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

Exploring Albania’s Natural Beauty: Saranda, Blue Eye, and Ksamil Islands Boat Tour

Travelers craving a mix of stunning scenery, charming towns, and a dash of adventure will find this day trip from Tirana a compelling choice. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines natural wonders with cultural stops, all wrapped in the convenience of organized transportation and guided insight.

What we love most? The breathtaking views at Blue Eye, the relaxed vibe of Ksamil, and the panoramic vistas from Lekursi Castle. The tour’s organized pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. That said, the 12-hour duration means a long day in the sun, so travelers should be prepared for some travel fatigue.

This outing suits those who want to see the highlights of southern Albania without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips. It’s perfect for curious travelers who appreciate natural beauty and cultural stops, and who want a stress-free way to explore this stunning part of the Albanian Riviera.

Good To Know

• Convenient Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Tirana make the day stress-free.
• Natural Wonder: The Blue Eye’s crystal-clear waters and mysterious depth captivate visitors.
• Cultural & Scenic Views: Saranda’s cityscape and Lekursi Castle offer panoramic vistas of Corfu and Saranda Bay.
• Beach & Relaxation: Ksamili’s white sandy beaches and clear waters are perfect for unwinding.
• Boat Adventure: A boat ride to the Ksamil Islands provides unique access to pristine beaches.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance every stop with insights and local tips.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Detailed Experience

Starting Point: Comfort and Ease in Tirana

The journey begins with hotel pickup in Tirana, a real boon for travelers eager to avoid the hassle of public transport or complicated route planning. The tour employs a comfortable AC vehicle, ensuring you start your day in style and comfort. The driver/guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, sets the tone for a relaxed yet informative day.

First Stop: The Blue Eye

Our first highlight is the Blue Eye spring, known locally as “Syri i Kaltër.” This natural marvel is a freshwater spring that produces a mesmerizing pool of deep, crystalline blue water, surrounded by lush greenery. According to reviews, the water is notably chilly, but the stunning color and clarity make it worth the quick dip or even just a photo.

In terms of value, the entry tickets are included, which streamlines the experience. Travelers who have visited mention that the water’s mysterious depth and the surrounding trees create a fairy-tale atmosphere. If you’re lucky, your guide might share stories about local legends or explain the spring’s geological secrets, adding layers to the visual spectacle.

While there is an optional train ride at the Blue Eye, it’s not included in the tour, leaving you free to explore at your own pace. Be prepared for some crowding during peak times, especially in high season, but the natural beauty largely compensates.

Midday: The Pearl of the Albanian Riviera – Ksamil

After the Blue Eye, the tour heads toward Ksamil, often called the “pearl” of the Albanian coast. Known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, Ksamil’s charm is immediately evident. Your guide might suggest a quick photo stop or a walk along the shoreline, soaking in the relaxed Mediterranean vibe.

The boat ride to the Ksamil Islands is a major feature, offering a chance to get closer to the pristine coastline and small islands dotted around the bay. Many reviewers emphasize the value of this boat trip, which feels like a private adventure even in a group setting. The ride itself is smooth, and the scenery along the coast is stunning—crystal waters, rocky outcrops, and lush islands.

Once on the islands, you’ll find fine white sand beaches and the opportunity to swim in clear waters. If you’re inclined, you can also rent sunbeds and umbrellas—though these are not included in the tour, so budget accordingly if you want to relax in comfort.

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The Cultural & Scenic Finale: Saranda & Lekursi Castle

In the late afternoon, the tour moves to Saranda, a lively port town where you can explore a bit of local life. The highlight here is the Lekursi Castle, perched above Saranda. From this vantage point, expect sweeping panoramic views of Corfu in Greece and Saranda Bay—truly a photographer’s dream.

The guides often share interesting tidbits about the castle’s history and its strategic importance. The elevated position makes it an ideal spot for photos and soaking in the scenery, especially as the sun begins to lower. Many guests mention the “breathtaking views” as a memorable part of the day.

Return to Tirana

As the day winds down, you’ll head back in the comfortable vehicle to Tirana, completing a full, fulfilling experience. Given the 12-hour schedule, it’s a long but rewarding day, with plenty of opportunities to rest during the drive.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

• Expert guidance: The guides, often praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, enrich each stop with stories and tips, making the trip more meaningful. One reviewer noted that “the guide was very knowledgeable and made the experience even better.”
• Stunning natural scenery: From the Blue Eye’s mystical waters to Ksamil’s beaches, the scenery is genuinely breathtaking. Travelers often mention the “crystal-clear waters” and “perfect photo opportunities.”
• All-in-one experience: This tour combines natural wonders, cultural highlights, and beach relaxation, offering great value for a full day’s exploration.

Considerations for Travelers

While most reviews are glowing, keep in mind that this is a long day—expect around 12 hours from pickup to return. If you’re sensitive to long hours in a vehicle or sun exposure, bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and snacks. The group sizes tend to be manageable, but during peak season, expect some crowds at popular spots.

The optional rentals (umbrellas and sunbeds) on Ksamil are not included, so if you want to lounge in comfort, plan ahead. Also, while the trip is well-organized, some travelers might prefer more time at individual stops, especially at Ksamil or Blue Eye for photography and swimming.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Albania’s southern coastal highlights without the hassle of independent planning. If you enjoy natural landscapes, scenic viewpoints, and relaxed beach time, you’ll find plenty to love. It also suits those who appreciate guided insights, making each stop more meaningful.

It’s a good option for those traveling from Tirana who want a full, varied day with diverse experiences—nature, culture, and seaside relaxation—packed into a single outing.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Tirana, making logistics simple and convenient.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an AC vehicle, a boat ride to the Ksamil Islands, a guide/driver, and entry tickets to Blue Eye. Sunbeds and umbrellas are optional extras.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, so prepare for a long but rewarding day out.

Can I swim at Blue Eye?
While you can view and photograph Blue Eye, swimming isn’t typically highlighted as part of the experience. However, at Ksamil and the islands, swimming and relaxing in the waters are major highlights.

Is the boat ride to Ksamil Islands included?
Yes, the boat ride to the Ksamil Islands is included in the tour package.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds at Ksamil, and there’s an optional train ride at Blue Eye, but these are not included in the base price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially if they enjoy beach and nature activities, but check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

To sum it up, this day trip from Tirana offers an excellent way to experience some of Albania’s most beautiful sights without the stress of organizing transport or tickets yourself. From the luminous Blue Eye to the sandy beaches of Ksamil, and the panoramic views from Lekursi Castle, you’ll come away with memories and photos that make the effort well worth it.

Best suited for curious travelers eager to explore Albania’s natural and cultural gems, this tour balances scenic beauty with convenience—sure to be a highlight of any Albanian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: