Sarandë: Speedboat to Ksamil, Shipwreck, Monastery, Arameras

Imagine a day spent bobbing along Albania’s azure coast, discovering hidden beaches, exploring a WWII shipwreck, and soaking up the local atmosphere—all from the comfort of a speedboat. That’s exactly what this 5-hour tour from Sarandë offers. With a mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation, it’s perfect for travelers craving an active yet scenic escape.

We’re impressed by how this tour balances stunning natural sights with authentic cultural highlights, all while keeping things practical and straightforward. The chance to snorkel around a real shipwreck and visit quiet beaches like Arameras makes it a standout experience. Plus, the price—around $53 per person—feels quite reasonable given the variety packed into just five hours.

One thing to consider: the tour involves swimming and sun exposure, so if you’re not comfortable in water or prone to seasickness, it might not be the best fit. Still, for those who love the water and want a taste of Albanian coastlines, it hits the mark.

This trip is especially well-suited for couples, families, and friends eager to see the coast from a different perspective—on the water, with plenty of chances to swim, snorkel, and enjoy spectacular views.

Key Points

• Diverse stops include a real WWII shipwreck, Pigeons Cave, and tranquil beaches.
• Great value for the price, combining sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation.
• Guides and hosts are praised for being friendly, informative, and attentive.
• Snorkeling gear and drinks are included, making water adventures more accessible.
• Not suitable for children under 10 or non-swimmers; physical fitness required.
• Flexible booking with options to cancel 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off at the “boat tours Hercules” meeting point, in front of Restaurant Guma at the Sarandë harbor. Once aboard, the adventure begins with the promise of exploring some of Albania’s most beautiful coastal spots. The itinerary is thoughtfully planned to maximize your time in each location without feeling rushed.

Snorkeling at the WWII Shipwreck

The first stop is a 15-minute snorkeling session over a genuine WWII shipwreck, a relic teeming with marine life. For anyone who enjoys underwater photography or simply loves the thrill of swimming above history, this is a highlight. The reviews consistently praise the guide’s friendliness and the quality of the gear—goggles are provided, and life jackets are available upon request.

One traveler from New Zealand praised the hosts’ friendliness and the ample time given to enjoy the water: “We loved the way they let us have plenty of time to swim and enjoy.” Snorkeling over this wreck offers more than just a photo opp: it’s a chance to see vibrant fish and learn about the ship’s history, if you’re interested.

Pigeons Cave: Natural Beauty and Unique Rock Formations

Next, you’ll stop at Pigeons Cave for around 20 minutes. This is a quick but memorable visit where you’ll marvel at impressive rock formations and crystal-clear waters. It’s a great spot for photos and taking in the natural artistry of Albanian coastline.

Expect to spend about 20 minutes here, giving you time to admire the views and perhaps snap a few shots of the dramatic cliffs and water.

Monastery Beach: Relaxing and Swimming

Then, you’ll head to Monastery Beach for about 20 minutes. This peaceful, sandy stretch is perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing on the shore. The calm waters make it ideal for families or those who want a brief escape from the boat.

While not elaborately described in the reviews, this stop emphasizes tranquility—an excellent way to reset before heading to the more lively spots.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Vibrant Ksamil

One of the tour’s highlights is a 1.5-hour stop in Ksamil, often called “the jewel of Albanian beaches.” Here, you can swim in the famous turquoise waters, sunbathe, or enjoy a seaside lunch. The lively atmosphere, combined with the stunning scenery, makes Ksamil a favorite among travelers.

Multiple reviews mention how much they loved the scenery and the opportunity for swimming and relaxing. Julia from the US called it “the best day of my life,” emphasizing the joy of jumping off the boat and exploring the coves.

Arameras: Hidden Paradise

Finally, the tour takes you to Arameras Beach for about 35 minutes. This lesser-known spot offers a peaceful retreat away from crowds. It’s perfect for a quick dip or just enjoying the quiet beauty of this secluded beach.

Guests noted that it’s a “hidden gem,” and many appreciated the chance to cool off in calm, clear waters — especially after a busy morning of sightseeing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Balance of Adventure and Relaxation

What we really like is how this trip combines adventure—snorkeling over a WWII shipwreck and the exploration of caves—with relaxing beach time. The itinerary is designed to give you a taste of Albanian coast’s natural beauty without rushing.

Authentic Coastal Experience for All

The tour’s inclusiveness and flexibility mean it suits various travelers. Families with older children, couples, and groups of friends will find plenty to enjoy. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Excellent Value for Money

At $53 per person, the tour packs in a lot. You’re paying for multiple swimming stops, professional guides, and gear—goggles and lifejackets—plus drinks included onboard. While lunch isn’t provided, you can bring snacks, making this a cost-effective way to explore some of Albania’s best coastal spots.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: Five hours is just enough time to enjoy a rich variety of stops without feeling drained.
• Physical activity: Be prepared to swim, snorkel, and walk on uneven surfaces. The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues.
• Timing: Check availability; the tour runs at different times of day.

Authenticity and Traveler Experience

According to reviews, guides are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and attentive. One traveler from Austria appreciated how the captain made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. The music played on board added a friendly vibe, making the journey more enjoyable.

Travelers also noted that finding the meeting point can be a bit tricky due to different group names and instructions, so arriving early is advisable. Once on board, the experience is smooth, comfortable, and fun.

Who Is This Tour For?

This is a great choice for those who want a full day of water-based sightseeing with a mix of history, natural beauty, and fun. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable in water and with a moderate level of physical fitness. Children under 10 aren’t allowed, so it’s not ideal for very young kids or those with mobility challenges.

If you love snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and discovering secluded beaches, this tour will likely become a highlight of your trip to Sarandë.

The Sum Up

This speedboat tour through the Albanian Ionian coast offers a genuine, balanced experience of scenic beauty, history, and relaxation. You’ll get to snorkel over a WWII shipwreck, explore stunning caves, and unwind at some of the most beautiful beaches Albania has to offer—all in just five hours.

The guides are friendly, the scenery breathtaking, and the water adventures plentiful. The tour provides excellent value for money, especially considering the diversity of stops and included gear. It’s perfect for travelers looking for an active day with plenty of opportunities to swim, snap photos, and enjoy the coast away from crowded beaches.

If you’re seeking a fun, authentic coastal experience that combines adventure with a touch of tranquility, this trip is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 10 years old are not allowed to participate, mainly for safety reasons. If you’re traveling with older kids who love water activities, they’ll probably enjoy it.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, snacks, and water. Some guests also recommend packing a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks are provided on board, making it easy to stay hydrated during the trip.

Can I bring my own lunch?
Since lunch isn’t included, you can bring snacks or a small meal to enjoy during the stop in Ksamil or Arameras.

What if I don’t want to snorkel at the shipwreck?
Snorkeling gear is provided, but participation in water activities is optional. You can choose to relax on the boat or at the beach instead.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness since it involves swimming, snorkeling, and some walking. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, Greek, and Albanian, accommodating a diverse group of travelers.

This tour provides a wonderful way to see the Albanian coast in one day—balancing the thrill of water adventures with peaceful beach moments, all at a fair price. It’s a perfect fit for travelers who want a lively, authentic experience without overdoing it.

You can check availability for your dates here: