Ksamil Boat Tour To Pulebardha, Pigeon Cave & Snorkelling

A Detailed Look at the Ksamil Boat Tour to Pulebardha, Pigeon Cave & Snorkelling

If you’re considering exploring the Albanian coast, this Ksamil Boat Tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, history, and fun water activities. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough details to guide you through what to expect and why it might be a great addition to your Balkan adventure.

What we love about this tour:

• The chance to see coastal gems like Kep Merli, Pulëbardha, and Pasqyrat beaches, each with unique scenery.
• The opportunity to snorkel in hidden caves and turquoise waters, especially around Pigeon Cave, which promises clear visibility and some potential dolphin sightings early in the morning.
• The inclusion of historical sites such as the Demas antique wall and Shen Gjergji Monastery, offering more than just a boat trip.

One thing to consider: The tour duration is just about 2 hours, so if you’re craving a full day on the water or detailed exploration, this might feel a bit brief. Also, it’s not suitable for very young children or non-swimmers, which limits some family travelers.

Ideal for: Those seeking a scenic, activity-packed outing that mixes nature, history, and a splash of adventure, especially if you value authentic experiences over luxury.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Scenic coastal stops provide great photo ops and a taste of Albania’s rugged beauty.
• Snorkelling opportunities are plentiful, with calm waters ideal for exploring caves and underwater life.
• Historical landmarks like the Shen Gjergji Monastery add cultural depth.
• Flexible timing allows you to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed, with stops ranging from 10 to 15 minutes.
• Skilled guides and a private tour setting ensure a personalized experience.
• Snorkelling gear is provided, making it easy to jump in and explore.

An In-Depth Review of the Ksamil Boat Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Initial Ride

Your journey kicks off at the Boat Trip Ksamil (Ksamili Escape). In just about 10 minutes, you’ll be cruising toward Kep Merli, a stunning cliffside with panoramic views. This short transfer sets the tone for a relaxed yet visually captivating journey, giving you a preview of Albania’s dramatic coastline.

Review Insight: “Nice boat driver, good trip,” says Lorina, emphasizing the professionalism and smooth start to the experience.

Kep Merli – Coastal Highlights

Kep Merli offers expansive vistas and photo-worthy scenery. We loved the way the cliffs drop sharply into the sea, creating dramatic silhouettes against the sky. The stop here isn’t long, but it’s enough to soak in the views, take some pictures, and appreciate the rugged landscape.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Pulëbardha and Pasqyrat Beaches

Next, the boat glides to Pulëbardha and Pasqyrat beaches, with a stay of around 10-15 minutes at each. These spots showcase Albania’s pristine shoreline—white pebbles, crystal-clear waters, and secluded coves.

What makes Pulëbardha special is its white pebbles and vibrant turquoise waters, ideal for a quick swim or just relaxing on the boat. Pasqyrat, with its rugged setting and tranquil vibe, is perfect for soaking up some sun and snapping photos of the striking coastline.

Historical Stops: Demas Wall and Shen Gjergji Monastery

As the boat moves along, you’ll notice remnants of Demas antique wall, part of the old Shen Gjergji Monastery. Our guide explained the significance of these structures, adding a layer of cultural understanding to the scenic tour.

Extra detail: The monastery is a religious site with a fascinating past, offering a quiet corner of history amid the coastal views. Some tour reviews mention the post-war bunkers visible along the coast—an intriguing reminder of Albania’s recent history.

Hidden Cave at Monastery Beach

A special highlight is the hidden cave at Monastery Beach, accessible after a short swim. Using provided masks, you can explore underwater and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The vantage point on the rocks, especially early in the morning, offers impressive views, and there’s a chance to see dolphins skipping through the water—though sightings are not guaranteed.

Review note: “In the morning, dolphins swim there,” mentions a traveler, highlighting that calm waters and early hours increase your chances of wildlife encounters.

Pigeon Cave (Shpella e Pulëmbave)

The star attraction is Shpella e Pulëmbave, or Pigeon Cave. It’s famed for jaw-dropping red rock formations and a sparkling blue water cave. We spent about 20-30 minutes here, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and snapping photos of the vibrant environment.

Tip: If sea conditions are rough, the guide might cut the stay short—about 5 minutes—to keep everyone safe.

Three Islands – Sun, Swim, Repeat

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Three Islands, a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The islands’ pristine shores are a peaceful retreat and a great way to end the trip on a high note.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with multiple stops designed for brief exploration rather than extensive sightseeing. It’s ideal for those who want a quick yet comprehensive coastal experience. The tour operates as a private group, ensuring a tailored experience, led by Endri Memsuri, known for his professionalism and friendly attitude.

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is by speedboat, which provides a smooth ride across the water. The experience is quite active—expect some standing and moving around, especially during snorkeling. The boat ride’s quick pace means you get to see many spots without feeling exhausted.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’ll get customized boat excursions, with stops for snorkeling and swimming, along with views of Kep Merli, Pulëbardha and Pasqyrat beaches, the Shen Gjergji Monastery, and Pigeon Cave. Snorkelling gear is supplied, but food and drinks are not, so plan to bring your own water and snacks.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the experience’s focus on multiple scenic stops, cultural sites, and snorkelling justifies a reasonable cost for a private tour of this nature. Compared to larger group excursions, the private aspect means more personalized attention and flexibility.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness. If you fall into these categories, this might not be the best fit. Remember to bring essentials like swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the moments.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

Based on reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the trip both enjoyable and informative. Travelers have noted the calm waters in the mornings, which increase dolphin sighting chances—something to keep in mind if wildlife is a priority.

Snorkelling is a highlight, with clear waters revealing underwater life and rock formations. The caves and secluded beaches offer perfect spots for relaxation and photos, making this more than just a boat ride but a mini adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Ksamil Boat Tour strikes a good balance between scenery, history, and water fun. It’s especially valuable if you want a snapshot of Albania’s rugged coastlines, access to hidden caves, and the chance to snorkel in calm, scenic waters.

For travelers looking for a quick, private, and flexible outing with authentic local guides, this trip delivers great value. The focus on natural beauty, combined with cultural touches, makes it suitable for all active travelers who enjoy the outdoors.

However, if you’re after a long day or traveling with very young children, or if you prefer more extensive exploration, you might find this tour a bit brief. It’s best enjoyed as part of a broader itinerary that includes other Albanian gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts around 2 hours, with multiple stops for sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks and snorkels are included, allowing you to explore underwater caves and marine life comfortably.

Can I see dolphins during the tour?
While dolphins swim in the area, sightings are not guaranteed. Early morning trips may increase your chances due to calmer waters.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and water. Food and drinks are not included, so pack snacks if desired.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 6 or non-swimmers. The boat ride and water activities require some physical ability and comfort with water.

What happens if the sea gets rough?
The guide may cut short the Pigeon Cave stop (to about 5 minutes) to ensure safety, but the rest of the tour will proceed as planned.

Final Words

If you’re after a quick but memorable taste of Albania’s stunning coastline, this Ksamil Boat Tour ticks many boxes. It offers a blend of nature, culture, and adventure, all within a short timeframe. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal waters, exploring ancient ruins, or simply soaking up the scenic views, it’s a trip that leaves you with plenty to remember—and plenty of photos to prove it.

Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or private groups craving an authentic Albanian water adventure, this tour promises a slice of the coast’s best without overloading your schedule. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and a waterproof camera!

You can check if your dates are available here: