Himare is a standout destination on Albania’s Ionian coast, known for its stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and laid-back vibe. But what makes it truly special for travelers are the tours that unlock its hidden corners—whether by boat, speedboat, or party cruise. We love how some tours focus on exploring secret caves and beaches, offering a chance to swim in crystal waters few have seen. Others serve up lively sunset or party experiences, perfect for those wanting both adventure and fun. One thing’s clear: Himare’s tour scene combines natural beauty with authentic local flavor, making it a place where every boat trip feels like a treasure hunt.
If you’re planning a trip, you’ll find options that fit various interests and budgets. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise, a wild party, or a private adventure, this list covers the best tours in Himare. Explore caves, beaches, or enjoy sunset views with our detailed guide below.
1. Himara:Pirate’sCave Tour,Secret Beaches Swimming &Snorkeling
At number 1 the Himara: Pirate’s Cave Tour, Secret Beaches Swimming & Snorkeling offers a three-hour journey into the wild, rugged coastline of the Ionian Sea. This small-group experience takes you to explore the legendary Pirate’s Cave, a must-see for its dramatic setting and stories. The tour highlights swimming and snorkeling in clear waters, with multiple stops at secret beaches and cliffs accessible only by sea. The itinerary includes visits to Livadhi Beach, Aquarium Beach, Jale Beach, and the Gjipe Beach, with plenty of free time for swimming and taking photos. The boat ride is guided by locals who know every hidden nook, making it perfect for travelers craving authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
This tour shines for its intimate size, with small groups ensuring a personal touch. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, with a 4.9/5 rating based on 98 reviews. It’s a great value at $41 per person, especially if you love exploring caves and secret beaches by sea. Bottom line: this tour is best suited for those wanting an authentic adventure with plenty of swimming and cave exploring.
2. Himara Coastline 3.5-Hour Small-Group Boat Tour(North&South)
At number 2, the Himara Coastline 3.5-Hour Small-Group Boat Tour offers a slightly longer, relaxed exploration of the coast. For $58 per person, this tour focuses on discovering pristine beaches, unexplored caves, and scenic landscapes. It includes water views of spots like Livadhi, Aquarium, Jale, and Goat Beach, along with visits to the Canyon of Gjipe and the Pirate’s Cave. The boat is well-equipped and comfortable, making the journey smooth.
Guests rave about the scenic scenery and the chance to see lesser-visited spots from the water. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and photography. The tour provides about 3.5 hours of coastal discovery, making it a flexible option for those with limited time but still eager for adventure. Bottom line: this tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic views and want a comfortable, informative experience.
3. Boat Tour to Himara, Explore Albanian Riviera & Caves
At number 3, the Boat Tour to Himara, Explore Albanian Riviera & Caves is a 3.5-hour adventure that covers a lot of ground. It’s praised for visits to Dove’s Cave, Crystal Bay, Gjipe Canyon, Saint Theodore’s Cave, and the Pirate’s Cave. The tour includes swimming in clear waters, sightseeing from the boat, and lots of photo opportunities of stunning coastlines. The itinerary features stops at Livadhi Beach, Gjiri i Akuariumit, Jale Beach, and a long swim at Plazhi i Piratëve.
Guests highlight the guide’s local knowledge and the chance to swim in iconic spots like Dove’s Cave. The focus is on natural beauty and exploration, making it ideal for active travelers who want to see the coast from the water and enjoy a variety of caves and beaches. With a perfect 5/5 review score from 24 reviews, it’s a top pick for quality. Bottom line: ideal for those wanting a comprehensive coastal exploration with plenty of swimming and photo ops.
4. Himara:Pirate’sCaveTourwithswimstops&snorkeling(8-10persons)
At number 4, the Himara: Pirate’s Cave Tour with Swim Stops & Snorkeling is a 3-hour sunset cruise. It’s designed for small groups of 8-10 people, emphasizing intimacy and flexibility. The tour takes you to swim at Goat Beach, explore the Pigeons Cave, and visit the Secret Cave—each offering clear waters and stunning cliffs. The cruise also includes Gjipe Canyon and Twin Caves, with music playing onboard to set a relaxed, fun atmosphere.
Guests comment on the beautiful coastline, the peaceful sunset, and the snorkeling equipment provided. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a more private, chilled experience rather than a large tour. The $41 per person price makes it a good deal for a small-group adventure. Bottom line: perfect for couples or small groups who want a scenic sunset with options to swim and snorkel.
5. Himara: Sunset Cruise (swim stops and snorkelling)
Number 5 is the Himara Sunset Cruise, a 3-hour experience that captures the magic of the Albanian coast at dusk. For $43 per person, the tour takes you from Livadhi Beach to Gjiri i Akuariumit, Jale Beach, and finally Gipe Beach, with plenty of stops for swimming and snorkeling. The highlight is watching the sun dip below the horizon, offering spectacular photo opportunities.
Guests describe the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to relax on the water, making it ideal for romantic evenings or peaceful reflection. The inclusion of a cool box and GPS adds to the comfort and convenience. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a serene, scenic experience without rushing. Bottom line: this tour is perfect for honeymooners or anyone wanting a memorable sunset with calm waters.
6. Party Cruise from Himara to the Pirate’s Cave
Next up, number 6 is the Party Cruise from Himara to the Pirate’s Cave. This lively 3-hour boat party is all about music, dancing, and fun. You’ll visit the Secret Cave, Pigeon Cave, and Manastiri Cave while enjoying summer beats onboard. It’s geared toward travelers looking for a social, energetic vibe, with swimming and relaxing in turquoise bays as part of the experience.
Rated 5/5 from 5 reviews, guests rave about the music, the friendly skipper, and the lively atmosphere. The cool drinks, combined with swimming and the chance to meet fellow travelers, make it a unique way to experience Himare’s coastline. The $51 price offers a great value for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with party vibes. Bottom line: ideal for party-goers, young travelers, or anyone wanting a fun, social boat trip.
7. Himara: Albanian Riviera Boat Tour with Swimming stops
Number 7 features the Himara: Albanian Riviera Boat Tour with Swimming stops which lasts about 2.5 hours. For a lower price and shorter time, it offers quick visits to spots like Turtle’s Cave, Gjipe Canyon, and secrets stops along the coast. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights.
Reviews mention the friendly skipper and the chance to swim and snorkel in beautiful waters. The stops are well-timed for a quick but satisfying taste of the coast’s best spots. It’s best suited for travelers wanting an efficient, scenic experience without a long commitment. Bottom line: great for a quick orientation or a half-day adventure.
8. Himare: Exciting Boat Tour from Himare to Gramma Bay
At number 8, the Himare: Exciting Boat Tour from Himare to Gramma Bay offers a longer, 5.5-hour exploration. It’s perfect for those wanting to visit multiple beaches like Doves Cave, Pirates Cave, and Grama Bay in a single day. The tour features swimming, snorkeling, and scenic viewpoints, with stops at Gjipe Beach and the iconic Grama Bay.
This experience provides a good mix of activity and relaxation, ideal for travelers with full days to spare. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable skippers and the beautiful scenery. It’s a good choice if you want a comprehensive day trip. Bottom line: best suited for travelers looking for a full-day, private-style experience.
9. Himare Adventures with snorkeling to Secret Caves & Beaches
Number 9 is the Himare Adventures with snorkeling to Secret Caves & Beaches. This 3-hour tour focuses on storytelling, swimming, and exploring the coastline’s legendary caves. It features a long swim stop inside Pigeons Cave and snorkeling at Crystal Beach’s hidden cove. The tour is a mix of adventure and local tales, making it engaging for travelers who love learning as they explore.
Rated 4.3/5 from 17 reviews, visitors mention the stunning caves and the fun of snorkeling in clear waters. It’s an excellent pick for active travelers wanting a mix of swimming and storytelling. The tour’s highlight is discovering secret spots while immersing in the sea. Bottom line: ideal for those wanting an active, story-filled experience.
10. Sarandë: Lukove, Borsh, Porto Palermo, and Himare Day Trip
Number 10 offers a comprehensive day trip from Sarandë. For $83, it takes you through Lukovë’s lush hills, Borsh’s long sandy coast, and Porto Palermo’s fortress. It’s a full 8-hour tour with multiple stops for photos, swimming, and sightseeing. It’s perfect if you want to combine cultural sights with beach time.
Travelers appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see different sides of Albania’s coast. It’s a good fit for travelers with a full day to spend, especially those interested in combining scenery with history. Bottom line: ideal for those who want an all-in-one day trip covering both nature and culture.
11. Himara: Daily trip to Gramma Bay with swimming stops
At number 11, the Himara: Daily trip to Grama Bay offers a shorter, 5.5-hour cruise focused on swimming and relaxing in Grama Bay. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a relaxed escape, with plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the scenery. The tour includes a friendly captain with over 7 years experience, and the boat is equipped with life jackets for safety.
Rated 4/5, travelers enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the chance to swim in less crowded waters. It’s an excellent choice for families or those seeking a shorter, calming experience. Bottom line: great for a leisurely day with plenty of swimming and scenic views.
12. Albanian Riviera Boat Tours
Number 12, Albanian Riviera Boat Tours, is a 4-hour experience focusing on key sites like Gjipe, Pirates Cave, and Gjipe Beach. It’s suited for travelers who want a quick yet comprehensive coastal overview, with guided visits and swimming breaks. The highlight is exploring the famous Gjipe Beach for a couple of hours.
Rated 3.8/5, this tour offers solid value and a chance to see some of the most photogenic spots along the Riviera. Best for travelers with limited time but a desire to see the coast’s highlights. Bottom line: recommended for those after an efficient, scenic adventure.
13. From Himara: Pirate’s Cave Sunset Cruise with Music
Number 13, the Pirate’s Cave Sunset Cruise with Music is a 3-hour experience meant for those who want a romantic end to their day. It features a sunset cruise, with stops at the Pirate’s Cave and Gipe Beach, accompanied by music onboard. It’s perfect for couples or anyone seeking a memorable, atmospheric trip to enjoy the coast’s beauty at dusk.
Rated on reviews, this tour emphasizes the peaceful transition from day to night, with the setting sun casting a golden glow. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic experience with a touch of ambiance. Bottom line: ideal for romantic evenings or mellow vibes.
$51 per person
14. Himarë: Albanian Riviera Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Number 14, Himarë: Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling is a tailored experience for up to four people. For $338, it offers complete flexibility to visit spots like Gjipe, Pirates Cave, and Pigeons Cave at your own pace. The private boat allows for customized stops, swimming, and snorkeling.
The reviews praise the personalized service and the chance to explore secluded spots without crowds. It’s perfect for travelers seeking intimacy, flexibility, and a private experience. Bottom line: best suited for small groups or couples wanting a bespoke coastal adventure.
$338 per group up to 4
15. Saranda Private Boat tour with snorkeling
Number 15 features a Saranda Private Boat Tour, which lasts about 5 hours. It’s designed for private groups wanting to explore Saranda’s hidden beaches and swim in crystal-clear waters. The tour includes stops at the Cave of Turtles and other scenic spots.
Rated 4.7/5, travelers enjoy the personal touch and the chance to customize their route. It’s ideal for families or friends who want an exclusive, relaxed day on the water. Bottom line: perfect for those seeking personalized service and flexible timing.
16. Sarandë: Ionian Coast Hidden Beaches and Caves Boat Tour
Finally, number 16 offers a Ionian Coast Hidden Beaches and Caves Tour. Ranging from 3 to 6 hours, this tour explores caves and beaches like Shpella Breshke and Kroreza Beach. It emphasizes swimming in clear waters and discovering secluded spots that few visit.
The reviews highlight the thrill of exploration and the beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, immersive experience of the coast’s caves and beaches. Bottom line: well-suited for adventurous travelers wanting to get off the beaten path.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Himare
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re after a quick taste of the coastline, the 2.5-hour Albanian Riviera Boat Tour might suit you best. For those who want a more personal experience, the Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling offers customization.
Travelers wanting a lively, social vibe might enjoy the Party Cruise with music, while couples looking for romance should consider the Sunset Cruise. For maximum variety, the full-day trip from Saranda provides a blend of scenery and history.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular sunset or party tours, which tend to fill quickly during peak summer months. Also, check the weather forecast—most tours operate from late spring to early fall when sea conditions are best.
While Himare offers a variety of tours, the best choice depends on what you’re after—whether it’s exploring caves, relaxing at sunset, or partying under the stars. The options listed here make it easy to find an experience that suits your style and schedule. For an unforgettable adventure on the Albanian Riviera, it’s worth booking ahead—these boats fill up fast when the sun’s shining.