Begin your adventure in the coastal city of Vlorë, where you’ll board a modern speedboat. After a quick safety briefing, launch into the open sea, quickly gaining speed as Vlorë’s lively promenade disappears behind you. With the wind in your hair and the sun overhead, the adventure is officially underway.

Your first destination is the legendary Haxhi Ali Cave, located near the Karaburun Peninsula. This enormous sea cave, carved naturally into the limestone cliffs, is a site of myth and mystery. Named after a 17th-century Albanian pirate, it features a wide entrance and a cathedral-like interior where the sunlight dances across the turquoise water. The boat slows to allow time for swimming and photos inside the cave, a surreal and magical experience you won’t forget.

Next, continue south along the wild and dramatic coast of Karaburun to the serene Dafina Bay. Tucked between high cliffs and completely inaccessible by land, this hidden bay is a secluded paradise with crystal-clear water and a peaceful atmosphere. Take a refreshing swim here or simply relax on the boat, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

Just a short ride from the bay is Dafina Cave, a lesser-known but equally beautiful sea cave. Unlike the grand scale of Haxhi Ali, Dafina Cave is more intimate and mysterious, with fascinating rock formations and a quiet echo chamber inside. It’s another perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, or simply admiring the artistry of nature.

As the boat speeds further down the coast, the next highlight is the Blue Cave, named for the intense cobalt-blue water that glows under sunlight. The light reflects through the narrow entrance and fills the entire cave with an otherworldly glow. This spot is a photographer’s dream, and the water is incredibly inviting for a short swim inside the cave. Don’t forget your camera or your goggles—this is a moment you’ll want to remember.

Before reaching the final destination, make a dramatic stop at the Canyon of the Smugglers (Kanioni i Kontrabandistëve). Once used by pirates and smugglers as a hideaway along their secret routes, this narrow canyon carved into the cliffs feels like a hidden passage to another world. The towering walls, the deep blue water, and the eerie silence of the canyon all combine to create a breathtaking atmosphere.

At last, arrive at Grama Bay, the crown jewel of the trip. Surrounded by towering cliffs and accessible only by sea, this bay is a natural amphitheater of beauty and history. Once used as a safe haven by sailors in ancient times, the rocks around the bay are still etched with inscriptions dating back centuries.

After hours of soaking in the magic of Grama Bay,swiming and snorkeling make your return journey to Vlorë, offering one last chance to enjoy the wind, the sun, and the spectacular coastal views. As you glide across the sea, you’ll carry with you unforgettable memories of caves, canyons, and secret shores that make this part of Albania truly special.

Gran Tour Tip: Pack light, wear swimwear, and bring a waterproof camera — this trip is all about nature, sea, and unforgettable memories.