Fast boats, quiet coves, and blue water. This Vlore speed-boat trip string-links Karaburun spots like Haxhi Ali Cave and Grama Bay, with real swim time plus life jackets built into the basic package. I also like that it runs with an onboard guide in English, so you get straight answers while you’re moving between beaches and caves.

One thing to consider: the music level can run high, so if you’re chasing silence and slow snorkeling, this may feel more like a party boat than a calm cruise.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Cave time in crystal-clear water at Haxhi Ali and Llovizi/Blue Cave, with swim and snorkel moments.
• Lots of separate beach stops including Bristan, English Bay, Skalome Bay, and Petruni (also called Lovizi).
• Grama Bay is worth the wait for the rock inscriptions and easy cliffside swimming.
• Onboard vibe can be loud; pack earplugs if you’re music-sensitive.
• Optional upgrades for food and drinks are available on the boat for extra cost.

The real idea behind this Vlore speed-boat day

This isn’t a sit-and-watch-from-the-waterline kind of tour. It’s a fast, stop-and-go loop along the Albanian Riviera where the boat does the heavy lifting—getting you to coves, caves, and bays you’d struggle to reach by land. The trade-off is time: you’ll be on the move most of the day, and you’ll want to pace yourself if you’re sensitive to long stretches in the sun and wind.

For me, the best part is how the day is built around water time. You get multiple chances to hop in, snorkel if you have gear, and just float in calm bays between passes of the boat along the peninsula. And because this is a speed boat setup with a maximum group size of 88, it feels like a proper outing rather than a cramped ferry.

Price and what you actually get for $87.11

At $87.11 per person, you’re paying for access plus transportation between a lot of specific coastal locations in one day. The basic package covers fuel, safety gear (life jackets), a guide onboard, and insurance, along with repeated free time to swim, explore, and take photos. That’s the value piece: you’re not just buying a view—you’re buying movement to multiple swim-worthy stops.

What’s not included is sun comfort. There are no sunbeds and no umbrella. So if you plan to lounge on a beach for the long stretch, budget for shade the local way, or keep your focus on swimming and brief breaks.

Also note: food and drinks are not automatically full meal service. There are optional extras on board (fresh food and drinks), and you can upgrade for drinks/snacks for an added cost. If you want a steady snack rhythm, it’s smart to think about that before you board.

Where you meet the boat (and why arriving early matters)

You start at the TripMe.Today Boat Tour and Boat Trips Vlore office on Rruga Murat Tërbaçi, Vlora 9401. The start time is 10:30am, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

There’s no hotel pickup by default, though it can be arranged upon request. So if you’re staying out of the city center, give yourself extra time to get to the office area on foot or by short public transit.

Practical tip: come early enough to settle in and confirm where your group lines up for boarding. A smooth start matters here because the day runs on momentum.

Stop-by-stop: what each place feels like in real time

Boarding and the first coast run out of Vlore

Right from departure, you’re guided to the speed-boat marina and pointed toward the Karaburun coastline. This first stretch is where the day’s energy kicks in. You’ll see the coast change quickly—cliff shapes, small beaches, and open water—so even before you reach the caves, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Haxhi Ali Cave: the first swim-and-snorkel moment

Your first major water stop is Haxhi Ali Cave, reached after about a 20–30 minute boat ride. You get around 30 minutes on site (cave access and time inside). The pitch here is simple: crystal-clear water and rock formations you can see up close. It’s also the point where the tour transitions from sightseeing to actual water time.

If you want the most comfortable experience, keep an eye on conditions. Cave entry and swim time depend on the sea and how quickly the group can move in and out.

Plazhi i Llovizit: beach time in a cliff-lined bay

After Haxhi Ali, the plan shifts toward Plazhi i Llovizit (also connected with Gjiri i Inglezit). Expect about 10 minutes at this segment in the flow of the day, but it’s still meant for a quick reset: short swim, photo moments, and a breather before the next bays.

This beach is described as having cliffs and clear water—good ingredients for that postcard look. The drawback is you might feel a bit rushed if you prefer long, slow hangs. Think of this stop as a reset button rather than a full beach day.

Dafina Bay and the Dafina cave: snacks and water time

Next up is Dafina Bay, followed by exploration near Dafina cave. You’ll get about 40 minutes for this segment, and it includes time to snorkel, swim, and relax, plus drinks and snacks served as part of this stop.

This is one of the more balanced parts of the itinerary because you’re not only focused on caves. It’s beach + cave + a small food break. If you’re prone to getting hungry during long outdoor days, this stop helps.

Multiple bays: Bristan, English Bay, Skalome Bay, and Petruni (Lovizi)

Then the tour starts stacking beaches. You’ll pass and stop at a series of areas including Bristan Bay, English Bay, Skalome Bay, and Petruni Bay (also referenced as Lovizi Bay). The stated stop time for this overall segment is around 15 minutes, so it’s more about quick swims and looking for the right stretch of water than long beach lounging.

One reason this works is that each bay can feel slightly different—different sand/rock mix, different water clarity, and different shelter from wind. If you like variety, this part of the day delivers.

Blue Cave (Llovizi Cave): the highlight most people chase

The main headline is the Blue Cave, also known as Llovizi Cave near Lloviz, Karaburun. You get about 30 minutes here. The standout feature is the light effect in the cave and the shimmering blue water outside and within the rock opening.

For a lot of people, this is the “I’m glad we came” stop. It’s not just scenery; it’s a water moment. If you’ve got snorkel gear, this is where it can pay off.

Back to Plazhi i Llovizit: one more beach reset

The tour then includes Plazhi i Llovizit again, about 20 minutes. Think of it like a second chance to enjoy the bay if you wanted more time earlier. It’s also a calmer segment compared with cave-heavy transitions.

Grama Bay: inscriptions plus swimming

Now you hit Grama Bay, with about 1 hour on site. This is a bigger time block than many of the other stops, and it’s one of the most meaningful ones. You can swim, snorkel, and explore the ancient rock inscriptions carved by sailors over centuries.

This combination matters for your experience. A lot of tours give you one theme—beaches only, caves only, or views only. Grama Bay gives you a mix: water time, exploration, and something human-made to notice beyond the sea.

Bay of Grama near Orikum: a final swim stretch

Finally, you reach the Bay of Grama near Orikum for another 1 hour. The vibe here is described as untouched and serene, with clear blue water for swimming and snorkeling and dramatic cliffs framing the view.

This is where you want to conserve energy. After a day of moving and stopping, you’ll appreciate having a longer swim period that doesn’t require constant switching between cave and boat.

The onboard vibe: fast, social, and sometimes too loud

Most of the experience is outdoors, so you’d expect sound to carry less than it does. In practice, a bunch of people end up talking over the music. Some past participants felt the music was very loud for long stretches, to the point where conversation became difficult. So if you’re sensitive to loud sound, bring earplugs. It’s the cheapest upgrade you’ll ever make.

This same factor also changes the tone. On calm-water days, you might find the trip feels like carefree partying on the sea. On rougher days (when the tour still runs), that energy can feel more chaotic.

Safety and comfort: life jackets are included, but read the room

Life jackets and safety gear are part of what’s included, and that’s a real plus for peace of mind. Still, safety can’t be reduced to one item. The boat movement, the waves around the peninsula, and how quickly you step into and out of the water all matter.

One consideration I’d give you: if you’re traveling with kids, don’t assume safety gear is perfectly fitted for every age group. If you have a child with specific needs, ask the crew what’s available before you go in.

Also, there may be waves when the boat moves around the coastline. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take precautions before you board.

Weather can change everything

This tour requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s important because a speed-boat day in the wrong sea can become miserable fast.

If you’re planning around a fixed travel schedule, build in flexibility. If you can choose between tour days, pick the one with the best forecast you can find.

Group size: big enough for energy, not big enough to feel like a crowd

With a maximum of 88 travelers, you should expect a lively group. The upside is that the boat can still feel like a real trip with multiple stops and a guide onboard. The downside is that when you’re in caves or stepping into popular swim spots, you may share the space with a lot of people.

That’s especially true around the busiest water areas like the Blue Cave. If you want the most peaceful feel, go early during each stop and get your photos and swim in before the group spreads out.

Who this tour suits best

This is a great fit if you want:

• A lot of coastline in one day with repeated swim opportunities
• A speed-boat ride that gets you to caves and bays fast
• A social atmosphere where the day stays upbeat

It may not be the best match if you:

• Want a quiet snorkeling-focused day
• Need very slow, long beach hangs with lots of shade planning
• Are traveling with children who may need extra attention around boarding and fitted gear

My booking call: should you do it?

I’d book this if your priority is water time—caves, bays, and that Grama Bay mix of sea + inscriptions—while accepting that the day can feel loud and fast. Bring earplugs, pack swim basics (towel, sunscreen, water shoes if you like them), and plan for a long outdoor day even though the stated duration is around 7–8 hours.

I would think twice if you’re a quiet-person traveler or you’re expecting a gentle, nature-only cruise. The sound level and the sheer number of stops can shift the tone away from calm.

If you do book, aim to be there at 10:30am-ready, not 10 minutes late, and don’t leave your snack plan to chance. Optional drinks and food are available, but the tour can move fast.

FAQ

What is the tour price and where does it depart?

The tour costs $87.11 per person and departs from the TripMe.Today Boat Tour & Boat Trips Vlore office at Rruga Murat Tërbaçi, Vlora 9401, Albania.

How long is the speed boat tour?

It runs for about 7 to 8 hours.

What time does it start?

The start time is 10:30am.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

What is included in the price?

Included features are life jackets and safety gear, fuel and boat expenses, a professional onboard tour guide, free time to swim/explore/take photos, music on board, and insurance coverage during the tour.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, but they are available upon request.

Are sunbeds and umbrellas provided?

No. Sunbeds and umbrella are not included.

Is it free to cancel?

Cancellation is free. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

From Positano/Praiano: Amalfi Coast Speedboat TourSnorkel and Kayak Trip to Angthong Marine Park by Speed Boat from Koh PhanganSnorkel Tour to Koh Nangyuan and Koh Tao by Speed Boat from Koh PhanganFast Boat To Symi & St George’s Bay Directly from Faliraki Beach