Setting Sail for Albania: Your Guide to Arriving by Ferry

Albania's stunning coastline beckons travelers seeking sun-drenched beaches, charming port towns, and dramatic cliffs. While flying is a popular option, for those seeking a more scenic and adventurous arrival, there's the exciting alternative - traveling by ferry!

This guide will navigate you through the world of ferries to Albania, covering routes, ports, and everything you need to know for a smooth maritime adventure.

Charting Your Course: Ports of Entry in Albania

Several Albanian ports welcome ferries from neighboring countries, making it easy to find a route that suits your travel plans. The key ports to remember are:

1. Durrës (Durazzo): The largest port city in Albania, located on the Adriatic coast.

2. Vlorë (Vlora): A coastal city known for its beaches and historical sites, also on the Adriatic Sea.

3. Sarandë (Saranda): A popular resort town in southern Albania, situated on the Ionian Sea.

Bon Voyage from Your Neighboring Shores

Currently, ferries to Albania primarily operate from Italy and Greece, making them ideal for travelers originating from these countries or those looking to combine a visit to Albania with these popular tourist destinations. Here's a breakdown of the main routes:

Italy to Albania:

Ferry services connect ports in Albania (Durrës, Vlorë) with Italian ports like Ancona, Bari, Brindisi, and Trieste.

The journey typically takes several hours, with some routes offering overnight crossings.

Greece to Albania:

The most frequent ferry connection is between Corfu, a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, and Sarandë in Albania.

This is a popular and quick option, with ferries taking only 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on the type of boat.

Knowing the Cost: Budgeting for Your Ferry Trip

Ferry ticket prices vary depending on the route, travel time, and chosen company. Generally, expect to pay anywhere from €18 for a short hop across the Ionian Sea (Corfu - Sarandë) to over €100 for longer overnight journeys from Italy.

Here are some resources to help you compare prices and book your ferry tickets:

Ferry Company Websites: Visit the websites of the ferry companies mentioned above to find their latest fares and schedules.

Ferry Booking Websites: Utilize online platforms like Direct Ferries or Ferryhopper to compare fares across different companies and book your tickets conveniently.

Visa requirements can change, so it's always best to check the latest information with the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, many nationalities can now apply for an e-Visa online before their trip, making the process quick and convenient. You can find more details and the application process here: https://e-visa.al/

Embark on Your Albanian Odyssey!

With your ferry route chosen, tickets booked, and a sense of adventure in your heart, you're all set to set sail for Albania. Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, captivating views of the coastline, and the anticipation of exploring this fascinating Balkan nation.

So, ditch the ordinary and arrive in Albania in style - by ferry!