Sarandë: Boat Tour Turtle Cave Kakome & Krorez Snorkeling

Clear water and secret coves in one ride. This Sarandë boat tour turns a half day on the Albanian Riviera into a hop-on, swim-when-you-want kind of outing, with Turtle Cave, Kakome, and Krorez Beach on the route. You also get snorkel gear, Bluetooth music on board, and an experienced captain who chooses the best stops depending on the weather.

Two things I really like: the stops feel practical, not rushed, and you actually get time in the water at the swimming locations. I also like that the crew keeps the vibe friendly and organized, with guides such as Mario and captains like Kosta showing up with clear direction and good energy.

One consideration: not every stop is a swim stop. You’ll have at least one photo-only moment, plus the captain may visit 6 of the 7 planned locations if conditions change, so expect short swim windows and one longer beach break instead of nonstop snorkeling.

Key highlights to look for

• Turtle Cave (Shpella e Milotit) photo stop with rock shapes that look like a turtle shell
• Snorkel gear included for the Gremina and Kakome water time
• Krorez Beach break for 2.5 to 3 hours, plus boat-only access
• Small-group feel reported by many guests, with attentive guidance from crews like Mario and captains like Kosta
• Bluetooth and comfortable seating so the ride stays relaxing, not just transport

Finding Sarandë Boat 1 and getting set up

Start by heading to Saranda Boat 1 on the promenade. The meeting point is at the Saranda Boat 1 table across from Guma Restaurant. Plan to arrive a little early so you can get oriented, use the restroom if you need to, and get your swim stuff ready.

Bring what actually helps once you’re on a boat and in the water: swimwear, a towel, water, and your camera. A waterproof camera or a phone with a proper waterproof case is worth it here since you’ll want photos during the boat cruising moments and at the coves. Sunscreen matters too. The tour recommends biodegradable sunscreen, so keep that in mind and pack it in advance.

Also pack snacks or drinks if you want them, since food and alcohol are not included. Many people grab something at the longer beach stop, but you’ll want cash on hand for those purchases.

Why this boat tour works so well in real life

This isn’t the kind of cruise where you stare from a seat for hours. The rhythm is built around short transitions and then real time somewhere scenic, with swimming when conditions allow. You hop from place to place, then drop into calm coves for a limited swim window, then move on again. That structure keeps the day feeling active without turning it into a nonstop exercise session.

The boat itself is part of the appeal. Guests describe the seating as comfortable, and the setup includes Bluetooth, so you’re not stuck listening to loud, chaotic audio. Several groups highlight a friendly captain who stays professional and safety-minded, which matters on a day at sea.

The guide experience is another plus. You’ll hear information in Albanian, English, or Greek, and multiple guests mention getting clear explanations at the stops. Even when the timing is quick, having context helps you understand what you’re seeing, rather than just collecting photos.

The route logic: 6 of 7 stops, picked by the captain

The tour sails from the marina and plans to visit 6 of the 7 locations depending on weather, at the captain’s discretion. That’s common for coastal days, and it’s also part of why the tour can keep quality high: the captain aims for the best conditions rather than forcing every location no matter what.

So yes, you should expect some flexibility. Translation for your planning mindset: if you want guaranteed swimming at every single stop, this isn’t built like that. Instead, think of it as a curated coastline day where you’ll get multiple excellent water moments plus one longer beach break.

Duration is listed as 270 minutes, so you’re looking at about 4.5 hours on the water. The stops are timed so the day stays fun and easy, with photo stops and swim stops mixed in.

Turtle Cave photo stop at Shpella e Milotit

The first named highlight is the photo stop at Shpella e Milotit. This is the Turtle Cave moment, named for rock formations that resemble turtle shell shapes. It’s short on purpose, around 10 minutes, so you’re not waiting around. You get enough time to take photos, angle for the best view, and quickly capture the look of the place before heading onward.

What makes this stop worth it is how visual it is. You don’t need snorkeling skills or special gear to enjoy it. Even if you’re only spending a few minutes on the spot, it sets the tone for the entire tour: lots of character along this coastline and coves that look made for swimming and cruising.

Secret Beach anchors: a photo moment, not a swim moment

You’ll also see a second quick photo stop, often described as a hidden area with anchor details left by local fish farmers. The tour notes that this is famous for forgotten anchors, and it’s photos only. No swimming at this stop.

This can be a little surprising if you mentally grouped all stops as swim opportunities. But it adds variety. Not everything needs to be a water session. Anchors and rock details give you something different to photograph, and the fast timing means you keep the energy up.

My practical tip: use this stop to reset your gear. If you’re swapping between towel and waterproof phone case, do it here so you’re ready for the next swim portion.

Kepi i Qefalit and Gremina: your first real swim and snorkel time

One of the planned swim stops is called Kepi i Qefalit, with swimming time around 20 minutes in the itinerary details. In the overall tour description, this part aligns with Gremina, where swimming and snorkeling are possible for up to about 25 minutes.

This is where the included snorkeling gear becomes more than a nice-to-have. The goal is to get you into the water at a good time and allow you to enjoy the clarity without turning the stop into an endless swim. With gear provided, you’re not hunting for rentals or worrying about fit on the spot.

What to expect: you’ll be guided on the water logistics, then you’ll spend a short stretch getting comfortable, checking out the sea floor, and taking photos if you have waterproof gear. Since time is limited, it helps to be ready when the boat stops. Rinse your hands, pull your gear together, and start your swim promptly so you get your full experience.

Kakome and Kakoma Beach: crystal-clear water and easy relaxation

Next up is the swim stop at Kakoma Beach, which corresponds to Kakome in the tour highlights. Expect swimming time around 20 minutes based on the schedule, and the tour description notes up to about 25 minutes at this location.

This stop is often about calm water and a chance to reset. You’re getting another shot to snorkel, but the vibe here is also about enjoying the sea and the beach edge without feeling pressured. The water clarity is part of what makes this portion so popular.

Practical mindset: treat this as your second snorkeling attempt, not just a second swim. If the first swim stop is crowded in your swim window, you might still find a better angle here. And if you want a more chill swim, you can focus on floating, photo angles, and letting the water do the work.

Krorez Beach: the main break at the best-feeling time

Krorez Beach is the big pause on the itinerary, with a break time of about 2.5 to 3 hours. This is one of the most picturesque spots in Sarandë, and the key practical detail is that it’s accessible by boat only. That changes the feel of the day, because you’re arriving to a beach you couldn’t reach the same way on foot.

During this longer stop, you can visit, swim, and have time to eat. The tour description is very clear that food is not included, but you can grab something from local restaurants. It also specifies cash only, and umbrella rental is available at the beach.

How you can make the most of the Krorez break:

• If you want photos, do them in both light directions, early and later.
• If you snorkel, don’t wait until the very end. Water conditions can change, and you want enough time to actually see something.
• If you’re buying lunch, plan to carry cash. Many places won’t be set up for card payments at the shore.

This is also where your day can shift from active to relaxed. Several guests describe it as a highlight because the longer beach time lets you breathe, not just speed through another stop.

Plazhi i Ushtarit and Rrojdhes: ending with a last swim

The final named swim stop is Plazhi i Ushtarit, linked with Military Bay and Rrojdhes. Expect swimming time around 20 minutes at this last location.

This part of the tour adds context, not just scenery. The tour describes the area as having history and natural beauty, which means you’re getting a final moment that feels more than just a pretty beach. For many people, it works as a nice finish, because you’ve already spent time swimming and snorkeling, and now you can end with one last taste of the water plus an area that has a different mood.

Crew and comfort: Bluetooth music and pros at the helm

The crew experience shows up again and again in how people describe the tour. The boat is described as comfortable, and Bluetooth music is part of the onboard fun. Several guests also mention good music and an easygoing energy that still feels controlled.

