Vlorë in 1 Day for Friends - Speedboat cruise along the Karaburun Peninsula
In Collaboration with VloraBoatTrips.AL. Updated on February 24, 2026.
Full-day speedboat adventure from Vlorë to Grama Bay and the Karaburun coast. Swim, snorkel, and explore sea caves (Haxhi Ali, Dafina, Lloviz Blue Cave), relax on secluded beaches (Bristani / Englishman Bay) and finish with an extended visit to historic Grama Bay. Snorkelling gear available on request; refreshments (sandwich/byrek, fruit, bottled water; beers for 18+) provided.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with VloraBoatTrips.AL, inspired by the tour Karaburun Peninsula Tour Grama Bay and Hidden Blue Cave Adventure. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Speedboat cruise along the Karaburun Peninsula
- Swim and snorkel inside Haxhi Ali and the Blue Cave
- Relax on secluded beaches: Bristani (Bear's Bay) and Englishman Bay
- 2-hour visit at historic Grama Bay (ancient inscriptions)
- Snacks, fruit and bottled water provided; snorkel gear available on request
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet at the partner hotel in Vlorë for boarding at 10:30. The day is a speedboat circuit around the Karaburun Peninsula; sea conditions determine the exact sequence of on-water stops (Englishman Bay may be skipped in strong wind). The schedule below includes realistic cruising buffers and a safe return to Vlorë by 18:30.
Meet, ticket check & boarding — Hotel Partner, Vlorë
Meet the crew at the designated hotel partner in Vlorë for ticket check, snorkel-size checks and a short safety briefing before boarding the speedboat.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes early to complete check-in and snorkel sizing with the crew.
- Bring a small dry bag for phone/keys — the crew will help store larger bags on board.
- If you need snorkelling equipment, tell the crew during boarding so they can fit you before departure.
Shpella e Haxhi Aliut (Haxhi Ali Cave)
First on the route is Haxhi Ali Cave: a dramatic sea cavern with limestone walls and turquoise water. The skipper will pause alongside the cave; guests may enter the cave (10–20 minutes) for photos and short swims while the boat holds position.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a waterproof camera or case — lighting inside the cave can be dim and rapid shots work best.
- Step carefully when entering/exiting the boat into the cave area; the crew will give boarding guidance.
- Ask the skipper about Haxhi Ali’s history — the crew usually provides a brief, local account during the stop.
Dafina Bay & Dafina Cave
Next stop at Dafina Cave: a remote cove with clear blue water and a small beach. About 30 minutes for snorkeling, swimming and short beach time.
Tips from local experts:
- Snorkelling gear is available on request — confirm sizing during boarding if you plan to snorkel here.
- Rocks can be sharp around the cave entrance; reef shoes are recommended for easy entry.
- There are no facilities at this stop — keep belongings on the boat or dry-bag them before going ashore.
Bristani Bay (Bear's Bay) — swim & snack break
A quiet, rocky beach surrounded by hills. Short stop to swim and enjoy included sandwiches / byrek, fruit and bottled water. Time allocated for a relaxed refreshment break and a short swim.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring sun protection — this stop has limited shade and the sun is strong in July.
- If you prefer a shaded place, ask the crew to anchor slightly offshore where the boat offers shade.
- Carry any personal medications with you; there are no facilities or shops at this beach.
Englishman Bay (weather dependent)
A scenic, remote beach framed by cliffs. This stop is weather-dependent and may be skipped in rough conditions. Short swim/unwind stop if conditions allow.
Tips from local experts:
- This stop may be omitted if wind or swell increases — the crew will advise before arrival.
- Cliffside access is limited; keep a safe distance from rock edges and follow crew directions when landing.
- If you’re sensitive to choppy water, request a calm spot from the skipper or remain on the boat while others swim.
Llovizi Cave — Hidden Blue Cave (Lloviz)
Approach the Hidden Blue Cave in Lloviz Bay. The cave’s interior glows blue when sunlight reflects through the water — around 45 minutes for swimming, snorkeling and exploration from the boat.
Tips from local experts:
- Best photos require low sun glare—ask the crew for the calmest side to enter the cave.
- Wear a mask with a clear view and check fit before entering the water; the crew can help with sizes.
- Tide and sun angle affect the blue glow; if conditions are suboptimal the skipper will adjust timing at nearby anchor points.
Bay of Grama — extended visit (historic inscriptions & beach time)
Final and longest stop at Grama Bay (the Bay of Writings). Spend approximately 2 hours here to swim, relax on the sand and view the historic rock inscriptions. This is the primary leisure stop of the day.
Tips from local experts:
- There are no shops or restrooms at Grama Bay — plan accordingly and use facilities before leaving Vlore.
- Explore the inscriptions from the shore; avoid climbing fragile rock faces to protect the site.
- Bring reef shoes or sandals for walking on pebbly patches and a towel for beach lounging.
Return cruise to Vlorë & disembark
Depart Grama Bay and return to the meeting point in Vlorë. Time allocated for a relaxed cruise back with arrival and safe disembarkation at the partner hotel area.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep personal travel documents and small valuables in a dry bag for disembarkation.
- Expect a brief debrief from the crew on arrival — tip and feedback opportunities are handled in person.
- If you need to connect to other transport, allow extra time after disembarkation for luggage and transfers.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction |