GRAND TOUR OF THE NATIONAL PARK AND GRAMA BAY

Travelers seeking a breathtaking aquatic adventure in Albania’s unspoiled coastline will find the Grand Tour of the National Park and Grama Bay a compelling option. This speedboat excursion offers a perfect blend of spectacular scenery, authentic exploration, and relaxed comfort—all wrapped into a roughly six-hour package. While it’s a packed day, what you get in return is a chance to experience some of the most photogenic spots along the Karaburun Peninsula, with highlights that promise unforgettable memories.

In our review, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from the itinerary and highlights to practical tips and authentic traveler feedback. Our goal is to help you decide if this tour matches your travel style—whether you’re after adventure, scenic beauty, or a taste of local charm.

Two things we love about this experience are the variety of stops—from caves to bays—and the inclusions that make it good value, like the lunch and unlimited water. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the crowd—some reviews mention limited space due to the boat’s size, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with small-group outings. This tour is ideal for adventure-seeking travelers, nature lovers, and those wanting a taste of Albania’s rugged coast.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery with visits to caves, bays, and cliffs along the Karaburun Peninsula.
• All-inclusive: packed lunch, fruit, water, snacks, and landing fees included in the price.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants), ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Flexible booking with the option to reserve and pay later, plus cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Departure from Vlora makes it easily accessible for travelers based in Southern Albania.
• Guides speak Albanian and Italian, adding local flavor and knowledge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: The Allure of the Albanian Coastline

Imagine speeding along the shimmering waters of the Ionian Sea, with the wind in your hair and a view that’s both wild and picturesque. That’s what this Grand Tour of the National Park and Grama Bay promises. For travelers eager to see the coast from an angle few get—by boat—this trip offers a taste of adventure balanced with comfort.

What sets this tour apart are its well-curated stops—each a jewel of natural beauty—and the inclusions that allow you to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about extra costs. The small group size means you’ll likely get a more personal experience, with guides who are friendly and knowledgeable.

On the downside, some travelers mention limited space on the boat, especially when full, which might make it less ideal for those seeking a more spacious, luxurious ride. Still, for a value-packed adventure with plenty of stunning visuals, this tour is hard to beat.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Will You See?

Departure and First Stops

The tour kicks off from Rruga Murat Terbaci in Vlora at 10:30 a.m. It’s wise to arrive a little early to get comfortable and familiar with the group. Once underway, the boat heads towards Haxhi Ali Cave, an impressive water cave that’s perfect for photos and a quick swim if you’re feeling brave. The guide’s commentary will tell you about the history and geology—the kind of insider info that makes the scenery come alive.

Exploring Bays and Cliffs

Next, you’ll visit spots like Fisherman’s Bay and Pigeons Cliffs. These locations are prized for their dramatic rock formations and tranquil waters. Fisherman’s Bay offers a calm, sheltered spot where you might imagine local fishermen casting their nets, while Pigeons Cliffs provide sweeping views with seabirds soaring overhead.

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Beaches and Caves

The tour continues with Dafina Beach, known for its pristine sands, and Dafina Cave, a smaller water cavern worth exploring. Bear’s Bay and Skaloma Bay follow, each offering different landscapes—one rugged and rocky, the other more accessible for a quick swim.

The Highlight: Blue Cave and Grama Bay

No trip would be complete without seeing Blue Cave, a shimmering water cave famous for its vibrant colors. Its name suggests the kind of glow that makes for stunning photographs. Afterward, the boat will take you to Nezhaj Bay and finally to Grama Bay, the trip’s grand finale. Grama Bay is renowned for its unspoiled beauty—crystal-clear waters, sandy shores, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.

Additional stops and flexibility

Depending on time and conditions, the guide may also include Englishman Bay and the Canyon of the Smugglers, both offering more secluded, dramatic scenery. These optional stops allow the guide to tailor the experience to weather and group interest.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour’s price of $177 per person is reasonable considering the heavy inclusions: a packed lunch, fresh fruit, snacks, unlimited water and beer, and landing fees. Having all this catered means you won’t need to worry about extra costs, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

However, beach umbrellas are not included, and if you’re planning to spend a lot of time lounging, bringing your own might be wise. The tour runs from May through November, aligning with Albania’s warmer months, making outdoor water activities more enjoyable.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Book in advance at least one day ahead—this is especially important during peak months.
• After booking, you’ll receive your E-ticket, QR code, and Google Maps link, ensuring easy check-in.
• Arrive early at the office on Rruga Murat Terbaci for a smooth start.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses—and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone case.
• If you’re sensitive to crowds or small spaces, note that the boat capacity is limited, so early booking is advisable.
• Lunch is included, so no need to carry extra food, but bring extra snacks if you’re hungry.

Traveler Feedback: Authentic Perspectives

A traveler from Poland shared, “The trip was great! Even though there was many of us on the boat, it was an amazing experience. The captain and guide were super nice and fun. The food was good and we had the best time.” This highlights the friendly atmosphere and quality of the guide, making the experience more memorable.

Another review mentions the stunning views and the authentic feeling of exploring untouched bays, emphasizing how the tour offers a genuine connection to the coast’s natural beauty rather than a commercialized experience.

The Value for Your Money

Considering the cost of $177, you receive a comprehensive day out with multiple scenic stops, lunch, drinks, and landings fees all included. This means fewer surprises along the way and a well-organized experience. The small group size adds to the overall value, providing more personalized attention and better chances to ask questions or take photos without crowds.

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see Albania from the water, nature lovers keen on exploring caves and bays, and those seeking a relaxed yet scenic day out. If you enjoy small-group experiences with knowledgeable guides, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate local guides speaking Albanian and Italian, adding authenticity and insight.

If you’re someone who values comfort and spaciousness over speed, or prefers larger, more luxurious boats, this might not be your ideal outing. But if the idea of zipping around rugged coastlines in a small boat sounds appealing, this promises plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments.

Ultimately, this speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to explore Albania’s coastline in a compact, well-organized manner. The stops are thoughtfully selected to showcase the natural beauty of the Karaburun Peninsula—from caves to bays to beaches—making it a memorable experience for those craving authentic, scenic adventures.

The all-inclusive pricing, which covers lunch, snacks, water, and landing fees, makes it a good value for a day packed with diverse sights. The small group size elevates the experience, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere, especially with guides who speak both Albanian and Italian.

This tour is most suitable for energetic, curious travelers who don’t mind small boats and an active day out. It’s perfect if you want more than just beaches—if you’re interested in caves, cliffs, and hidden corners of Albania’s coast—this trip will deliver.

In a nutshell, if you’re after a fun, scenic, and authentic day on the water with excellent value, this is a solid choice. Just be prepared for a busy but rewarding day of exploration and spectacular views.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 6 hours, from departure around 10:30 a.m. until you return.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a packed lunch, fruit, snacks, and drinks—including unlimited beer—are part of the package.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a waterproof phone case, and possibly a hat or towel. Beach umbrellas are not included.

Can I book last minute?
It’s best to book at least one day in advance, especially during peak months, to secure your spot.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak Albanian and Italian, making the tour accessible for speakers of these languages.

Are there any extra costs?
All landing fees are included, but you may want to bring extra money for personal souvenirs or additional snacks.

What is the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, fostering a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are there swimming opportunities?
Yes, you might find chances to swim at some of the bays and beaches, weather permitting.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, small groups and the boat ride could appeal to families, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In sum, this speedboat trip offers a lively, scenic, and well-priced way to experience Albania’s coast—perfect for those who want a taste of adventure and natural beauty in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: