3 Island Cruise to Nisyros, St. Antonios & Yali

Exploring the 3 Island Cruise to Nisyros, St. Antonios & Yali: An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of a day out on the water exploring some of Greece’s lesser-known islands, this 3 Island Cruise from Kos might catch your eye. As a seasoned travel writer, I’ve come across plenty of tours, and this one seems to offer a pretty good balance of scenic beauty and laid-back adventure — especially considering its approachable price point of just over $42 per person.

What I really appreciate about this cruise is how it combines multiple stops into a single day, giving you a taste of island life, history, and volcanic landscapes without the hefty price tag. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional Greek BBQ on board sounds like a simple but tasty touch that adds to the overall experience. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour is somewhat dependent on weather — which can impact your day — and it’s not overly long, so if you’re after a full-on island-hopping marathon, this might feel a bit relaxed.

This cruise is well-suited for travelers who want a straightforward, scenic day with a bit of local flavor. If you’re not expecting luxury or a super packed itinerary, but rather a relaxing escape with good value and lovely views, this could be just what you need. It’s also a pretty flexible option if you’re traveling with a group or family, as reviews suggest the crew is friendly and accommodating.

Key Points

• Affordable price for an all-day island hopping experience.
• Multiple stops: Visit uninhabited St. Antonios, volcanic Yali, and the historic town of Nisyros.
• Scenic views and opportunities for swimming in unique volcanic waters.
• Casual schedule with ample time at each stop, ideal for relaxed exploration.
• Comfortable boat with friendly crew and onboard meals.
• Weather-dependent: The experience could be affected by wind or rain.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Departure from Kardamena

The day kicks off early at 10 am from the port of Kardamena. The boat, a “Pirate” style vessel, promises a fun, relaxed vibe which many reviews seem to agree on. The ride to the islands takes about 50 minutes, so you’ll be cruising in comfort, with plenty of opportunity to start soaking in the Greek sunshine and sea breeze. It’s worth noting that the boat is kept clean and well-maintained, which can really make a difference when you’re spending the day out.

First Stop: Agios Antonios Island

Within the first hour, the boat pulls up to the uninhabited island of St. Antonios. This spot is described as a “natural paradise,” and it’s a chance to stretch your legs and explore a tiny piece of untouched Greece. The highlight here is the small church of St. Antonios, which adds a touch of quiet charm. You’ll have about 45 minutes here, which is enough time to visit the church, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or simply relax on the beach.

A review from a family of seven mentioned that the boat is “clean and well kept,” and the crew is “friendly and helpful.” This suggests that the experience starts on a positive note, especially if you’re traveling with kids or in a group.

Second Stop: Nisyros and the Greek BBQ

Around noon, you arrive at Nisyros, a volcanic island famed for its active crater and charming town of Mandraki. The crew has prepared a traditional Greek BBQ, which is included in the price — a nice touch given the overall affordability of the tour. You get pork souvlaki, salad, and bread, with vegetarian options available if requested. This meal is served on the boat, so you can enjoy it while taking in the views or chatting with fellow travelers.

While on Nisyros, you’ll have about four hours to explore. You might choose to walk through Mandraki, check out the local shops, or just relax on the beach. The island’s volcanic landscape is particularly striking, and it’s a fascinating contrast to the more lush Greek islands. Though the tour package doesn’t include entry fees, you might find some interesting sights and photo opportunities in the town and surrounding areas.

From a review perspective, many travelers appreciate the time spent on Nisyros. It’s a good balance—enough to see and experience without feeling rushed. The price of the cruise covers the boat ride and lunch, so it’s a pretty solid deal for such a scenic stop.

Third Stop: Yali Island for a Swim

The last island stop is Yali, a small volcanic island with only about 21 inhabitants. Its volcanic origin makes the waters around it especially unique for swimming. You’ll have approximately 45 minutes here — enough time to take a dip in the warm, volcanic waters or walk around to enjoy the views.

A reviewer highlighted that the location was “a beautiful spot,” perfect for a quick swim before heading back. Since this is the final island, it’s a great way to cool off and enjoy the scenery before the return journey.

Return to Kardamena

By 5:30 pm, the boat heads back, bringing your day of island hopping to an end. The 50-minute ride home offers a chance to unwind, review photos, or simply soak up the last views of the Aegean.

What Does the Tour Offer That’s Worth Your While?

The value of this cruise lies in its simplicity and scenic variety. At just over $42, you get to visit three very different islands, each with its own character. The inclusion of a traditional BBQ adds to the feeling of an authentic Greek experience, and the friendly crew seems to make a difference according to reviews.

Most travelers find the scenery stunning, especially the volcanic waters at Yali and the peacefulness of St. Antonios. The ability to swim in volcanic waters isn’t something everyone gets to do every day, and many reviews highlight that this element makes the trip special. The overall length of 8 hours is manageable for a full day, fitting nicely into most travel plans without feeling rushed.

The cruise’s casual nature and manageable group size (up to 320 travelers) make it suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed, social atmosphere rather than a hectic tour. It’s also flexible enough to accommodate different physical fitness levels, with moderate walking involved at each stop.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for travelers on a budget who want to see a few different islands without the hassle of organizing multiple boat trips or transport. It’s suitable for people who enjoy scenic views, mild physical activity, and a laid-back pace. Families or less mobile travelers should note that the tour involves some walking and swimming, but it’s not overly strenuous.

If you’re curious about volcanic landscapes or simply want a restful day on the water with good food and company, this cruise offers a solid introduction. However, if you’re after a deeply cultural or highly active experience, you might find it somewhat limited.

The Sum Up

This 3 Island Cruise from Kos offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to explore some of the region’s most distinctive spots. The mix of volcanic landscapes, quiet beaches, and charming towns makes it ideal for those looking for a peaceful escape with picture-worthy views. The inclusion of a Greek BBQ and friendly crew adds to the relaxed atmosphere, ensuring you feel well taken care of throughout the day.

While the tour does depend on favorable weather and isn’t overly long, the experience provides a nice balance of scenery, local flavor, and gentle adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who want a manageable, scenic day without the fuss of more complex tours. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic outing in Greece that delivers good value, this cruise might just be a perfect fit.

FAQ

Is the price all-inclusive?
The cost covers boat tickets, taxes, fees, and a traditional Greek BBQ with options for vegetarians. Coffee or tea are not included, and any optional transfer to the volcano costs extra.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, starting at 10 am and returning around 5:30 pm.

Can I swim at each stop?
Yes, the stops at St. Antonios and Yali include opportunities for swimming, especially Yali with its volcanic waters. Part of the review highlights that some guests train the options to stay on the boat if preferred.

Is the boat comfortable?
Most reviews note the boat is clean, well-kept, and friendly. It’s a casual vessel, suitable for a relaxed day at sea.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested when booking, and they are served as part of the onboard BBQ.

What about group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 320 travelers, so it’s a relatively large group, but the experience still feels manageable and sociable.

Is this suitable for families?
Families with children who are comfortable with boat rides and swimming should find it enjoyable. One review mentions a 3-year-old who didn’t get off the boat but still enjoyed the day.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day exploring Greek islands with a friendly crew and good value, this cruise could be a great choice. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast and prepare for a laid-back adventure on the water.