The Komani ferry: a complete guide

Two ferries, not one

Two operators run the Koman to Fierza route. The larger car ferry (Berisha) takes vehicles and takes about two and three quarter hours. The smaller passenger boat (Alpin) is quicker at around two hours and has better outdoor deck space. Neither is wrong; the car ferry is the one you need if you are driving.

Departure times

In summer both leave Koman around 09:00 and return from Fierza around 13:00, with an extra sailing in peak season. Times shift by season and by weather, and they are not published reliably online. Confirm the day before — this is the single most common thing that goes wrong for independent travellers.

Do I need to book?

For foot passengers in July and August, yes. For vehicles, always — car space sells out days ahead in summer. Outside those months you can usually turn up, but arrive an hour early.

Getting to Koman

The last 25 km from Vau i Dejës is a narrow road with a single-lane unlit tunnel near the end. It is fine in daylight in a normal car, unnerving in the dark. Allow two hours from Shkodër and leave by 06:30.

Parking

There is a paid car park by the pier, around €5 a day, watched but informal. Leave nothing visible in the car.

On board

There is a small bar selling coffee, beer and crisps. Toilets are basic. Bring water. The upper deck is exposed — sun in summer, cold wind in spring and autumn.

If you only want the gorge

You do not have to go all the way to Fierza. Day tours run out into the narrow section, stop at Shala, and come back to Koman, which is a better use of a day if you are not continuing to Valbona.

Anything in this guide out of date? Tell us at hello@komanilake.pl and we will check it and credit you.