Himare is a standout destination on Albania’s coast, and its boat tours & cruises are a big part of that appeal. The waters here are dotted with caves, secret beaches, and rugged cliffs that are best appreciated from the water. Whether you want to explore hidden coves, sip wine at sunset, or dance on deck with new friends, Himare has a cruise to suit. Among our favorites are the Himara Coastline 3.5-Hour Small-Group Boat Tour, which offers a balanced mix of scenery and adventure, and the Party Cruise from Himara to the Pirate’s Cave, perfect for those craving a lively day on the water. We also love the Sunset Cruise, which provides an unforgettable view as the sun dips over the coast.
Beyond just enjoying the scenery, these tours give you a chance to swim, snorkel, and explore Albania’s rugged coastline. From tranquil beach stops to lively parties, Himare’s boat options cater to a range of interests and energy levels, making this a must-do part of any trip along the Albanian Riviera.
Quick Overview
Himare offers a variety of boat tours & cruises to match any traveler’s mood. You can take half-day sightseeing trips that visit beaches and caves, or opt for longer excursions with swimming, snorkeling, and even parties on deck. For sunset lovers, there’s a scenic cruise with a peaceful atmosphere. Adventure seekers will appreciate private or speedboat options, allowing access to harder-to-reach spots like Gramma Bay or Pirate’s Cave. To help you choose, I’ve broken down each tour’s details below.
1. Himara Coastline 3.5-Hour Small-Group Boat Tour(North&South)
This small-group boat tour is a fantastic way to see the Ionian Sea’s lesser-known spots without the crowds. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll explore pristine beaches like Livadhi, Aquarium, and Jale, plus unexplored caves such as the Secret Caves and Pirate’s Cave. The boat is equipped with all necessary amenities, making the journey comfortable. The tour’s most praised feature is its focus on hidden spots and breathtaking landscapes, with a balanced mix of sightseeing and swimming.
The rating of 4.8/5 from 76 reviews reflects its popularity. Travelers rave about the scenery and the knowledgeable crew. Priced at $58 per person, it offers great value considering the intimate experience and comprehensive itinerary. Perfect for those who want a guided, all-around exploration with a small group, ensuring personalized attention.
Bottom Line: This tour hits the sweet spot for travelers seeking a well-rounded, scenic experience with a friendly group and great views.
2. Boat Tour to Himara, Explore Albanian Riviera & Caves
A highly-rated choice, this 3.5-hour tour takes you to key coastal treasures like the Gjipe Canyon, Saint Theodore’s Cave, and Pirate’s Cave. It’s notable for its crystal-clear swimming stops at Dove’s Cave and Crystal Bay, making it ideal for water lovers. The itinerary includes multiple photo stops and scenic cruising, giving you plenty of chances to soak in the spectacular coastline.
Rated 5/5 from 24 reviews, this tour’s highlight is the visits to caves and beaches where access is often tricky on land. At around $60, it offers a full sensory experience—swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing in the sun. Guides are praised for their local knowledge and enthusiasm. The tour is perfect if you want a more immersive outdoor experience with lots of swimming.
Bottom Line: For those who crave both scenic views and the chance to swim in clear waters, this tour is a top pick, offering intimate access to Albania’s coast.
3. Himara: Sunset Cruise (swim stops and snorkelling)
For a more romantic and peaceful experience, the Sunset Cruise is a 3-hour journey that takes you to Gipe Beach and Porto Palermo as the sky turns to gold. The tour emphasizes relaxation and scenic beauty, with the boat cruising slowly along the coast, allowing for unobstructed views of the sunset.
Guests can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and a cool box with refreshments, all while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Rated 4.9/5 from 14 reviews, people love the peaceful vibe and spectacular photo opportunities. At just $43 per person, it’s an affordable way to experience Himare’s coast in a more intimate, less energetic setting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a quiet, scenic evening with stunning sunset vistas and light swimming.
4. Party Cruise from Himara to the Pirate’s Cave
Looking for a lively day at sea? The Party Cruise is a 3-hour vessel where you can dance to summer beats, swim in turquoise bays, and explore caves like the Secret and Pigeon Caves. It’s designed for those who want a fun, upbeat experience with music, swimming, and socializing.
Rated 5/5 from 5 reviews, it’s perfect for young travelers or groups celebrating. The tour includes visits to the Secret Cave, Pigeon Cave, and Manastiri Cave, with plenty of chances to jump in and relax. Priced at $51 per person, it offers a high-energy, memorable day on the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers craving a spirited, party atmosphere with some cave exploring mixed in.
5. Himara: Albanian Riviera Boat Tour with Swimming stops
This longer 2.5-hour tour covers the Albanian Riviera’s highlights, including Turtle’s Cave, Pigeons Cave, and Crystal Beach. It’s a balanced mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. The detailed itinerary includes multiple photo stops and swimming opportunities, making it suitable for travelers who want to experience a variety of coastal sights in a single outing.
Rated 4.7/5 from 11 reviews, this tour offers good value for those wanting a deeper exploration in less than three hours. The captain shares local stories, enriching the experience. It’s a great option for families or small groups wanting a flexible, active tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a condensed but diverse trip along the coast, combining caves, beaches, and scenic views.
6. Himare: Exciting Boat Tour from Himare to Gramma Bay
A longer, more adventurous option, the Himare to Gramma Bay tour lasts about 5.5 hours. It’s perfect for those craving a full-day exploration, including stops at Aquarium Beach, Gjipe, Pirate’s Cave, and the stunning Grama Bay.
Rated 5/5 from 4 reviews, it features guides who introduce you to hidden beaches and caves. The itinerary includes swimming, guided tours, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s best for active travelers who want time to explore and relax at each stop.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a comprehensive, full-day adventure with plenty of swimming and sightseeing, this tour delivers.
7. Himare Adventures with snorkeling to Secret Caves & Beaches
This 3-hour experience emphasizes swimming, snorkeling, and storytelling, especially at the Pirates Cave, which is a highlight. It combines adventure and history, with stopovers at Livadhi Beach, Aquarium, Jale, and the Secret Cave.
Rated 4.3/5 from 17 reviews, many travelers appreciate the long swim stops and the chance to snorkel in magical caves. The tour costs $43 per person and is ideal for those who want a fast-paced, active trip with a touch of legend.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who love snorkeling and exploring caves with a bit of adventure and storytelling.
8. Albanian Riviera Boat Tours
This 4-hour tour offers a broader look at the coast, including Gjipe, Pirate’s Cave, and Livadhi. It’s designed for those who prefer a comprehensive sightseeing experience with flexibility. The stops include Gjipe Beach and Pirates Cave, with options for swimming and walking.
Rated 3.8/5, this tour provides good value but may appeal more to budget-conscious travelers or those wanting a “taste” of everything without a short timeframe.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a longer, flexible day exploring multiple spots without a packed schedule.
9. From Himara: Pirate’s Cave Sunset Cruise with Music
This evening cruise combines sights of the Pirate’s Cave with the magic of sunset. It lasts about 3 hours and includes light music, swimming, and scenic views. It’s perfect for a romantic or reflective experience, with plenty of time to soak in the golden light.
Rated for overall quality, this tour is geared toward those wanting a relaxed yet memorable sunset experience. The price is $51 per person, offering good value for an evening on the water.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic evening cruise with a touch of ambiance.
$51 per person
10. Himarë: Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling
For those seeking privacy and flexibility, this private 3-hour tour is ideal. It can accommodate up to four people for a laid-back trip exploring secluded bays and caves like Pirates Cave and Pigeons Cave.
Rated without a specific score, reviews mention the tailored experience and attentive guides. The cost of $338 makes it best for small groups or families wanting a personalized adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prefer exclusivity, customizing stops, and a relaxed pace.
$338 per group up to 4
11. Saranda Private Boat tour with snorkeling
Starting from Saranda, this 5-hour private trip offers snorkeling in clear waters and visits to notable spots like the Cave of Turtles and Krorez Beach. It’s an excellent way to explore the less-accessible beaches with flexibility.
Rated 4.7/5 from reviews, travelers appreciate the personalized service and ease of access from local accommodations. It’s ideal for those wanting a customized, relaxing day on the water.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a private, flexible experience with snorkeling and scenic stops.
12. Sarandë: Ionian Coast Hidden Beaches and Caves Boat Tour
This 3-6 hour tour explores hidden beaches and caves along the Ionian coast, with stops at Turtle Cave, Ushtarit Beach, and Kakome Bay. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine swimming, sightseeing, and exploring in a single outing.
Rated 4.7/5, this tour appeals to lovers of nature and secluded beaches, with multiple stops allowing for swimming and relaxing. The varied duration suits different schedules.
Bottom Line: For a flexible, adventure-filled day connecting with nature, this tour is a top choice.
13. Sarandë: Private RIB Boat Coastal Cruise to Himare & Sunset
This 9-hour high-speed RIB cruise is for the adventurous. It covers coastal highlights from Saranda to Himare, including snorkeling, scenic views, and sunset watching. It’s a full-day thrill ride with opportunities to explore caves and relax on beaches.
Rated 4.6/5, it’s suited for active travelers who want a dynamic, fast-paced experience with plenty of photo opportunities. The trip is perfect for those wanting to combine adventure and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: The choice for thrill-seekers who want an energetic day on the water with spectacular coastal views and sunset magic.
How to Choose the Perfect Boat Tour in Himare
Picking the right boat tour depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend on the water. If you want a relaxed, scenic experience, the Sunset Cruise is ideal. For energetic travelers craving adventure, the Full-Day Gramma Bay Tour or the RIB Coastal Cruise offers fast-paced exploration. For socializing, the Party Cruise provides a lively atmosphere.
Consider your budget, physical activity level, and whether you prefer group or private trips. Booking early is recommended during the busy summer months, especially for private or popular tours. Always check the latest availability and weather conditions, as they can influence the experience.
Himare’s boat tours range from peaceful sunsets to vibrant parties, and from full-day adventures to intimate private trips. Whether you want to snorkel in caves, relax on secluded beaches, or dance with new friends, options abound. If you’re visiting, don’t miss these opportunities—book early, plan what fits your style, and enjoy the stunning Albanian coast from the water.