Cruise Tourism Flourishes in Saranda, Albania, as Numbers Soar

Welcoming 54,480 passengers, the Port of Saranda, southern Albania’s tourism gateway, experienced an unprecedented increase in traffic during the month of October 2025. Compared to the 2024 figures, the increase underscored the growing tourist magnet that Saranda has become, particularly for passengers on cruise ships. The increase in passenger traffic to Saranda was driven by the arrival of primary cruise vessels, like the Nieuw Statendam, which transported travellers from multiple destinations and boosted the region’s tourism growth.

Admir Malaj, Port Director, reported that for the first ten months of 2025, the Port experienced a total of 740,000 passengers, which has established a pattern of increased tourism in the region. This established Saranda as one of the most significant tourist centres in Southern Albania and an emerging spot of increased interest as a cruise destination in the Mediterranean.

Expanding Cruise Activity in Southern Albania

Despite its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and historical significance, Saranda did not become a popular tourist spot until the cruise industry began visiting Albania. After the Holland America Line began its regular visits to the Port of Saranda, Saranda started to become a tourism hotspot in the Mediterranean and started to gain a considerable amount of international arrivals.

An example of this growth is the Nieuw Statendam cruise ship. As a luxury cruise ship, it positively impacted the Saranda economy by bringing in tourists from multiple countries and providing arrivals who want to experience the culture and natural sites. Cruise ship tourists typically want to do short excursions and tour guide packages to experience Saranda and attractions like the Butrint National Park, Ksamil Islands, and the Llogara Pass.

Cruise Tourists Attractions in Saranda

The many attractions in Saranda make it one of the best destinations for cruise tourism. Some of these attractions include;

Butrint National Park: One of the most visited archaeological sites in Albania, Butrint is an ancient city from the Greek and Roman periods. Butrint is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts many tourists interested in history and archaeology.

Ksamil Islands: Known for their natural beauty, these islands are famous for providing a good setting to engage in several relaxation and water sports activities. The islands also have several breathtaking beaches.

Llogara Pass: One of the most scenic mountain passes in the world, Llogara Pass attracts many tourists who wish to view the Ionian Sea in its full glory. The Pass is also an ending point to several walks in Albania’s rugged terrain.

Saranda’s beaches and the Promenade: Saranda is known for its vibrant city centre. The centre has a beachfront promenade, several beach bars, restaurants and cuisines (mostly seafood). The warm climate and the sandy beaches encourage swimming and sunbathing.

Aside from the attractions, Saranda has a variety of things to do, including boat trips, water activities, and cultural encounters, making it a multifaceted and enticing location for all types of visitors.

Effects on Local Tourism and the Economy

The surge in the number of cruise ships has been of great advantage to Saranda’s economy and has assisted local enterprises like hotels, eateries, and travel companies. Numerous companies in the region rely on the seasonal tourist influx, especially in the peak period when cruise boats transport thousands of tourists to the city every day.

The tourism facilities in Saranda have also been expanding with the increase in the number of visitors. Construction of several hotels, resorts, and tourism infrastructure catering to the desires of the foreign tourists has been introduced. Local economy significantly benefits when cruise tourists make purchases from the local economy on activities, local artworks, and memorabilia.

The increase in the number of tourists also opens a window for the promotion of sustainable tourism. Saranda and the neighboring region have initiatives to protect the region’s delicate ecosystems. These initiatives aim to reduce the impact of tourism and preserve the area’s beauty.

Saranda’s Increasing Stake in the Mediterranean Tourism Industry

In 2025 and 2026, Saranda’s tourism growth is expected to continue with the increasing number of cruise arrivals. The number of cruise arrivals indicates that the area will have an offering of cultural and natural attractions. The strategic position of the city, close to Greece and Corfu Island, also makes it an attractive place to stop on international cruise lines.

Saranda will continue to be attractive to future tourists with further enhancements to its tourism infrastructure, more efficient public transit, and augmented tourism services. Increasing numbers of cruise tourism will also result in local business, lodging, and sustainable tourism ventures.

Conclusion

As of October 2025, the Port of Saranda has 54,480 cruise passengers, booming as a southern Albania tourism hub. Saranda becomes a focal point for Mediterranean tourism with new cruise routes, acceleration of overseas interest, and Albania tourism gems. An increased number of travelers maintains Saranda’s culture, rich history, and gorgeous landscapes as global travelers adventure and relaxation.

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