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

Setting out on a speedboat journey to Grama Bay offers travelers a chance to explore some of Albania’s most pristine and lesser-known coastal spots. This 7-8 hour adventure takes you along rugged cliffs, hidden caves, and untouched beaches that are often missed by mainstream tourism. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to discovering historic sites, this tour promises a blend of excitement and serene beauty.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the opportunity to visit several virgin beaches and magnificent caves, especially the Blue Cave at Llovizi Bay—a highlight that keeps popping up in reviews. Our favorite aspect? The combination of natural wonder and the relaxed pace, allowing plenty of leisure time to swim, snorkel, and soak up the views.

One potential consideration is the timing and group size. While the itinerary is well-paced, the stops are relatively brief, so if you’re looking for long, uninterrupted beach days, this might feel a touch rushed. Still, for those craving an active, scenic day on the water with plenty of photo ops, this tour hits the mark.

Ideal for travelers who love adventure, stunning scenery, and discovering hidden gems, this tour is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it offers honest value and authentic experiences in a spectacular setting.

Key Points

• Stunning Natural Beauty: The tour takes you through some of Albania’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes, with crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.
• Diverse Stops: From caves to virgin beaches, each location offers something unique, whether it’s snorkeling, exploring, or relaxing.
• Value for Money: At $75.39 per person, the experience includes multiple stops, snorkeling, and a glimpse into local history—all within a manageable day.
• Authentic Experiences: Guided by experienced skippers, you’ll learn about the local legend of Haxhi Ali and see historic carvings at Grama Bay.
• Time Management: While most stops are brief (15 to 45 minutes), they are enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
• Group Size & Convenience: With a maximum of 25 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, and the mobile ticket makes planning easier.

An In-Depth Look at the Speedboat Adventure

Starting Point and Overall Pace

You’ll meet at the Vlora Boat Trip 3 Fiori location at around 10:30am, ready for a full day of exploration. The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time and stops, with the boat ride itself lasting roughly 2.5 hours without stops. The small group size—up to 25 people—keeps the experience personal and allows for plenty of interaction with the guides.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Haxhi Ali Cave – A Historic Wonder and Snorkeling Paradise

The journey begins with a visit to Haxhi Ali Cave, a site steeped in local legend about the pirate Haxhi Ali. Inside, the cave’s expansive chambers provide an ideal setting for about 30 minutes of snorkeling and exploration. The guide is knowledgeable, sharing the story of Haxhi Ali and the cave’s significance, which adds a fascinating dimension to the visit. The cave’s wild natural beauty and the chance to swim in its cool waters make this a memorable start.

Authentic tip from reviewers: The snorkeling here is quite good, with some reviewers mentioning the wild, untouched feel of the cave. It’s a perfect combo of history and nature.

Dafina Cave – Hidden Gem and Snorkeling Spot

Next, the boat heads to Dafina Cave, on the Karaburun Peninsula. With about 40 minutes allocated, you’ll have time to swim, snorkel, and explore the cave itself. The waters here are described as “pristine,” and the quiet atmosphere offers a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots. There’s no admission fee here, making it a budget-friendly highlight.

Reviewers have loved how this stop adds a sense of discovery and intimacy, emphasizing the untouched beauty of the waters.

Bristan Bay (Bear Bay) – A Quiet Coastal Retreat

From Dafina, the boat moves to Bistan Bay, affectionately called Bear Bay, for a quick 15-minute stop. It’s another example of Albania’s unspoiled coastline, with clear waters and lush surroundings. While brief, this stop gives travelers a quick taste of tranquil natural beauty and chances for some quick photos.

Dukat and Smuggler’s Bay – A Brief Look into Coastal History

The next stop is Dukat, including Smuggler’s Bay, for about 15 minutes. Here, visitors can see a small canyon and snap some photos of the rugged coastline. The name hints at a bit of local lore—perhaps pirates or smugglers passing through—adding a layer of intrigue. The stop is short but worthwhile for those interested in local history or scenic views.

Plazhi i Llovizit (Englishman Bay) – Peaceful Swimming and Snorkeling

Afterward, you’ll visit Englishman Bay, with its impressive cliffs and calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Around 20 minutes are dedicated here, enough to soak in the scenery, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful environment.

Review insights: Several visitors mention how relaxing and beautiful this spot is, emphasizing the tranquility amid natural beauty.

Llovizi Bay and the Blue Cave – A Must-See Highlight

The main highlight of the tour is the Blue Cave at Llovizi Bay. With 45 minutes allocated, you can explore the cave’s stunning interior, swim inside, and snorkel in the mesmerizing waters. Many reviews highlight the cave’s marvelous, almost surreal blue glow, which makes it a favorite among travelers. The interior is large enough for a swim, and the experience of floating in such clear, vibrant waters is truly unforgettable.

This spot has earned rave reviews, with one commenter calling it a “marvelous place” to swim and snorkel. The cave is often described as a highlight, especially for photography lovers eager to capture that perfect shot.

Grama Bay – The Hidden Treasure

Finally, the boat arrives at Grama Bay, a place described as a “secret coastal treasure.” With a two-hour stop, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, explore, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. The bay’s historical significance as a safe haven for ships and the presence of ancient carvings make it an intriguing spot. The scenery here is described as stunning, with quiet waters and dramatic cliffs providing an ideal backdrop for unwinding after a busy day.

What Travelers Say

A reviewer called the experience a “superbe journée” (“wonderful day”) and appreciated the value for money, noting that meals and drinks are included. They also praised the incredible landscapes and the variety of spots for swimming, confirming that the tour’s highlights match the description.

The feedback consistently highlights the stunning scenery, the crystal-clear waters, and the well-organized itinerary. The brief stops are appreciated for giving plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation: The tour departs from Vlora at 10:30am from a central meeting point. The boat is a speedboat, allowing quick access to the various locations along the coast. The maximum group size of 25 helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Duration: At around 7-8 hours, including travel, time stops, and snorkeling, this tour provides a full day of adventure without feeling overly long or exhausting.

Price and Value: At $75.39 per person, the tour offers an impressive lineup of stops, snorkeling opportunities, and a knowledgeable guide, making it quite a good deal for such a scenic and active day.

Weather Considerations: Since the tour relies on good weather, a cancellation policy is in place if conditions turn poor, but you’ll either get a different date or a full refund.

Booking in Advance: Most travelers book about two weeks ahead, which suggests limited spots and high demand—so planning early ensures you won’t miss out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see the best of Albania’s coastline without a long, tiring hike or mountain trek. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy snorkeling, quick dips in pristine waters, and exploring caves and quiet beaches. If you’re interested in local history or simply looking for a peaceful day in nature, this tour provides the perfect mix. It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, or groups up to 25, eager to explore scenic spots with a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour to Vlore’s secret Blue Cave and surrounding beaches offers a spectacular blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. The stops at caves and untouched beaches give travelers a chance to experience Albania’s unspoiled coast in a way that’s intimate and exciting. The crystal-clear waters, stunning cliffs, and hidden coves make each stop an opportunity for memorable photos and peaceful moments.

With a reasonable price point and a well-structured itinerary, it delivers excellent value for those looking to maximize their time and see some of Albania’s most beautiful coastal spots. The experience’s authenticity and scenic highlights make it a compelling option for travelers craving a fun, scenic, and authentic day on the water.

In summary: If you love exploring scenic caves, swimming in calm waters, and discovering quiet beaches, this tour will likely be one of your favorite Albanian adventures. Just remember to bring your camera, some sunscreen, and your sense of curiosity.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 10:30am at the meeting point in Vlora.

How long is the boat ride?
The speedboat ride itself lasts about 2.5 hours without stops, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat trip, snorkeling gear, and visits to all the stops listed in the itinerary, as well as entrance tickets to caves.

How many people will be on the boat?
The tour accommodates up to 25 travelers, maintaining an intimate and relaxed environment.

Are meals or drinks included?
While the reviews mention meals and drinks being included, the official info emphasizes only the trip and snorkeling. It’s worth confirming this at booking.

Is snorkeling good at these stops?
Yes, many stops are described as excellent for snorkeling, especially Haxhi Ali Cave and the Blue Cave, noted for their clear waters and marine life.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, waterproof camera, towel, and a hat. The tour is outdoors in a sunny coastal environment.

What if the weather is bad?
Bad weather can lead to cancellation, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is pre-booking necessary?
Most travelers book about 14 days in advance, especially during busy seasons, to secure a spot.