Grama Bay & Blue Cave: Speedboat Tour from Vlore

Exploring Albania’s coast has become increasingly popular, and this speedboat tour from Vlore offers a fantastic way to see some of the most captivating spots along the Karaburun Peninsula. For about $90, you get a full day of adventure—including visits to hidden caves, pristine beaches, and the famous Blue Cave, all delivered with a lively guide and plenty of time to swim and relax.

What really stands out for us is how this tour combines thrilling speedboat rides with authentic natural beauty—no crowded resorts here, just untouched bays and dramatic cliffs. Plus, the inclusion of fresh fruits, drinks, and snorkeling gear makes it feel like a well-rounded, value-packed experience.

One consideration? The tour emphasizes swimming and exploring in open waters, so confidence in the sea is important. It might not suit non-swimmers or those with mobility concerns, especially since the beaches are natural and don’t offer amenities like sunbeds or restaurants.

This experience is perfect for travelers who crave adventure, scenic beauty, and a taste of Albania’s wild coastline—especially if you enjoy a lively, small-group atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and quiet relaxation.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The tour highlights some of Albania’s most breathtaking coastlines, caves, and beaches.
• Active and engaging: Expect plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and photo stops along the way.
• Authentic experience: Visits to secluded beaches and caves mean fewer crowds and more natural beauty.
• Value for money: With drinks, snacks, and snorkeling gear included, the price offers good value.
• Guided storytelling: Your guide shares legends and pirate tales that enrich the experience.
• Timing and group size: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This 8-hour speedboat journey kicks off at Rruga Rushit Gurishova, where Escape Travel and Tours promptly greets you with clear signage and friendly service. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, with a lively guide who clearly knows their stuff and is eager to share stories of pirates and local legends. We found this personal touch added a lot of character—it’s not just about the views but also about the stories that bring these rugged landscapes to life.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Leg: Haxhi Ali Cave (20 minutes)

The adventure begins with a swift 25-minute ride across the water to Haxhi Ali Cave, a site that offers both visual spectacle and a bit of history. The interior of this cavern is impressive, and snorkeling here is a highlight—your guide will tell tales of pirate Haxhi Ali, whose legend adds an extra layer of intrigue to this natural wonder. As one reviewer notes, “Snorkeling in the clear waters inside the cave was unforgettable, and learning about the pirate’s story made it even more interesting.”

Next Stop: Dafina Bay (30 minutes)

From the cave, a quick 25-minute boat ride delivers you to Dafina Bay—one of the most pristine, untouched beaches you can find in the area. The water is crystal clear, perfect for swimming or simply relaxing on the sand. The bay’s seclusion means you’ll likely have it almost to yourself, which is a rare treat. Here, fresh fruits and light snacks make the perfect accompaniment to your lounging. Dafina Cave nearby is a quieter spot, ideal for peaceful exploration.

Midday: Bristani Bay (15 minutes)

A short 15-minute journey brings you to Bristani Bay, also called Bear Bay because of its natural, unspoiled vibe. It’s an ideal spot for photos or a quick stretch before heading further along the coast. Reviewers appreciated the brief stop here, mentioning the “untouched nature and dramatic cliffs” as a highlight.

The Iconic Blue Cave (30 minutes)

The highlight for most visitors is the Blue Cave at Llovizi Bay. A 10-minute boat ride from the previous stop, this cave is renowned for its vibrant colors and captivating interior. You’ll snorkel inside the cave, where the play of light creates stunning blue hues—something that photographs simply can’t fully capture. Guests have described this part as “absolutely mesmerizing,” with about 45 minutes allocated for swimming and exploring. The guide’s tips on how to best capture the scene with your camera are helpful, ensuring you come away with stunning photos.

Final Stop: Grama Bay (2.5 hours)

The day ends at Grama Bay, a peaceful, almost private stretch of golden sand framed by cliffs and lush greenery. With 2.5 hours to relax, swim, walk, or just enjoy the sunset, this is a perfect way to wind down the adventure. Reviewers frequently mention how beautiful and tranquil Grama Bay feels, with some calling it a “hidden paradise.” You can stroll along hiking trails, take in the dramatic vistas, or simply float in the calm waters.

What To Expect

Throughout the tour, drinks, snacks, and fresh fruits are provided on board, which helps keep you energized for all the activity. You should bring your own sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, and camera to make the most of each stop. Since the beaches and caves are natural, there are no sunbeds or restaurants, so be prepared for a day mostly spent outdoors.

The guide is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about Albanian legends, enhancing the experience with stories that bring each location to life. From pirate tales to local legends, these narratives add depth beyond just sightseeing.

The Practical Side

The tour is priced at $90 per person, which, when considering the included equipment, snacks, and stunning scenery, seems reasonable. It’s a full 8-hour experience, so packing light but smart is wise. The boat rides are relatively short—most between 10 and 25 minutes—so motion sickness might be a concern for those who are sensitive. The tour is best suited for confident swimmers, given the emphasis on swimming and snorkeling, and isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with heart problems, or people with mobility issues.

The group is limited to 15 people, which means you’ll get plenty of personal attention from your guide. This smaller size allows for a more relaxed atmosphere, and you’ll find it easier to ask questions or get photos without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Works Well

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a combination of adventure and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a day packed with scenic views, fun water activities, and a touch of local lore, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for those comfortable in the water, as snorkeling and swimming are core parts of the experience.

The visits to secluded beaches and caves mean you’re not fighting crowds. Instead, you’re experiencing Albania’s coast in a more authentic, less commercialized way—something a lot of travelers really appreciate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy active outings, love being on or near the water, and want a genuine taste of Albania’s wild coastline, this is a great choice. It suits travelers who are confident swimmers and happy to spend much of the day outdoors, exploring caves and beaches with plenty of swim stops.

However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility restrictions, pregnancy, or health issues that make swimming or boat trips challenging. Also, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically active day, you might find this tour more invigorating than relaxing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting from Vlore and ending back at the port.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel masks and gear are included, making it easy to explore underwater at key spots like the Blue Cave and Haxhi Ali Cave.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy drinks, light snacks, and fresh fruits on board throughout the day, which helps keep you energized.

Can I swim at each stop?
Absolutely. Swimming is a core part of the tour, especially at Dafina Bay, the Blue Cave, and Grama Bay. Just remember, confidence in the water is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Not really. Since swimming and snorkeling are central to the experience, it’s best for those comfortable in open water.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a camera, and beachwear. Keep in mind there are no sunbeds or restaurants on the beaches visited.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes. This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, people with claustrophobia, heart issues, or mobility challenges, and it’s not suitable for children under a certain age due to the water activities.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet at Escape Travel and Tours, located at the entrance of Rushit Gurishova Street, with clear signage making it easy to find even in the evening.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour from Vlore offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and cultural storytelling. It’s a fantastic way to see Albania’s lesser-known coastline, with the thrill of boat rides, the serenity of secluded beaches, and the wow factor of the Blue Cave. The small group size and knowledgeable guide ensure a personal experience, making it feel more like an adventure shared with friends than a tour bus.

If you’re craving a day of exploration, active water fun, and stunning vistas, this tour delivers in spades. It’s particularly suited for travelers who aren’t afraid of a little water and want to experience the rugged, untouched beauty of Albania’s coast firsthand.

For those seeking a memorable, authentic Albanian adventure—this trip might just be the highlight of your trip.

Note: While the beaches are natural and free of amenities, this only adds to their charm and sense of untouched wilderness. Be prepared for a day outdoors and bring along essentials to make your experience as comfortable as possible.