Grama Bay (Dedahilit Bay)
Grama Bay, also called Dedahilit Bay, lies 2.6 nautical miles west of Mount Shën Ilia. To the south, Cape Grama borders the bay, while rugged cliffs form the northwestern coastline. The bay stretches 130 meters inland to the northeast and measures 100–150 meters wide at its entrance. After that, it turns northward for about 100 meters. The northern shore features a sandy beach, and steep rocky cliffs rise 10 to 15 meters on the other sides. This barren, mountainous area has long served as a natural shelter for ships during storms. Additionally, an old, ruined building stands on Cape Grama, marking its historic importance.
Ancient Inscriptions at Grama Bay
For over two thousand years, sailors and travelers have left inscriptions on Grama Bay’s cliffs. The steep rock faces hold 1,494 carvings, placed carefully without overlapping. These ancient inscriptions include names such as the Illyrian “Gent” and citizens from Apollonia and Amantia. Moreover, carvings of different ship types reflect heavy maritime traffic between the 3rd and 1st centuries BCE. Besides that, the bay served as a stone quarry, providing material for building ancient cities like Dyrrachium (now Durrës) and Apollonia.
Depths and Navigation in Grama Bay
The bay’s waters are deep and free of underwater hazards. The five-meter depth line runs close to shore, allowing small boats to anchor safely. However, a large ancient stone block, left from quarrying, lies 10 meters off the northern beach at sea level. Grama Bay remains sheltered from all wind directions, which keeps its waters calm for sailors and visitors.
Seafloor Composition and Infrastructure in Grama Bay
The seabed near the northern shore consists mainly of massive stone blocks eroded from the cliffs. What used to be the ancient shoreline now lies 4.5 meters below the surface. Furthermore, humans have added a small concrete quay on the northern part of the bay. This quay measures 22 meters in length and 2 meters in width, offering docking space for small boats.
Grama Lighthouse: Guiding Mariners Safely
The Grama Lighthouse sits at latitude 40°13’ N and longitude 19°28’.4 E. It stands 4 meters tall with a metal trellis structure. Its light shines from 51.5 meters above sea level and can be seen up to 5 nautical miles away. Therefore, this lighthouse guides vessels safely near Grama Bay, especially at night and during poor visibility.
Nearby: Lovisa Beach Inlet
About 1.6 kilometers northwest of Grama Bay, Lovisa Beach inlet cuts 170 meters inland to the northeast. Then, it turns north for another 160–170 meters. The inlet’s northeastern entrance ranges from 75 to 100 meters wide but narrows to 25–30 meters at the northern end. Except for the northern shore, steep, rocky cliffs surround Lovisa. A dense forest covers the valley to the right of the stream when viewed from the sea. The inlet has deep waters and no underwater hazards, except some rocks located about 20 meters off the northern shore.
Book Your Grama Bay Adventure Today
Don’t miss your chance to explore the stunning beauty and rich history of Grama Bay with Bandito. This unforgettable boat trip from Vlora takes you to one of Albania’s most remarkable coastal treasures—where ancient inscriptions, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters come together. Along the way, our local guides will share the fascinating stories etched into the bay’s rocky shores. So, whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a bit of both, this journey offers the perfect mix. Book now and let Grama Bay leave you speechless!
Call: +355 69 7501 011