’s diverse landscapes—mountains, lakes, and the shining Adriatic Sea. Whether you’re craving a peaceful cruise on shimmering waters or an adrenaline-filled sea adventure, Durres’s boat experiences deliver. We especially love the Shala River and Koman Lake trip for its breathtaking mountain scenery and tranquility, and the lively 90-minute boat tour that’s perfect for families or friends wanting a quick splash of fun on the water. For those interested in local flavors, a vineyards and wine tasting tour combines scenic views with delicious sips, while the Karavasta Lagoon tour offers a chance to see rare bird species and explore pristine wetlands. These options highlight Durres’s natural beauty and adventurous spirit, giving every traveler a chance to enjoy Albania from a boat.
Quick Overview
This list features four top-rated boat tours, each with its own appeal:
– A long, scenic trip on Lake Koman and the Shala River, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers (Tirana/Durres/Shkodra: Shala River and Koman Lake Boat Trip)
– A short, lively sea cruise complete with swimming, snorkeling, and music, ideal for those wanting a quick escape (90min Boat Tour in Durres)
– A wine and vineyard experience combined with a scenic boat ride through lakes, suited for food and wine enthusiasts (From Durres/Golem: Vineyards, Wine Food Tasting & Boat Tour)
– An eco-friendly adventure exploring Karavasta Lagoon’s wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers (From Durres: Karavasta Lagoon Adventure Boat Tour & Wildlife)
1. Tirana/Durres/Shkodra: Shala River and Koman Lake Boat Trip
This 9 to 14-hour experience takes you deep into the Albanian Alps, starting from Tirana and winding through scenic mountain roads to reach Lake Koman. From there, you’ll enjoy a boat cruise on Komani Lake, often called the “Albanian Fjord,” with striking cliffs and calm waters. The trip also includes a visit to the Shala River, known as the “Thailand of Albania” for its clear waters and dramatic surroundings. The tour is ideal if you want to see Albania’s rugged, mountainous interior and experience a boat ride that’s more like an expedition.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of mountain scenery, boat rides, and cultural stops. The boat on Lake Koman offers mesmerizing views, with some reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guide Armand and the chance to swim and relax at Shala. It’s a full-day adventure, suitable for those comfortable with long drives and looking for a genuine Albanian outdoor experience. Expect a lot of winding roads, but the scenery is worth every hour. The tour is highly rated, with 162 reviews averaging 4.5/5, mostly praising the stunning vistas and friendly guides.
Bottom line: This is the best choice for adventure travelers who want to combine mountain scenery, boat cruising, and cultural exploration in one day.
2. 90min Boat Tour in Durres
For a quick, lively escape on the water, the Durres Blue Waters Boat Tour offers just 1.5 hours of fun. Departing from Pilsen & Grill, this cruise heads out to Kallmi Beach and explores some of the hidden treasures of the Adriatic. The boat can carry up to 9 people, making it suitable for small groups or families looking for an intimate sea adventure. Highlights include diving, swimming, snorkeling, and even an exploratory stop to find a sunken ship from WWI.
During the cruise, you’ll enjoy music, dancing, and singing, making it a lively, social experience. The boat trip includes a snorkeling stop that’s perfect for spotting marine life and exploring underwater. It’s a flexible, fun experience that appeals to those wanting a quick but memorable day at sea. Reviewers love the friendly crew and the small group setting—one reviewer called it a “unique sea adventure I’ll never forget.”
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want an energetic, fun-filled sea experience with a chance to swim and snorkel.
3. From Durres/Golem: Vineyards, Wine Food Tasting & Boat Tour
This 5-hour full-day tour combines wine tasting, scenic lakeside views, and a boat cruise through lush vineyards and tranquil lakes. Starting from Durres or Golem, it offers a chance to visit local vineyards producing Albanian wines and flavored brandies. The tour includes a guided visit to vineyards, a wine and food tasting session, and a boat cruise through scenic lakes, giving you a taste of local traditions balanced with nature.
The highlight is the opportunity to sample regional wines while enjoying the peaceful countryside scenery. Guests rave about the chance to connect with Durres’s wine-making traditions, with some reviews noting the delicious local varieties and the guided tour’s depth. The tour is well-suited for those who enjoy wine, good food, and picturesque landscapes, with a relaxed pace and a focus on cultural richness. It’s more than just a boat ride; it’s a taste of Albania’s rural charm.
Bottom line: Ideal for food and wine lovers who want a leisurely day combining tasting, sightseeing, and a scenic lake cruise.
4. From Durres: Karavasta Lagoon Adventure Boat Tour & Wildlife
This 6-hour eco-tour takes you into the heart of Karavasta Lagoon, Albania’s largest lagoon and a haven for rare bird species like the Dalmatian pelican. The tour includes boat rides through serene canals, visits to diverse landscapes, and wildlife watching, making it a perfect choice for nature lovers. The tour also includes stops at Divjaka-Karavasta National Park and Kulla 360, giving a well-rounded experience of the area’s flora and fauna.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to observe endangered species and explore lush marshlands, all in a more intimate group setting. Reviewers mention the breathtaking views and the chance to see wildlife up close, making it perfect for photographers and birdwatchers. The tour is ideal if you’re interested in Albanian ecology, quiet landscapes, and unique wildlife encounters.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a peaceful, wildlife-focused experience and are willing to spend a full day immersed in nature.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your time, interests, and energy level. If you want a full-day adventure exploring mountains and lakes, the Shala River and Koman Lake trip is unmatched. For a shorter, lively sea experience, opt for the 90-minute boat tour—perfect for families or those on a tight schedule. Wine lovers should consider the vineyard and boat combo for a relaxed, flavorful day. If wildlife and peaceful landscapes call to you, the Karavasta Lagoon tour offers a chance to see rare species in a tranquil setting.
Think about your comfort with long drives, your budget, and whether you prefer adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Durres offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that cater to different preferences. Whether you’re after an adventure on Albanian lakes, a quick sea dip, a delicious wine tasting, or a wildlife watching trip, there’s something here for you. For overall value and a truly unforgettable experience, the Shala River and Koman Lake trip stands out, especially if you love mountains and boat rides. For those seeking a lively, shorter trip, the 90-minute sea cruise offers fun and flexibility. And for travelers eager to combine nature, wildlife, and relaxation, the Karavasta Lagoon tour is hard to beat.
No matter which you choose, book ahead, dress comfortably, and bring your camera. These water-based adventures promise memorable moments and a different perspective on Albania’s stunning landscape.