 Albania : Profile
Albania, known as Shqiperia in Albanian, is situated on the Adriatic Sea between Greece and the republic of Montenegro. After decades of rule by a strict Stalinist regime, which systematically discouraged any contact with the outside world, Albania has recently seen moves towards democracy and a normalisation of its relations with the outside world. Foreign yachts can now visit Albania and there are even plans to build a marina in Durres. The main ports of entry, Durres, Vlore and Saranda are all commercial ports with few or no facilities for visiting yachts. There is a new marina at Vlore with some facilities. The opening up of the country in the early 1990s has brought freedom to the people but has also affected the economy. This has caused high unemployment and has forced many people to emigrate. Greece and Italy are the main targets, which many Albanians try to enter illegally in small boats. Cruising boats sailing the Adriatic should be aware of the possible presence of small unlit boats. Cruising along the coast offers many possibilities, while one of the main attractions inland are the remarkably well preserved Greek and Roman ruins at Butrint, which is best reached from Saranda. The capital Tirana is 24 miles inland from the port of Durres. It is not advisable to leave a yacht unattended or without someone appointed to keep an eye on it.
The climate is Mediterranean in type, with hot summers and mild winters. The wind in summer is mostly onshore, stronger in the afternoons and dying away at night.
Durres
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, Himare
, Saranda
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, Shengjin
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, Vlore (Valona Bay)
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*Indicates a port of entry.
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Related ReportsNew Publications from Imray (03 Sep 2008) More from Albania (27 Jul 2008) Sailing Report from Albania (09 Jul 2008) Albania, Saranda (19 Jun 2008) Cruising Report From Albania (11 May 2008) Central Mediterranean Cruising Guide Book Review (01 Nov 2007) Albania Notes – An Update (05 Oct 2006) Albania Visit August 24-26, 2005 (06 Sep 2005) Related NewsNoonsite Updates (03 Jul 2008)
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