Captains and guides like Kosta and Mario come through as professional and attentive. That shows in small ways like clear direction at swim stops and staying aware of everyone’s comfort. One guest even mentioned extra safety precautions that made them feel comfortable, which is exactly what you want on a water day.

Another detail worth mentioning is that the pace is flexible enough to keep things fun. Some reviews note that the captain took them to the best spots, and one group even reported seeing dolphins. Don’t expect dolphins like it’s guaranteed, but it does tell you the crew is paying attention and making good decisions.

Price and value: $37 for a full Riviera-style water day

At $37 per person for a 270-minute tour, this feels like strong value if you compare what’s included. You’re getting fuel coverage, an experienced driver and captain, and snorkel gear. You’re also getting multiple stops along the coast, including photo-only moments, swim-and-snorkel coves, and the main beach break.

The biggest “value” angle here is the time efficiency. You get a lot of different coastline views without needing to organize your own boat, find transport between coves, or pay for separate gear rentals. Even if you’re not a hardcore snorkeler, the included gear means you can try it without extra costs.

Your main extra expense is food and any beach purchases at Krorez, which require cash. If you budget a bit for lunch or snacks and bring water from the start, the rest of the day is straightforward.

Who should book this, and who might want a different plan

This tour is a good match for couples, friends, and families because the experience balances active water time with relaxing breaks. Couples often like the romantic coastline feel paired with the chill pacing. Friends tend to enjoy the group energy and the onboard music. Families can appreciate that there are short, timed swim moments and a long beach stop for downtime.

That said, it’s not for everyone. The tour notes it isn’t suitable for people over 70 years old, and it also lists a weight limit over 209 lbs or 95 kg. If either of those applies, choose a different type of tour that fits your mobility and comfort needs.

Also be honest with yourself about swim style. Some stops are brief. One stop is photo-only with no swimming. If you want a long, continuous snorkeling session, you might feel like the time is a bit short. If you’re happy with short, high-quality water breaks and a proper beach lunch window, you’ll likely love it.

Should you book Sarandë Boat 1 Turtle Cave and Krorez snorkeling?

If you want an efficient, scenic half-day on the Albanian Riviera, this is an easy yes. You’ll get the big visual payoff of Turtle Cave, proper water time at Gremina and Kakome, and the best-feeling pause at Krorez Beach with 2.5 to 3 hours to eat, relax, and swim.

Book it if you like a small-group vibe, value included gear, and want a captain who keeps things safe and organized. Skip it if you need nonstop snorkeling for hours, or if the idea of at least one photo-only stop would frustrate you. For most people, though, this is one of the more satisfying ways to spend a few hours around Sarandë without turning it into logistical chaos.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the Sarandë Boat 1 tour?

Meet at the Saranda Boat 1 table across from Guma Restaurant on the promenade.

How long is the tour?

The duration is listed as 270 minutes.

What does the price include?

The price includes the experienced captain/driver, fuel, snorkel gear, Bluetooth, and comfortable seating.

What languages are offered for the live guide?

The live tour guide is offered in Albanian, English, and Greek.

Which stops include swimming or snorkeling?

Swimming is listed for multiple locations, including a swim stop around Kepi i Qefalit, another at Kakoma Beach, a longer beach stop at Krorëza/Krorez, and a final swim stop at Plazhi i Ushtarit. One stop is described as photo-only with no swimming.

How much time is there at the main beach stop?

Krorëza/Krorez Beach has a break time of about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Is food included?

No. Food and alcohol are not included. You can buy food at local restaurants during the beach stop, and cash is noted.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, camera, waterproof camera if possible, beachwear, water, food and drinks if you want them, biodegradable sunscreen, cash for beach purchases, and a charged smartphone.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

The tour is not suitable for people over 70 years old and for people over 209 lbs (95 kg).