If you’re looking for a quick but memorable escape into the waters of Albania’s Durres district, this Durres Blue Waters Boat Tour offers a blend of history, relaxation, and fun. It promises a one-hour voyage that takes you to the depths of the Adriatic, where you’ll encounter a World War I-era shipwreck and enjoy the lively coastal atmosphere.
What immediately catches your eye? First, the chance to snorkel around a shipwreck that’s just about 1.5 meters deep—ideal for all levels. Second, the upbeat vibe on board, with music, dancing, and drinks, makes it perfect for friends and families seeking a fun, social outing. The potential snag? With a cap of just 10 people maximum, if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group, this might feel a bit intimate.
This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of history, scenic views, and lively atmospheres. If you’re after an authentic, no-fuss sea adventure with a friendly vibe and some unexpected historical discovery, this experience could be just what you need.
Key Points
- Short and Sweet: A 1-hour boat trip packed with activities, ideal for those with tight schedules.
- Historical Highlight: Snorkel around a WWI shipwreck, just 1.5 meters deep, suitable for all levels.
- Lively Atmosphere: Music, dancing, and drinks create a festive, social vibe on this private boat.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for friends, families, or small groups wanting an authentic coastal experience.
- Practical Details: Includes a skipper, snacks, prosecco, and diving equipment; check availability for your preferred time.
- Limited Capacity: Max 10 persons, ensuring an intimate, personalized experience.
Starting from the Port of Durrës, the tour is a compact, whirlwind outing designed to maximize fun and discovery in a short span. We loved the way the itinerary balances relaxation, exploration, and entertainment—you can soak up the sun, learn a bit about history, and get your swim on all in one hour.
You can check availability for your dates here:Itinerary Breakdown
Departure from Durrës Port: The journey begins with a scenic cruise through the calm waters of the Adriatic. As you set sail, you’ll enjoy views of the coastline, a gentle sea breeze, and the warm Albanian sun. It’s a straightforward start, but that simplicity is part of the charm—no fuss, just good vibes on the water.
First Stop: The WWI Shipwreck: The highlight, for many, is snorkelling around the Antonjetta Costa, a submerged Austro-Hungarian ship dating back to World War I. This wreck, lying at a shallow depth of just 1.5 meters, is perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels. We loved the way the ship’s silhouette creates a striking contrast against the blue waters, offering a tangible link to history beneath the surface.
One reviewer mentioned, “We explored an authentic piece of history beneath the waves,” emphasizing how this stop can be more than just a fun swim—it’s also a window into the past. The shallow depth means no complicated equipment or advanced diving skills are necessary, making it accessible for families with children or beginners.
Second Stop: Fisherman Beach: After the underwater adventure, the boat takes you to a hidden gem—Fisherman Beach. Here, you can relax on the sand, take in the scenic surroundings, or just enjoy some chill time. The waters are clear, and the setting feels intimate, away from crowded resorts. Many guests, including one who said, “Enjoyed cocktails or cold beers at the boat with music,” appreciate this relaxed vibe.
Music, Fun, and Drinks: The boat itself is a lively space. With music, dancing, and singing, it feels more like a floating party than a traditional tour. Prosecco and snacks are included, and there’s space to bring your own drinks, making it a festive environment. Gijs summed it up simply: “Had a lot of fun at the boat!”
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Durres.
What to Expect and Practical Tips
- The total duration is about an hour, but the fun feels more expansive thanks to the lively environment.
- The capacity is limited to 10 guests, which helps keep the experience intimate and relaxed.
- The skipper ensures safety and guides you through the day’s highlights.
- Included in the price are snacks, prosecco, and diving gear, providing good value for a short, activity-packed trip.
- Not included are beers, other alcohol, and food, so plan accordingly if you want more substantial meals or drinks.
Logistics and Considerations
The meeting point is at a public parking area at the port, making it easy to find and access. The tour is private, so you can enjoy a more personalized experience. Remember, you need to sign a responsibility declaration before setting sail, which is standard for safety reasons.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility aids.
The flexibility to reserve and pay later is a welcome feature, especially if your plans are still evolving. Cancellation is straightforward—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adding peace of mind.
Authenticity and Value
This trip strikes a good balance between value and authenticity. For the cost, you get a personalized boat ride, a chance to snorkel at a historic site, and the chance to relax with friends or family. The reviews reflect genuine enjoyment: Jerry called it “the highlight of our tour,” and Gijs simply summed it up as “fun.” The friendly guides and captain add to the experience, making it more than just a boat ride—they help craft memorable moments.
This experience is best for adventurers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and lively social settings. It’s ideal for small groups looking for an intimate outing, families wanting a safe shallow snorkel, or friends seeking a fun, memorable afternoon. If you’re after a quick, affordable boat trip with authentic touches, this tour fits the bill perfectly.
On the flip side, if you’re looking for a longer, more in-depth tour, or if you prefer land-based activities, you might want to explore other options.
The Durres Blue Waters Boat Tour offers a genuine slice of coastal Albania—combining a historical glimpse with a lively, social environment on the water. The shallow wreck makes it accessible and intriguing, especially for those new to snorkeling or traveling with children. The inclusion of snacks, prosecco, and music elevates the experience from a simple boat ride to a small celebration.
The limited size means you’ll get a more personalized touch, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and enjoy the company of your guide. It’s a perfect way to add a splash of adventure to your trip without overcommitting, especially if you’re pressed for time but crave a memorable sea experience.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Book?
If your ideal holiday includes short but sweet adventures, a touch of history, and lively social moments, this tour will suit you. It’s especially good for families, small groups, and curious travelers who want to enjoy the waters around Durres in a relaxed, friendly setting.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it perfect for a quick outing or a break between other activities.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the public parking area at Durres port and ends back at the same point, providing easy logistics.
What is included in the price?
The experience includes a skipper, snacks, prosecco, and diving equipment. You can enjoy the drinks and snacks provided onboard.
Can I snorkel around the shipwreck?
Yes, the shipwreck is just 1.5 meters deep, making it suitable for snorkelers of all levels. It’s a shallow, accessible site with plenty of underwater interest.
Is this experience suitable for children?
While it’s family-friendly, babies under 1 year and wheelchair users are not suitable due to the nature of the boat and location.
Are drinks and food available?
Snacks and prosecco are included, but additional alcohol and food are not. You might want to bring extra drinks if you wish.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, camera, and beachwear. Binoculars are also suggested if you want to better enjoy the views.
How many people can join?
The boat’s maximum capacity is 10 persons, ensuring a relaxed, private atmosphere.
If you’re after a light, fun, and slightly adventurous way to enjoy Durres’s waters, this boat tour hits the spot. You get a snapshot of history, a splash of the ocean, and a lively atmosphere—all in just an hour. For small groups, families, or curious travelers eager for a memorable maritime experience, it’s an outing worth considering. Just remember the size limit and prepare for some cheerful, sunny fun on Albania’s beautiful coast.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Durres
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