GRAND TOUR OF THE NATIONAL PARK AND GRAMA BAY

Grand Tour of the National Park and Grama Bay offers an unforgettable day exploring some of Albania’s most breathtaking coastal scenery. Starting from Vlora, this speedboat trip takes you through the Marine Park and all the way to the hidden jewel that is Grama Bay. For $176 per person, you’ll spend roughly 6-8 hours marveling at caves, bays, and cliffs, with lunch and water included. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this tour is perfect for those craving a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and authentic Albanian waters.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances spectacular scenery with practical comforts—like the included packed lunch and unlimited water—ensuring you stay refreshed and energized. The small-group atmosphere fosters a relaxed, enjoyable vibe, and the boat’s route showcases some of the most photogenic spots along the Karaburun Peninsula. However, a potential consideration is the limited shade during the day, so bringing sun protection is wise. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, want to see caves and bays up close, and are ready for a full day of outdoor discovery.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal tour around the Karaburun Peninsula highlighting caves, bays, and cliffs
• Included meals and drinks contribute to great value, with a packed lunch and unlimited water and beer
• Authentic explorations of hidden spots like Haxhi Ali Cave, Blue Cave, and Grama Bay
• Small-group experience ensures more personalized guidance and better interaction
• Flexible booking with options to reserve and pay later, plus cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Departure from Vlora’s office makes logistics straightforward

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at 10:30 a.m. from the central office on Rruga Murat Terbaci in Vlora. From there, you’ll hop onto a speedboat, ready to explore some of Albania’s most stunning coastal features. The route is designed for those who love dramatic natural scenery, with stops at caves, beaches, and cliffs that are often inaccessible from land.

Visiting the Marine Park and Nearby Beaches

The Marine Park area is a highlight for any nature lover. It’s home to untouched waters, vibrant marine life, and a rugged coastline that provides the perfect backdrop for a day of exploration. The tour takes you past some of the most picturesque spots, such as Fisherman’s Bay, Pigeons Cliffs, and Dafina Beach. These stops are great for photo opportunities or simply relaxing on the boat and soaking in the views.

The Caves and Bays

The caves are what make this trip particularly memorable. Expect to see Haxhi Ali Cave, one of the most famous along the coast, and Dafina Cave, both accessible by boat and perfect for a quick swim or snorkeling. The Blue Cave is another highlight, offering a mysterious, shimmering interior you’ll love exploring. The tour also visits Skaloma Bay, Nezhaj Bay, and Englishman Bay, each with its own unique charm.

The Final Destination: Grama Bay

After a day of sightseeing, the boat arrives at Grama Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a fantastic spot for relaxation, swimming, or just admiring the surrounding cliffs. The area’s untouched beauty makes it a true highlight, and the tour provides plenty of time to enjoy it.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Expect on the Day Trip

The tour lasts roughly 6-8 hours, and the timing allows for a relaxed pace, plenty of stops, and ample time at Grama Bay. The boat is comfortable enough, though the review from Wiktoria notes that space on the boat can be tight with many passengers onboard. Still, she describes the guide and captain as super nice and fun, which helps create a friendly, lively atmosphere.

Food and Refreshments

The meal included is a packed lunch, along with fruit, snacks, and plenty of water. There’s also unlimited beer, a nice touch for those wanting to unwind after a swim or while soaking up the sun. Keep in mind that beach umbrellas are not included, so if you’re sensitive to the sun, bringing your own shade might be wise.

Practical Tips

• The tour runs from May to November, aligning with the warm weather season.
• It’s recommended to book at least 1 day in advance to secure your spot.
• After booking, you’ll receive an E-ticket with a QR code and Google Maps link, making it straightforward to find the meeting point.
• The departure point is the TripMe.TODAY office in Vlora, a convenient central location.
• Be prepared with sun protection, swimwear, and possibly a waterproof camera for capturing underwater moments.

The Real Value of the Experience

This tour’s strength lies in its combination of stunning scenery and authentic waters. The prices include landing fees, a delicious meal, and unlimited drinks, bringing a lot of value for your money. Compared to other excursions that might charge extra for food or access to caves, this all-inclusive package feels like a good deal.

The small-group setting means you’re less likely to be lost in a crowd and more likely to get personal attention from guides, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. The boat’s route through caves and bays offers a close-up view of Albania’s wild coastline, which is often not accessible by land.

Authentic Experiences

Particularly inspiring are the stops at lesser-known spots like Fisherman’s Bay and Bear’s Bay, which feel more intimate and less crowded. Many travelers, including Wiktoria, appreciated the friendly guides and the delicious food, making the journey more than just sightseeing but a social, enjoyable experience.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is space onboard. As Wiktoria pointed out, being on a crowded boat can limit comfort, especially in the heat or if you prefer more personal space. Also, since no beach umbrellas are provided, you might want to bring your own if you plan to stay at Grama Bay for a while.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Albania’s coast from the water and explore caves and bays up close. It suits those who appreciate authentic experiences over packaged tours and don’t mind a bit of boat traffic or limited shade. If you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on a boat with friends or family, this tour offers a memorable day out.

It’s especially fitting for nature lovers and those curious about lesser-known coastal gems. The inclusive lunch and drinks make it easy to relax and focus on the scenery, making it perfect for a laid-back yet scenic adventure.

The Sum Up

The Grand Tour of the National Park and Grama Bay balances adventure, natural beauty, and genuine Albanian hospitality. The route through caves, bays, and cliffs offers some of the most stunning views in the region, making it a must-do for anyone wanting to experience the coast authentically. The all-inclusive setup, friendly guides, and flexible booking options add to its appeal, especially for travelers looking for a hassle-free, immersive day on the water.

While space onboard can be tight, the overall experience delivers excellent value for its price. It’s well-suited for curious explorers, families, or groups of friends seeking both adventure and relaxation in a gorgeous setting. If you’re ready to see some of Albania’s most photogenic spots and enjoy a day of fun, sun, and sea, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most ages, especially those comfortable on boats. Just keep in mind the boat may be crowded and the activity involves some swimming and exposure to the sun.

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 6-8 hours, offering plenty of time to explore, swim, and relax at Grama Bay.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour provides a packed lunch, fruit, snacks, and unlimited water and beer. This makes it convenient and cost-effective, with no need to find food during the day.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, towel, waterproof camera, and possibly a shade or umbrella for the beach.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
All landing fees are included, but beach umbrellas are not. You might also want extra drinks or snacks not provided in the package.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How do I find the meeting point?
After booking, you’ll receive an E-ticket with a Google Maps link. The tour departs from the TripMe.TODAY office in Vlora, located on Rruga Murat Terbaci.

In sum, this boat tour offers a wonderful combination of natural beauty, authentic Albanian waters, and friendly guidance. Whether you’re after stunning photos, a relaxing day at the beach, or a bit of adventure, it’s a memorable way to experience the coast of Vlora.

You can check availability for your dates here: