Speedboat Tour to Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave and Marine Park

Exploring the Speedboat Tour to Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Marine Park

If you’re considering a boat trip from Vlore that mixes adventure, stunning scenery, and a touch of history, this speedboat tour promises just that. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what to expect—and what to watch out for.

What I like about this experience is its combination of diverse highlights: exploring a former military base, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and relaxing along a beautiful stretch of coastline. Plus, the fact that it includes traditional Albanian cuisine sounds like a bonus. On the flip side, you should know that the boat is smaller than some might hope, and the tour has mixed reviews regarding punctuality, so flexibility helps.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy quick, active outings with plenty of water-based fun and scenic views. If you’re looking for a relaxed, all-day lounge on the beach, this might not tick all your boxes. But if you crave a mix of exploration, swimming, and socializing in a compact window, it’s a solid pick.

Key Points

• Diverse stops: From historical sites to stunning snorkeling spots, the itinerary offers a well-rounded experience.
• Value for money: At around $52 per person, it gives access to multiple highlights, including food and drinks.
• Guided storytelling: The guides are noted for being informative and humorous, adding depth to the trip.
• Small group vibe: With a maximum of 36 travelers, it feels more personal than big tours.
• Weather dependency: Good weather is essential; cancellations due to poor conditions are possible.
• Time management: Some reviews mention delays, so patience can be a virtue here.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out at Vlore Port

Your adventure kicks off at the port of Vlore, where the boat awaits to whisk you away. The journey begins with anticipation of the day’s highlights—Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and the Marine Park coastline. The boat itself is on the smaller side, which can make for a cozy ride, especially if the group is full. While this might limit some comfort, it tends to make the experience feel more intimate.

Stop 1: Sazan Island

Our first destination is Sazan Island, which is packed with history. An old military base still holds the story of Albania’s strategic past, with remnants of old buildings to explore. The guide offers insights into the island’s storied past, which adds an interesting layer to your visit.

We loved the way the guide shared stories that made the history come alive, making the exploration more engaging. You’re free to wander for about 45 minutes—enough time to snap photos, walk along the rugged coast, and imagine what life must have been like here during its military days.

The water around Sazan is clear, inviting you for a swim or some light snorkeling. The water’s transparency is frequently praised, making it ideal for underwater exploration. If you’re into photography, the combination of old military structures against the sea backdrop makes for some great shots.

Stop 2: Haxhi Ali Cave

Next, we head to Haxhi Ali Cave—a stunning spot that lives up to its reputation. Spending around 30 minutes here, you get to swim and snorkel in waters that many agree are some of the clearest you’ll encounter on your trip.

The guide shares the story behind the cave’s name, adding a touch of local lore to your experience. The water’s clarity and the mesmerizing backdrop make this a highlight. One reviewer mentioned, “The water clarity can’t be any better than this one,” which is a good sign if underwater scenery is your thing.

Swimming here isn’t just about the visuals; it’s also social. You’ll find yourself chatting and relaxing on the boat or shoreline, making the experience more laid-back and friendly.

Stop 3: Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park

The Marine Park coastline is where the tour really gets its scenic punch. We pass by all the beaches along this stretch, each one more inviting than the last. The highlight here is a stop at the best beach, where a traditional restaurant offers delicious Albanian dishes, along with umbrellas and space to relax.

You’ll spend about three hours here—long enough to soak up the sun, enjoy the food, or venture out for a gentle hike. The water remains incredibly blue and inviting, perfect for a dip or just lounging by the sea. One review noted, “Enjoy crystal clear waters and taste the traditional Albanian dishes,” which indicates that the food and scenery combine into a memorable experience.

Some travelers mentioned that during the early season, the beach lacked amenities like a restaurant or bar, so packing some snacks or drinks might be a wise idea. The opportunity to explore the coastline on foot or simply relax under the sun makes this a flexible, laid-back finale to your trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are snorkeling equipment, bottled water, fruits, sodas, and some alcoholic beverages. That’s quite a bit for the price, especially since you get to snorkel in pristine waters and enjoy drinks and snacks on the boat.

Not included are sun beds and the restaurant at the beach, so if you want to lounge comfortably or have a full meal, you’ll need to prepare ahead. This means bringing your own snacks or planning to buy food at the beach.

Logistics and Practical Tips

Your tour starts at Vlore port, easily accessible, especially if you’re nearby or using public transport. The tour lasts around 5 to 6 hours, so it’s a decent half-day outing—perfect when you want a taste of the coast without spending your entire day on the water.

The maximum group size is 36, which tends to keep things personal without feeling crowded. Keep in mind, some reviews mention delays—like waiting over an hour for the driver—which highlights the importance of patience and flexibility. Confirmations are automatic, but double-check your meeting point to avoid confusion.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, a good safety net if the weather turns sour. Expect good weather to maximize your experience; bad weather could mean a canceled trip with a full refund.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Our review draws from real travelers’ insights. One person called the trip “Awful,” citing a miscommunication about the meeting point and lack of info about cancellations. This highlights the importance of confirming details directly with the provider.

On the other hand, many enjoyed the views and the guide’s humor, describing the trip as “amazing” and worth recommending. Phrases like “The guide was informative and comical,” and “the experience was very beautiful even for kids,” speak to the tour’s engaging nature.

Some travelers appreciated the opportunity to snorkel, relax, and explore at their own pace, while others found the boat small and the schedule tight. It’s clear that patience and flexibility will help you get the most out of this adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re an adventurous traveler who loves quick, activity-filled days, this tour offers a solid balance of exploration, swimming, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for those who want to see Sazan Island’s history, snorkel in pristine waters, and relax on a lovely beach with traditional food.

However, if you’re looking for a luxurious, laid-back all-day experience, this might feel a bit rushed. The smaller boat and the possibility of delays mean patience is key. Plus, if you’re traveling with very young children or need a highly organized, punctual trip, you might want to consider other options.

This tour is a great pick for active groups, nature lovers, and those interested in a mix of history, water activities, and scenic coastline. It offers good value at a reasonable price with memorable sights and experiences.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 5 to 6 hours, giving enough time to explore, snorkel, and relax without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Vlore port and finishes back at the same meeting point.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, bottled water, fruits, sodas, and some alcoholic beverages are included.

Are there any extra costs?
You might want to bring extra snacks or drinks, and note that sunbeds and the restaurant at the beach are not included.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While some reviews mention kids enjoying the trip, it’s mainly suited for those comfortable with boat rides and swimming. Check with the provider if visiting with children.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance. Bad weather may lead to a full refund or rescheduling.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is on the smaller side, which fosters a cozy group vibe, but some might find it a bit tight over a full day.

Will I see wildlife or underwater life?
Yes, the clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, and many travelers enjoy exploring the underwater scenery.

How crowded does it get?
The maximum group size is 36, so it doesn’t feel overly crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat tour around Sazan Island and the Marine Park offers a lively, scenic, and engaging half-day escape from Vlore. You’ll get to explore an intriguing military site, swim in some of the clearest waters, and enjoy delicious local food—all in a compact, social environment.

It’s a great choice if you value diversity in your day, from history and nature to relaxation and good company. Just keep in mind that the boat is smaller, and patience may be required if delays happen. For those who want a quick, active, and memorable coastal adventure, this tour hits the right notes.

If your main goal is a relaxed beach day with hassle-free lounging, consider other options. But for travelers eager for a mix of exploration, water fun, and scenic views, this tour is definitely worth considering.