Sarandë: Destinations of North of Saranda Boat Trip

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring quiet beaches and enjoying the natural beauty of Albania’s southern coast, the North of Saranda boat trip might just be perfect for you. This tour offers a chance to escape the busy crowds and experience some of the most hidden gems along the Albanian Riviera. It’s a small-group adventure that combines scenic cruising, swimming in clear waters, and savoring local food—all in a relaxed, informal setting.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to visit secluded beaches like Krorez and Kakome, which are often overlooked by larger tours. The boat’s itinerary is thoughtfully designed to give plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and taking in the stunning coastline. Plus, the chance to enjoy a meal in a local restaurant in Krorez adds a genuine taste of regional life. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent—adverse conditions could mean delays or changes in the schedule. Still, if you’re looking for an authentic, peaceful day on the water, this tour suits travelers eager to explore Albania’s less touristy coastal spots.

This trip is ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty over crowds, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and are comfortable on a boat. It’s a particularly good fit for travelers wanting a laid-back day with excellent photo opportunities and local flavor.

Key Points

• Authentic Secluded Beaches: Visit untouched beaches like Krorez and Kakome, away from crowded tourist spots.
• Diverse Stops: The itinerary includes six different locations, from caves to bays, offering varied scenery.
• Relaxed Pace: With ample time for swimming, sunbathing, and a leisurely lunch, it’s ideal for unwinding.
• Scenic Views: Stunning coastline and mountain vistas fill your camera roll and create memorable moments.
• Small Group: An intimate setting enhances comfort and interaction with guides.
• Value for Money: The price covers most activities, including a 3-hour stay at Krorez, making it a solid deal for an all-day adventure.

Our journey begins at the lively Saranda waterfront, where the PerlaXX boat awaits. The vessel’s white hull and branding help spot it easily along the pier. The tour typically departs around 9:00 or 10:00 AM, giving you a full day to explore the coastline. The boat is comfortable enough for a small group, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention from your guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: Turtle Cave
A brief 10-minute stop, this cave is a fun photo op and an introduction to the area’s geology. While not much is specified about its interior, its name hints at a possible turtle habitat or simply the shape of the cave opening. It’s a quick, scenic teaser before heading to the next spot.

Second stop: Fallen Rock Cliff
Spending roughly 30 minutes here, this cliff offers dramatic views and a chance to peer into the sea below. We loved the way the guide described the area as a “natural sculpture,” giving us just enough time to snap a few pictures and feel the fresh sea breeze.

Third stop: Kakome Beach
Another 30-minute visit takes us to Plazhi Kakome, a totally secluded bay surrounded by lush greenery. The beach is unspoiled, with no commercial developments, making it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. The beach’s complete isolation means you’ll find crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, as some reviews suggest. “The surroundings are beautiful and green, and the beach is totally deserted,” one visitor noted, capturing the appeal perfectly.

Fourth stop: Krorez Beach
This is the highlight—spending about three hours here. Krorez is a deserted beach perched just above Kakome Bay, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. You can swim, soak up the sun, or explore the nearby area. Many travelers find this the most memorable part of the trip, especially since you can also enjoy a local meal at a nearby restaurant. The guide recommends trying regional dishes, which add to the experience’s authenticity.

Fifth stop: Soldiers Bay
A quick 30-minute stop here offers another scenic spot, with calm waters and fewer visitors. It’s a good chance for some final swims or photos before heading back.

Sixth stop: Roide Bay
The last leg, another 30-minute visit, provides a relaxed environment to savor your final moments on the water, enjoy the scenery, or just relax on the boat before returning to Saranda.

What’s Included & Not

For the price, the tour includes the boat trip to all listed beaches, with 3 hours allocated for Krorez Beach—by far the longest stop. You’ll have the opportunity to swim, sunbathe, and snorkel at each location, which numerous reviews find very satisfying. The boat features music, adding a fun, relaxed vibe.

However, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or a picnic is wise. There are also no umbrellas or relaxation amenities at Krorez, so bringing your own sun protection and towels is recommended.

The Experience and Reviews

Feedback from travelers is overwhelmingly positive regarding the stunning scenery and the authenticity of the experience. Many mention the tranquility of the beaches and the opportunity to escape tourist crowds. One reviewer noted, “The surroundings are beautiful and green, and the beach is totally deserted,” emphasizing the tour’s appeal to those seeking solitude.

Some mention that the tour is weather-dependent. As one comment puts it, “Adverse conditions could mean delays or changes,” so flexibility might be necessary. Still, the safety focus and small-group setting make this a manageable adventure.

Practicalities: Timing, Group Size, and Value

The tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, including travel, stops, and a meal. It’s priced reasonably considering the full day of exploration and swimming. The small group format enhances comfort and allows for more interaction with guides, who are fluent in Albanian and English and eager to share insights about the coastline.

Bringing essentials like a towel, camera, cash, biodegradable sunscreen, and a charged phone will help you get the most out of the trip. The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

This boat trip is perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful day on the water, away from the packed beaches and crowded resorts. If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and taking photos of natural landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love. It also suits those interested in authentic local experiences—like dining in Krorez—and appreciates beautiful coastline views.

However, it’s less ideal for folks seeking a lively party atmosphere or who prefer a structured, indoor day. The tour’s weather-dependent nature also requires some flexibility.

In sum, the North of Saranda boat trip offers a thoughtful and relaxed way to experience Albania’s stunning coastline. It’s a chance to explore secluded beaches, enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, and sample local cuisine—all with the comfort of a small group. The tour’s focus on nature, quiet beauty, and authentic stops makes it well worth considering for anyone wanting to see a different side of the Albanian Riviera.

The value is clear when you consider the multiple stops, the three-hour stay at Krorez, and the personalized experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who favor tranquility and natural beauty over bustling beaches. If you’re ready to swap crowds for serenity and want a memorable day on the water, this tour might just be the highlight of your Albanian adventure.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 6 to 7 hours, giving ample time to visit all the spots, swim, and relax.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the lively Saranda waterfront, at PerlaXX Boat Trip & Adventure, and returns to the same spot after the day’s exploration.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat trip to all the beaches, a 3-hour stop at Krorez Beach, and music onboard. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, bringing snacks and beverages is recommended, especially since food is not included and there are no amenities at Krorez.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s best suited for swimmers; non-swimmers might find it challenging, given the swimming and snorkeling activities involved.

What should I bring on the tour?
Towels, cameras, cash, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, and a charged smartphone are essential for comfort and safety.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, adverse weather could affect departures or the itinerary, so flexibility is advised.

How many people are typically on the tour?
It’s designed as a small-group experience for comfort and intimacy, though the exact number varies.

This boat trip from Saranda offers a genuine taste of Albania’s less trodden coast, blending scenic beauty, tranquility, and local flavor into a memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: