Saranda: Kakome, Caves & Beaches Boat Tour with Snorkeling

REVIEW · SARANDE

Saranda: Kakome, Caves & Beaches Boat Tour with Snorkeling

  • 4.9379 reviews
  • 5 hours
  • From $42
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Operated by Best Boat Tour · Bookable on GetYourGuide

Traveller rating 4.9 (379)Duration5 hoursPrice from$42Operated byBest Boat TourBook viaGetYourGuide

A day on the water beats another beach photo. This Saranda: Kakome, Caves & Beaches Boat Tour with Snorkeling is built around steady sightseeing, real swim time, and a fun onboard vibe with music and friendly crew energy.

Two things I really like: you can pick your seat thanks to half-shaded, half-open seating, and the day is timed for multiple chances to snorkel in clear water. The crew also keeps the mood light with music and guided stops, so it feels more social than “just transport.”

One thing to consider: you’ll be on a boat with several stops and swim moments, so it may not feel great if you have mobility limits or back issues.

Key Highlights That Make This Tour Worth It

  • Captain Rezi-friendly, photo-happy energy that keeps the trip fun and personal
  • Brand new 2025 boat with shaded and open seating plus onboard Wi-Fi
  • Multiple snorkeling windows (with provided masks) and short swims between scenic stops
  • Kroreza Beach’s 3-hour stop with time to relax, swim, and grab a beachside meal
  • Music onboard throughout (reviews describe it like a DJ set)
  • Caves and spots only reachable by boat, including Turtles Cave and Shpella e Milotit

Entering the Day: Saranda’s Riviera, But With Real Swim Time

This tour is one of those “you’ll end up spending less time worrying and more time enjoying” days. You meet the crew at Saranda’s main port area (starting points can be around Rruga Jonianet or Vodafone), then you’re off along the Albanian Riviera with a clear plan: photo stops, guided points, and plenty of water breaks.

What makes it feel practical is the pacing. Instead of one long destination and a lot of waiting, you get several stops that mix quick views with actual time in the water. And the vibe helps: onboard music runs during the cruise, so the trip never turns into silent transit.

The other big win is the seating. The boat is described as brand new for 2025 with half-shaded and half-open areas, which matters in Albania’s summer sun. If you overheat fast, you’ll know where to park yourself. If you want to bake, you can do that too without fighting for space.

You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Sarande

Boarding a 2025 Boat: Comfort, Wi-Fi, and a Crew That Sets the Tone

The onboard setup is designed for comfort, not just “getting you there.” Everyone has life jackets, and there’s a fridge for drinks and space for your snacks. Add Wi-Fi on board, and you have the option to upload photos between swim stops instead of waiting until you’re back on land.

Then there’s the human factor. Reviews consistently flag the captain, Rezi, as friendly and great with photos. Several people mention how he keeps things light and fun, with the music turning the boat into a sort of moving party. If you’re the type who likes talking to the crew and getting recommendations on where to stand for the best shots, this is the kind of day that clicks.

Logistics-wise, expect parking to be a quick bit of walking. The info points you toward searching for street parking near the meeting road, because the official parking spot is about 15 minutes on foot. The listed Google Maps reference is for Hotel Adi-Vera, which is a handy anchor if you’re driving.

The Route, Stop by Stop: Kepi i Qefalit to Shpella e Milotit

The day runs about 5 hours (330 minutes), and the stops are arranged like a highlight reel: head out, pause, swim, snorkel, move again. Here’s what you can expect from each part and what to watch for.

Kepi I Qefalit (Break, Photos, Guided Tour, Swim and Snorkel)

Early on, you’ll get a photo stop and guided visit, then time to relax before the first water moment. There’s swimming and snorkeling for about 20 minutes here.

Why this works: the first stop is a good warm-up. It’s enough time to get your breathing and gear sorted, plus the guided element helps you understand what you’re seeing. Consider this your “start strong” point.

Possible drawback: the water time is scheduled, not open-ended. If you’re slow getting kitted up, you’ll want to jump on snorkeling right away during the window.

Kakoma Beach (More Photos, More Water, Snorkel Around 30 Minutes)

Next comes Kakoma Beach, another stop with guided context and a longer snorkeling window of about 30 minutes. Expect another break and free time where you can swim again or just float and watch the water clarity.

Why it’s special: this is part of the coastline that’s accessible in a way you can’t replicate from shore. The boat reach means you’re seeing spots that feel calmer and less crowded.

Consideration: you may want to keep your phone protected. Sea spray and jumping into water don’t mix well with unsealed cases.

You can also read our reviews of more snorkeling tours in Sarande

Plazhi i Ushtarit (Snorkel Time and a Classic Boat-Beach Feel)

Then you head to Plazhi i Ushtarit, with swimming and snorkeling for about 30 minutes again. Like the earlier stops, there’s guided time plus room to just enjoy the sea.

Why you’ll like it: repeating snorkeling windows is a comfort. If the first snorkel felt a little awkward, this stop gives you a second chance with better rhythm.

Watch for: if the group gets energetic during the swim moments, move carefully near entry points so you don’t trip while others are getting in.

Plazhi i ridhes (Shorter Snorkel Window, Still Worth It)

At Plazhi i ridhes, the tour offers swimming plus snorkeling for about 20 minutes. It’s shorter than some earlier stops, which makes it easier to fit in without feeling like you’re spending the entire day in the water.

Why it’s good: shorter snorkeling slots often translate to better enjoyment. You can see what you came for without turning it into a long endurance exercise.

Possible drawback: shorter time means you need to be ready to act quickly if you want the best underwater visibility.

Kroreza Beach (The 3-Hour Main Event)

The long stop is Kroreza Beach, with about 3 hours. Here you’ll get break time, photo stops, guided tour elements, and free time, with swimming on the schedule for a big chunk of the day.

This is the stop many people talk about for a reason. Kroreza Beach is described as amazing, with turquoise water and a real “settle in” feel. Reviews also mention that umbrellas and sunbeds were included and free through the company. One clear tip from the reviews: if you can, choose an earlier departure so you can land better sunbed positioning and enjoy the view with fewer crowds around you.

You’ll also have the chance to eat. The tour info notes you can enjoy a meal at beachside restaurants during this long break. Since food and drinks aren’t included, bring cash if you want to order while you’re there.

Drawback to plan for: three hours sounds long, but it goes fast. If you want both snorkeling and full relaxation, split your time on purpose—one stretch for the water, one stretch for sun and photos.

Shpella e Milotit (Cave Stop With Photos and Free Time)

The final listed highlight is Shpella e Milotit. Like the other stops, expect break time, photo stop, guided tour, and free time.

Why this matters: cave stops on this route feel different from beaches. Instead of just swimming, you’re doing something more “Albanian Riviera” and visually memorable, and you’re seeing the coast from a perspective you can’t get by walking.

Consideration: caves can mean tighter viewing angles from the boat, so keep your camera ready during the guided portion rather than waiting for perfect moments.

Snorkeling That Doesn’t Feel Like a Checkbox

The snorkeling here is built around multiple chances, not one rushed try. You’ll get swim and snorkel stops with masks provided, and the snorkeling windows range from about 20 to 30 minutes at different beaches.

If you don’t bring gear, you’re not stuck. The tour provides snorkelling masks, and it also says tubes are available on request but not used for hygiene purposes. Translation: you can likely ask for the snorkel tube portion if you need it, but follow whatever hygiene rules the crew applies that day.

What I’d pay attention to: snorkeling enjoyment depends on your comfort in open water. If you’re new, start with the first snorkeling window where you have a guide-driven orientation. If you’re confident, you can make the most of each 20–30 minute window and still keep time for sun and photos.

Also worth noting: some reviews mention seeing an octopus while snorkeling and mention dolphins during the day. Those aren’t guarantees, but they’re a good reminder that the water life here can be genuinely exciting when conditions cooperate.

Music Onboard, Photos Taken for You, and the Social Side

This is one of those tours where the atmosphere is part of the product. Reviews repeatedly mention music onboard, and multiple people describe it like a DJ-style playlist ranging across genres. The tour info also frames it as “summer tunes” and says you’ll hear music while the guide shares the area.

Then there’s the “captain helps with pictures” element. People call out Rezi specifically for friendly energy and for helping with standout photos. Even if you’re not obsessing over Instagram, good photo timing makes the day feel smoother. You’re not constantly trying to guess where the light will hit or when you should take the shot.

If you’re traveling as a couple or in a small group, this kind of onboard energy can still work. You can enjoy it without being forced into constant conversation. If you’re solo, it can be even better—easy to chat, easy to relax, and the boat naturally breaks the ice.

Money and Value: What’s Covered in the $42

At $42 per person, this tour feels strong value because it’s not just boat transport. The included items listed are meaningful:

  • Local guide and driver
  • Swim and snorkel stops
  • Entrance fees and taxes
  • Snorkelling masks
  • Life jackets
  • Fridge for drinks and snack space
  • Onboard Wi-Fi
  • Music on board
  • Audio guide files on request (with language options)

Food and drinks aren’t included, so Kroreza Beach is where you’ll likely decide whether you want a restaurant meal. Also note that headphones for the audio guide aren’t included, even though audio files are available in several languages (English, Italian, Spanish, French, German).

So the real “extra spending” is simple: snacks or meals at beach stops, plus whatever you buy on the day. One review even stresses bringing cash as helpful for the island stop. Add sunscreen and you’re mostly set.

Who This Tour Suits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This is a good fit for people who want a balance of sights and water time. You’ll like it if you’re:

  • comfortable on a boat with multiple short stops
  • interested in snorkeling, even if you’re using provided masks
  • happy with a social, music-onboard mood
  • traveling as a couple, family, or group that wants one main activity without complicated planning

It’s not suitable for everyone. The info specifically flags issues for:

  • people with back problems
  • people with mobility impairments
  • people over 264 lbs (120 kg)
  • people over 95 years
  • and it states electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed

If you fall into one of those groups, I’d skip this and look for an alternative with more accessible options and less movement between stops.

Should You Book This One?

I’d book it if you want one high-utility day in Saranda: boat views, multiple swim breaks, and snorkeling time that’s actually scheduled. The biggest reason to choose it is the combination of comfort (shaded seating, fridge space) and the fun factor (music and a captain like Rezi who keeps the mood friendly).

I’d also book early in the day if that’s an option, since reviews suggest you can get better sunbed positioning at Kroreza Beach when you arrive sooner. And if you plan to snorkel more than once, this route gives you repeated windows instead of one rushed attempt.

If you need low movement, maximum accessibility, or you dislike timed swim schedules, it’s probably not the right fit.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?

The tour runs about 5 hours, listed as 330 minutes.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?

You don’t have to. Snorkelling masks are provided. The info also says tubes are available on request, with hygiene rules applied.

Is food included during the stop at Kroreza Beach?

No. Food and drinks are not included. During the long Kroreza Beach break, you can eat at local beachside restaurants, but you’ll need your own budget and cash.

Are audio guides available, and do I need headphones?

Audio guide files are available on request, with multiple language options. Headphones are not included.

Where do we meet, and is there parking?

The meeting point can vary by the option you book, including starting points near Rruga Jonianet or Vodafone. The information recommends looking for free street parking, noting the parking area is about 15 minutes away on foot, with a reference location at Hotel Adi-Vera.

Can I book a private group instead of sharing?

Yes. Private group options are available, alongside shared adventure bookings.

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