75 minutes through the Albanian Alps. The most scenic boat ride in the Balkans.
The boat leaves the Ferry Terminal at Koman and follows the reservoir south. For the first 20 minutes or so it's open water -- wide, green, quiet. Then the cliffs close in. Some of them are 200--300 metres straight up, and you're weaving between them at water level. It's genuinely unlike anything most travellers have seen before.
Shala River itself is at the end of a narrow canyon. The colour of the water changes as you enter it -- from the green of the reservoir to a clear, almost luminous turquoise. You can see the bottom at 6--8 metres.
Total ride time: around 75 minutes each way. Some guests fall asleep. Most spend the whole journey with their camera out.
Straightforward pricing, no hidden fees. Children under 6 always travel free.
Return same day. Best for solo travellers and couples. You'll share the boat with other guests, which most people enjoy.
One-way to Shala, return next day or later. Gives you time to swim, eat, and actually relax.
Entire boat, up to 8 people. Best for families or groups. Works out cheaper per person than shared once you hit 4+.
Both directions in your own boat. Maximum flexibility -- depart when you want, stop where you want.
Group of 5 or more on a shared tour? Contact us -- we can usually arrange a discount.
We run two departures a day in each direction. Arrive 30 minutes early at Blini Parking, then head to the Ferry Terminal in time for boarding -- the boat will not wait. If you miss it, the next one is half a day away.
Ferry Terminal, Koman Lake
How to find us
Return to Koman Lake
Honestly, yes -- sometimes more so. Mist over the cliffs looks dramatic, and you avoid the worst of the sun on the open water. The one weather condition that affects tours is high wind, which can make the ride choppy and occasionally causes cancellations.
The scenery is identical. The difference is pace and privacy. On a shared boat, we keep to a schedule. On a private charter, if you want to stop and float in a cove for 20 minutes, we do that. It's especially worth it for families with young children who need flexibility.
Usually yes for shared tours, but July and August can fill up -- particularly the morning departure. We recommend booking 48 hours ahead in peak season. Private charters need at least 24 hours' notice regardless of time of year.
The boat itself is low and stable -- boarding is straightforward from the dock. Shala River involves some walking on uneven ground if you want to explore. Let us know when you book and we'll make sure to explain what to expect at both ends.