Albania part 3 - Shenjin

June 26 - July 2 - Shenjin

We left Vlore for an all day sail to Shenjin. We noticed several thunderheads along the way so tried our best to avoid them.

We arrived late and decided to anchor in the bay outside of the docks. We could see many lights and many carnival ride lights (these are a huge form of entertainment in Albania). As we were anchoring there was a call on the radio to us (our AIS system shows our name) from the marina. We could not see them but were informed that they could see us. We headed over but decided that it wasn't safe to try and tie up in the dark. We notified the authorities that it wasn't safe and that we would anchor for the night and come in in the morning.

We got up the following morning and prepped for arrival into the marina/port. An agent arrived and was waiting for us. She came aboard and finished all of the paperwork required. She handled all of the docking fees and entrance fees. Later in our stay we would see her on a local bus going to Lecce the city next door.

Shenjin is a wonderful beach district with hundreds of umbrella chairs an the long beach front. The water is shallow for a fair distance out and was safe for Jordan to play in. Many Albanians, Croatians and Russians come to Shenjin to vacation as it is so reasonable. In fact at a small taverna we were able to buy a 0.5 litre of beer for 0.50 cents. Incredible!

sunset upon our arrival

Jordan and a new friend at the beach

Paige lounging

On one of our evening walks into town we encountered the most surprising of pedestrians..... Yes, a cow. This particular bovine was pilfering through garbage cans for a snack...... It was hilarious.

the cow walked surprisingly fast so I missed its head

and then there were two munching

After we saw the cows the girls decided that it was bumper car time. Jordan was out for blood, Paige's blood. Jordan was relentless. It was very funny to watch. I guess it was payback for the lack of playing Paige does with her on the boat.

On one of our daytime outings we were walking by and noticed a small flock of ducks. As we were taking a picture a man came out of a backyard and whistled. Low and behold the whole flock jumped up and waddled over towards him. I have never seen anything like it. They soon returned as there was no food being offered.

flock of ducks

responding to the call

returning after they didn't receive food

Later this evening Shaun took the girls for a walk and some more rides/trampolining.

blurry Jordan 

getting some help with the bounce

exiting the trampoline

The following day Shaun taught Paige how to change the oil in our small Honda generator. It was quite hot that day but it needed to be done. Later in the day we headed back to the beach.

generate oil changing lesson

chilling at the beach

Jordan with her new Albania flag towel - farewell Albania we enjoyed ourselves

AFC (Albania Fried Chicken) anyone?

On one of our last days we decided to take a local bus to Lecce the next city over. It just so happened that our agent was on the same bus. The bus cost us around 200 lekes total. It was super cheap and comfortable. It took us 15 minutes to get there. Once we arrived we took our time and walked around. It was nice to window shop and see another small city.

Albania was a pleasant surprise and would recommend visiting if ever you have a chance. We thoroughly enjoyed our time in this beautiful part of the world.


Follow our video adventures on our YouTube channel: Video adventures of s/v Element