Ksamil islands: Stand-Up Paddle Tour (SUP Tour)

Our review focuses on a guided Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) Tour around the beautiful Ksamil Islands, located in Vlorë County, Albania. While we haven’t personally paddled these waters, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect: a peaceful, scenic adventure suited to a variety of experience levels.

What stands out most is how this tour combines authentic tranquility with a touch of adventure. We love the idea of gliding across calm, crystal-clear waters, away from noisy boats and jet skis, and exploring the small, rocky islets and hidden beaches that make Ksamil so special. Another highlight is the expert guidance—friendly, patient, and knowledgeable guides who make the experience accessible for beginners while still offering value for seasoned paddlers.

One thing to consider is the duration — at 100 minutes, it’s a relatively short adventure, but enough to give you a good taste of the area’s natural beauty without feeling rushed. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic activity that emphasizes gentle exploration over adrenaline, this SUP tour is a fantastic choice.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a more authentic, quieter view of Ksamil, those interested in a low-impact activity that offers both exercise and serenity, and anyone eager to see the islands from a different perspective. Perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples seeking a peaceful adventure on the water.

Key Points

• Gentle introduction suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers
• Stunning scenery of the Ksamil Islands and surrounding waters
• Flexible timing with morning or afternoon departures
• Expert guides ensure safety and provide local insights
• Relaxing experience with opportunities for breaks and refreshments
• Affordable price offers great value for a scenic, guided activity

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Ksamil SUP Tour

Stepping onto the calm waters of the Ksamil Islands, you’ll quickly realize this paddle tour balances adventure with tranquility. The tour lasts about 100 minutes, a perfect window for exploring without fatigue, making it accessible even for those new to paddleboarding or those looking for a peaceful escape from the busy beaches.

Starting Point and Introduction

The meeting point is right at the Kristal Seafood Restaurant in Ksamil. From there, your guide will give a safety briefing and some simple instructions—nothing complicated—so even absolute beginners feel confident. Many reviews note how guides like Ari are exceptionally patient and helpful; one traveler from Ireland called him an “amazing guide” who made the experience enjoyable for those with no paddleboarding experience.

What to Expect on the Water

Once briefed, you’ll set off into the scenic waters around Ksamil. The area is known for its crystal-clear, calm waters—ideal for beginners—and you might find the scenery even more stunning from the water. As you paddle around the islands, you’ll get close to gorgeous beaches, rocky coves, and tiny islets that are often hard to access otherwise.

Some reviewers mention the peacefulness—the water is so calm early in the morning or late afternoon that you can enjoy a meditative silence, broken only by the gentle splash of your paddle. The experience is not just about exercise; many describe it as a meditative rebalancing moment, perfect for unwinding in nature.

Refreshment Breaks and Local Flavor

A lovely feature is the option to enjoy a cup of coffee, tea, or even beer at the Kristal Seafood Restaurant either before or after your paddle. One reviewer noted how the break on the beach provided a chance to relax and soak in the scenery. It’s a small touch that enhances the experience, making it more than just a paddle—it’s a moment of downtime, accompanied by local hospitality.

Visibility and Photographs

Guided tours often include opportunities for taking photos, and guides are known to take nice shots of guests in scenic spots. Multiple reviews highlight how Ari, the guide, took some great photos—an appreciated touch for travelers wanting to capture their memories.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start at Kristal Seafood Restaurant: Your guide will meet you here, provide safety instructions, and help you get comfortable with the equipment.
• Paddle around Ksamil Islands: Expect to explore the twin islands and surrounding waters, with the chance to see hidden beaches and rocky outcrops. The calm, transparent water makes this feel like swimming in a giant, natural aquarium.
• Break and Refreshments: Midway, you’ll likely stop for a brief break to enjoy a hot drink or cold beer—perfect for recharging while taking in the views.
• Return to the Start Point: After about 100 minutes of paddling, you’ll head back, feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Value for Money

At $71 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the small group size (typically guided), the included safety briefing, and the personal attention from the guide. The experience combines scenic beauty, gentle physical activity, and culture with the option to relax afterwards at a local restaurant.

It’s worth noting that the tour is flexible—morning or afternoon departures—so you can choose a time that suits your schedule. The early morning option is particularly popular for its calm waters and fewer crowds, as one reviewer from Germany highlighted.

Why We Recommend This Tour

This SUP adventure maximizes the natural charm of Ksamil without the rushed feel of larger tours. The expert guides, like Ari, make for a more enjoyable experience, especially for those new to paddleboarding or unsure about water activities. The scenery is genuinely spectacular, and the opportunity to paddle at your own pace offers a wonderful sense of freedom. Plus, with the option to enjoy local drinks afterward, it feels both relaxing and culturally immersive.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who value tranquility and natural beauty over high-adrenaline activities. It’s a fantastic choice for beginners, families with children over 4, and anyone looking to experience the islands from a different perspective. Those pregnant or with back problems should skip this activity, as safety instructions and physical effort are modest but still relevant.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and low-impact adventure that offers a genuine feel of the Ksamil Islands, this SUP tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is designed for all skill levels. Guides like Ari are patient and provide simple instructions, making it easy for first-timers to enjoy paddling around the islands comfortably.

What should I bring? Pack your swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. It’s also nice to have a waterproof camera or phone for photos, as the scenery is very photogenic.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour might be rescheduled or refunded in case of bad weather, such as strong wind or waves. It’s best to check the weather forecast beforehand.

How long is the tour? The paddle itself lasts approximately 100 minutes, enough to explore the area without feeling rushed. There is also a 20-minute break for refreshments.

What’s included? The tour includes a local guide and instructor, plus coffee or tea, providing a relaxed, guided experience with some local flavor.

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

Are children allowed? Children over 4 years are generally considered suitable, but always check with the provider beforehand. Pregnant women and those with back problems should consider alternative activities.

Final Thoughts

The Ksamil Islands Stand-Up Paddle Tour offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, gentle activity, and expert guidance. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to experience Albania’s stunning coastline without the noise and chaos of motorized boats. You’ll love the peaceful waters, scenic views, and the chance to get a different perspective on the islands—whether you’re an absolute beginner or an experienced paddler.

This tour provides excellent value, especially for travelers craving an authentic, relaxed encounter with nature. The small group size, friendly guides, and included refreshments make it a memorable and accessible adventure. For anyone seeking serenity, beautiful scenery, and a touch of local hospitality, this SUP tour is hard to beat.

To sum it up, if you’re after a peaceful, scenic way to see Ksamil’s islands and enjoy some light physical activity in calm, clear waters, this guided SUP tour is an experience you won’t forget. It’s best suited for those who appreciate unspoiled natural beauty and want an authentic, manageable adventure—perfect to add a special touch to your Albanian journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: