From Ksamil: Tongo Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to explore Albania’s stunning Ionian Sea coastline while enjoying a mix of adventure, relaxation, and delicious food, the Tongo Island Boat Tour from Ksamil might just be your perfect pick. This full-day excursion promises a taste of the sea’s beauty, with opportunities to snorkel, swim, and indulge in a hearty barbecue under the sun.

What makes this tour stand out? We love its combination of scenic stops, the chance to see dolphins if you’re lucky, and the authentic, freshly grilled lunch. Plus, the small group vibe typically keeps things intimate and friendly. The one possible downside? It’s not ideal for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

This experience is best suited for those craving a laid-back yet adventurous day on the water, who appreciate good food, stunning vistas, and a chance to connect with the natural beauty of Albania’s coastline. Whether you’re a family, couple, or group of friends, it offers a well-rounded escape that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Good To Know

• Beautiful boat journey to Tongo Island and Ftelea Beach offers panoramic sea views.
• Snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon provides a peek into the colorful underwater world.
• Hearty barbecue lunch with grilled fish, vegetables, feta cheese, and fresh fruits.
• Relaxing beach time on the sandy shores of Tongo Island and Ftelea Beach.
• Opportunity to see dolphins if weather and luck align.
• Small group setting with friendly guides enhances the experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Tongo Island Boat Tour

This full-day tour from Ksamil takes you out into the Ionian Sea, offering a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, activity, and downtime. Starting from the lively Bora Bora beach, the journey soon begins to reveal some of the most beautiful coastal scenery around Ksamil.

The Itinerary: What’s in Store

The itinerary is thoughtfully structured to maximize your time on the water and on the beaches. It kicks off with a quick photo stop at a viewpoint, perfect for capturing those sweeping views of the coast. Then, the boat heads toward the Blue Lagoon, where the calm, crystal-clear waters invite you to swim and snorkel for approximately 30 minutes. The vibrant underwater life here is a highlight, with reviewers mentioning how the visibility allows for enjoyable snorkeling.

Next, the boat makes its way to Tongo Island, an uninhabited spot just 300 meters off Greece, making it a true escape from the crowds. Here, you’ll get around 30 minutes to explore, relax, and enjoy the pristine environment. Many travelers appreciate the quiet and the untouched beauty of this small island, which is accessible only by boat.

The highlight for many is the lunch stop at Ftelea Beach, where a barbecue feast awaits. The meal features grilled fish or chicken, complemented by vegetables, feta cheese, bread, and fresh fruits. The food is cooked on the boat by attentive staff, and guests can choose whether to dine on the boat or on the beach — a small but appreciated detail. As one reviewer noted, the food was very tasty, served fresh, and the staff was friendly and attentive.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

Beyond swimming, the tour often includes snorkeling equipment, allowing you to explore the underwater scenery of the Ionian Sea. Some reviews mention that guides are happy to assist with snorkeling, although it could be beneficial if guides also accompanied those wanting to explore under the surface more extensively.

Along With snorkeling, there’s time for jumping off rocks at the Ksamil Islands or simply relaxing on the white sand beaches. The waters are inviting, and many visitors find themselves happily swimming or sunbathing for hours.

Scenic Stops and Hidden Gems

The tour includes a few special stops—a secret scuba diving spot (around 30 minutes), a jungle swing adventure (30 minutes), and scenic drives along the coast. These breaks add variety and fun, appealing especially to those who want a bit of adventure or photo opportunities. As one reviewer pointed out, the bays visited are only accessible by boat, making each stop feel exclusive and special.

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Practical Details and Value

Duration and Group Size

At around one full day, the tour offers a comprehensive taste of the area without feeling rushed. The group sizes are generally small—about 20 people—fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for connecting with fellow travelers and guides.

Cost and Inclusions

The tour’s price covers unlimited water and soft drinks, snorkeling gear, a hearty barbecue lunch, a local guide, fishing equipment, and umbrellas. Notably, snacks and drinks are included, adding value for those looking to avoid extra expenses.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to arrange your own hotel pickup and sunbeds if you prefer lounging on the beach rather than sitting on the sand or boat. The tour meeting point is at Bora Bora beach in Ksamil, with tickets purchased in advance at one of their offices.

Considerations

While the experience is highly praised, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness. Also, smoking and alcoholic drinks are not allowed onboard, maintaining a family-friendly environment.

Authentic Experiences from Real Travelers

One reviewer shared, “The boat ride was very nice, with various stops where you could dive and swim. The bays we visited are very beautiful and can only be reached by boat.” They also appreciated the friendly staff and the tasty grilled food, which they said could be enjoyed either on the boat or on the beach.

Another reviewer mentioned, “Guides should accompany those who want to dive,” highlighting that more guidance or assistance during snorkeling could improve the experience. Still, overall, most travelers rave about the stunning scenery and peaceful beaches.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurers and beach lovers alike. If you enjoy sea views, snorkeling, and fresh seafood, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day with some fun water activities thrown in.

However, if you’re not comfortable in the water or susceptible to seasickness, it might be worth considering other options or preparing accordingly (like taking seasickness medication). Families with children should note the non-swimming restriction and ensure they’re comfortable with a boat-based outing.

Final Thoughts

The Tongo Island Boat Tour from Ksamil offers a wonderful slice of Albanian coastal life. The combination of crystal waters, unspoiled islands, and delicious grilled food makes it a solid value for anyone wanting a full-day adventure at sea.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want an authentic, laid-back experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and relaxing in nature. The friendly guides, small groups, and well-designed itinerary create an enjoyable and memorable day out, far from the crowds and noise.

For those craving a scenic escape with a mix of active and chill moments, this tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember to bring your swimwear, sun protection, and an appetite for great food and beautiful views.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you need to pick up your tickets at one of the tour offices in Ksamil, and the tour starts at Bora Bora beach.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

Can non-swimmers join the tour?
This trip is not suitable for non-swimmers as swimming and snorkeling are key parts of the experience.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited water and soft drinks are offered, and canned beer is available for free with the meal.

How long is the beach stop at Ftelea Beach?
You’ll have approximately 3 hours to relax, swim, and enjoy the barbecue lunch.

What’s the best time to go?
Check the availability for specific starting times, but generally, this is a daytime activity suited for good weather.

Is there a guide?
Yes, an English-speaking local guide accompanies the tour, providing insights and assistance throughout the day.

You can check if your dates are available here: