Speed Boat Tour to Vlore’s Secret Blue Cave at Grama Bay

This speed boat tour to Vlore’s secret Blue Cave at Grama Bay offers a chance to explore some of Albania’s most captivating coastal sights. With a full itinerary that includes visits to stunning caves, untouched beaches, and a historic quarry, this trip promises both adventure and relaxation. It’s a great way to see the raw, natural beauty of Albania’s coast while enjoying the thrill of speeding along the water.

Two aspects I particularly like about this experience are the variety of stops—each more beautiful and interesting than the last—and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The guide’s stories, especially about the pirate Haxhi Ali, add a local flavor that makes the trip more memorable. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the relatively short duration at each stop, which means you’ll want to make the most of your swim and photo opportunities.

Overall, if you’re after a day of scenic wonder, lively water activities, and a peek into Albania’s hidden treasures, this tour offers an excellent balance of value, comfort, and authentic adventure. Just keep in mind that weather can influence the trip, so flexibility might be needed for the best experience.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning natural sights: The tour features impressive caves and pristine beaches, perfect for swimming and photo ops.
• Snorkeling included: The crystal waters make snorkeling at each stop a highlight, with opportunities to see marine life.
• History and stories: The guide shares interesting tales, like the legend of pirate Haxhi Ali, adding depth to the experience.
• Short, manageable stops: Each location is visited briefly but thoughtfully, maximizing your time in Albania’s beautiful coastline.
• Good value for the price: At around $75 per person, you get a full day of adventure, multiple stops, and included snorkeling.
• Small group size: With a maximum of 25 travelers, the experience feels intimate and more personalized.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Albania’s rugged coast, especially if you love natural beauty, small group adventures, and swimming in unspoiled waters. I’ll walk you through what you can expect, why it’s worth your time, and some tips to get the most out of your day.

Arrival and Departure: Starting Your Adventure

The trip begins at 10:30 am from a meeting point on Fiori Street in Vlore. The tour is operated by Vlora Boat Trip 3 Fiori, and they have a solid reputation with a high rating of 5.0 from seven reviews, one of which praises the “Bon rapport qualité/prix” — good value for what you get. You should confirm your booking ahead of time, especially since bookings tend to be made about two weeks in advance.

Getting on the boat, you’ll notice the group is limited to 25 people, which helps keep things comfortable and engaging. The boat itself is a speedboat, perfect for zipping along the coast and reaching spots inaccessible by land.

The Itinerary: A Day of Surprises

The tour’s itinerary is carefully curated to include some of the most intriguing coastal sights in the area, each with its unique allure.

Haxhi Ali Cave – A Pirate Legend’s Hideaway

Your first stop is inside the Haxhi Ali Cave. This is no ordinary cave—it’s a large, wild space where you can snorkel for about 30 minutes. The guide, likely well-versed in local lore, shares tales of the legendary pirate Haxhi Ali, giving this natural wonder a touch of history and storytelling. The cave’s size and natural formations make it an exciting place to explore, and the snorkel here lets you see marine life in the cave’s waters.

A reviewer from September 2024 describes it as a “Superbe journée,” emphasizing the incredible landscapes and countless spots for swimming. The inclusion of the cave’s historical background makes this stop more meaningful than just a photo opportunity.

Dafina Cave – Hidden Gem on the Karaburun Peninsula

Next, you’ll visit Dafina Cave, a lesser-known but equally beautiful location. You get approximately 40 minutes here, enough time to swim, snorkel, and explore the cave’s interior. The waters are described as pristine, and the experience of entering a quiet, untouched cave is truly special. It’s a chance to take in some quiet natural beauty away from crowded beaches.

The fact that this stop is free of extra admission fees makes it a good value addition, allowing you to relax without worrying about additional costs.

Bristan Bay (Bear Bay) and Dukat

The journey continues to Bristan Bay, also called Bear Bay, a serene beach with crystal-clear waters. The 15-minute stop here is perfect for a quick swim or photo, soaking in the untouched nature.

Shortly after, you’ll visit Dukat and the nearby Smuggler’s Bay, where you can enjoy a canyon view and take some memorable photos. The short 15-minute stop at Dukat offers a glimpse into Albania’s rugged coastline and its history as a smuggling hideout.

Englishman Bay and Llovizi Cave – The Blue Cave

From there, you’ll head to Plazhi i Llovizit, also known as Englishman Bay. Surrounded by towering cliffs and filled with peaceful waters, it’s ideal for a relaxed swim and some snorkeling.

The highlight of the tour is the Blue Cave at Llovizi Bay. You’ll spend about 45 minutes here inside the cave, which is renowned for its striking blue waters that make swimming and snorkeling a mesmerizing experience. Many review mentions emphasize the breathtaking views and the fun of swimming inside the Blue Cave, making it a standout moment.

Grama Bay – The Hidden Coastal Treasure

The final major stop is Grama Bay, a spot described as a “secret coastal treasure” with a calming, almost mystical atmosphere. Once a safe haven for ships during storms, it boasts impressive scenery and a sense of seclusion. Visitors can explore the old quarry, known since ancient times for carvings and inscriptions, adding a historical layer to your visit.

You’ll have roughly two hours here, giving plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and take photos. The reviewer notes that Grama Bay “has everything: stunning natural beauty, fun adventures, and peaceful relaxation.”

What’s Included and What to Expect

The total tour lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, with around 2.5 hours of actual boat travel time between stops. The tour includes admission tickets for caves and special spots, snorkeling gear, and the guide’s commentary. The boat trip is considered good value for $75, especially since it covers multiple locations, activities, and includes some free time at the beaches.

The small group size ensures a personal experience, and the use of a mobile ticket makes check-in smooth. Plus, with a cancellation policy that allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, plans are flexible if the weather turns unfavorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves stunning views, adventure, and unspoiled nature, this trip is ideal. It’s particularly suitable for travelers comfortable with swimming and snorkeling, as many stops involve water activities. History buffs will appreciate the tales of pirate Haxhi Ali and the ancient carvings at Grama Bay, but even those just seeking beautiful scenery and a fun day on the water will find plenty to enjoy.

Keep in mind that the tour involves multiple short stops, so a moderate level of mobility and comfort with boat travel is recommended. If you’re after a relaxed, beach-only day, this is more active and adventurous.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $75, you get a full day of exploration, snorkeling, and beautiful landscapes that are hard to find elsewhere in Albania. The value is clear when considering the variety of stops, the included equipment, and the expert guidance. Plus, many travelers mention how the landscapes and caves are truly breathtaking—pictures don’t do them justice.

If you’re craving a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of local history, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy small-group excursions, water activities, and discovering Albania’s best-kept secrets.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour? The entire trip lasts about 7 to 8 hours, with roughly 2.5 hours of boat travel and multiple stops for swimming and exploring.

What is the starting time? The tour begins at 10:30 am, with check-in at the meeting point in Vlore.

Are snorkeling and swimming included? Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and you can swim at each of the stops, including inside the Blue Cave.

What locations will I see? You’ll visit Haxhi Ali Cave, Dafina Cave, Bristan Bay, Dukat, Englishman Bay, the Blue Cave at Llovizi Bay, and Grama Bay.

Is there an age limit or physical requirement? The tour is suitable for most travelers, but some stops involve swimming, so comfort in water is advisable.

How much does it cost? The price is approximately $75.39 per person, which covers boat, guide, and some entrance fees.

What’s the cancellation policy? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip.

Is the tour suitable for photography? Absolutely—each stop offers excellent photo opportunities, especially the Blue Cave and Grama Bay.

Are meals or drinks included? Not explicitly mentioned, so bring water and snacks if you wish. Some reviewers mention that drinks and food are included, but it’s best to check directly with the provider.

What should I bring? Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, a towel, and your own snorkeling gear if you prefer personal equipment.

In summary, this boat trip to Vlore’s Blue Cave and Grama Bay is a well-organized, scenic adventure that combines natural beauty, history, and water fun. It’s ideal for travelers looking for authentic, less crowded spots, and it offers excellent value for a full-day excursion along Albania’s stunning coast.