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Borsh lies across the water from Corfu, and for many of our guests the quickest way here is to fly to Corfu and cross to Saranda by boat. The journey has three steps: airport to port, the crossing, and the drive up the coast. Here is how each one works.
Step 1: Corfu airport to the port
Corfu airport is close to Corfu Town, and the ferries to Saranda leave from the port in town. A taxi between the two is a short ride. Leave enough time between landing and sailing for baggage, the transfer and passport control at the port.
Step 2: The crossing
Two operators run the route between Corfu and Saranda: Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways. Both run fast boats, which take about 30 minutes, and slower ships, which take longer.
- Book ahead in summer. Tickets can be booked online, for example on the Finikas Lines site. Departure times change with the season, so always check the current timetable on the operator's own site.
- Passport control on both sides. Greece is in the Schengen area and Albania is not, so your documents are checked when you leave Corfu and again when you arrive in Saranda. Check the entry rules for your nationality before you travel.
- Mind the time difference. Corfu is one hour ahead of Albania all year. Timetables use local time, so a boat leaving Corfu at 13:00 Greek time arrives in Saranda around 12:30 Albanian time.
- Weather. In strong wind, fast boats can be delayed or cancelled. Do not plan the last boat of the day as your only option, and leave room in your plans.
- Cars. The operators also run car ferries, but if you want to bring a vehicle, especially a rental car, check with the ferry company and the rental company first.
Step 3: Saranda to Borsh
From Saranda it is about 50 minutes north along the coast road to Borsh by car or taxi. The road climbs out of Saranda and runs north above the coast, with views over the sea.
- Taxi or transfer: the simplest way with luggage. If you would like help arranging the last part, ask us when you enquire.
- Bus: local buses run between Saranda and Himara on the coast road through Borsh, but times vary by season. Ask locally for the current times.
- Rental car: if you plan day trips, arrange a car in Albania for your stay.
How long it takes
The crossing itself is short, but the whole journey adds up: transfers, passport control on both sides and the drive. Plan for most of a day from your home airport, and enjoy the arrival: the coast road between Saranda and Borsh is a good first look at the Riviera.
While you are in Saranda
Saranda is also the gateway to Butrint and the Blue Eye. Both are south or inland of Saranda, so they make better day trips during your stay than stops on your travel day.
Once your crossing is booked, send us your dates and your expected arrival time, and we will be ready for you. For other routes, see getting to Borsh.
