Sarande: Hidden Cave, Gremina, Kakome & Krorez Boat Tour

If you’re looking to explore the beauty of Albania’s coast, this boat tour around Sarande offers a fantastic way to see some of its most stunning natural sights. From mysterious caves to pristine beaches, it’s a trip packed with visual treats and plenty of chances to swim, relax, and unwind. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that’s well worth considering.

What we love about it? First, the diversity of stops — caves, bays, and beaches — ensures you’re never bored. Second, the guides seem to be knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey more enjoyable. Third, the value for money is impressive, especially given the 6-hour duration and inclusions like snorkel equipment and free sunbeds. One possible consideration: this tour doesn’t include food or hotel transfers, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.

Ideal for travelers who love nature, swimming, and picturesque scenery, this tour suits those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation without breaking the bank. Families, solo travelers, or groups of friends will find plenty to enjoy here.

Good To Know

• Stunning Coastal Views: Enjoy the beauty of Sarande’s coastline and learn about the area’s best swimming and exploring spots.
• Multiple Scenic Stops: From hidden caves to secluded beaches, each location offers unique photo opportunities.
• Flexible Options: Available as shared or private tours, catering to different group sizes and preferences.
• Ample Free Time: The 3-hour stop at Krorez Beach is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or just soaking up the sun.
• Informative Guides: Reviewers highlight guides like Ilir and Sokol for their friendliness and local knowledge.
• Good Value: The tour includes fuel, a captain, a bottle of water, and umbrellas, all at a competitive price point.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Departure from Sarande & First Stops: Hidden Cave & Anchor Cave

Your day begins with a departure from Sarande, where you’ll be directed to a meeting point marked by a sign stating “lilyboatturi.” From here, the boat sets out along the coast, heading toward the first stops: Hidden Cave and Anchor Cave. These caves are the stars of the early part of the trip — natural formations carved by the sea, with Hidden Cave offering a sense of mystery and Anchor Cave providing a perfect backdrop for photos.

Reviewers like Ellie mention that each cave gets about 20 minutes of exploration, giving enough time to marvel at their formations and snap shots. The caves’ natural beauty is best appreciated from the water, and many guests report that their guides, such as Ilir, are very knowledgeable, making sure everyone gets great angles and insights.

Scenic Stops for Swimming & Snorkeling: Gremina, Kakome, and Lovers Bay

Next, you move along the coast to Gremina Bay, Kakome Bay, and Lovers Bay. These spots are described as crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Equipment is typically provided, allowing guests to explore the underwater world filled with fish and vibrant marine life.

Many reviews note that the boat’s guides are helpful and attentive, often taking guests to secluded beaches that are nearly private. Aryana recalls spotting an octopus, which adds an element of wildlife adventure. Reviewers like Aida and Marta speak highly of the friendly guides and the chance to swim in the beautiful blue waters—a key highlight.

The Showstopper: Krorez Beach & 3 Hours of Relaxation

The tour’s pièce de résistance is the 3-hour stop at Krorez Beach. This beach is described as a paradise with clear waters, sun lounges, and a bar. It’s a spot where you can snorkel, relax on the sand, or enjoy some local food and drinks — just remember, only cash is accepted there.

Guests like Ellie and Marta describe Krorez as peaceful and uncrowded, with plenty of space to stretch out. Some reviewers mention that the beach has toilets, a restaurant, and free sunbeds, making it a comfortable spot for a longer break. The ability to spend hours here—swimming, sunbathing, and simply soaking up the scenery—is a major selling point.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Return & Reflection

After Krorez, the boat heads back to Sarande, often with a chance to enjoy the sunset if timing allows, as one reviewer noted. The approximately 6-hour duration ensures you’ll have a full day of adventure, relaxation, and photo opportunities.

Why Choose This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal if you love outdoor adventures, panoramic views, and discovering hidden gems along the coast. The balance of exploration and free time makes it appealing for those who prefer more than just a sightseeing drive.

