iStand-Up Paddleboarding Tour around Ksamil islands

If you’re looking for a way to combine gentle adventure with stunning scenery in Albania, a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tour around Ksamil Islands might just be your perfect choice. While I haven’t personally tried this tour, countless travelers praise it for its unique blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and friendly guidance. It’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting an active yet laid-back way to see one of Albania’s most picturesque coastlines.

What we love most about this experience is its accessibility—beginners and seasoned paddlers alike can enjoy the calm waters and lovely surroundings. The second highlight is the chance to enjoy a refreshing coffee or tea either before or after paddling, adding a warm, local touch to your adventure. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour can be weather-dependent, especially if wind and waves pick up, so your plans might shift slightly.

This trip is ideal for travelers who seek a quieter, more authentic way to experience Ksamil, with an emphasis on peaceful nature and personalized guidance. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, you’ll find this SUP outing both enjoyable and memorable.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers.
• Stunning scenery: Enjoy panoramic views of Ksamil Islands, Sarandë, and rocky coves.
• Relaxed pace: The 100-minute tour offers plenty of time for photos and breaks.
• Local touches: Coffee or tea included for a warm finish or start to your day.
• Guided experience: A knowledgeable instructor ensures safety and enhances your learning.
• Flexible scheduling: Choose between morning or afternoon departures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

The iStand-Up Paddleboarding Tour is designed as a relaxed, scenic adventure around the Ksamil Islands, just off the Albanian coast. The tour lasts approximately 100 minutes, with flexible start times to fit your schedule—check availability on booking platforms to see the exact slots. It’s an intimate, private experience led by a local guide who offers safety instructions and paddling tips, making it accessible for everyone from complete beginners to more experienced paddlers.

From the moment you meet your guide at the Kristal Seafood Restaurant in Ksamil, you’ll notice the friendly vibe. Expect a quick safety briefing and basic paddling instructions, and then you’ll set off onto the calm, transparent waters. The surrounding scenery is mesmerizing—crystal-clear waters, rocky coves, and the distant outline of the islands. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature and enjoy the sea without the noise of engines or boats.

The Itinerary and Highlights in Detail

Starting Point: Ksamil Beach

Your adventure begins at the Kristal Seafood Restaurant, conveniently located in Ksamil. The meeting point is easy to find—either by spotting the restaurant or recognizing your guide, who might be unloading paddleboards from cars or hanging out at the beach. This straightforward setup means there’s no hassle getting started.

Paddle Around Ksamil Islands

Once equipped with your paddleboard and safety gear, your guide will give a quick safety briefing. Don’t worry if you’ve never paddled before; the guide’s instructions are clear and friendly. You’ll soon be gliding over the tranquil waters, feeling the gentle rhythm of paddling as you explore the area’s gorgeous beaches, rocky outcrops, and tiny islands.

Many reviewers, like Burak, have raved about the attentiveness and warmth of guides. Burak mentioned how their instructor, Ari, was “very attentive and warm-blooded,” making the experience feel both safe and personalized. As you paddle, expect panoramic views—imagine the sun casting a glow over the water in the early morning or enjoying the golden light of late afternoon. This is when the light enhances the natural beauty, and many find it the best time to go.

More Great Tours Nearby

Break and Refreshments

A highlight for many travelers is the pause for a coffee or tea on the beach—an opportunity to relax, chat, and soak in the scenery. This little pause is a thoughtful touch that adds to the experience’s authenticity, allowing you to connect with local hospitality amid your outdoor adventure. As Mia noted, “a lovely coffee to finish the session off” makes the trip feel complete.

Return and Reflection

After about 100 minutes, you’ll paddle back to the starting point, feeling a sense of accomplishment and serenity. Many reviews express how this activity is a memorable highlight—Dhanu called it “my favorite thing” in Albania, praising the instructor’s patience and the peaceful morning sessions.

What to Expect and Practical Details

The Paddleboarding Experience

This tour is designed as an easygoing paddle around the islands, making it suitable even for beginners who may be nervous about balancing or paddling. The calm waters, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, create perfect conditions for a relaxed paddle. The activity emphasizes balance, core strength, and enjoyment, rather than speed or competition.

What’s Included

• Guided instruction from a knowledgeable local guide
• Coffee and/or tea to enjoy before or after paddling

What’s Not Included

• Personal expenses or any additional food or drinks
• Items not specified above, so plan to bring your essentials

Duration, Schedule, and Flexibility

The 100-minute duration offers enough time to explore without feeling rushed. You can choose from morning or afternoon departures, aligning with your travel plans. The tour’s flexible scheduling makes it easier to fit into your day, especially if you’re exploring other parts of Ksamil or Sarandë.

Accessibility and Restrictions

This activity is not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or people with back problems, mainly due to safety considerations. It’s also weather-dependent—if wind or waves increase, your guide might reschedule or cancel, ensuring safety remains a priority.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Based on reviews, it’s clear that what makes this SUP tour special is the combination of friendly guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to enjoy the sea at a leisurely pace. Mia praised it as “a unique way to experience Ksamil,” and Dhanu appreciated how “Ari was exceptional as an instructor and very patient.” The quiet mornings and serene waters seem to be especially valued, offering a peaceful escape in a busy travel itinerary.

The inclusion of local hospitality, like coffee or tea, and the opportunity to paddle around rocky coves and beaches creates a well-rounded, authentic experience. The small group size or private nature ensures personalized attention, making this a memorable highlight of any trip to Albania’s Albanian Riviera.

The Sum Up

This paddleboarding tour around Ksamil Islands offers a gentle, scenic escape into nature with a personal touch. It’s an ideal activity for travelers who want to see the coast from a different perspective—quiet, peaceful, and beautiful. The guides’ attentiveness, combined with stunning views and a relaxed pace, makes it a fantastic choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic Albanian seaside experience.

If you love being active outdoors but also crave tranquility and natural beauty, then this SUP adventure is worth considering. It’s a smart way to enjoy the sea, connect with local hospitality, and create lasting memories without the hassle of large crowds or complicated logistics.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate beginners—guides provide safety instructions and paddling basics, making it accessible for all.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 100 minutes, giving you plenty of time to paddle, take photos, and relax.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. It’s also helpful to wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities.

Can I choose morning or afternoon?
Yes, you can select from morning or afternoon departures, depending on your schedule and preference for sunrise or sunset views.

Is the activity weather-dependent?
Yes, if wind speed or waves are high, the tour might be rescheduled or refunded for safety reasons.

Where do I meet the guide?
At the Kristal Seafood Restaurant in Ksamil, or nearby beach area. The guide or restaurant staff can help you find the exact spot.

Is there an age limit?
Children under 4 years should not participate. It’s also not suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guide/instructor and coffee or tea. Personal expenses are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

How do I book?
Booking can be done online with the option to reserve now and pay later, ensuring you keep your plans flexible.

In summary, this SUP tour offers a peaceful, scenic, and authentic way to experience the Ksamil coast. Its friendly guides, stunning vistas, and relaxed pace make it a memorable highlight whether you’re after gentle adventure or just a different way to enjoy Albanian waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: