Tongo & Ksamil Islands : Full Day tour & local tasting

Exploring the Albanian Riviera’s Hidden Gems: Tongo & Ksamil Islands Full Day Tour

Imagine setting off from the charming seaside town of Sarandë, boarding a boat that whisks you across the shimmering waters of Albania’s southern coastline. In just one day, you’ll visit the Ksamil Islands, renowned for their twin islands and crystal-clear waters, as well as the Tongo Islands, the southeasternmost point of Albania, dotted with lush landscapes and tucked-away beaches. Led by a knowledgeable guide—often friendly and personable—you’ll spend around 8 hours immersed in nature, local flavors, and unforgettable views.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the combination of authentic Albanian seafood prepared by locals and the freedom to swim and snorkel whenever you fancy—no rigid schedules here. We particularly love how the boat trip offers a fresh perspective on the coast, avoiding crowded beaches and heavy traffic, which can be a real challenge during peak season. On the downside, since the tour is quite packed, some travelers might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if they love lingering longer at each spot or exploring more independently.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys scenic boat rides, loves sampling local cuisine, and appreciates a flexible, well-organized group experience, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those eager to experience the Albanian Riviera without the hassle of planning every detail, thanks to the guided itinerary and included snorkeling gear.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines visits to Ksamil Islands and Tongo Islands in a single day, making it easy to see multiple highlights without multiple bookings.
• Authentic Local Food: Tasting freshly cooked fish by local cooks adds a genuine flavor to your experience.
• Flexible Swimming & Snorkeling: You can jump into the water anytime—perfect for water enthusiasts.
• Avoids Crowds & Traffic: By starting from Sarandë and moving along the coast, you sidestep the busy beaches and roads.
• Expert Guides & Equipment: Knowledgeable guides and snorkeling gear are provided, enhancing your comfort and safety.
• Value for Money: The combination of boat travel, food, and flexible activities offers good value, especially compared to independent day trips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tongo & Ksamil Islands Tour

Starting Point: Sarandë’s Lungomare

You’ll begin your adventure at the Lungomare—a lively waterfront area in Sarandë—where the boat with the Enzo Water Sport logo awaits. This central location makes it easy for most travelers to join, whether staying nearby or strolling along the promenade. The crew is friendly and efficient, and the boat is typically well-equipped with cold drinks and snorkeling gear.

First Stop: Ksamil

After a brief departure, your first glimpse of the Ksamil Islands comes into view. Known for their twin islands and turquoise waters, Ksamil is a favorite for its postcard-perfect scenery. You’ll have about 30 minutes here, which is enough time for quick photos, dipping into the water, or a short swim. Several reviews mention the beauty of this spot—one traveler called it “an absolute paradise,” while others appreciated the convenience of having some free time to explore or relax on the beach.

Second Stop: Extended Swim in Ksamil

The tour then allows for a more relaxed swim of approximately an hour. This extra time is ideal for those who love to fully enjoy the water, whether it’s floating on the surface or snorkeling to see underwater life. Because snorkeling gear is provided, you might spot small fish and marine plants, though the focus remains on enjoying the clear, inviting waters.

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The Midday Break: Vrinë & Local Dining

Next, your boat heads toward Vrinë, roughly two hours from Sarandë, where a break for lunch and more swimming awaits. This stop is a highlight for many: it’s a chance to indulge in fish cooked by locals, often using traditional slow-cooking methods that bring out full flavor. The cooking process itself offers a glimpse into regional culinary customs, and many reviews mention how delicious the fresh fish tastes.

During this time, you can also take a dip or snorkel again. The atmosphere here is relaxed and friendly, with plenty of opportunities to chat with fellow travelers about the day’s highlights so far. The two-hour window provides ample time to enjoy a hearty meal, soak up the sun, and appreciate the peaceful coastal scenery.

Exploring the Unique Tongo Islands

The final major part of the tour takes you to the Tongo Islands—the southeastern tip of Albania. Here, the landscape is lush and less traveled, offering spectacular photogenic spots. We loved the way Tongo’s quiet beaches and natural beauty set it apart from the busier Ksamil area. This is the ideal place for photography, and many travelers mention capturing stunning shots of the coastline or just relaxing in the tranquil environment.

The freedom to swim or snorkel here is a real bonus, especially since the waters are calm and inviting. Whether you want to paddle along the shoreline or just soak in the scenery, Tongo provides a perfect backdrop.

Returning to Sarandë

As the day winds down, your boat returns to Sarandë’s Lungomare. The entire experience typically lasts around 8-9 hours, providing a full day of scenic views, tasty food, and water-based fun without feeling rushed. You’ll leave with a collection of photos, new friends, and a real sense of what makes Albania’s coastline special.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the main attractions of this experience is the local fish tasting, which allows you to sample authentic Albanian cuisine prepared by people who take pride in their culinary traditions. The slow-cooked fish is a highlight, often praised for its freshness and flavor. Another aspect that stands out is the flexibility of swimming and snorkeling at every stop, giving you control over how much time you spend in the water—something many travelers appreciate, especially water lovers.

Plus, the tour’s avoidance of crowded beaches makes it a pleasant day out, particularly during the busy summer months. With the boat transporting you along the coast, you’ll see beaches and islands that are often overshadowed by their more popular counterparts, offering a more authentic and peaceful experience.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While this tour offers many positives, a few travelers note that the schedule can be quite packed, and some spots might feel hurried if you prefer lingering longer. Also, since the main focus is on the boat trip and water activities, travelers looking for extensive land exploration or cultural visits might find it somewhat limited. Lastly, the tour does not include lunch, so you should budget for that additional expense, although the food served on board and at Vrinë is generally well-reviewed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, water activities, and local food tasting in a relaxed environment. It’s ideal if you want to see some of Albania’s most beautiful waterscapes without the hassle of organizing transportation or multiple bookings. Perfect for those who value authentic experiences and the chance to capture stunning photos of the coastline. It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or groups looking for a day that combines adventure and relaxation in one seamless package.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the Tongo & Ksamil Islands full-day tour offers a lively, picturesque, and authentic slice of the Albanian Riviera. The combination of stunning scenery, warm local hospitality, and flexible water activities makes it a strong contender for your Albanian itinerary. While it’s not necessarily a slow-paced cultural deep dive, it delivers on natural beauty and genuine flavors in a way that’s memorable and fun.

If you’re craving a day spent on the water, sampling fresh seafood, and exploring some of Albania’s hidden coastal treasures, this trip is likely to delight. Just remember to bring your swimsuit, a sense of adventure, and your camera—those views are just too good to miss.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8-9 hours, beginning in Sarandë and ending back at the same spot.

What is included in the tour?
Your package includes the boat trip from Sarandë to the islands, a skipper, cold drinks on board, and snorkeling equipment.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. However, you’ll have a chance to taste freshly cooked fish made by locals during the Vrinë stop, which many find to be a highlight.

Can I swim or snorkel at all stops?
Absolutely. The tour emphasizes free swimming and snorkeling at every destination, with gear provided.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Yes, it can be a good choice for families or groups, especially those interested in water activities and scenic outings. It’s a private group experience, which adds to its appeal.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
It’s recommended to reserve ahead, especially during peak season, as this tour sells out. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How does this tour compare to other boat trips in the area?
It offers a good balance of scenic sights, local food, and water activities without being overly commercialized. The focus on authentic experiences and flexibility makes it stand out.

In summary, this full-day boat tour to Ksamil and Tongo Islands provides a memorable blend of natural beauty, local flavors, and water-based fun, making it a top choice for those wanting a genuine taste of Albania’s southern coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: