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

If you’re searching for a way to escape the crowds and see some of Albania’s most captivating coastline, this speed boat tour from Vlore might just be what you’re after. It’s a compact, roughly 4 to 5-hour adventure packed with stunning scenery, intriguing history, and plenty of opportunities to relax and swim. While I haven’t done it myself, reviews and descriptions suggest it’s a solid choice for those looking to combine nature, culture, and a bit of adventure in a single trip.

What we love about this experience is how it balances well-paced sightseeing with ample time for swimming and relaxing on pristine beaches. The $27.31 per person price is quite affordable for the value of the sights you’ll see, especially considering snorkeling equipment and all fees are included. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour operates in good weather, and the schedule can be a bit tight with multiple stops. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a lively, group vibe and are comfortable on a speedboat. If your travel style inclines toward active, scenic outings, this tour could become a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Great value for money with all fees and snorkeling gear included
• Stunning views along the coast and unique rock formations
• History and legend behind Sazan Island and Haxhi Ali Cave
• Ideal for those who enjoy water activities like snorkeling and swimming
• Flexible itinerary with stops at beaches, caves, and a military base
• Weather-dependent — good weather is essential for the best experience

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This speed boat trip offers a compact, exciting way to explore Albania’s coastal highlights. It’s a mix of natural beauty, history, and fun, making it attractive for travelers who want to see more than just the beaches in Vlore. For around 4 to 5 hours, you’ll zip across the water, stopping at several key spots, each with its own unique appeal.

The tour is priced at about $27.31 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the included snorkeling equipment, all fees, and the fact that it’s a shared group experience. Most travelers tend to book about 13 days in advance, indicating good interest and planning.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Haxhi Ali Cave

Your adventure kicks off at the famous Haxhi Ali Cave, a large, natural space that’s perfect for snorkeling and exploring. The cave’s significance comes from its pirate legend, which your guide will share, adding a layer of storytelling to the natural wonder. Expect around 20 minutes here to snorkel and snap photos, with admission included.

Reviewers mention the cave as “very cool” and note that swimming in the cold waters can be a highlight—”swimming in cold waters” was a quote from one traveler who enjoyed the thrill. The cave’s size and natural formations make for a memorable swim and photo opportunity.

Stop 2: Sazan Island

Next up is Sazan Island, a former military outpost with a fascinating past. The tour allows about 45 minutes to explore the island, which was once a strategic military base. While the tour doesn’t include an extensive exploration of the military installations, you get a taste of its significance and the eerie abandoned structures.

Travelers have called the visit “a perfect trip to see the beach and military base,” highlighting how it combines history with natural beauty. Be prepared for some walking and a chance to take photos of the remnants that tell stories of a bygone era.

Stop 3: Karaburun Peninsula & Beach

The last major stop highlights Karaburun Peninsula, with its distinctive rock formations and wild beaches. After a scenic cruise along the coast, you’ll pull into a beautiful, secluded beach with a private restaurant serving local cuisine. This is an ideal spot to relax, enjoy a drink, and dip into the crystal-clear waters. Umbrellas and sunbeds are available for an extra fee, giving you a comfortable place to unwind.

The tour spends about 2 hours here, giving enough time for swimming, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the scenery. Travelers have praised this part as “just in time for lunch” and loved the “peaceful, stunning views.” It’s a perfect way to end the trip on a relaxing note before heading back to Vlore.

Route Summary

Your journey covers notable points like Sazan’s military base, the cave of Haxh Ali, and Shen Vasil in Karaburun. The entire route offers a mix of adventure, history, and scenic beauty—accessible via speedboat, which means plenty of speed and fun but also a need for balance to those prone to seasickness.

What We Really Think

The biggest plus of this tour is undoubtedly the scenic variety — from caves and military ruins to pristine beaches and dramatic rock formations. The stunning views along the way are frequently praised, with reviews mentioning how “magical” and “beautiful” the spots are.

The inclusion of snorkeling equipment adds value, allowing you to take advantage of the clear waters and explore underwater. For those who enjoy being active, this is a bonus. You’ll also appreciate the informative stories shared by the skipper, especially about the pirate legends and the island’s military past.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the tour is weather-dependent, so if winds or rain spoil the day, the experience can be less enjoyable. Also, since the trip is quick and packed, it’s not ideal if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of each site. It’s more of a snapshot—perfect for a fun day out, not a detailed tour.

Reviewers mention that the group size (up to 48 travelers) keeps things lively but not overcrowded. Some suggest bringing life vests if you’re not comfortable swimming, although the tour provides snorkeling gear.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who enjoy active sightseeing and being on the water. It’s great for those wanting a quick, scenic escape from the busy beaches and want to include some history and nature in their day. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in snorkeling and discovering hidden caves and beaches without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or hikes.

While not explicitly tailored for families, the tour’s physical nature and speedboat ride might be better suited for older children or teens comfortable on boats. Those who enjoy meeting new people during group excursions will find the social vibe welcoming.

The Value and Practicalities

At just over $27, the value for money is pretty solid. The fact that all fees and snorkeling equipment are included simplifies the experience—no hidden costs. The tour’s short but packed itinerary offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural storytelling, making it a good choice for a day out in Vlore.

The time commitment is manageable, fitting well into a morning or afternoon, and the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind. If weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund, which is reassuring.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour to Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Karaburun offers an authentic glimpse into Albania’s rugged coastline. It’s best suited for travelers craving a scenic, active day with a good dose of history and natural beauty. While it’s not an in-depth tour of each site, it provides a memorable snapshot of some of the most striking coastal features Albania has to offer.

If you’re after stunning views, a fun boat ride, and a chance to snorkel in clear waters, this trip delivers. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy sharing experiences with others in a lively group setting. Just remember to check the weather forecast and bring your swim gear—this is a trip that’s all about the water and the views.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling gear is provided, you don’t have to snorkel to enjoy the trip. However, some stops involve swimming, so if you’re uncomfortable in the water, it’s good to inform the guide. Life vests are not explicitly provided but might be worth asking about if you’re unsure.

How long is the trip?
The whole experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including stops at the cave, island, and beach.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a private restaurant at the Karaburun beach where you can buy food and drinks.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and maybe a waterproof camera or phone holder. If you plan to relax at the beach, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for an extra charge.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it’s fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What is the group size?
The tour can have up to 48 travelers, so it’s a good idea to expect a lively group but not overcrowded.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transport options, making it convenient to reach.

What is the weather policy?
Good weather is essential. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly aimed at families, older children comfortable on boats and in the water should enjoy it. Keep in mind the speedboat ride’s speed and water activity involved.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and affordable way to see Albania’s coast and learn a bit of local lore, this tour is definitely worth considering. It offers an engaging mix of adventure and relaxation with enough flexibility to suit most water-loving travelers.