Explore Secrets of Ionian Sea in Saranda, lunch included

A Saranda boat day feels special when it lets you reach beaches by sea first, then wraps it up with lunch on the water. This one also has a nice extra angle, a 20% off semi-submarine ticket deal in Bay of Saranda, where you can see an Italian WWII shipwreck.

I especially like that you get lunch on board, cooked for the moment instead of squeezing in a food stop on land. I also like the all inclusive approach, with packages that include unlimited drinks, and the Large option that adds beer.

My main caution is the comfort and noise level. Some trips can feel overfull, and the music can run loud for hours, so bring earplugs if you like quiet time.

Key things I’d plan for

• Krorez Beach for up to 2.5 hours, with time to swim and a boat bar you can order from
• Two snorkeling stops on the return sail, with set time windows for Bay of Kakome and Bay of Rojdhe
• Lunch is served after leaving Krorez, so you’re not stuck waiting on land
• Package choices matter, Normal, Medium, and Large change what you eat and what drinks are included
• Semi-submarine discount, an easy add-on if you want the underwater WWII story
• Music and crowding can be a factor, especially on busier days

A 7-hour Ionian Sea loop from Limani to Krorez Beach

This experience runs as a single-day boat itinerary based out of Liman of Saranda City, with daily departures around 10:00 and a return around 17:00. The route is simple, sail out to Krorez Beach, spend time there, eat on the boat, then sail back with two extra swimming and snorkeling stops.

The idea here is straightforward. You trade road time for sea time, and you get more chances to cool off in clear water without planning separate trips. For many people, that is the whole appeal.

Also, even if you just came for a beach day, the day has built-in photo moments as the boat passes by places like Gremina and Soldier’s Beach.

Boarding and timing: what your day looks like before you swim

You’ll meet at the Liman of Saranda City, and you should expect the boat to start moving in the 10:00 window. From there, the day is paced in chunks: travel and sightseeing by sea, a longer beach block at Krorez, then a return sail with short snorkeling sessions.

Between stops, you’re in “easy mode.” The boat is set up for relaxing, with selected music playing during the tour and a bar onboard where you can order drinks. If you are traveling with family or friends, this is a good day to have low-stress expectations.

One practical point from real-world feedback: on some departures, the boat can feel full. If you are the type who needs a guaranteed seat or quiet corners for conversation, go in with that in mind.

Krorez Beach for up to 2.5 hours: swimming, photos, and boat-bar time

The main destination is Krorez Beach. Once you arrive, you get up to 2.5 hours for swimming, and you can take photos from the boat and along the stop.

This is also the moment when you decide how you want to spend your time. Some people use it like a true swim break, while others use it as “water break plus photos plus relax” time. If you like the idea of a boat day where you’re not rushed, Krorez is the part that delivers.

You can also order from the boat bar while you’re at the beach. That matters because it turns Krorez into more than just a dip, it’s a proper hangout stop.

A small planning note: lunch comes after you leave Krorez, not before. If you tend to get hungry early, you may want to arrive ready, not starving.

The snorkeling bays on the return sail: Kakome and Rojdhe

After leaving Krorez, the boat serves lunch and then continues back toward Saranda with two more water stops.

First up is the Bay of Kakome, where you get about 30 to 45 minutes for swimming and snorkeling. Then there’s Bay of Rojdhe, with around 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling.

These stops are shorter than Krorez, so I treat them like “refresh and explore” sessions. Bring a relaxed mindset. You’re not trying to win a swimming marathon here, you’re getting a taste of underwater life and enjoying the water temperature changes between stops.

If snorkeling is your top priority, use your time efficiently. Get in soon after the stop starts, and if you want photos, do that in the early minutes before everyone clusters at the waterline.

Lunch on board: Normal, Medium, and Large packages explained

Lunch is served on the boat after leaving Krorez Beach. That alone is a value point, because it keeps you from building the day around finding a restaurant at a specific time.

What you eat depends on your package, and this is where you should choose based on your own appetite, not what sounds good on paper.

Normal package

• Sandwich
• A refreshment

This is the simplest option. It works best if you mainly want the boat trip, the sea stops, and included drinks, and you do not need a full hot meal.

Medium package

• Meat
• Side dishes
• Unlimited refreshments

If you want a more satisfying lunch without going all the way to fish, this is usually the “safe middle.” You still get unlimited refreshments, and you get a real plate, not just a quick sandwich.

Large package

• Fish
• Side dishes
• Unlimited refreshments
• Beer

Large is the one to pick if you like seafood and you care that beer is included. It also fits people who feel a boat tour should feel like a full meal day, not a snack day.

On top of the package structure, there is also an onboard restaurant setup with a chef and customized menus using local fresh products from the sea and the land. In plain terms, you are not eating only pre-made leftovers. You should expect proper cooking.

One timing reality check: a few people reported that lunch can run later than they wanted, which can push the meal toward mid-afternoon on some departures. If that would annoy you, plan to snack lightly before boarding.

Drinks, beer quality, and the on-deck vibe

This tour is built around the idea of “all inclusive.” You’re buying a package that pairs the ticket with lunch and drinks.

For the drinks side, it’s not just unlimited soda and water. The included options can include beer with the Large package, and unlimited refreshments overall depending on what you choose. There is also a bar onboard where you can order additional drinks while you’re on the move and at the beach stop.

