Vlore is a prime destination for anyone interested in exploring Albania’s stunning coast by boat. Its clear waters, rugged cliffs, and abundant marine life make it a natural playground for boat tours. Whether you’re after a quick half-day trip to iconic spots like Sazan Island, or a full-day expedition to hidden beaches and secret caves, Vlore offers options for every type of traveler. We especially love the Vlorë: Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Karaburun Boat Tour, which combines history, snorkeling, and breathtaking scenery in just five hours. It’s a fantastic way to see several highlights without a full day commitment.
If you prefer a more private experience, the Private Full Day Boat Expedition to Grama Bay offers a personalized adventure with expert guides, snorkeling gear, and the chance to visit caves and remote beaches at your own pace. For those looking to discover the best of the coast in a single day from Tirana or Durrës, the From Tirane/Durres: Tour & Daily Cruise in Sazan & Karaburun provides a well-rounded itinerary with panoramic views and swimming stops.
Quick Overview
Vlore’s boat tours range from half-day trips exploring Sazan Island and Haxhi Ali Cave, to full-day excursions visiting multiple beaches and caves, to private expeditions for personalized adventures. Many tours include snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing, with some featuring stops at secluded beaches and caves inaccessible by land. For an immersive experience, the Speed Boat Tour to Secret Beaches offers a day of exploring hidden spots with snorkeling and onboard refreshments. Each option has its own charm, whether you want a quick taste or a full-day adventure.
1. Vlora: Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Karaburun Boat Tour
This tour is a well-rounded 5-hour experience that takes you to some of the most iconic sites near Vlore. It includes a speedboat ride to Sazan Island, where you can learn about its military history and spot local wildlife. You’ll also snorkel inside the famous Haxhi Ali Cave, named after a legendary pirate, and explore the Karaburun Peninsula, where you can swim and sunbathe in crystal-clear waters. The itinerary takes in scenic views and makes multiple stops, including a guided walk around Sazan Island and a substantial break at Karaburun for swimming and relaxing. Guests consistently praise the adrenaline-fueled boat rides and the knowledgeable guides who share stories about the area’s history and natural beauty.
This tour suits travelers who want a taste of everything—wild islands, caves, and beaches—in a manageable half-day trip. The price is competitive for the length and inclusions, and the reviews highlight its fun, dynamic pace and beautiful scenery. Be aware that boat space can be tight, so if you’re sensitive to cramped conditions, consider arriving early or requesting space.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting a compact adventure with plenty of snorkeling, sightseeing, and lively boat rides.
2. Secret Blue Cave & Grama Bay – Speed Boat Tour
This 7-hour tour is perfect if your main goal is to see the most spectacular caves and beaches along the Albanian coast. Starting from Vlora, you’ll first visit the famous Haxhi Ali Cave, where you’ll have time to take photos and snorkel inside. Then, the journey continues to the Blue Cave, known for its shimmering interior that looks like it belongs to another world. The tour also includes stops at several bays, including Dafina, Bristani, and Llovizi, where you can swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. The highlight is the extended stop at Grama Bay, with plenty of free time to relax, snorkel, or explore.
Guests rave about the incredible scenery and the helpful crew, especially the captain Aldo, who is often called “the best captain ever” in reviews. This tour is suited for travelers who love long, leisurely days on the water, with many opportunities for photos and adventure in the caves. The 7-hour length is generous, making it ideal for those who want to see multiple caves and beaches in one go. The only potential drawback is that the tour can be physically demanding if you’re not comfortable with boat rides or swimming.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable trip for lovers of caves, snorkeling, and long, scenic boat rides.
3. From Tirane/Durres: Tour & Daily Cruise in Sazan & Karaburun
This full-day 12-hour excursion takes travelers from Tirana or Durrës into the heart of Vlore’s marine parks. It includes bus travel followed by a boat cruise around the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island, with plenty of photo stops and opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear waters. Highlights include visiting the Haxhi Ali Cave, exploring the Sazan Island, and panoramic views of the Haxhi Ali’s Cave and Sazan Island from the boat. The tour also offers a chance to see the blue beaches and enjoy some free time for swimming and relaxing. Guests appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the knowledgeable guides who explain the area’s strategic and natural significance.
Ideal for those with a full day to spare and an interest in combining cultural sights with natural beauty, this tour provides a comprehensive look at the coast’s top attractions. The 12-hour schedule fits well for travelers based in Tirana or Durrës wanting an all-in-one experience. The reviews note the trip’s smooth logistics and engaging guides, making it a reliable choice.
Bottom Line: A full-day, in-depth tour suited for travelers who want a complete overview of Sazan Island and the Karaburun Peninsula.
4. Speed Boat Tour to Secret Beaches
If you’re after adventure and remote beaches, this 7-8 hour tour is a fantastic pick. It departs from Vlora to visit Dafina Bay, Sazan Island, and Plakoto Beach, with snorkeling and scuba equipment included. The tour emphasizes visiting beaches and caves that are hard to reach by land, with stops at Dafina Cave, Llovizi Bay, and other secluded spots. The boat is a group tour, but the focus is on exploring lesser-known areas, making each stop feel like discovering a private paradise. Snacks, lunch, and onboard drinks add to the relaxed vibe.
Reviewers praise the fun, bumpy boat ride and the chance to swim and snorkel in less crowded environments. Some mention minor issues with departure points and the rugged boat experience but overall find it well worth it for the authentic, off-the-beaten-path feeling. This tour is best suited for energetic travelers comfortable with boat rides and looking for a full day of exploration.
Bottom Line: Great for adventure seekers wanting to explore hard-to-access beaches with snorkeling and diving options.
5. Vlore: Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave & Karaburun Boat Tour
This 4.5-hour tour offers a shorter, more focused experience of the main attractions. It features a speedboat ride to Sazan Island for sightseeing and self-guided walks, along with a visit to Haxhi Ali Cave for snorkeling and photos. The tour emphasizes natural landscapes and marine scenery while being flexible with free time for swimming or relaxing on the boat. Reviews highlight the stunning landscapes and friendly guides who make the experience memorable.
It’s perfect if you want a compact, scenic outing without committing a full day. The tour is considered good value, especially for those who want a quick yet fulfilling taste of the coast’s highlights. The main downside might be the limited duration, which doesn’t include extended beach lounging or multiple stops, but it’s ideal for travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a quick, scenic escape with snorkeling and island views.
6. From Vlora: Boat Ticket to Sazan, Karaburun & Haxhi Ali Cave
This 8-hour boat ticket provides a flexible way to explore Sazan Island and the Karaburun coast. It covers key stops like Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and the Karaburun Peninsula, with scenic views along the way. You can hop on and off at different locations, swim in crystal waters, and enjoy local food and drinks during the breaks. The tour is less structured than guided trips, giving you more freedom to customize your experience.
It’s perfect for independent travelers or families who want to set their own pace. The reviews mention the beautiful beaches and the friendly crew, as well as the value of having multiple stops included in one ticket. Keep in mind that the price reflects the flexibility rather than a fixed itinerary, so plan ahead if you wish to maximize your time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who prefer a DIY approach to exploring the coast’s beaches and caves.
7. Private Full Day Boat Expedition to Grama Bay
For a truly personalized experience, this private 8-hour RIB boat trip offers the chance to explore hidden cliffs, caves, and bays of Grama Bay with your own crew. The tour includes snorkeling gear, drinks, and a professional guide who customizes the route based on your interests. Visit Dafina Beach, Llovizi Bay, and the marine park, stopping for swimming and exploring at each spot. The small group size (up to 4 people) ensures a relaxed, intimate experience.
Travelers rave about the ability to choose destinations and the detailed attention from the guides. The tour’s high price reflects its exclusivity, but it suits travelers who want a luxury, tailored day on the water. It’s perfect for families, friends, or anyone wanting to avoid crowds and explore at their own pace. The main drawback is cost, but reviews show it’s worth the splurge for unique, private adventures.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a bespoke, luxury boat experience with full control over the day’s itinerary.
8. Speed Boat Tour to National Park and Grama Bay
This 7-hour tour combines wildlife, caves, and beaches accessible only by boat. Starting from Vlora, you visit Haxhi Ali Cave, then cruise to Dafina Bay, Brisan Bay, and Llovizi Bay, with plenty of swimming and snorkeling. The itinerary emphasizes hidden caves and beaches, with stops along the coast that are otherwise unreachable. The speedboat makes for an exciting ride, and the tour is praised in reviews for its fun atmosphere and spectacular scenery.
Ideal for travelers who want a full day of exploring with a focus on nature and adventure. The tour offers a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, with an emphasis on unspoiled spots off the typical tourist trail. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with boat rides and water activities.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers wanting to combine sightseeing with outdoor fun on the water.
9. Vlore: Sazan Island & Haxhi Ali Cave Boat Tour Experience
A short but immersive 5-hour tour that focuses on Sazan Island and Haxhi Ali Cave, with snorkeling and exploring abandoned military sites. The boat ride is lively, and the guides share interesting stories about the island’s secret past. You’ll see bunkers and military tunnels, then relax on St. Vasil Beach or snorkel in Saint Koli Bay.
This tour is ideal if your schedule is tight but you want a full experience of marine scenery and history. Reviewers mention the fun speedboat rides and the unique opportunity to see military ruins and marine life. It’s a great choice for history buffs and adventure lovers alike.
Bottom Line: A compact, engaging trip for those who want a mix of history, snorkeling, and sea views.
10. From Tirana & Durres: Boat Tour of Sazani Island & Beaches
This full-day small group tour departs from Tirana and Durrës and takes you to Sazani Island, Zvernec Monastery, and nearby caves and beaches. It includes speedboat rides, swimming in caves, and visits to the lagoon, with lunch included. The trip mixes cultural sites with natural beauty, giving a well-rounded experience.
Ideal for travelers based outside Vlore who want a comprehensive day trip to explore both historic sites and coastal nature. Reviews emphasize the professional guides and the scenic boat rides. It’s perfect if you prefer a guided experience with a mix of activities.
Bottom Line: A great all-in-one day trip for those wanting to combine history, nature, and relaxation.
11. Vlore: Haxhi Ali Cave, and Karaburun Boat Tour
This 4-hour trip is a shorter option focused on Haxhi Ali Cave and Karaburun Peninsula. It provides snorkeling, guided tours, and photo stops at pristine beaches. The reviews mention the cool cave experience and nice scenery, highlighting the speedboat ride as a thrilling way to move between locations. It’s perfect if you want a quick taste of the coast’s natural beauty without a full day commitment.
Best suited for travelers with limited time or those looking for a more relaxed pace. The shorter duration means fewer stops but still offers beautiful views and marine activities.
Bottom Line: A quick, scenic trip ideal for a half-day adventure.
12. Boat Tour in Vlore: Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, & Karaburun
This 6-hour tour provides a rundown of the coast’s top sights, including Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and the Karaburun Peninsula. It features guided tours, swimming, and scenic boat rides with relaxed stops along the way. The review praises its balanced itinerary and friendly crew, making it suitable for travelers who want a full but manageable day on the water.
This tour strikes a nice balance between adventure and relaxation, perfect for those who want to see the highlights without a full-day commitment. Its value lies in the combination of multiple stops and beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for a full, engaging day exploring Vlore’s coast.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Vlore
When selecting your ideal boat trip, consider your budget, time available, and what specific experiences excite you most. For example, if you want a private, tailored experience, the Private Full Day Boat Expedition is unbeatable. If your goal is to see as many caves and beaches as possible in a day, the Speed Boat Tour to Secret Beaches offers a full day of exploration.
For those with limited time, the Vlore: Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Karaburun Boat Tour provides a quick, lively introduction. Budget travelers can opt for the Boat Tour in Vlore: Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, & Karaburun, which balances cost with a broad experience.
Timing-wise, the tours run from early morning to late afternoon, so plan your day accordingly. Book early, especially in peak summer months, as these tours fill up quickly. Consider your sea legs and comfort with boat rides—some trips are fast and thrilling, others more leisurely. Most tours include snorkeling gear, so pack your swimwear and waterproof camera if you want to capture the moment.
Final Thoughts
Vlore offers a surprising variety of boat and cruise options that cater to different interests and schedules. For a balanced introduction, the Vlorë: Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Karaburun Boat Tour is hard to beat. If you’re craving an adventure-packed day, the Secret Blue Cave & Grama Bay will satisfy your wanderlust.
For travelers seeking luxury or privacy, the Private Full Day Boat Expedition to Grama Bay delivers a bespoke experience. Whichever you choose, booking early will help secure your spot on these popular tours.
Whether you’re after a quick trip to see the highlights or an all-day exploration of Albania’s coast, Vlore’s boat tours promise memorable moments in stunning surroundings. Prepare your swim gear and camera, and get ready for some of the best boat trips Albania has to offer.