Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Imagine a day exploring crystal-clear waters, hidden caves, and pristine beaches, all from the comfort of a luxury speedboat. That’s exactly what this guided boat tour along the Albanian Riviera offers. While it’s not an all-day adventure, the 5.5-hour trip packs in enough breathtaking sights and relaxing stops to make it a worthwhile experience for anyone wanting a taste of coastal paradise.
What caught our eye was the attention to safety and comfort, including life jackets, water, snacks, and experienced captains — which definitely boosts confidence when cruising in unfamiliar waters. But, it’s worth noting that the included snacks and water might leave some wishing for more, especially during the longer stops or hotter days.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking stunning scenery, a mix of activity and relaxation, and guided knowledge of the Albanian coast. If you’re fond of boat rides, snorkeling, and exploring secluded bays, this trip will likely tick most of your boxes.
Key Points
- Stunning Scenery: Visit multiple bays, caves, and scenic spots along the Albanian coast.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable captains with over 7 years of experience lead the way.
- Flexible Options: Choose between shared or private tours for a more personalized experience.
- All-Inclusive Comforts: Life jackets, water, snacks, and snorkeling gear are provided.
- Good Value: At $89, it offers a compact yet immersive coastal adventure.
- Suitable for Most: Best for those who love scenic boat trips, swimming, and light exploration — not ideal if you need a full-day adventure or extensive meals.
An Authentic Albanian Riviera Adventure
This trip is a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful and secluded spots along Albania’s coast without the hassle of planning or navigating on your own. Starting from the modest dock in Himara, you board a luxury speedboat with a professional crew. The boat itself is a key highlight — fast, sleek, and comfortable, with ample space to relax or take photos.
Looking for more options in Himare? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Route and What You’ll See
The journey is designed to maximize visual enjoyment and provide opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The captain guides you along the coast, pointing out notable spots like Aquarium Bay, Gjipe Canyon, and the local blue caves, with stops that let you dip into crystal waters and explore marine life.
The highlights include:
- Aquarium Bay, Crystal Bay, and Couples Bay: These are some of the most scenic spots, famous for their clear waters and stunning cliffs. We loved how each bay offers a different character — from tranquil spots perfect for lounging to lively waters ideal for snorkeling.
- Gjipe Canyon: While you won’t hike through it, the view from the boat offers a sense of scale and natural beauty that’s hard to beat.
- Monastery Cave and Pirates Cave: These caves add a sense of mystery and adventure, perfect for exploring or simply snapping impressive photos.
- Blue Caves and Bays: The tour makes stops where the water’s vibrancy is best appreciated — a must for photographers and anyone craving a cooling swim.
- Saint Andrews Bay and Saintkolli Bay: These quieter spots give a peaceful vibe and excellent swimming opportunities.
The Main Stop: Grama Bay
After cruising past scenic spots, your destination is Grama Bay, a pristine stretch of sand and water where you’ll have approximately 2 hours of free time. Here, you can relax on the beach, snorkel among colorful fish, or just soak up the sun. This period is plenty of time to unwind, especially if you prefer floating rather than sightseeing.
One reviewer notes, “The boat trip is incredible, Captain Leo is lively and made everyone feel very comfortable.” His friendly demeanor and local knowledge definitely add a more personalized touch to the trip. The guides are experienced — with over 7 years guiding in the area — ensuring safety and interesting commentary throughout.
The Return and Final Cave Stop
Before heading back to Himara, the boat makes a final 30-minute stop at Pigeons Cave, giving everyone a chance to cool down and swim in calm waters. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day’s beauty, with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of photo opportunities along the coastline.
Practical Details
The tour lasts around 5.5 hours, starting from the Himara Mini Dock, located near the Manolo Beach Bar. It’s easy to find, and the tour provider, Sea Escapes Himara, is well-organized, offering live guides in English, Albanian, and Greek.
Included in the price ($89 per person):
– Safety gear (life jackets)
– Water and snacks (though some feel these could be more generous)
– Snorkeling masks and gear
– Experienced captain and crew
– The boat cruise itself
What you need to bring:
– Towel and sun protection (sunscreen and sunglasses)
– Food if you prefer a fuller snack beyond what’s provided
– Beachwear for swimming and relaxing on the sand
The tour is flexible — you can opt for a shared group or a private experience, which is perfect if you want a more intimate day with your own crew and captain.
Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, which offers peace of mind if plans change.
You might also want to explore these Himare activities
Authentic Experiences and Limitations
From reviews, we see that the scenic views are the star of this trip. One traveler from Brazil mentioned, “We loved the way Captain Leo made everyone feel comfortable and the stunning views, especially the blue caves.” The beauty of the Albanian coast is undeniable, and this tour captures many of its highlights.
However, some travelers note that snacks and water may not be enough for longer or hot days, so bringing extra supplies is advisable. It’s a minor point but worth considering, especially if you’re planning to spend the whole time in the sun or if you’re traveling with children.
While the trip doesn’t include a full meal, the two hours at Grama Bay offer plenty of time for a picnic or a snack if you bring your own. The focus is on the sights and the experience rather than gastronomy, so plan accordingly.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This trip is best suited for those who appreciate scenic boat rides, hidden bays, and caves. It’s excellent for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and light adventure without the commitment of a full-day tour. Families, couples, or small groups will find the experience relaxed and intimate.
It’s also perfect for travelers who want a guided experience with local expertise, ensuring safety and interesting commentary along the way. If you’re hoping for a more secluded, tranquil experience with plenty of time for photos and swimming, this tour delivers.
However, if you’re after a full-day, in-depth exploration that includes extensive hiking or dining options, you might want to look elsewhere. This is more about soaking in the stunning coastal scenery in a manageable, fun trip.
The Sum Up
This Himara boat trip to Grama Bay offers a well-balanced taste of the Albanian Riviera’s most photogenic spots. Its highlight is the beautiful scenery — from caves to bays — combined with the comfort of a luxury speedboat and an experienced crew. The two hours at Grama Bay provide enough time to relax or explore, making it ideal for those wanting a light, scenic day on the water.
While the snacks and water might be a bit sparse for some, the overall value remains high given the stunning views, expert guiding, and the variety of stops. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a memorable, picture-perfect adventure that’s easy to book and flexible enough to suit different group sizes.
If you love scenic coastlines, snorkeling, and discovering secret spots, this tour will leave you with plenty of beautiful memories of Himara’s coast — all within a comfortable half-day trip.
FAQ
What is the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 5.5 hours, starting from Himara Mini Dock and ending back at the same location.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with boat rides and swimming, this trip can be fun for families.
Does the tour include meals?
No, meals are not included. You are advised to bring your own food or snacks if desired, especially for longer stops.
What should I bring?
Sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and possibly extra food or water for personal comfort.
Are the stops suitable for swimming and snorkeling?
Absolutely. The tour offers multiple snorkeling stops at Blue Caves, Bays, and Pigeons Cave, with snorkeling gear provided.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes, you can choose between a shared group or a private experience, for a more exclusive outing.
Is there a guide on board?
Yes, the trip features a live guide speaking English, Albanian, or Greek, providing commentary and safety instructions.
What is the price?
The tour costs $89 per person, representing good value given the scenery and activities included.
What safety measures are in place?
Life jackets and safety gear are provided, and the crew has over 7 years of guiding experience to ensure a secure trip.
Whether you’re in Himara for a short stay or looking to add a scenic highlight to your trip, this boat tour offers a relaxing, picturesque way to experience some of Albania’s most beautiful coastline spots.