The vibe is casual, but it is also lively. Music plays throughout the tour. This is the area where opinions swing.

Some people love the energy. Others find the volume too loud for talking or even thinking. If you’re sensitive to sound, pack earplugs. It’s a small item that can save your entire day.

There are also reports about restroom quality. The only honest way to handle this is to assume you’re on a day boat, not a hotel. If clean bathrooms are essential for you, keep expectations grounded.

The semi-submarine discount for the Ionian Sea and the WWII wreck

Here’s the clever part: even though this is a regular boat tour, you can get 20% off the semi-submarine tour in Bay of Saranda. The semi-submarine is described as the only one of its kind in Albania.

What makes it worth your attention is what you get to see underwater. The semi-submarine experience includes marine life, flora and fauna, and the chance to experience the Ionian Sea secrets, including an Italian shipwreck from World War II.

For many visitors, this creates a good “two-part water day.” You do the surface swimming and snorkeling on this boat, then you switch to a guided underwater view through the semi-submarine later (or on another day). It gives you variety without having to plan a complicated route across multiple operators.

If you already know you want underwater viewing, I’d treat the discount as a reason to book both sooner rather than later.

Weather, wind, and why you should stay flexible

This kind of boat tour depends on conditions, especially wind. Some departures can be canceled due to weather decisions made by authorities. In at least one case, the cancellation happened, and the information did not feel timely to the group until they contacted the operator directly.

I can’t promise how your day will go, but I can tell you how to protect yourself. Keep an eye on any messages you get before departure. Also, keep your day plan flexible around the tour time window.

If a cancellation happens, the operator may offer another tour day as an alternative. That helps, but it still means you should not schedule a “must-do” commitment right on the edge of your boat tour.

Who this Saranda boat tour suits best, and who should skip it

This fits best if you want a classic Saranda boat day: sea stops, beach time, simple sightseeing, and lunch and drinks included. It is also a good choice for groups who enjoy a social atmosphere because the boat keeps things moving and you’re not stuck waiting around for hours on land.

It’s less ideal if you want a quiet, slow, conversation-first trip. Between potential crowding and loud music, the day can feel like a party that runs longer than you expected.

There’s also a clear physical limit: it is not suitable for people over 230 lbs (104 kg). If you’re close to that boundary, check with the operator before booking.

What to pack for a better day on the water

If you want the comfort side to feel easy, pack like you’re going to spend a whole day outside.

• Swim gear for Krorez and the snorkeling stops
• Earplugs if you’re bothered by loud music
• Sunscreen and something for sun protection
• A light towel or quick-dry layer for after swimming
• Water shoes if you prefer stable footing in the shallows

Also, have a plan for timing. Since lunch happens after Krorez, it helps to be ready for the meal window instead of expecting it instantly on arrival.

Price and value: is $58 a fair deal for a 7-hour tour?

At $58 per person for a 7-hour boat day, the value comes from what you do not have to pay separately.

You’re getting:

• the boat ticket
• lunch
• a package-based drinks setup that can include unlimited refreshments, and for the Large option, beer
• multiple water stops with swimming and snorkeling time windows

If you tried to recreate this on your own, you’d likely pay for boat access, beach transfers by sea, and food somewhere along the way. The math improves when you pick the package that matches your appetite.

The biggest “value lever” is the package choice:

• If you only want a light meal, Normal keeps costs sensible.
• If you want a real lunch, Medium is usually the sweet spot.
• If beer and fish matter to you, Large is the most complete option.

So yes, it can be a good deal. But only if you accept the reality of loud music on some departures and the chance of a full boat.

Should you book Explore Secrets of the Ionian Sea in Saranda?

I’d book it if your goal is simple: a full day on the Ionian Sea with real beach time at Krorez Beach, a couple of snorkel stops on the way back, and lunch and drinks handled. It’s also a great way to see the coastline from the water without needing to coordinate multiple plans.

I would pause before booking if you:

• need a quiet boat for conversation
• strongly prefer guaranteed space and seating
• are very sensitive to timing, because lunch can run later
• care a lot about onboard facilities, since some reports are not flattering

If you do book, my advice is practical: choose your package intentionally, pack earplugs, and keep your schedule flexible in case wind changes the plan.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at the Liman of Saranda City (near Limani in Saranda). The daily departure is about 10:00.

How long is the boat tour?

The duration is listed as 7 hours.

What time does the boat return to Saranda?

You can expect to return to Saranda around 17:00.

What is included with the tour price?

The package is described as all inclusive, including the ticket, lunch, and drinks based on the package you choose.

How do the Normal, Medium, and Large packages differ?

Normal includes a sandwich plus a refreshment.

Medium includes meat and side dishes plus unlimited refreshments.

Large includes fish and side dishes plus unlimited refreshments and beer.

How much swimming time do I get at Krorez Beach?

At Krorez Beach, you have up to 2.5 hours for swimming.

Are there snorkeling stops during the return trip?

Yes. On the way back, the boat stops at the Bay of Kakome for about 30 to 45 minutes and the Bay of Rojdhe for about 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling.

Do I get a discount for the semi-submarine tour?

Yes. You get 20% off tours with the semi-submarine in Bay of Saranda.

Is there a refund if plans change?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also offers reserve now & pay later.