Vlore: Sazan Island & Haxhi Ali Cave Speedboat Guided Tour

Uncovering Albania’s Hidden Gems: Sazan Island & Haxhi Ali Cave Speedboat Tour

This guided speedboat tour in Vlore offers a compact yet captivating way to experience some of Albania’s most striking coastal sights. Starting from the lively promenade, you’ll cruise through the crystal-clear waters, visiting Sazan Island, known for its mysterious ruins and wartime bunkers, then plunging into the depths of Haxhi Ali Cave to marvel at natural formations and underwater scenery. The tour wraps up with relaxing stops on the Karaburun Peninsula, giving you a taste of untouched beaches and small, peaceful bays.

What I love about this experience is how it balances history and nature—from exploring abandoned military sites to snorkeling in pristine waters. The guides, notably Herman, get high praise for their confidence and local knowledge, making the journey both informative and enjoyable. Plus, the boat itself is described as “very nice and fancy,” with good music adding to the fun.

A potential concern is the weather-dependent nature of sea trips—bad weather can cause cancellations or rescheduling, so you might want to plan your day with some flexibility. Also, keep in mind that the tour involves boat rides, so it might not be suitable for those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Natural Wonders and History: Combines sightseeing of ancient ruins with underwater exploration at Haxhi Ali Cave.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Herman bring knowledge and positivity, enriching the experience.
• Perfect for Relaxation: Wild beaches with clear waters offer ideal spots for swimming and sunbathing.
• Flexible Itinerary: Several stops allow for both guided exploration and free time to relax or snorkel.
• Ideal Duration: Just enough to cover major highlights without feeling rushed—around 5 hours.
• Value for Money: Includes all fees, taxes, and guides, with optional rescheduling if needed.

Setting Sail for Sazan Island: A Peek Into an Abandoned World

The tour begins at Olympia Tours in Vlore, conveniently located on the lively promenade marked by a charming yellow car sculpture outside the Olympia Tiki Bar. After a brief safety briefing, you hop into your speedboat, an experience that’s as exhilarating as it is scenic.

The 1-hour ride to Sazan Island whisks you away from the mainland into a landscape that feels both wild and untouched. I love the way the boat cuts through the shimmering water, giving a real sense of adventure. The island itself is a visual feast—hidden behind its military past, with bunkers, tunnels, and ruins left from communist times.

During the hour-long on-island stop, you can relax on a beautiful beach or take a walk to explore the ancient ruins. The guides often share stories of the island’s secretive past, making the visit more meaningful. One reviewer, Ervin, praised guide Herman for his confidence and knowledge, saying, “The island was beautiful and the cave was amazing.”

Tip: Bring a camera because many spots are perfect for photos, especially with the backdrop of the sea and abandoned structures.

Exploring the Mysteries of Haxhi Ali Cave

A quick 20-minute boat ride takes you to Haxhi Ali Cave, a natural wonder that offers an impressive display of natural stone formations. Here, you’ll likely want to snorkel or swim — the water is clear and inviting.

The cave’s most striking feature is its natural formations, shaped over centuries, which create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. From the reviews, it’s clear that this stop is a highlight for many: Mario shared, “This was our second time with Olympia tours, and we highly recommend them for this kind of experience.” The underwater part of the cave adds an extra layer of intrigue, making it perfect for snorkeling if you have your gear.

Note: This stop offers free time for photos, swimming, and snorkeling, so bring your gear if you want to get the full experience.

Relaxing at St. Vasil Beach and Shen Koli Bay

After exploring underwater caves, the tour heads to the Karaburun Peninsula, known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. The first stop here is St. Vasil Beach, where you’re given 1 hour and 30 minutes to unwind. This is the perfect time to float in the blue waters, bask in the sun, or just soak in the peaceful environment.

Next, you’ll walk (self-guided) to Shen Koli Bay, made up of two small, untouched beaches. Irwing said, “Besides the beauty, there was a lot of laughter and history,” highlighting how the guides add a personal touch. These spots are ideal for a quiet escape from busy tourist spots, with clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Tip: Bring your beach gear, sunscreen, and cash for optional snacks or souvenirs.

Final Cruises and Practical Details

The journey concludes with a 20-minute boat ride back to Vlore, allowing you to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire tour lasts about 5 hours, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and enjoying the scenery. Prices include all fees and taxes, and the guides are fluent in Albanian, English, and Italian, making communication smooth.

This tour is especially good for travelers who value a small-group, guided experience with flexible free time. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, as it involves boat rides and some walking.

Cost-wise, it offers real value—covering transportation, guides, and access to attractions—especially considering the high praise for the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude. The boat itself, described as “fancy,” adds a touch of comfort to the adventure.

Who Will This Tour Suit Best?

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, natural beauty, and history, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for curious travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. Nature lovers will enjoy the swimming and snorkeling stops, while history buffs can indulge in the island’s abandoned bunkers and tunnels.

However, you should be comfortable on boats and prepared for potential weather cancellations. It’s also suited for those who don’t mind a day of light activity and want to maximize their time on the Albanian coast without renting a boat or spending hours planning each stop.

Practical Information and Final Thoughts

This tour is a fantastic way to see some of Albania’s most striking coastal features without the hassle of organizing multiple transports or guides. The 5-hour duration is perfect for fitting into a day’s itinerary, especially if you’re based in Vlore. The included guide and skipper ensure safety and commentary, making your trip more engaging.

Remember to pack your towel, camera, sunscreen, and cash—bring your snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater more extensively. Since the tour involves boat rides, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with being on the water.

The flexible booking options and free cancellation policy offer peace of mind, especially if weather might be a concern. This experience combines adventure, relaxation, and discovery, making it a worthwhile addition to any Albanian coastal trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour works best for older children and teenagers comfortable on boats and in the water. Small children or those with mobility issues may find it challenging due to boat rides and walking.

What should I bring for swimming and snorkeling?
Bring your own snorkeling equipment if you have it, along with a towel, sunblock, and a waterproof camera if you’d like to capture underwater moments.

Can I reschedule if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be rescheduled or canceled if weather conditions are poor or minimum participation isn’t met. You’ll be notified in advance.

How long is each stop?
On average, stops range from about 15 to 30 minutes, with the main stops at Sazan Island and Shen Koli Bay lasting about an hour each.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy options at the stops or in Vlore afterward.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Albanian, English, and Italian, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments due to walking and boat access.

How many people typically join the tour?
It’s a small-group experience, making it more personal and flexible; exact group sizes aren’t specified but tend to be limited for comfort and safety.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, for any optional purchases or tips, as well as personal expenses during the tour.

This guided speedboat trip in Vlore offers an excellent way to experience Albania’s less-touched coastal wonders. From exploring abandoned military relics to snorkeling in crystal waters—plus relaxing on quiet beaches—it delivers a well-rounded, fun-filled half-day. Just bring your sense of adventure, your camera, and a desire to see Albania’s secret coastline.