The tour’s flexibility, with options for private or group experiences, means it can suit couples seeking intimacy or groups wanting a social outing. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and free umbrella adds practical value not always found in similar excursions.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Authenticity and Guides

A recurring theme in reviews is the knowledgeable and friendly guides—notably Ilir and Sokol—who go above and beyond to make each trip special. Guests repeatedly mention their guides’ helpfulness, humor, and local insights, which elevate the experience from just a boat ride to a memorable adventure.

Unbeatable Swimming & Snorkeling Stops

The diversity of stops—from caves to bays—means there’s plenty of opportunity to jump in the crystal-clear waters and snorkel among fish. Reviewers like Xavier have praised the virgin beaches and caves, often saying the water’s clarity and beauty far exceeded expectations.

Excellent Value for Money

With fuel, the captain, snorkel equipment, and umbrellas included, the tour offers good value. The 3-hour stay at Krorez alone has been described as worth every penny, especially considering the peaceful setting and facilities available.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: 6 hours, with specific starting times available—check availability.
• Meeting Point: Look for the sign “lilyboatturi”.
• What’s Included: Boat, captain, fuel, water, umbrellas.
• Extras Needed: Food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks if desired, plus cash for Krorez Beach.
• Tour Options: Available as a shared group or private boat.
• Language: Guides speak English, Albanian, and Greek, making communication easy.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides flexibility if plans change.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Love

Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and expertise, with Ilir and Sokol frequently highlighted as outstanding hosts. One reviewer detailed a day with Ilir who went above and beyond, taking them to secret beaches and even waiting at stops for late arrivals.

The scenic beauty is another top feature — reviewers emphasize the clear waters, caves, and beaches that make each stop feel like a private paradise. Many mention the longer-than-expected trip, which is actually appreciated, as it means more time exploring and swimming.

While some note the absence of food on the tour itself, the Krorez Beach stop compensates with food, drinks, toilets, and sunbeds, making it an excellent place for a break. The cash-only policy at Krorez is a small consideration, so bringing enough cash is advised.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re after beautiful scenery, snorkeling, and a laid-back vibe, this tour is a superb choice. It’s especially appealing for adventurers who enjoy discovering less touristy spots, thanks to the caves and secluded beaches. Families with children, couples, or groups of friends who appreciate a relaxed pace and authentic natural beauty will find plenty to love.

The small group or private options also attract those seeking a more personalized experience. The value for money—considering the stops, facilities, and length—is hard to beat for anyone wanting a full day of coastal adventure.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling equipment is provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), cash for Krorez Beach, snacks if you want something beyond what’s offered, and a towel for swimming.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention families enjoying the trip, especially because of the safe swimming spots and relaxed pace.

Can I get a private tour?
Yes, private group options are available, perfect for a more tailored experience.

Are drinks or food available during the tour?
Food and drinks are not included, but Krorez Beach has a bar and restaurant, accepting cash only.

How long is the stop at Krorez Beach?
You’ll have approximately 3 hours to relax, swim, snorkel, or explore at Krorez.

What if I don’t speak Albanian?
Guides speak English, along with Albanian and Greek, making communication straightforward.

Is there any chance of seeing wildlife?
Guests have reported spotting octopuses and enjoying the abundant marine life during snorkeling.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour around Sarande offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. The carefully curated stops and friendly guides make it a reliable choice for travelers wanting a memorable day on the coast. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic spots and are eager to explore Albania’s lesser-known gems from the water.

While it’s not a gourmet food tour, the value provided — stunning views, excellent snorkeling, and plenty of free time — makes it a compelling option for anyone visiting Sarande. You’ll leave with fantastic photos, new memories, and perhaps a new appreciation for the wild beauty of Albania’s coastline.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, or a group of friends, this tour delivers a balanced mix of exploration, fun, and relaxation that’s hard to beat. Book ahead, bring cash for Krorez, and prepare to fall in love with the Albanian coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: