Ksamil Boat Tour: Private swim and snorkel, 4 islands

Swim and snorkel at four separate bays without sharing the boat or the anchor points

A 4-hour private boat tour around Ksamil, Albania, visiting the Ksamil Islands, Pema e Thatë, Ali Pasha Castle and the mussel farm near Butrint Lagoon, with 3–4 stops for swimming and snorkeling in the Ionian Sea. Your captain speaks English, provides snorkeling masks and fresh water, and anchors long enough at each bay to let you explore without rushing to the next group's schedule.

Step-by-step itinerary

Ksamil boat tour with swimming stops

• Board boat in Ksamil
• Cruise around Ksamil Islands
• Visit Pema e Thatë
• See Ali Pasha's Castle
• Pass traditional mussel farm
• Stop at Blue Bay for swimming
• Stop at Ftelea Bay for snorkeling
• Stop at Tongo Island for swimming
• Enjoy 3-4 swim and snorkel breaks
• Return to Ksamil

The Experience

What makes a private boat different is the stops themselves. You choose how long to stay in the water at Blue Bay, Ftelea Bay or Tongo Island—the captain is not watching the clock for a group departure. The 4-hour window gives you time to swim at three or four separate locations instead of one long stop, so you move through the coastline without the feeling of being herded. Snorkeling masks are on board, fresh water is waiting, and an umbrella is set up at the anchorage so you have shade between swims.

The route traces the southern Albanian coast, passing the four islands of Ksamil, the limestone cliffs of Pema e Thatë, and the ruins of Ali Pasha Castle from across the water. The mussel farm near Butrint Lagoon is part of the route—a working part of the coast most tourists see from a distance. The captain navigates the bays and knows where the water is clearest for snorkeling; the itinerary is set, but the pace is yours.

You'll be picked up from your accommodation or a meeting point in Ksamil and returned the same way. The boat holds your group alone, so there's no waiting for strangers or adjusting to someone else's comfort level in the water.

What’s included

• Captain and guide in English.
• snorkeling masks.
• fresh water.
• beach umbrella at each stop.
• cooler with ice.
• music on board.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Ksamili Boat Tours

Is this one for you?The 4-hour window is what makes three or four separate swimming stops possible instead of one long anchorage—if you want to move through the coast and see different bays in a single morning or afternoon, this private boat gives you the time and the flexibility to do it without waiting for a group schedule.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

How many people can fit on the boat?

The boat is private to your group, so the capacity depends on your party size. Contact the operator with your group number before booking to confirm the boat assignment.

What's the water like for snorkeling around Ksamil?

The Ionian Sea around Ksamil is clear enough for snorkeling at all four stop locations. Snorkeling masks are provided on board, and the captain chooses anchorages where visibility is best on the day of your tour.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

Snorkeling masks are included on the boat. If you prefer your own fins or wetsuit, bring them; otherwise, the captain's equipment is ready to use.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The tour operates in normal sea conditions. If weather makes the route unsafe on your scheduled day, the operator will reschedule you or offer a full refund.

Is there food or lunch included?

Fresh water is included. Bring snacks or lunch if you want to eat during the tour, or ask the captain about stopping at a waterfront taverna in Ksamil before or after.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on the boat?

Yes. The boat has a cooler on board, so you can bring drinks and snacks to keep cold during the 4 hours on the water.