Vlore County is a coast full of surprises, where rugged cliffs meet clear waters, and every bay seems to hide a story or a secret spot. It’s a place that’s best explored from the water, whether you’re swimming in secluded coves or cruising past ancient caves. We particularly love how many of these tours offer not just sightseeing but authentic out-of-the-way experiences—like swimming in Kakome Bay or exploring Sazan Island’s pirate past. If you’re after a memorable day on the water, Vlore County’s variety of boat tours has something to match your style, whether it’s a relaxed cruise or an adrenaline-fueled speedboat ride.
For those planning a trip, these experiences reveal the area’s natural beauty and make your visit truly special. Many tours include stops for swimming and snorkeling, so you get the best of Albania’s stunning coastline with minimal crowds and maximum fun. And with ratings often near perfection, you can trust these options to deliver a solid adventure.
Quick Overview
The list below showcases the best tours in Vlore County, each offering something unique. Whether it’s a full-day boat tour exploring secret beaches (Saranda: Full-Day Boat Tour with Beach Stops & Swimming), a speedboat trip to Sazan Island and Haxhi Ali Cave (Sazan Island & Haxhi Ali Cave Speedboat Guided Tour), or a romantic sunset cruise around Saranda (Sarande: Speedboat Sunset Tour with Music and Drink), each offers a distinctive way to experience the coast. Other options include snorkeling trips, mussel tasting tours, and luxury yacht cruises—plenty to suit both budget travelers and those seeking a more upscale experience.
1. Saranda: Full-Day Boat Tour with Beach Stops & Swimming
This tour packs a lot into six hours, taking you along the coast to explore secret coves, rocky cliffs, and quiet beaches only accessible by boat. It’s perfect if you’re after a full immersion in untouched nature. The itinerary includes swimming in the crystal-clear Ionian Sea, visiting the Turtle Cave for photos of its natural formations, and relaxing on Krorez Beach with a picnic or lunch.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on raw, unspoiled scenery. You’ll see Kakome Bay, famous for its calm, transparent waters, and the Bay of Spiranca, a favorite among photographers. The boat is a smaller, personalized experience, and the guide will help you get the most out of each stop. Many travelers comment on how peaceful and authentic the experience feels, especially with hours of free time for swimming and filming.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who love exploring secluded beaches and want a flexible, nature-focused day. Price-wise, $35 per person offers excellent value for a full day of swimming and sightseeing.
2. Sarande: Boat Tour to Krorez with Snorkle&Drinks&Swimming
This six-hour cruise is perfect for those who want more than just a sightseeing trip. With multiple swim and snorkel stops, cold drinks, and snorkeling gear included, it’s designed for lovers of underwater discovery. Starting from Enzo Water Sport, the tour takes you past Turtle Cave, with a quick photo stop, then on to Gjiri i Kakomes and Krorez Beach for swimming and lunch.
What sets this experience apart is its informal, lively vibe. Many reviews mention how the crew, especially skipper Enzo, makes everyone feel welcomed. It’s a family-friendly trip, with the flexibility to jump from the boat and snorkel in the clear waters. During the cruise, you’ll enjoy scenic views, with plenty of time to relax and soak up the Albanian sun.
Bottom Line: This tour suits active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s highly rated for its organization and fun crew, making it a top pick for summer days.
3. Vlore: Sazan Island & Haxhi Ali Cave Speedboat Guided Tour
This five-hour adventure takes you across Sazan Island’s mysterious ruins and inside the fascinating Haxhi Ali Cave. The tour includes a guided walk on the island, where you’ll see remnants of old military installations and learn about the island’s pirate history. Afterward, you’ll visit the Haxhi Ali Cave, diving into its cool waters and exploring its dramatic interior.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of history and natural beauty. The guide shares stories of pirates and soldiers, making the experience engaging for history buffs. The boat ride itself is comfortable, with scenic views of the unspoiled Karaburun Peninsula. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see pristine beaches and untouched nature.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in history, caves, and nature, with a moderate pace that allows plenty of time at each stop. It’s a good value for a 5-hour trip with exciting sights.
4. From Vlore: Haxhi Ali Cave & Karaburun Speedboat Tour
This 4-hour tour offers a focused exploration of Haxhi Ali Cave and the Karaburun Peninsula. Starting from Realdo Speed Boat, you’ll cruise along the coast, visiting the cave, swimming and snorkeling inside, and then heading to Karaburun’s wild beaches. The pace is brisk, making sure you cover several visually stunning spots in a short time.
What makes it appealing is the emphasis on the natural landscape and the opportunity to self-guided walk at certain stops. The boat ride is lively, and the scenery is breathtaking — especially the untamed coastline and crystal-clear waters. The reviews highlight friendly guides and the memorable experience of exploring a quieter side of Albania’s coast.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers with limited time who want a quick, high-impact coastal adventure, combining caves and beaches in a manageable four hours.
5. From Vlore: Haxhi Ali Cave Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling
This 4-hour trip is tailored for underwater lovers. After a speedboat cruise along the Karaburun Peninsula, you’ll visit the Haxhi Ali Cave to swim and snorkel inside its turquoise waters. The guide explains the cave’s pirate lore, adding a layer of intrigue to your visit.
The main draw here is the intimate experience with a smaller group, allowing for personalized attention. The water quality and clarity get rave reviews, making it a top choice for snorkeling enthusiasts. Many reviewers mention how the boat equipment is modern and the crew’s friendliness makes the experience even better.
Bottom Line: Ideal for snorkelers eager to explore Albania’s best underwater sites, with a focus on personal service and natural beauty.
6. Saranda: Boat Tour with Free Beach Umbrella Access
This six-hour boat journey highlights secluded beaches and caves along the northern coast. It includes visits to Turtle Cave and Anchor Cave, with plenty of time to swim, relax, and take photos. The tour also stops at Kakome Bay, where you can sunbathe and snorkel.
What makes this tour appealing is its combination of sightseeing and leisure. Many reviews mention the friendly captain and beautiful stops. Plus, it includes free beach umbrella access, giving you a comfortable spot for the day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed pace and flexible time on the beaches.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those seeking a balance of exploration and relaxation, especially if you prefer some comfort on the beach.
7. Sarande: Speedboat Sunset Tour with Music and Drink
This 2.5-hour sunset cruise offers a perfect blend of scenic views, music, and social vibes. Starting from Maravilla Boat Tours, you’ll cruise along the coast, stopping for a traditional dance show and swimming in hidden coves. As the sun sets, the atmosphere becomes magical, with onboard drinks and music.
The highlight is the casual, intimate setting with a small group, making it ideal for couples or friends. Reviewers mention the chill vibe, the beautiful sunset views, and the friendly crew. It’s a shorter but memorable way to experience the coast from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a romantic evening or a small group looking for a laid-back, scenic experience with music and drinks.
8. Ksamil: Mussel Sailing Tour with Food and Drink in Albania
This 2.5-hour tour combines boating and culinary experiences. You’ll visit a local mussel farm, learn about mussel cultivation, and participate in the mussel separation process. Then, a local chef helps you cook two types of mussel dishes, which you get to enjoy with local wine.
What makes this experience stand out is its interactive nature and focus on local food culture. Reviewers praise the friendly guide and the chance to cook as well as taste fresh mussels. It’s perfect if you’re interested in food, local traditions, and hands-on activities.
Bottom Line: Great for food lovers wanting an immersive, hands-on experience that combines boating with local cuisine.
9. Ksamil or Saranda: Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle 4-Hour Tour
This short tour visits two Albania highlights: the Blue Eye spring and Lekuresi Castle. Starting from either Ksamil or Saranda, you’ll explore the stunning blue spring, enjoy a panoramic view from the castle, and learn about local history.
What’s unique is the combination of natural beauty and cultural sights. The Blue Eye’s crystal waters are perfect for photos and a quick swim, while the castle offers sweeping views. The tour is flexible, with options for private or group experiences, and many reviewers appreciate the friendly guides.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time who want a taste of natural and cultural sights with flexible options.
10. Saranda: Boat Tour Covering Krorez, Kakome, Gremina, Caves & Soldier
This five-hour private or group tour takes you to several of the region’s most stunning locations, including Krorez Beach, Kakome Bay, and the Gremina Caves. It allows for longer stops at each site, giving plenty of time to swim, relax, or explore.
What makes this tour stand out is its diversity of stops and personalized approach. Reviewers highlight the friendly service and the chance to relax at less crowded spots. If you love variety and longer visits, this is a flexible, scenic option.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a customized experience with more time at each location.
11. Sarande: Full-Day Louis Luxury Yacht Tour from Saranda
This seven-hour cruise offers a luxurious experience aboard a three-deck yacht. It visits Cape of Qefali, Krorëz, Kakome Bay, and Rrojdhe. Lounging on the top deck, swimming in secluded coves, or dancing to onboard music makes for a glamorous day.
What makes this yacht tour special is its luxury feel, spacious decks, and the opportunity to capture stunning photos of rugged cliffs and pristine waters. Reviewers note the comfortable environment and great photo opportunities. It’s perfect for those wanting a more upscale experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a luxury day at sea with plenty of space and style.
12. Tour with Speedboat in Pigeon Cave Snorkeling and Swimming
This quick, two-hour tour starts at Mango Beach Ksamil and takes you along the coast to visit Pigeon Cave and the Five Islands of Ksamil. You’ll feel the thrill of speedboat rides and enjoy snorkeling in pristine waters.
The main draw is its short duration combined with multiple stops for swimming and photos. Reviews praise the crystal-clear water and the enjoyable ride. It’s a great pick for travelers with limited time who want a taste of Albania’s coastline.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, action-packed experience of caves, islands, and snorkeling in beautiful surroundings.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When planning your trip, consider your budget, how much time you have, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a relaxed day exploring secluded beaches, the Full-Day Boat Tour in Saranda or the Saranda Boat Tour with Free Beach Umbrella are excellent. If you love underwater activities, the snorkeling trips (Krorez with Snorkel & Drinks) or the Haxhi Ali Cave with Snorkeling (Tour with Sn Speedboat in Pigeon Cave) are perfect choices. For a more upscale day, the Luxury Yacht Tour (Full-Day Louis Luxury Yacht) offers style and comfort.
If your main interest is history and nature, the Sazan Island & Haxhi Ali Cave (Tour #3) provides a fascinating mix. For shorter adventures, the Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle (Tour #9) offers a quick cultural and natural fix. Always check availability and book early, especially in summer, to secure your preferred date.
In summary, Vlore County’s boat tours cover every taste—from full-day explorations of quiet coves and caves to sunset cruises with drinks. The diversity means you can tailor your experience—whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a touch of luxury. With such a variety of options, your biggest challenge might be choosing which tour to do first. Just remember to book early and prepare for a day of stunning Albanian waters.