Himara:Daily trip to Gramma Bay with swimming stops

Planning a day on the water along Albania’s beautiful coastline? This Himara boat tour to Grama Bay offers a fantastic way to see the Albanian Riviera’s highlights, with swimming stops, scenic vistas, and a splash of adventure. While it’s not a full-blown excursion with gourmet meals or all-day luxury, it’s a well-rounded experience that packs in plenty of memorable moments.

What we particularly love about this tour is the chance to explore inaccessible beaches and caves only reachable by boat. The boat itself, driven by seasoned captains with over 7 years of experience, is comfortable and speedy, making the journey smooth and fun. Plus, the variety of stops—from aquamarine bays to caves steeped in stories—means you get a good mix of relaxation and exploration.

One thing to keep in mind: the provided snacks and water are a bit limited, which might be a concern for those planning a longer day or with little patience for thirst. Still, for the price and the stunning scenery, it’s a solid value. This trip works best for travelers who enjoy scenic outings, snorkeling, and swimming in clear waters without the fuss of a luxury cruise.

Good To Know

• Great for Inaccessible Beaches: Only reachable by boat, offering exclusive access.
• Scenic Stops: Aquarium Bay, Crystal Bay, Gjipe Canyon, and more.
• Experienced Guides: Knowledgeable captains ensure safety and added insight.
• Flexible Options: Shared or private tours available to suit your needs.
• Value for Money: At $89, the experience offers a lot considering the duration.
• Limited Food & Water: Bring your own essentials for the day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This full-day boat trip is designed to highlight the stunning natural beauty of the Albanian coast, and it does so with a well-planned itinerary that balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The tour departs from Himara’s mini dock, conveniently located at Manolo Beach Bar, making it easy to access without long transfers.

The Boat and Guides

The boat is a luxury speedboat, which means you’ll enjoy a smooth and fast ride along the coastline. The crew, led by experienced captains with over 7 years of knowledge, adds a layer of confidence and local insight. According to a review from Beatriz in Brazil, Captain Leo was lively and made everyone feel comfortable, which is a big plus for those new to boat trips or nervous swimmers.

The tour includes life jackets and snorkeling masks, which are essential for safety and fun in the water. The guides speak English, Albanian, and Greek, catering well to a diverse set of travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The journey from Himara is packed with stops at some of the most picturesque spots along the coast:

• Aquarium Bay & Crystal Bay: Expect stunning blue waters and soft sands. These spots are ideal for quick swims and photos.
• Gjipe Canyon: A rugged natural wonder where you might enjoy a scenic view or a quick exploration on land.
• Monastery Cave & Pirates Cave: Both provide a sense of adventure; the caves are steeped in local lore and perfect for exploring with snorkeling gear.
• Blue Caves & Bays: These turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling, and the experience of swimming through natural caves is a highlight. A reviewer mentioned that the Sea Blue Cave is particularly enchanting.
• Saint Andrews Bay & Saintkolli Bay: These calmer waters are great for relaxing after the more active stops.
• Pigeons Cave: The final swimming stop offers about 30 minutes to splash around before heading back.

What to Expect at Grama Bay

Once you arrive at Grama Bay, you’ll have approximately 2 hours to soak in the scenery. The bay boasts soft sands and clear waters—perfect for lounging, sunbathing, or snorkeling. Many guests, like Beatriz, appreciated the opportunity to snorkel among vibrant marine life. The tranquility of Grama Bay makes it a relaxing end to the day, where you can simply float and unwind.

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Practical Details

The tour lasts about 5.5 hours, starting from the Himara mini dock, and includes water, snacks, snorkeling masks, and safety gear. The cost is $89 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the length and variety of stops.

You should bring essentials like sun protection, a towel, food, and your own beachwear, as these aren’t provided. While water and snacks are included, they’re limited—some travelers might prefer to bring extra, especially for longer days or more active swimmers.

How Does It Compare to Similar Tours?

This experience is comparable to other boat tours along the Albanian Riviera, with options to customize or book private trips. The shared group size keeps the experience lively without feeling crowded. A private option is available if you want a more secluded experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

The most praised aspect appears to be the stunning views at every stop, with one guest saying, “The boat trip is incredible,” and highlighting the lively captain. The tour’s focus on scenic beauty and snorkeling makes it a favorite for nature lovers.

However, some shared that snacks and water could be more generous, suggesting that packing extra might be wise. The tours are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and booking with pay later options provides extra peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers, families, or groups seeking to see the best of the Albanian coast from the water. It’s perfect if you want a day of swimming, snorkeling, and picture-perfect scenery without the hassle of planning multiple stops yourself.

It’s also suitable for those who value local guides and safety equipment, and who don’t mind bringing their own extra snacks and sun protection. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day with a dash of adventure, this trip hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This Himara boat tour to Grama Bay offers a well-balanced mix of scenic cruise, water activities, and relaxing beach time. The stunning views from the boat and in the caves make it a highlight for anyone wanting to experience Albania’s coastline without the crowds. The knowledgeable crew and flexible options make it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of travelers.

While the snacks could be more plentiful, the overall value remains high, especially considering the length of the trip and the quality of stops. If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic adventure that combines the thrill of boat travel with the tranquility of secluded bays, this tour is well worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour departs from Himara Mini Dock, conveniently located at Manolo Beach Bar.

Is the boat suitable for all ages?
Yes, the boat is equipped with life jackets and safety gear, making it suitable for most ages, though very young children should be supervised.

Can I choose a private tour?
Yes, the same itinerary is available as a private tour, perfect if you want a more exclusive experience.

Are food and drinks included?
Water and snacks are provided, but they are limited. It’s advisable to bring additional food and drinks for your comfort.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is approximately 5.5 hours, including all stops and travel time.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, food, and your beachwear. Towel and sunscreen are not provided.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, and the stops at caves and bays are ideal for snorkeling.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; booking also offers a pay-later option.

Is there a maximum group size?
While the exact size isn’t specified, the tours are offered as shared groups or private, catering to different group sizes comfortably.

In the end, this boat trip to Grama Bay offers a fantastic way to explore the Albanian Riviera’s most captivating spots—perfect for those wanting natural beauty, a bit of adventure, and a relaxed day by the sea.

You can check if your dates are available here: