Kayak through Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania

Sea Kayak Adventures “Three Country Kayak Trip” takes you to a Europe that few people know. Your adventure begins in colorful Croatia, with its stunning Adriatic coastline dotted with terra cotta rooftops and ancient architecture that continues to stand the test of time. It’s a European paradise with its Mediterranean climate, mesmerizing azure water, and sandy beaches. Next is Montenegro, a mountainous country rich with forests, steep cliffs, and fascinating sites of historical significance. This rugged and seemingly untouched region is a place of natural beauty. A few highlights include visiting the extraordinarily beautiful Montenegrin towns of Kotor and Budva and paddling Lake Skadar. Lastly is the neighboring country of Albania, a region with a tumultuous past and sites of architectural awe. There is an intriguing story behind every church, castle, and mansion. Seeing the landmarks of Europe’s best-kept secret from the unique perspective of your kayak is an experience unlike any other. Paddling enthusiasts and history buffs alike will relish the opportunity to dine, paddle, stay, and explore in some of the most fascinating regions of Europe. History is written in the walls, and our local guides have an abundance of stories to share. This itinerary includes fresh, locally-sourced cuisine and three nights in family-owned bed and breakfasts. As with all ROW trips, we practice “Leave No Trace” ethics and support the local economy by staying and dining local.

Supporting Documents

3 Country Kayak Trip Guide

3 Country Kayak Packing List

3 Country Kayak Reading List 

Images & Videos

montenegro, europe
sea kayak in montenegro
people eating during kayak tour
kayaks on dock in Lopud
croatia kayak tour
lake in skadar national park
croissants
people hiking in croatia
croatia coastline
women on bench in croatia
montenegro, europe
sea kayak in montenegro
people eating during kayak tour
kayaks on dock in Lopud
croatia kayak tour
lake in skadar national park
croissants
people hiking in croatia
croatia coastline
women on bench in croatia

Itinerary

Collapse all days

Day 1

Arrive in Croatia

Welcome to Dubrovnik! Upon arrival at the airport, transfer to tonight’s accommodations, drop off your luggage, and the afternoon is yours. Dubrovnik is a fascinating old town, with baroque buildings, terra cotta roofs, marble streets, and majestic medieval stone walls that date back to the 13th century. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and a city museum brimming with Mediterranean culture and history. Feel free to explore and immerse yourself in the city before returning to your hotel for an evening of rest and relaxation.

ACCOMMODATION : Hotel Lero, Hotel Kompas

Day 2

Transfer to Lopud

Awake, gather your luggage, and grab a quick breakfast before meeting your guide in the hotel lobby. We depart our hotel for a pleasant 45-minute ferry ride to the island of Lopud. Along the way, we pass Daksa and Kolocep, quaint islands upon which lighthouses and churches have been constructed.

Upon arrival to Lopud, we transfer to our hotel, a family-owned bed and breakfast, to drop off our luggage. Enjoy a bit of free time at your leisure before we gather for a brief instructional kayak meeting with our guide. We paddle approximately 4.5 miles, from one side of the island to the other. Paddling atop the Adriatic Sea is like a dream, with glistening azure water, white-sand beaches, subtropical vegetation, and sunshine that wraps you in its warm embrace. Look for fascinating cypress and pine parks, citrus gardens, and palm trees on the island’s coastline.

Our paddle concludes with a breathtaking Adriatic sunset near Sunj beach, where we retire our kayaks from the water and enjoy an easy walk back to Lopud. Dinner is served at a delicious restaurant by the sea. Enjoy the fresh local cuisine and a glass of regional wine as you relax and unwind in this Mediterranean paradise.

Paddling Distance: 7.5 km
Ferry time: 45 min

ACCOMMODATION : Family-Owned B&B
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

Kayaking: Sunj – Koločep - Sunj

We begin this morning with a light breakfast before walking to Sunj beach, the starting point for today’s paddle. We get settled in our kayaks and head to the island of Koločep, which is also known as Kalomota by the locals. The picturesque island is blanketed by dense pine tree forests that extend all the way to the surface of the sea. Koločep is a car-free island, with criss-crossing paths amidst the thick greenery. Several churches have been built on the island, some of which date back to as early as the 9th century.

As we paddle along the outer side of the island, marvel in the stunning rock formations and steep cliffs bordering the coastline. If weather conditions permit, we stop for a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Cave.

In the afternoon, we take a brief break from paddling to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. This particular restaurant is famous for its savory barbecued fresh fish that has been described as “melt-in-your-mouth delicious!”

We return to our kayaks to head back to Sunj beach, where we conclude the day’s paddle and walk back to our accommodations in Lopud. The rest of the evening is yours to relax, savor a glass of wine with the sunset, and retire for a restful night of sleep.

Paddling distance: 15 km

ACCOMMODATION : Family-Owned B&B
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

Kayaking: Sunj – Lopud – Suđjurađj – Lopud

Awake and energize with a light breakfast and coffee or tea as we prepare for a day of approximately 8 miles of kayaking. We begin along the inner side of Lopud and cross to Šipan, the largest island on the Elafiti archipelago. There are two main villages on the island: Šipanska Luka and Suđjurađj. Today, we are headed toward the southeastern tip of the island, Suđjurađj.

Upon arrival to Suđjurađj, we take a break from our kayaks and enjoy a guided tour of the island. On the tour, we visit sites of architectural heritage including the impressive summer villa of 16th century Dubrovnik shipowner, Vice Stjepovic-Skocibuha. The unique Renaissance-style construction is among the best-preserved structures on the Adriatic.

Along the tour, we see lush valleys of olive and fig trees, vineyards, and citrus groves. We are treated to lunch at a local farm with Family Danicic, who produces their own wine and olive oil. Lunch includes organic, garden-grown vegetables, homemade olive oil, and cheese. We return to our kayaks in the late afternoon and paddle back to Lopud in time watch the vibrant sunset. 

Paddling distance: 13 km

ACCOMMODATION : Family-Owned B&B
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

Dubrovnik – Kotor - Kayaking - Budva

Today, we travel to the second of our three countries: Montenegro. We begin by gathering our luggage and taking the ferry (45 minutes) from Lopud to Dubrovnik, where we then board a minibus that takes us to the border of Croatia and Montegro.  After crossing the border we continue to the town of Kotor, set in a deep bay and the perfect place for a four-mile, three-hour kayak tour. We pass charming houses and churches set beneath a backdrop of looming mountains of limestone.  We also explore the town of Kotor, a delightful place of history and hidden piazzas amid a labryinth of marbled lanes.

We continue south to Budva, a treasure chest of cultural heritage located on a small peninsula of Montenegro. Among the historical jewels in this old town are the Churches of Sv. Ivan, Sv. Bogorodica, Sv. Sava, and Sv. Trojica, which houses the tomb of writer and politician Stjepan Mitrov Ljubiša.  Once settled into our hotel, there's time to explore the town or perhaps go for a swim.

Ferry Time: 45 min
Driving time: 2 hr 15 min (94 km)
Paddling distance: 4 miles (6 km)
Driving time: 2 hr 30 min (118 km) 

ACCOMMODATION : Hotel Avala
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Border Crossing and on to Krujë

We begin our day with a drive to the border in Albania.  Here we say good-bye to our Croatian guide and hello to our Albanian guide.  Our first stop, time allowing, is the town of Shkodra,  one of the oldest cities in Europe.  The Rozafa Fortress has fantastic view of Lake Shkodra and has held its impressive position since the time of the Illyrians.  The town itself is handsome, with lovely pastel-colored buildings in the old town.

From here we will set off south through the beautiful plains of Western Albania as we make our way to the picturesque Bay of Vlore.

ACCOMMODATION : Local Hotel
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Albanian Riviera

We start our day with a light breakfast before we begin our drive toward Llogora. Along the way, we stop for coffee and sightseeing. Upon arrival, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, we drive toward the coastal city of Dhërmi, where we begin the day’s paddling. We kayak approximately 8 miles toward Himara, the location of this evenings accommodations. 

Paddling distance: 12.5 km
Driving time: 3 hr 30 min (214 km)

ACCOMMODATION : ​Rapo's Resort Hotel
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Qeparo 

Awake to a delicious breakfast before we begin today’s 8-mile paddle toward Qeparo. Along the way, we stop to see the remains of Ali Pasha fortress in Porto Palermo. The fortress was built in the 15th century, and was the centerpiece of numerous conflicts with the Ottoman Empire.
We continue toward Qeparo, where we conclude our paddle and enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, we enjoy some leisurly beach time..

Paddling distance: 13.5 km
Driving time: 1 hr (39 km)

ACCOMMODATION : Local Hotel
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9

Butrint and Gjirokastër

Awake and sip a cup of coffee or tea before we drive approximately 20 minutes to the town of Ksamil. From here, we begin our 6-mile paddle toward Butrint Archeological Park. We take a brief break from paddling to explore the park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We eat lunch by the sea, taking in the view and reflecting on the historical significance of the archaeological park.

After lunch, we drive toward the site of tonight’s accommodations, Gjirokastër. Upon arrival, we check in at the hotel and take a short break to put our luggage in our rooms and rest. Later, we gather once again for a tour of the city. Gjirokastër is one of Albania’s three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and is home to the Gjirokastër Castle and an ethnographic museum.

Paddling distance: 9.5 km
Driving time: 20 min (13.6 km) & 1 hr 30 min (70.1 km)

ACCOMMODATION : Local Hotel
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10

Tirana the Capital

Awake in the historical city of Gjirokastër and devour a delightful breakfast while reflecting on the sites of historical and cultural prominence we’ve visited thus far. Today, we make our way to Tirana, the capital of Albania. In the midst of the 4-hour drive, we stop to enjoy lunch at a traditional Albanian restaurant set in a working vineyard and farm. After lunch, we continue to our hotel, where we check in, drop off our luggage, and embark on the city for a tour and exploration.

Driving time: 4 hr (229 km)

ACCOMMODATION : Local Hotel
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11

Depart Albania

This morning, enjoy a final breakfast with the group and free time in Tirana to do as you wish. This afternoon, either catch a transfer to the airport or extend your travels.

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast

Dates & Rates

DatesAdult (USD)Child (USD)
Jun 22, 2024 to Jul 02, 2024
Lowest Tier Price
$4,990£0€0$0$0$4,990£0€0$0$0
Sep 21, 2024 to Oct 01, 2024
Lowest Tier Price
$4,990£0€0$0$0$4,990£0€0$0$0

Supplementary Information

Tier Pricing: 

  • 4-5 Guests: $6,290
  • 6-9 Guests: $5,890
  • 10-12 Guests: $4,990

Single Supplement: If you are a solo traveler and wish to have your own hotel room (or we are unable to pair you up with another solo traveler), an additional single supplement of $850 USD is required.

*Custom departures available for groups of 6 or more.  The above departures are already set, however, we can start a departure on any day you desire!

Included: 

  • 7 nights in hotels
  • 3 nights in family-owned B&B
  • 7 days kayaking
  • English-speaking guides
  • All transfers
  • All meals as outlined in itinerary
  • All entrance fees
  • Kayaks and equipment

Not Included:

  • Tips for guides, tour leader, and staff
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Insurance of any type
  • Personal expenses
  • Cost of hospitalization and evacuation (if necessary)
     

TIERED PRICING EXPLAINED: Our trips are budgeted for full or near full sign-ups which enables us to offer trips at the lowest possible price. Because of numerous fixed costs, it is more expensive to operate a trip for a small group. Therefore, on some of our trips, in order to avoid having to cancel a trip, we have a “tier-pricing” system to avoid canceling a trip with a low number of sign ups. We have found that most people also prefer this alternative to having a trip cancelled. Thus, you will note on our trip prices there may be different price for 6-8 people versus 9-12, etc.

ALL PRICES IN US DOLLARS. We will do our best to adhere to the itineraries and trip descriptions listed on our website. However, tour itineraries or sub contractors (such as taxi, cruise boats or hotels) may change slightly due to reasons beyond our control including but not limited to Acts of God, wind, waves, inclement weather or other. We always welcome you to call us to clarify any item - often this is the best way to fully clarify expectations - call us collect or on our toll-free number. You will be sent pre-trip email with latest details within a month of your tour - it is your responsibility to check in with us prior to your trip to see if you have all the information you need. We will always do our best to provide you with the best possible tour and to fully meet your expectations to the best of our ability.

We may initially invoice you at the higher tier price, and refund the difference depending on the final group size. Trip costs quoted are based on foreign exchange rates current at the time of this printing. We reserve the right to raise the trip fee if there are exceptional cost increases beyond our control.

Reviews

5
Average: 5 (1 vote)

Reviews

5

Three Country Kayak Tour

The trip was excellent. It will be hard to beat this experience. The guides were professional. Everything ran smoothly, even when there were variations to the itinerary. The biggest surprise was Albania. The accommodations were far better than I expected. The people were wonderful and the country side was beautiful. We are impressed with the level of skill and knowledge of the people Row employs. We are looking forward to taking another trip with Row..

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FAQ & More

How do I get to Dubrovnik, Croatia

Several airlines offer daily flights to Dubrovnik, from Amsterdam, Paris, Vienna, Frankfurt and other European cities.

Do you arrange international air?

We do not arrange international air travel but we do have a great air travel specialist we can refer you to if you’d like.

What types of activities will we do on this trip?

While you are primarily touring the Adriatic via kayak on this tour, your focus will be on the exotic scenery, deep history, welcoming people, fascinating culture and delicious cuisine of the region.

What should I bring?

We will provide you with a full packing list upon reservation. All kayaking gear is provided for this tour.

Do I need previous paddling experience?

The kayaking portion of the trip is appropriate for first-time kayakers, however we do recommend that you have previous paddling experience and conditioning prior to the trip. We won't be carrying any gear in the kayaks, so they will be light. The other parts of the trip include easy walks over uneven surfaces. Please call our office if you have any questions.

How much paddling do we do?

You will kayak a total of 7 days on this tour, paddling between 7.5 km to 18 km depending on the day. (Please see itinerary for specific day to day paddle distances).

What is the food like?

Balkan cuisine has a strong Mediterranean flair but is composed of its own unique dynamic palate traits. In Italy, they say that the fish and shellfish on the Croatian side of the Adriatic Sea are better, because the bottom is mainly rocky, unlike the Italian side, where it tends to be muddier. And as Rebecca West remarks in her historic and monumental travel book published in 1941, "Black Lamb and Grey Falcon," people in this part of the Balkan peninsula "cook lamb and suckling-pig as well as anywhere in the world," especially in the hills behind the coast, where sage, thyme and basil grow in lush, perfumed profusion. Tastes of Turkey also are evident in dishes such as like burek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese, delicious when fresh and hot and a remnant from the centuries of Ottoman occupation of the interior.

What sort of weather should I expect?

July and August are considered Croatia’s ‘season’. It is summer during that time, and tourism is in full swing. The weather is hot, the sea is blue, and the coast is at its best. The weather in Croatia varies from the north to the coast. The north has a Continental climate with temperatures averaging around 77 degrees Fahrenheit in August. The coastal areas have a Mediterranean climate and the temperature can reach as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

What countries will we visit during this tour?

Croatia, Montenegro, Albania

What kind of kayaks will we use on tour?

Kayaks and Equipment used in Croatia:

Rainbow - Laser Expedition
http://www.rainbowkayaks.com/gb/sea-kayaks-/18-laser-515-expedition.html

Rainbow Freccia Expedition
http://www.rainbowkayaks.com/gb/sea-kayaks-/16-freccia.html

Rainbow Atlantis Expedition (tandem kayak)
http://www.rainbowkayaks.com/gb/sea-kayaks-/23-atlantis.html

RTM Ysak
http://www.rtmkayaks.com/en/fiches-produits/ysak-luxe-pe-sandwich-2/

Paddles: Aquabound
https://aquabound.com/kayak-paddles/touring/sting-ray/hybrid

Life jackets Hiko Aquatic
http://www.hikosport.com/aquatic-930/

Kayaks in Montenegro:
Sevylor Colorado and Z-Pro Tango inflatables

Kayaks and Equipment used in Albania:

Prijon Odyssee and Seayak
http://www.en.prijon.com/Seayak-CLASSIC-2.html

Paddles by Ainsworth
http://www.ainsworthpaddles.co.uk/

How do we get from Dubrovnik International Airport to Old Town Dubrovnik?

You can get transportation in to Old Town Dubrovnik from the airport by bus, taxi, or pre-organized private transfer. Bus fares are around 40 kuna (5-6 EUR) and take about 30 minutes to get from the airport to Old Town. There is a taxi rank outside of the arrivals terminal that you can simply jump into. Taxis from the airport in to Old Town cost between 170-200 kuna (22-28 EUR) one way and take about 20 minutes.

How do we get from downtown Tirana to Tirana International Airport?

We recommend taking a taxi from your hotel in Tirana to the airport on your departure day. Your hotel in Tirana will be happy to arrange this transfer for you, or you can organize a taxi on your own. The journey from Tirana to the airport takes 20–25 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs about 2,500 Leke (18 EUR) one way.

Is there a single supplement fee for solo travelers?

Our tour costs are based on double occupancy on any included hotel nights. Solo travelers who would like their own single hotel room can pay a single supplement (see "Dates & Rates" above for the single supplement price for this tour), or can be matched up with another solo traveler of the same gender if one is available and willing to share. If we are unable to pair you with another solo traveler, we must apply the single supplement charge to cover our hotel costs.

What are your Terms and Conditions?

Please see our full Terms & Conditions HERE.

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