Vlore: Sazan Island & Haxhi Ali Cave Speedboat Guided Tour

Explore Sazan Island’s Natural and Historic Charms

The Vlore: Sazan Island & Haxhi Ali Cave Speedboat Guided Tour offers an engaging 5-hour journey through Albania’s captivating coastline. Starting from Olympia Tours Vlorë, the tour includes a scenic 50-minute speedboat ride to Sazan Island, renowned for its wild beauty and historical ruins. Visitors can choose to relax on the island’s pristine beach or walk through remains of old bunkers, underground tunnels, and fortified areas built during communism.

This tour highlights Sazan Island’s mystery and history, with the guides sharing insights into the island’s past. The guided tour and free time allow for both sightseeing and personal exploration. The hour-long visit combines nature and history, making it ideal for travelers interested in both outdoor scenery and Albania’s WWII and communist-era relics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Marine Wonders at Haxhi Ali Cave

A short 20-minute boat ride transports guests to the stunning Haxhi Ali Cave. This natural formation is a highlight for those eager to explore underwater and geological marvels. Inside the cave, visitors can experience breathtaking natural formations, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The cave’s waters and rock formations echo centuries of natural and cultural history, making it a fascinating stop.

The scenic views on the way to and from the cave add to the adventure. The tour’s 20-minute stop at Haxhi Ali Cave balances exploration and relaxation, perfect for lovers of underwater scenery and nature photography.

Relax at St. Vasil Beach on the Karaburun Peninsula

After exploring the cave, the tour moves to the karaburun Peninsula, arriving at St. Vasil Beach for 1 hour 30 minutes of leisure. This stretch features crystal-clear waters and pebble shores, offering a peaceful setting for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the scenery.

A self-guided walk takes travelers to St. Koli Bay, a tranquil spot consisting of two small beaches. These beaches are surrounded by natural beauty and provide a quiet escape from crowded tourist areas. The time at St. Vasil Bay offers a chance to unwind, take photos, or snorkel in calm waters.

The Detailed Itinerary and Its Highlights

The tour’s itinerary is carefully designed to maximize both adventure and relaxation. It begins with a meet-up at Olympia Tours Vlorë and quickly moves into a short boat ride to Sazan Island. The hour-long visit combines free time, sightseeing, and optional walking around the island’s ruins, making it suitable for those interested in history.

Next, the 20-minute boat trip to Haxhi Ali Cave opens opportunities for swimming and snorkeling amid fantastic natural formations. The scenic 20-minute ride from the cave leads to St. Vasil Bay, where guests enjoy 1 hour 30 minutes of free time. The optional walk to St. Koli Bay offers a peaceful, scenic spot for relaxation.

A final 20-minute speedboat ride returns travelers to the starting point, completing an efficient and diverse adventure. Each stop is designed to highlight different aspects: natural beauty, underwater scenery, and historical ruins.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Inclusions

The tour departs from the Olympia Tiki Bar on the Vlora promenade, a colorful spot marked by a distinctive yellow car head on the sidewalk. The group size is not explicitly specified but is managed by an experienced skipper and tour guide, ensuring personalized attention.

The tour price includes all fees and taxes, with the skipper and guide providing commentary throughout. It’s important to note that lunch, drinks, and snorkeling equipment are not included, so travelers should bring cash, a camera, sunscreen, and beachwear. The duration of approximately 5 hours makes this a manageable half-day activity, suitable for most travelers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

While the tour offers swimming and snorkeling opportunities, it is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments. The activity involves walking at some stops and standing during sightseeing, so travelers should consider their comfort with these activities.

The tour’s schedule is subject to weather and sea conditions, with cancellations possible if safety cannot be assured. In such cases, rescheduling or full refunds are available, ensuring peace of mind.

The Strengths of This Tour According to Reviews

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, particularly highlighting Herman’s confidence and expertise. The stunning views and beautiful scenery at every stop are consistently noted, along with the fancy boat that adds a touch of comfort and style.

Travelers appreciate the positive, lively attitude of the guides, which makes the experience more enjoyable. The timing and pacing are generally well-received, with sufficient free time at each stop for swimming, photos, or relaxing. The inclusion of historical insights and natural beauty makes this tour one of the most well-rounded options from Vlore.

Final Thoughts on the Sazan Island & Haxhi Ali Cave Speedboat Tour

This 5-hour guided boat trip offers a compelling combination of natural splendor, underwater exploration, and historical sites. The scenic boat rides, combined with stops at Sazan Island, the Haxhi Ali Cave, and St. Vasil Bay, make for a varied and engaging experience.

While not including lunch or snorkeling gear, the tour’s value lies in its expert guides, well-chosen stops, and the chance to see Albania’s coast from the water. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and light hiking.

For travelers seeking a well-organized day of adventure with beautiful landscapes and intriguing history, this tour from Olympia Tours delivers a memorable experience. Just be prepared for the weather-dependent nature of boat trips and bring your essentials for a comfortable day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting from the meeting point at Olympia Tiki Bar in Vlore.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, along with a skipper and tour guide. Lunch, drinks, and snorkeling equipment are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Olympia Tours Vlorë meeting point on the promenade, marked by a colorful setting and the yellow car head.

Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are available during the stops at Haxhi Ali Cave and Gjiri i Shen Kolit.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments due to walking and water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, cash, and credit card for personal expenses.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled due to bad weather or sea conditions. You can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby