Speed Boat Trip to Karaburun, Haxhi Ali Cave and Sazan Island

Thinking about a day on the water around Vlore? This speed boat tour promises an exciting mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of history. It’s a popular choice for travelers craving a lively, varied experience that combines natural wonders with some local storytelling.

What we really like about this trip is how it balances adrenaline with relaxation—you get to zip around the coast, explore caves, and then chill at a gorgeous beach. Plus, the price point feels fair considering the number of stops, the included snorkeling gear, and the drinks.

However, a potential hiccup is the limited time at each stop, especially at the island, which some reviews suggest feels a bit rushed. This trip is best suited for those who are comfortable on a boat, enjoy quick-paced sightseeing, and are looking for a mix of fun and scenic moments. If you’re after a relaxed, slow day, this might not be your best pick. But if you’re up for some excitement and stunning scenery, it’s definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Cost-effective at around $28.67, especially considering the included activities and gear.
• Multiple stops offer a varied experience, from snorkeling to sightseeing.
• Expert captains and friendly staff make the trip enjoyable and safe.
• Limited time at key locations might leave some travelers wanting more.
• Weather-dependent, so check the forecast, as poor weather could lead to cancellations.
• Good for active travelers who enjoy quick, fun-filled excursions.

What to Expect on the Speed Boat Trip

This tour is designed for those who want a full-tilt adventure with a bit of everything—beautiful landscapes, historical insights, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The experience lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it a solid half-day escape that packs in a lot of highlights without feeling too long.

The price, at just over $28 per person, delivers good value, especially since it includes all fees, taxes, bottled water, and a beer for those over 18. The use of snorkeling equipment is also included, so you don’t need to rent gear separately unless you want to.

The maximum number of 28 travelers means it’s not overly crowded, yet lively enough to keep the energy up. Booking tends to be done about 9 days in advance on average, so it’s worth planning ahead if you want to secure a spot.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Sazan Island: A Peek into the Past and Present

Your adventure begins with a 45-minute stop at Sazan Island, known for both its natural beauty and military past. This island is a bit of a hidden treasure, offering options like exploring the pristine beaches, snorkeling in clear waters, or hiking the trails with sweeping views.

According to reviews, the island is a lively spot, home to wildlife and bird species, with some visitors enjoying observing marine life too. There’s even a chance to peek into the old military base—if you’re into history, this adds an interesting layer to your visit.

Some travelers feel the time on the island could be longer, especially since the area can get crowded or busy with other visitors, and the beaches may fill up early. Still, many find the experience worthwhile, especially for the chance to see an island that’s both scenic and historically significant.

Haxhi Ali Cave: Nature’s Underground Showstopper

Next on the list is Haxhi Ali Cave, which offers a chance to peek into a dramatic underground world. This wild, natural cave is a highlight, and you’ll get about 20 minutes to snorkel and explore the rock formations.

The cave is also where your guide will share the story of Haxhi Ali, a legendary pirate—adding a storytelling element to your visit. Several reviews mention that swimming inside the cave is a particular favorite, with some noting it’s a “moment really suggestive” and “a must-do” experience.

The snorkeling here provides a cool opportunity to see marine life close-up, though the time is limited, so don’t expect an extensive underwater tour. The cave’s natural beauty and the chance to learn about the legend make it an engaging stop.

Karaburun Peninsula: Relaxation & Scenic Beauty

The last major stop is at a beach on the Karaburun Peninsula within the Sazan Marine Park. Here, you’ll have about two hours to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning views of natural rock formations and wild beaches.

There’s a private restaurant at the beach where you can buy local food and drinks, but it’s worth noting that umbrellas and sunbeds come at an extra cost if you want shade or loungers. Many reviews highlight how relaxing and scenic this part of the trip is, with some even describing it as a “perfect spot for swimming” and “cooling off in the sea.”

A few travelers mention that the time here could be longer, especially if they wanted to explore the bay more extensively. If you’re someone who enjoys a laid-back beach experience with minimal fuss, this is a highlight.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are bottled water, all fees and taxes, and a beer for those over 18. Snorkeling equipment is provided, so you can get into the water right away. The tour also covers the entrance fees for Sazan Island, the cave, and the marine park.

Not included are lunch, which you might want to bring along if you’re hungry, and the cost of sun umbrellas or sunbeds at the beach if you prefer shade. The restaurant at the last stop is only open from June 1st, so if you visit earlier, be prepared to bring your own snacks.

Many reviews mention good communication from the company, and the flexibility around cancellations is a plus—full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros include the expert crew, who many reviewers praise for their friendliness and knowledge, and the beautiful scenery that makes for great photos and memorable moments. The boat rides are described as fast and smooth, adding a dash of excitement to the trip.

The stops are well planned, with each offering a different appeal: history and wildlife on Sazan, adventure and stories at Haxhi Ali Cave, and relaxation on the remote beaches. The included snorkeling gear and drinks make it a good value, especially considering the busy, full itinerary.

Cons center around the limited time at each location. Several reviews suggest that the stops, especially at Sazan Island and the cave, feel a bit rushed, which may leave travelers wanting more exploration. Also, the weather plays a role—bad weather can cancel the trip, so it’s best to check the forecast.

A few guests experienced issues like last-minute cancellations or delays, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm. The tour’s maximum group size keeps things manageable, and the overall reviews lean towards satisfaction.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring caves, and snorkeling in clear waters. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a full, active half-day with plenty of variety. If you like structured, guided experiences that combine history, nature, and fun, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want more time at each stop, you might find this trip a little rushed. It’s also important to be comfortable on a boat and prepared for potential weather changes.

Final Thoughts

This speed boat tour to Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Karaburun offers a solid mix of scenery, history, and adventure at an affordable price. The highlights—swimming in the cave, seeing wildlife, and enjoying the natural beauty of the peninsula—are genuinely impressive.

The trip’s fast pace might not suit everyone, but if you’re up for a lively, scenic ride with multiple stops, you’ll likely find it worthwhile. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and included equipment make it a dependable choice for a memorable day around Vlore.

In short, it’s best suited for energetic travelers seeking a compact, exciting experience that combines both thrill and chill. Just remember to bring your camera, some sun protection, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is generally suitable for travelers comfortable on boats, but children should be prepared for some short hikes and snorkeling. It’s not explicitly advertised as family-focused.

How long is the boat ride without stopping?
The total boat ride without stops is around 1.5 hours, so expect some quick travel time between locations.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly some snacks if you prefer not to buy from the on-site restaurant. Remember, bringing your own food and drinks to the beach area is encouraged.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. The experience is weather-dependent, so check the forecast.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour crowded?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 28 travelers, which keeps the experience lively but not overcrowded.

Are there any hidden fees?
No hidden fees—what you pay covers all entrance fees, snorkeling gear, water, and the included beer.

What is the time frame for the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, starting mid-morning and ending back in Vlore.

Is the tour accessible?
It’s accessible to most travelers who are comfortable on boats and able to handle some walking and snorkeling, but specific accessibility info isn’t provided.

If you’re after a day full of scenic views, quick adventure, and fun stories, this trip could be a highlight of your visit to Vlore. Just plan accordingly, bring your sense of adventure, and you’ll have a memorable experience to tell.