From Durres: Saranda, Blue Eye, Ksamil Islands Boat Tour

Planning a day trip from Durres to explore the southern Albanian coast can feel daunting—there’s such a mix of natural beauty, charming towns, and hidden gems. Luckily, this Blue Eye, Ksamil Islands, and Saranda boat tour offers a well-rounded, scenic experience designed for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and guides themselves.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to see Albania’s iconic Blue Eye, a surreal freshwater spring famed for its vivid blue waters. Second, the Ksamil Islands, where white beaches and clear waters promise relaxation and privacy. Third, the opportunity to explore Saranda’s panoramic vistas and cultural sites—all in one day.

The only notable consideration? The water temperature at Blue Eye tends to be quite cold, even in summer, which may be a shock for some. This tour is best suited for travelers who love natural scenery, enjoy boat rides, and appreciate a mix of beach time and cultural sights. If you’re after a relaxed yet enriching adventure, this could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• All-in-one Day Trip: Combines nature, beaches, and cultural highlights.
• Boat Tour Included: Free access to the Ksamil Islands with privacy and beaches.
• Natural Wonder: Experience the Blue Eye’s mysterious, crystal-clear waters.
• Panoramic Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of Saranda and Corfu.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Informative Guide: Learn about the sites from a professional English-speaking guide.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Day: Easy Pickup and Comfortable Transport

The journey begins with a hotel pickup in Durres or Golem, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby. The transport is by air-conditioned car or van, which is appreciated after a long drive and helps keep everyone comfortable. The guide, who speaks English, will reach out beforehand to confirm pickup times, so keep your phone handy.

Visiting Blue Eye: Nature’s Hidden Treasure

The first stop is the Blue Eye—a natural spring that’s a true spectacle. Surrounded by lush evergreens, it looks like something out of a storybook. The water’s vivid blue hue, thanks to its clarity and depth, draws many visitors, and it’s easy to see why.

While the water temperature is notably cold, even in summer, the experience is refreshing and invigorating rather than relaxing. This chiller factor is highlighted by one reviewer who noted the “chilly water,” but most agree it’s part of the charm. Expect a moderate amount of walking around the site to fully appreciate its beauty, and don’t forget your camera—this sight is worth capturing.

Journey to Ksamil: Beaches and Island Adventures

Next, the tour heads to Ksamil, often called the “pearl of the Albanian Riviera.” This stretch of white sandy beaches is ideal for those craving a beach escape. Many guests mention the beautiful beaches and the chance to relax on free beaches—no extra charge for lounging, though sunbeds and umbrellas are extras.

Included in the tour is a boat ride to the Ksamil Islands, which provides a fun and scenic way to explore. The boat ride is appreciated for the privacy and the chance to get away from crowded beaches. The islands themselves boast clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

One reviewer, Attila, shared that the organization was smooth, and he enjoyed all parts of the trip. However, he pointed out that meal and bathroom breaks could have been more frequent, which is a practical reminder for travelers to carry water and snacks.

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Saranda: Panoramic Views and Cultural Highlights

The final major stop is Saranda, a charming coastal town with sweeping views of Corfu across the water. From the elevated vantage point, the scenery is truly impressive—waves crashing against rocky coastlines and distant Greek islands creating a postcard setting.

Here, you’ll have some free time to explore the town, take photos, and perhaps visit the castle, which adds a cultural and historical dimension to the trip. Many guests mention the stunning panoramic views as a highlight and appreciate the opportunity to get a taste of local life without a long stay.

Return to Durres

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel in Durres or Golem, usually in the late afternoon or early evening. The organized nature of the trip means you can relax and reflect on the day’s highlights without worrying about logistics.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Natural Beauty and Unique Sights

This tour offers more than just a sightseeing checklist. The Blue Eye is a natural wonder that truly captivates with its vibrant blue waters and lush surroundings. Many find it a peaceful place to contemplate and take photos. The Ksamil Islands provide a scenic escape, with privacy on the beaches and the chance to swim in clear waters.

Convenience and Value

For around $81 per person, the experience is quite competitive, considering the transportation, boat ride, guide, and entrance fees are included. The tour’s organized nature removes the stress of planning, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the area. It’s a comprehensive package that manages to cover a lot of territory in just one day.

Authentic and Well-Reviewed

While only four reviews are available, they are quite positive overall. Attila, for example, praised the organization and enjoyed the programs. Some comments about breaks suggest that, if you’re particularly prone to nausea or need frequent rest, you may want to prepare accordingly.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking around sites like Blue Eye and Saranda.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen—the Albanian sun can be strong, especially in summer.
• Carry a camera—the scenery here is picture-perfect.
• Prepare for chilly water at Blue Eye—a quick dip might shock you, but it’s still worth experiencing.
• Pack water and snacks for the day, especially since meal and bathroom breaks aren’t frequent.
• Sunbeds and umbrellas at Ksamil are optional extras, so bring your own if you want guaranteed shade.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and those eager to see Albania’s natural wonders without the hassle of organizing their own transport. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation—you’ll enjoy scenic views, cultural insights, and beach time all in one day.

If you’re a camera buff, the Blue Eye and Saranda’s vistas will be a highlight. For those interested in cultural sites, Saranda’s castle adds a nice touch of history. It’s also suitable for families and small groups looking for a stress-free, scenic day trip.

The Sum Up

This From Durres to Saranda, Blue Eye, and Ksamil Islands tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of southern Albania’s coastal beauty. With crystal-clear waters, panoramic vistas, and effortless organization, it’s a practical choice for travelers seeking a full day of exploration without the logistical headache.

The combination of natural, cultural, and beach experiences ensures there’s something for all—whether you want to relax on pristine beaches, marvel at the Blue Eye’s enchanting waters, or soak in the views from Saranda.

While the water at Blue Eye can be quite cold, the overall value and variety of sights make this tour a memorable addition to your Albanian adventure. It’s particularly good for those wanting a balanced, scenic day trip with a reliable guide and comfortable transportation.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately one day, with departure times depending on availability. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so your day is mostly scheduled for sightseeing and travel.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transport is by air-conditioned car or van, which helps keep everyone comfortable during the drive, especially in warmer months.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and possibly snacks or water since breaks for eating and bathroom stops are limited.

Is the Blue Eye water cold?
Yes, the water at Blue Eye is quite cold, even in summer, which can be refreshing or a shock depending on your tolerance.

Are the beaches crowded?
You might find the beaches at Ksamil are popular, but with the boat ride included, you can access more secluded spots, enjoying privacy and fewer crowds.

Can I swim at Ksamil?
Absolutely. The beaches offer clear, inviting waters perfect for swimming and relaxing on the sand.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and small groups, especially those interested in scenic views, natural sites, and beach fun in a day.

This tour combines natural wonders, scenic vistas, and beach relaxation into a well-curated day that captures the spirit of Albania’s stunning coastline. Whether you’re after memorable photos, a peaceful retreat, or cultural insights, it’s a solid choice for a memorable Albanian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: