Vlore: Secret Blue Gem Cave and Grama Bay Tour by Speed Boat

Imagine cruising along Albania’s pristine coastline, where turquoise waters sparkle and secret beaches hide just out of reach—this is exactly what a day on the Vlore: Secret Blue Gem Cave and Grama Bay Tour by Speed Boat promises. If you’re craving a full day of adventure, nature’s untouched beauty, and a mix of exploration and relaxation, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Two aspects we really appreciate about this experience are the opportunity to explore hidden beaches accessible only by boat and the chance to see the distinctive Blue Gem Cave, which offers striking turquoise hues and captivating rock patterns. The boat trip is designed to take you away from crowds and into the wild, giving you a sense of discovering Albania’s secret coastal treasures firsthand.

That said, a possible consideration is the length of the day—at around 8 hours, it’s quite full-on, and some travelers might prefer a slightly more relaxed pace. Plus, since the tour is not suitable for children under 10 or those with mobility issues, it’s best suited for adventure-loving adults or older teens.

If you’re comfortable with boat travel, love nature, and are eager to explore lesser-known spots, this tour suits active travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and scenic views in a semi-private setting.

Key Points

• Full-Day Adventure: Around 8 hours of exploring Albania’s coast with a knowledgeable guide.
• Hidden Beaches & Caves: Access to remote spots like Dafina Bay, Seal Cave, and the Blue Gem Cave, only reachable by boat.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Plenty of chances to cool off in crystal-clear waters and observe marine life.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of rock formations, tunnels, and azure waters.
• Wild Nature: Untouched beaches and natural caves add a sense of adventure and serenity.
• All-Inclusive: Snacks, fruits, drinks, and unlimited beers are included to keep you energized.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Speedboat Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off from Grama Bay, which you’ll need to coordinate with the provider ahead of time—be sure to contact them via email or WhatsApp a few days before for the exact meeting spot. The tour runs for about 8 hours, with a flexible start time depending on availability.

The transportation between stops is all on a speedboat, which means swift transitions from one breathtaking locale to the next. The boat ride itself can be a highlight, with the chance to feel the wind and see the coastline from a different perspective.

The Itinerary: What Stops Make This Tour Stand Out?

Haxhi Ali Cave marks the beginning of your exploration. This cave is a scenic photo stop that offers a quick look at one of the coast’s natural wonders. The guide is often praised for their knowledge, helping you understand the significance of each spot and making the experience more meaningful.

Next, the boat takes you to some of the most secluded beaches—Dafina Bay and Dafina Cave—where you can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the pebble shores. The underwater environment here is described as incredible, and the caves are colorful and enchanting, perfect for underwater photography.

Then, you’ll visit Bristan Bay, a short drive away, with its inviting azure waters ideal for a quick dip. Afterward, the Secret Canyon and Seal Cave offer an adventurous twist—exploring caves and natural formations that are only accessible by boat.

The highlight for many is the Blue Gem Cave on Llovizi beach. With its unique patterns and turquoise hues, it’s an eye-catching spectacle. Many reviews mention how memorable this site is, with the colorful cave making for stunning photos and a great snorkeling spot. One traveler described it as “the most spectacular sight,” emphasizing how the sunlight dances through tunnels, creating a surreal atmosphere.

Following the Blue Gem Cave, your journey continues to Englishman Bay, a quiet, untouched spot perfect for swimming and soaking up the peaceful environment. A short walk up the hill offers panoramic views of the coastline—an excellent chance for photos and soaking in the scenery.

The tour then loops back through various stops, each with their own character—hidden beaches, caves, and scenic viewpoints—before returning to Grama Bay. The entire experience is designed to showcase Albania’s natural beauty in its purest form, away from the busy tourist spots.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour provides all fees and taxes, snorkeling equipment, drinks (including unlimited beers), snacks, fruits, and a traditional Albanian bag lunch. This all-inclusive approach gives you value for money, especially as the tour is quite packed with activities.

However, it’s important to note that food is not separately included outside the provided snacks and lunch, so if you have specific dietary needs, you might want to bring extra snacks.

The tour is suitable for those over 10 years old and reasonably fit, as it involves multiple stops, swimming, and boat rides. It’s not recommended for people with altitude sickness or mobility issues due to the nature of the excursion.

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The Experience: What Travelers Say

From reviews, one thing that stands out is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. A traveler called their guide “magnifique,” highlighting the enjoyable and informative nature of the tour. The scenery, especially the caves and secluded beaches, consistently receives praise for its beauty and tranquility.

Some reviews also mention how the boat trips offer not just sightseeing but a sense of adventure—gliding through tunnels, exploring caves, and snorkeling in pristine waters. The wild, untouched beaches are a big hit for those looking to escape the crowds.

The only common concern is the long duration—some might find the day a bit tiring if they prefer more relaxed activities. But for those eager to pack in a full day of exploration, it’s an ideal way to see the coast’s best-kept secrets.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who are comfortable on boats and eager to explore remote beaches and caves. If you love snorkeling, taking photos of dramatic landscapes, and discovering places few others have seen, this tour offers plenty of those moments.

It’s a great choice for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a full immersion in Albania’s wild coastline. Since children under 10 aren’t recommended, it’s more geared toward older teens and adults craving adventure.

While not a family-friendly stroll, it’s perfect for those who enjoy natural scenery and a bit of outdoor activity. If you’re looking for a relaxed beach day with lots of lounging, this might be too full-on.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day filled with adventure, incredible scenery, and a sense of discovering secret corners of Albania, this speedboat tour truly delivers. The combination of caves, secluded beaches, snorkeling, and scenic views creates a memorable experience—especially if you’re a lover of natural landscapes and outdoor exploration.

The knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary, and inclusion of food and drinks make it a streamlined, value-packed option. While it’s quite a long day, most travelers find it worth the effort to see some of Albania’s most untouched and picturesque spots.

This tour is ideal if you’re looking to escape the crowds, explore hidden beaches, and enjoy an active, scenic day on the water. Whether it’s your first time in Albania or a return visit, the unique sights and wild scenery will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with multiple stops and activities throughout the day.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash.

Is food included?
Food isn’t included separately, but snacks, fruits, and a traditional Albanian bag lunch are provided.

Can I snorkel?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, and many stops are ideal for exploring underwater life.

Are children under 10 allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 10 due to the nature of the activities and boat ride.

How do I find the meeting point?
You need to contact the provider in advance via email or WhatsApp to get the exact location.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility problems or altitude sickness.

If you’re after a day of wild coastal scenery, hidden caves, and untouched beaches, this tour offers a memorable way to experience Albania’s coast. Just be prepared for a full day, and you’ll come away with plenty of stories—and photos—to last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: