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

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

This speed boat tour in Vlore, Albania offers a dynamic 4 to 5-hour adventure for roughly $28.67 per person. The trip covers three key stops: Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and the Karaburun Peninsula, making it suitable for those seeking a mix of excitement, natural beauty, and historical sights. The tour is led by expert captains who navigate the waves with skill, ensuring a safe and thrilling experience.

A highlight of this trip is the visit to Sazan Island, which boasts rich history and rugged landscapes. The Haxhi Ali Cave provides a magical underground environment perfect for snorkeling and exploring rock formations. Finally, the tour ends with a relaxing stop at a beach in the Karaburun Peninsula, where swimming and sunbathing in crystal-clear waters await. With all fees included and a mobile ticket for convenience, this trip balances adventure with value, though availability depends on weather conditions and the season.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-rated: Priced at $28.67, with an average rating of 4.5/5 from 66 reviews.
• Duration and stops: Lasts 4 to 5 hours, including visits to Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and a coastal beach in the Karaburun Peninsula.
• Activities: Snorkeling, exploring military ruins and rock formations, swimming, and sunbathing.
• Guides and crew: Recognized for friendly, humorous, and knowledgeable staff, particularly the captain Sandri.
• Ideal for: Those who enjoy adventure, natural scenery, and history, with good weather being a key factor for the best experience.
• Limitations: The island visit is season-dependent, available only from June to November; timing can be tight at stops, especially in bad weather.

Sazan Island: An Island with History and Nature

Starting at Sazan Island, this tour allows visitors to explore a former military base, which reveals strategic importance from past eras. The island’s pristine beaches and wildlife are major draws, with options for snorkeling in its clear waters or hiking along scenic trails. The island’s protected areas also host various bird species and marine life, making it a hit with nature lovers.

The 45-minute stop includes admission tickets, making it a significant highlight. Visitors can choose to relax on the beach, take photos of rugged landscapes, or do a self-guided tour of the military ruins. It’s important to note that access to the island is season-limited—only from June to November—due to its military zone status.

Exploring Haxhi Ali Cave and Its Legend

Next, the Haxhi Ali Cave offers a 20-minute inside experience, where snorkelers can enjoy the cave’s rock formations and wild nature. The admission tickets are included, and the skipper shares stories about the pirate Haxhi Ali, adding a layer of local folklore to the visit.

The cave is described as a spectacular underground world, with some reviews emphasizing the swimming experience inside. The timing at this stop is generally about 30 minutes, which gives enough opportunity to explore and snorkel, though some reviews suggest being prepared for shorter visits during busy days.

Sailing Along the Karaburun Peninsula and Its Natural Beauty

After the cave exploration, the tour continues along the Karaburun Peninsula, where passengers enjoy stunning views of rock formations and wild beaches. This part of the trip provides excellent photo opportunities of rugged coastlines and crystal waters.

The boat stops at a beautiful beach with a private restaurant serving local food and drinks—though umbrellas and sunbeds are at an extra cost. This is a prime spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The 30-minute stop here allows travelers to enjoy the serene environment before heading back to Vlore.

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Duration, and Weather

The meeting point is Rruga Shaban Demiraj, Vlora, with the tour starting at Vlora Boat Trip 3 Fiori. The trip duration includes approximately 1.5 hours of speed boat riding without stops, plus time spent at each designated location.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with service animals allowed and proximity to public transportation. Travelers should arrive 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. Because the trip depends on good weather, cancellations occur only if weather conditions are poor, offering full refunds or rescheduling.

Included and Optional Extras

Included in the price are bottled water, all fees and taxes, and snorkeling equipment. Guests over 18 years old also receive one beer, adding a casual touch to the experience.

Additional costs include lunch and sun umbrellas, which are not included but can be purchased at the beach. The restaurant at the last stop opens on June 1st, so bring your own food and drinks if visiting outside this period.

Customer Feedback: Highlights and Cautions

Reviews highlight the friendly and humorous crew, with captain Sandri frequently praised for good time management and guidance. Many reviewers emphasize the beautiful scenery and enjoy snorkeling, especially inside the Haxhi Ali Cave.

Some travelers note that timing can be tight, especially if the island is closed during certain months or if bad weather affects the schedule. A few reviews mention disappointments with long stops at Sazan Island or short snorkeling times in the cave, so being prepared for a fast-paced trip helps.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is an excellent choice for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts. It’s particularly suited for those who want a cost-effective and well-rated boat trip with multiple stops. The snorkeling and scenic views appeal to travelers who enjoy water activities.

Families, especially those with older children, will find the pace manageable, but younger kids might be limited by the timing and sea conditions. Good weather is essential for maximizing comfort and safety.

Final Thoughts on the Vlore Speed Boat Adventure

This speed boat trip offers a balanced mix of history, natural beauty, and fun, with affordable pricing and plenty of photo-worthy moments. The stops at Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and the Karaburun beaches deliver a diverse experience packed into a few hours.

While timing and seasonal restrictions may limit access to certain sites, highly rated crew members, beautiful scenery, and snorkeling opportunities make this tour a solid choice for most travelers in Vlore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $28.67 per person, which includes all fees, taxes, and snorkeling equipment.

How long does the trip last?
The total experience runs 4 to 5 hours, with most of the time spent enjoying stops at Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and the Karaburun beach.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Sazan Island for exploration and wildlife, Haxhi Ali Cave for snorkeling and legends, and a beach in the Karaburun Peninsula for swimming and relaxing.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and snorkeling inside Haxhi Ali Cave is a highlight.

Can the trip be canceled due to weather?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled, participants are offered another date or a full refund.

Is the island accessible year-round?
No, Sazan Island can only be visited from June through November due to its military status.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothes for the cave, own food and drinks if visiting outside the restaurant’s opening date, and sun protection.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but younger children should be prepared for sea conditions and the timing of stops.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Rruga Shaban Demiraj, Vlora, at Vlora Boat Trip 3 Fiori.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 28 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How do I book the trip?
Booking is recommended 9 days in advance through the provided platform, with easy mobile ticket access.

Enjoy this thrilling and scenic boat trip along the Albanian coast, full of adventure, history, and beautiful landscapes.