Saranda: Boat Tour to Kroreza & Kakome Bays, Sea Caves

Summary

Albanian Riviera boat trip with caves beaches and quiet bays

You’ll board a small boat in Saranda, cruise past sea caves and wild cliffs, swim at Cape of Qefali and Kakome Bay, then spend real time relaxing at Kroreza Bay with lunch by the water. Expect salty air, warm bread, and hidden beaches—plus stories from your local captain that stick with you long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing a bit on the deck when our captain—Erion, I think?—pointed out Turtle Cave. The rock really does look like a turtle if you squint (or maybe that was just me after too much sun). The water here is so clear it almost feels fake—like someone turned up the contrast. We drifted close enough to hear the echo from inside the cave, which made everyone go quiet for a second. I could smell salt and sunscreen and something herbal from someone’s bag. Didn’t expect to feel that peaceful so early in the day.

Next stop was Anchor Cave—smaller but somehow more dramatic. Erion told us a story about smugglers hiding out here years ago; he laughed when I tried to repeat the Albanian word for “anchor.” Probably butchered it. After that, Cape of Qefali was all about jumping in—cold at first, then perfect. The cliffs around us made everything feel tucked away from the world. I kept thinking how different this part of Albania feels compared to anywhere else I’ve been.

Kakome Bay came up quietly—a wide curve of pale sand with barely anyone around except a couple of fishermen waving from shore. We swam again (couldn’t not), and then headed for Kroreza Bay, which honestly felt like the main event. There’s a tiny beach shack where we had lunch—grilled fish, bread still warm, tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes. The cliffs behind us were streaked with orange and grey; I remember running my hand through the pebbles and thinking I’d never seen water this blue outside of postcards.

On the way back we stopped at Soldier Bay for one last swim—I stayed in until my fingers went wrinkly because who knows when you’ll get water like that again? Sun was lower by then and everything felt softer somehow. It’s funny how quickly you get used to moving between these secret-feeling places by boat; now it almost feels strange to be back on land again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore hidden beaches and sea caves

• Stop at Turtle Cave
• Visit Anchor Cave
• Swim at Cape of Qefali
• Discover Kakome Bay
• Relax and swim at Kroreza Bay
• Final swim at Soldier Bay

Top questions

How long is the Saranda boat tour?

The tour includes travel time plus stops; time at Kroreza Bay is about 2 hours on slow boat or 3 hours on speedboat.

Which beaches do you visit on this Saranda boat trip?

You’ll visit Turtle Cave, Anchor Cave, Cape of Qefali, Kakome Bay, Kroreza Bay, and Soldier Bay.

Is lunch included during the Saranda boat tour?

You can have lunch at a seaside restaurant at Kroreza Bay; food cost isn’t specified as included.

Are swimming stops part of this Albanian Riviera tour?

Yes—there are several swimming stops at beautiful coastal locations along the route.

Is there music or shade provided on board?

Music is played onboard and beach umbrellas are provided for comfort during stops.

Is pickup included for this Saranda boat tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet at the departure point in Saranda before boarding.

Are life jackets available during the trip?

Yes—all safety equipment including life jackets is provided by Calypso Boat Albania.

Is this boat tour suitable for children or seniors?

This tour isn’t recommended for children under 4 or adults over 60 years old.

What’s included

Your day includes a professional local captain guiding you along Albania’s Ionian coast with music playing onboard, written guide materials if you want details between stops, all fuel costs covered so there’s no surprise fees later, plenty of swimming breaks at quiet beaches and coves only reachable by boat, plus life jackets and umbrellas ready whenever you need them for comfort or safety during your adventure.