Saranda: Boat Tour to Hidden Caves & Krorez + Free Drink

Saranda: Boat Tour to Hidden Caves & Krorez + Free Drink

If you’re heading to Saranda in southern Albania and craving a way to escape the crowds, this boat tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic coastline beauty. Priced at around $40 per person and lasting roughly 2.5 hours, it’s ideal for travelers looking to explore inaccessible beaches and stunning caves along the Ionian Sea. The tour is small — with a maximum of 11 participants — which means you’ll get a more personal experience, away from the crowds and noise.

What we love most about this trip are the crystal-clear waters and the chance to see secret caves accessible only by boat. Plus, the onboard perks like a free drink and the ability to play your own music really add to the relaxed vibe. On the downside, the tour is weather-dependent, so if the sea gets rough, the itinerary can shift or be rescheduled.

This experience suits adventurous couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy being on the water, snorkeling, or simply soaking up sun at quiet beaches. If you’re into discovering lesser-known spots and savoring Albania’s natural beauty — with a laid-back, small-group feel — this tour is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Access: Visit pristine beaches and caves that are only reachable by boat.
• Relaxing Stops: Enjoy 2.5 hours at Kroreza Beach, with free sunbeds and umbrellas.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size means more space and personalized attention.
• Onboard Comforts: Free drinks, onboard fridge, and the ability to bring your own food and music enhance the trip.
• Safety & Professionalism: The captain is European-certified and has a background in water sports, emphasizing safety.
• Flexible & Weather-Dependent: The tour depends on weather conditions, which might lead to itinerary changes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Albanian Coast in Depth

Why This Boat Tour is a Great Choice for Visitors

The Albanian Riviera has become a sought-after destination for travelers craving unspoiled beaches and dramatic coastline scenery. Yet, many of its best spots are only accessible by boat. This tour from Saranda offers an excellent way to cover several highlights in just a few hours, without the hassle of organizing your own boat or trying to find these hidden gems on your own.

The cost of $40 might seem modest, but considering what’s included — a snorkeling gear, free water, sunbeds, and your choice of music — the value becomes clear. It’s a budget-friendly way to explore more of the coast than you could on foot or by car, and the small group size ensures a more relaxed, less crowded experience.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Turtle Cave

Your first stop is the magically named Turtle Cave, which is only accessible by boat. The highlight here is the turquoise waters and spectacular rock formations that make this a perfect spot for photos. Many reviews mention how the natural beauty is breathtaking, with some guests commenting on the clarity of the water and the unique scenery.

Kakome Bay

Next, you’ll sail to Kakome Bay, which offers lush green hills framing a quiet, pristine shoreline. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or snap panoramic shots of the peaceful landscape. Some travelers note that the bay is less crowded than public beaches, providing a sense of secluded serenity.

Kroreza Beach

The final stop is Kroreza Beach, often praised as one of Albania’s best-kept secrets. It features white sand, clear blue waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. You’ll have around two hours to relax, with sunbeds and umbrellas provided free of charge. Many reviews emphasize how peaceful and uncrowded it is, making it perfect for unwinding or enjoying a picnic. There’s also a bar and restaurant on site if you wish to buy lunch or drinks, although bringing your own snacks is recommended since there are no other establishments en route.

Why the Guide’s Expertise Matters

The boat is captained by the region’s only European-certified skipper with a background in Physical Education and Sport Science. This means safety and professionalism are prioritized. Many travelers praise the crew — calling them friendly, helpful, and knowledgable. One reviewer described the captain as “amazing, friendly, funny, and skilled”, which reassures those who may be nervous about boat trips.

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What’s Included & What You Should Bring

The tour keeps things simple but thoughtful. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can explore underwater caves or just enjoy the clear waters. A fridge onboard allows you to keep your own food and drinks fresh, which is great since there are no stops for meals during the trip. You’ll receive a complimentary water bottle and can select your favorite music playlist to set the mood.

To make the most of the trip, it’s recommended to bring a hat, sunscreen, towel, camera, and snacks. While you can bring your own food and drinks, note that bikes, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed onboard, aligning with safety policies.

Weather and Safety Considerations

Since the tour is weather-dependent, rough seas may lead to changes or postponements. The boat itself is modern and comfortable but not wheelchair accessible. Participants should be in decent physical condition to board and disembark with minimal assistance. Children are welcome, but babies under 1 year and people over 55 may want to consider whether the boat ride suits their comfort levels.

Authenticity and Review Highlights

Reviews consistently echo the positive sentiment. Emma calls it “perfectly organized” with a “really good vibe,” and others praise the stunning scenery, friendly crew, and value for money. One reviewer happily states, “It was one of our favorite experiences,” highlighting how memorable this trip can be.

Many mention the flexibility and ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing, with some guests even remarking they would “definitely go again.” The private beach stop, with free sunbeds, was a highlight for many, providing a peaceful escape from crowded beaches.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is best suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy outdoor activities like swimming and snorkeling. It’s perfect for those wanting to explore less accessible parts of Albania’s coast without the hassle of planning. Couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, friendly environment will find this experience rewarding.

However, if you’re seasick-prone, or traveling with very young children or seniors over 55, it’s worth considering whether the boat ride will be comfortable. Weather can influence the experience, so flexibility is key.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For $40, this small-group boat tour delivers a lot of value. You gain access to hidden caves, secluded beaches, and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The professional captain and small group size mean safety and personal attention are prioritized. Plus, the free drink and the chance to play your music create a laid-back vibe that makes this more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a memorable experience.

This tour is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to see Albania’s coast from a different perspective and enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring in a safe, friendly environment. Whether you’re into photography, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the sea, you’ll find plenty to love here.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join if they are accompanied by an adult. However, very young children or babies under 1 year old might find the boat ride less comfortable, and you should consider their comfort and safety.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, camera, snacks, and your own drinks if desired. The onboard fridge keeps your items cool, but there are no food stops during the trip.

Can I bring my own music?
Absolutely. The boat has a sound system where you can play your own playlist, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, rough sea conditions could lead to adjustments or rescheduling. It’s best to be flexible with your plans and check weather forecasts beforehand.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 11 participants, ensuring a more intimate and less crowded experience.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The boat is not wheelchair accessible and requires some physical mobility to board and disembark comfortably.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to plan with confidence.

In summary, this boat tour from Saranda offers an authentic, fun, and peaceful way to discover Albania’s unspoiled coast. With stunning scenery, friendly staff, and flexible options, it’s a trip that many will find well worth the modest investment. If you’re looking for a blend of adventure and relaxation in a beautiful setting, this experience might just be the highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: