Private Half Day Boat Sazani Island & Haxhi Aliu Cave

If you’re eyeing a boat trip around Vlore that combines comfort, exclusivity, and some of Albania’s most breathtaking sights, this Private Half Day Boat Sazani Island & Haxhi Aliu Cave Tour might just be your perfect match. It promises a luxury experience on a private speedboat, giving you the chance to explore Sazan Island, its caves, and the rugged Karaburun coast in just a few hours.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances adventure and relaxation. You get to swim and snorkel in some truly special spots—like Devil’s Gorgue and Hell’s Bay—while also enjoying the comfort of a private boat and a knowledgeable crew. Plus, the itinerary packs in a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and simply soaking up the scenery. The only thing to keep in mind is that this is a shorter tour—if you’re craving a full-day adventure, you might want to consider options that last longer.

One consideration worth mentioning is that the tour is tailored for those who enjoy a semi-active experience—lots of swimming and exploring, but no extensive hiking or strenuous activities. It’s great for travelers who appreciate comfort and privacy, rather than a large-group, crowds-on-the-beach vibe. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape with fewer people, then this tour is likely a good fit.

This trip suits those who want to see Albania’s stunning coast, love the idea of cruising in style, and are eager to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families who value a personalized experience with a touch of luxury.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Only your group participates, with private transportation and a tailored itinerary.
• Stunning Natural Sights: From caves to cliffs, the tour takes you to some of the most photogenic spots along the coast.
• Ideal for Swimming and Snorkeling: Several stops are dedicated to enjoying the water in caves, bays, and reefs.
• Expert Guides and Crew: The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and friendly crew, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Good Value for a Private Cruise: At around $320 for up to four people, it offers a personalized experience that feels premium without being overly expensive.
• Flexible Schedule: The tour lasts roughly 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day trip.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Departure and First Stop: Sazan Island

Starting from the Vlore harbor near Hotel Bologna, your private speedboat makes a 35-minute ride to Sazan Island. This island is steeped in history and natural beauty, and here, your first stop is Saint Nicholas Bay. You can choose to either stretch your legs with a walk exploring the island’s surroundings or just relax on the beach. The inclusion of an admission ticket means you get an authentic taste of the island’s vibe.

What’s special here? The chance to enjoy a peaceful beach in a less crowded setting, especially if you’re into exploring on foot or soaking up the scenery.

Second Stop: Devil’s Gorgue

Next, you’ll head to the Devil’s Gorgue, a dramatic spot with towering cliffs, caves, and open sea. This is where the trip gets more adventurous: you’ll enter the gorge to marvel at the reef below, with time allocated for swimming and snorkeling. This stop is perfect for those who love a bit of thrill, with high cliffs creating a stunning backdrop.

Authentic reviews mention how this area offers marvelous reef swim and snorkel opportunities, and many travelers describe it as a highlight of their trip.

Third Stop: Hell’s Bay

Continuing along the coastline, your boat will pause in Hell’s Bay. This bay is similarly dramatic, with a gorge, cliffs, and underwater caves that are just waiting to be explored. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, enough time to snorkel and take in the natural wonder of the sea caves.

Pro tip: The free admission here means you can linger, snapping photos of the cliffs and caves or just floating in the turquoise waters.

Crossing the Mezokanal

Then, the boat crosses the Mezokanal, a narrow passage where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet. It’s a quick 15-minute ride, but it’s a scenic and interesting part of the journey, offering excellent views of the water blending together.

Haxhi Aliu Cave

Next, you’ll visit the Haxhi Ali Cave, a massive natural formation that you can swim into and explore. The boat stops here for about 30 minutes, giving you time to swim, snorkel, and marvel at the cave’s size and beauty.

Reviewers mention how special this cave visit is—some describe it as “fantastic,” with plenty of time inside to soak it all in.

Final Stop: Saint John’s Bay

The last scenic stop is in Saint John’s Bay, part of the Karaburun Peninsula. The bay features turquoise waters and a relatively untouched beach, ideal for a final swim or relaxing break. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, soaking up the serene environment before heading back.

Return Journey

From Saint John’s Bay, it’s roughly a 25-minute boat ride back to Vlore harbor. The entire experience lasts about 4-5 hours, which is just enough to feel like a full adventure without wearing you out.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

The tour price, around $321.51 for a group of up to four, includes private transportation, bottled water, snacks, soda, and alcoholic beverages (for guests 18+). It’s worth noting that lunch isn’t provided, so if you’re a big eater or want a full meal afterward, plan for that separately.

The fact that it’s a private tour means you can enjoy the sights at your own pace, with personalized attention from the crew. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make the trip even more enjoyable, sharing interesting facts about the sites and history.

The Value: Is It Worth the Price?

Considering you’re paying for a private experience with a crew that’s praised for professionalism and friendliness, the cost makes sense. The inclusion of multiple stops for snorkeling and exploring, combined with the privacy and comfort, makes it a good deal for those wanting a tailored adventure. For four people, it’s a reasonable price for a semi-luxury day out on the water.

The Reviews: Genuine Feedback

Guests consistently describe the trip as “great,” “amazing,” and “fantastic”. Several highlight the professional, friendly crew, especially mentioning guides like Geri and Eugene, who provided both safety and interesting stories. Multiple reviews praise the stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters, emphasizing how memorable the snorkeling and cave visits are.

One review from Poland sums it up nicely: “We had the best time with Geri the skipper! He was a fantastic driver of the boat and made sure we saw all the special sites up close in a perfect pace.”

Others mention how the guides’ knowledge added depth to the experience, making it not just a boat ride but an educational journey.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want an intimate, relaxed experience with a focus on scenery and water activities. If you’re into snorkeling, exploring caves, and enjoying scenic spots with minimal fuss, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s also a good option if you prefer a more exclusive experience away from large tour groups.

However, if you’re looking for a full-day adventure or enjoy extensive hiking or strenuous activities, this may feel a bit limited in scope. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a comfortable, scenic cruise and want to see the highlights without rushing.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including travel time and stops.

What is included in the price?
Private transportation, bottled water, snacks, soda, and alcoholic beverages (for 18+). Lunch is not included.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Yes, most stops are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially in caves and bays like Devil’s Gorgue and Hell’s Bay.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the moderate activities and private setting make it suitable for travelers comfortable with water activities.

How many people can join?
Up to four people per group, making it ideal for small groups or families wanting privacy.

Is it worth the price?
Given the private nature, multiple scenic stops, and positive reviews of guides and scenery, many find it to be good value for a luxurious, personalized boat experience.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
Yes, beer and other drinks are available for those 18 and older, adding to the relaxed vibe.

What about weather considerations?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or a chance to reschedule.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed yet adventure-filled half-day on Albania’s coast, this private boat trip offers a blend of stunning scenery, water-based fun, and expert guidance. It’s perfect for those who prefer a personalized experience and want to explore the highlights of Sazan Island and the Karaburun Peninsula in style.

The positive reviews reflect the overall quality—friendly guides, fantastic sites, and smooth organization. While it’s not a full-day tour, the carefully curated stops make every minute count, leaving you with plenty of memories and stunning photos.

For travelers who love crystal-clear waters, hidden caves, and scenic cruising, this trip is worth considering. It’s a good choice whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to experience Albania’s extraordinary coastline in comfort.