Explore Secrets of Ionian Sea in Saranda, lunch included

Planning a trip to Albania’s scenic coast? This boat tour offers a chance to see the Ionian Sea’s most beautiful spots without the hassle of driving. With a focus on comfort, good food, and stunning views, it’s a popular choice—though not without a few caveats. We’ll walk you through what to expect, the highlights, and what kind of traveler might find this experience most worthwhile.

We appreciate the all-inclusive setup—unlimited drinks, a tasty onboard lunch, and a flexible itinerary that hits some of the most photogenic beaches and caves. Plus, the option to see the underwater world via semi-submarine gives this tour a distinctive edge. On the flip side, some reviews point out issues like loud music or overcrowding, so it’s worth weighing what matters most to your trip.

This tour is best for those who seek a relaxed, scenic day with easy access to hidden beaches and enjoy good food and drinks while on the water. If you’re a family, couple, or group interested in exploring Albania’s coastal beauty with a touch of comfort, this could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that if you’re sensitive to noise or looking for a quiet, intimate experience, you might want to read further before booking.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: drinks, lunch, and snacks are covered, simplifying your day.
• Unique stops: beaches and caves only accessible by boat, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Culinary experience: onboard lunch options range from sandwiches to fresh seafood, with meals served during the trip.
• Family-friendly: spacious boat, plenty of drinks, and scenic spots suitable for all ages.
• Weather considerations: tours can be canceled if windy, with notifications sent the day before.
• Mixed reviews: some travelers praise the views and food, while others cite loud music and overcrowding as downsides.

The adventure begins around 10:00 AM at the Limani in Saranda, a bustling port that’s easy to reach from most accommodations in the town. The boat departs promptly, heading toward Krorez Beach, a pristine stretch of sand only accessible by sea. This is the kind of beach that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret—crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and a quiet atmosphere that beckons swimmers and sunbathers alike.

During the voyage, you’ll pass by notable sights like Gremina and Soldiers Beach. These stops are perfect for taking photos and absorbing the scenery, but be aware some reviews mention the boat can get crowded, and seats might be limited once everyone is onboard. The boat itself is described as spacious and family-run, creating a warm, friendly vibe, especially with the unlimited soft drinks and beer available.

Once you arrive at Krorez Beach, you can stay for up to 2.5 hours. This gives ample time to swim, relax, or explore. You’ll find that the waters here are ideal for a refreshing dip, with some guests mentioning how crystal-clear and inviting they are. You can order anything from the bar—think cold drinks or a snack—making your beach time both comfortable and enjoyable.

After leaving Krorez, the crew serves a well-prepared onboard lunch. The menu varies based on your package: from simple sandwiches and refreshing drinks to hearty seafood meals, including fresh fish with sides. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food, noting that the meals are “delicious” and well-presented, especially considering the floating setting.

The return journey includes stops at Kakome Bay and Rojdhe Bay, both renowned for snorkeling and swimming. These spots are perfect for those eager to explore underwater life or simply enjoy more time in the sea. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make these stops a highlight for many, though some mention the boat can be a bit crowded, impacting comfort.

Throughout the day, music plays on the boat, creating a lively atmosphere. While some travelers find the vibe fun and energetic, others mention the volume can be excessive, making conversation difficult. If you prefer quieter experiences, be prepared for the lively soundtrack.

The tour offers three main packages, each designed for different appetites and budgets:

• Normal: Sandwich plus a soft drink—ideal for those who prefer a light snack.
• Medium: Meat and side dishes with unlimited soft drinks—perfect for a filling meal without breaking the bank.
• Large: Fish with sides, unlimited drinks, and beer—great for seafood lovers and those wanting a more substantial meal.

Plus, there’s a restaurant on board, serving locally sourced dishes created by a chef. You can also opt for customized menus, which add a touch of luxury to the experience.

A unique feature is the semi-submarine tour—a 20% discount is available when booking this add-on. This offers a fascinating glimpse into Albania’s underwater flora and fauna, including the WWII Italian shipwreck, making it an educational and memorable extra.

Positive feedback from past travelers often cites the beautiful scenery, good value, and the quality of the food. Many mention the friendly, family-run operation and the chance to enjoy the Ionian Sea’s hidden beaches that are otherwise inaccessible.

For example, one traveler from Poland praised the boat’s spaciousness, the “delicious” food, and the “beautiful views,” feeling the experience was worth every penny. Another from Italy called the crew “truly hospitable,” appreciating the unlimited drinks and the relaxing atmosphere.

Constructive criticism tends to focus on the loud music, which some find overwhelming, and the crowding on the boat—especially during peak season. A few reviews mention delays in meal service, or that the boat can be canceled unexpectedly due to weather, with notifications coming late.

Another consideration is that the tour is approximately seven hours long, and some travelers found it a bit tiring, especially if the music and crowding are not to their taste.

This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day with some good eats and drinks. Families with children, groups of friends, or couples who enjoy socializing on the water will likely find this a fun outing. If you’re eager to explore accessible beaches and caves without the hassle of driving, the convenience of this boat trip is a major plus.

However, if you prefer quiet, intimate experiences or are sensitive to loud music and large crowds, it might be worth considering other options or preparing for a lively atmosphere.

• Arrive early at the Limani in Saranda to secure a good spot and avoid last-minute rushes.
• Consider your sensitivity to noise when deciding whether the lively music fits your vibe.
• If snorkeling or semi-submarine activities appeal to you, go for the package that offers the 20% discount.
• Keep in mind that weather can lead to cancellations, so stay flexible with your plans.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat—most stops are in full sun with limited shade.
• The tour is not suitable for people over 230 lbs (104 kg), so plan accordingly.
• If you want to maximize comfort, try to select a package with more food and drinks included.
• Remember, the entire experience is about enjoying the scenic beauty and relaxing atmosphere—so go with an open mind.

This boat tour from Saranda offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, swimming, and dining—perfect for those who appreciate comfort, good food, and scenic views. The all-inclusive drinks and meals, combined with stops at some of Albania’s most beautiful beaches, make it a solid value. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere and want to explore beaches that are otherwise out of reach.

While the loud music and crowded boat can be a downside for some, many travelers praise the friendly crew and the chance to see Albania’s underwater secrets. If you’re after a day of easy exploration, tasty onboard meals, and memorable scenery, this tour can deliver a fulfilling experience.

For those looking for a relaxed, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to swim, photograph, and enjoy local cuisine, this boat trip hits the right notes. Just remember to go with the right expectations—loud music and crowds are part of the lively day, but the stunning views and delicious food keep it worth considering.

What time does the tour depart?
It departs around 10:00 AM from Limani in Saranda and returns approximately at 5:00 PM, giving you a full day on the water.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the onboard lunch is part of the package, with options ranging from sandwiches to seafood meals based on your selected package.

Can I customize my menu?
Yes, there is a restaurant onboard serving locally sourced dishes, and customized menus are available for those who want a special meal.

Are drinks unlimited?
All packages include unlimited soft drinks and beer, depending on your selection, providing a relaxed, social atmosphere.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Krorez Beach, Gremina, Soldiers Beach, Kakome Bay, and Rojdhe Bay, each offering swimming, snorkeling, or photo opportunities.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, the boat is family-friendly and spacious, but keep in mind the maximum weight limit of 230 lbs (104 kg).

What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled if windy or unsafe, with notifications sent the day before. Rescheduling options are usually available.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, from departure to return.

Is there a limit to the number of participants?
While exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest the boat can get crowded, especially during peak season. Arrive early for the best experience.

This review aims to help you decide whether exploring the Ionian Sea from Saranda suits your travel style. It’s a lively, scenic, and tasty way to experience some of Albania’s best-kept coastal secrets—just be prepared for a day full of sunshine, sea, and fun.