3 Island Cruise to Nisyros, Volcano, St.Antonios, Yali & BBQ

Travelers looking to experience a slice of the Aegean’s charm often seek tours that combine scenic beauty with a bit of adventure. This particular 3 Island Cruise from Kardamena offers a well-rounded day visiting Nisyros, St. Antonios, and Yali, providing a blend of cultural sights, natural wonders, and relaxing moments at sea.

What makes this trip especially appealing are the stunning views of volcanoes and crystal-clear waters and the chance to enjoy a delicious Greek BBQ onboard. On the flip side, some might find the schedule a bit tight or the boat activity somewhat limited if they prefer a very leisurely pace.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full day of exploration without the hassle of organizing multiple transportations and who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food. If you’re into scenic island hopping with a bit of cultural insight, this cruise could be just right.

Key Points

• Visiting Three Unique Islands: Nisyros, Yali, and St. Antonios each offer their own charm.
• Accessible Volcano Experience: Optional bus trip to Nisyros’ famous volcano, with an affordable entrance fee.
• Onboard Relaxation and Food: Enjoy a Greek BBQ lunch while soaking up the views.
• Multiple Swimming Opportunities: Yali’s waters are perfect for a refreshing dip or just relaxing in the sun.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the church of St. Antonios and the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani.
• Value for Money: At $41 per person, the experience packs a lot into a 6.5-hour trip, including transport, food, and activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

Our adventure kicks off bright and early at the port of Kardamena, where you’ll find the pirate-themed boat “Maria Magdalini,” your vessel for the day. The cruise sets sail at 10 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Aegean while the crew whips up excitement for the day ahead.

Stop 1: St. Antonios Island

Within the first hour, you’ll arrive at St. Antonios, an uninhabited little paradise. The highlight here is the serene church of St. Antonios, which offers a peaceful spot to soak in the natural beauty. The views from this island are truly lovely, and if you’re into taking photos or just relaxing, it’s a perfect spot. Locally, people enjoy swimming and sunbathing in the clear waters, and you’ll likely hear positive comments such as, “It’s a little slice of untouched Greece.”

A noteworthy feature here is the leisurely pace—you can swim, sunbathe, or just explore the rocky shores at your own rhythm. The crew prepares a Greek BBQ lunch onboard, featuring pork souvlaki, salads, and bread, with vegetarian options available. This way, you get to enjoy authentic flavors while appreciating the sea views.

Stop 2: Nisyros Island

Around noon, the boat heads to Nisyros, one of the most famous volcanic islands in Greece. Docking at Mandraki, the island’s lively port and capital, you get a chance to explore at your own pace. Many travelers find the town charming, with narrow streets perfect for wandering and shopping for local souvenirs.

A major highlight here is a bus option to visit the volcano—the entrance fee is €5 per person, and you’ll be able to see the volcanic crater up close. The volcano has a fascinating, almost cinematic quality, with smoke vents and rugged terrain. Some reviews mention the climb of about 200 steps to reach the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, which offers panoramic views and a touch of local spiritual ambiance.

People love the opportunity to relax in Nisyros’ town, grab a coffee or a local treat at Ilikiomeni square, and soak in the island’s authentic vibe. It’s worth noting that some travelers appreciated having a free bus transfer included, making the visit both convenient and budget-friendly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Stop 3: Yali Island

The last stop is Yali, a small volcanic island with dramatic views and interesting geological features. Here, the focus is on relaxation—think sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying drinks onboard. Yali’s waters are clear and inviting, perfect for a quick swim or just floating around.

One review pointed out how “Yali’s vistas are breathtaking,” emphasizing the peaceful, unspoiled environment. You might find opportunities for diving or just unwinding in the sun. As the day winds down, the boat begins its return journey to Kardamena, arriving around 5:30 pm.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The cost of $41 per person offers quite good value for a full day of island-hopping, especially considering that it covers round-trip boat tickets, bus transfer to the volcano, onboard BBQ, and taxes. The only extra costs are the volcano entrance fee (€5) and any snacks or drinks you might want to purchase onboard.

Your ticket also includes sunbathing mats for the open deck, perfect for relaxing during the cruise, and insurance coverage—which offers peace of mind. The timing works well for most travelers, with departure at 10 am and return by 5:30 pm, giving you a full day without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking around Nisyros or climbing to the monastery.
• Pack sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and beachwear.
• Non-swimmers can relax onboard during swim stops—they won’t be left behind.
• Toilets are accessible on the vessel, which is always a plus on such trips.
• The onboard snack bar offers refreshments if you need a quick drink, but snacks and drinks for purchase are also available.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While not explicitly stated, trips like this tend to have moderate group sizes, making it easy to meet fellow travelers. The host speaks English, so communication should be smooth, and reviews suggest a friendly, family-like vibe onboard.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a structured yet flexible day exploring some of Greece’s scenic islands. It’s perfect if you’re into scenic views, volcanic landscapes, and swimming—and don’t mind a little movement.

While not specifically targeted at families, the relaxed pace and gentle activities could suit those traveling with older children or teens. If your main goal is to see beautiful islands without the hassle of organizing multiple transportations, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re looking for a very slow-paced, detailed cultural experience or a private tour, this might feel a bit too rushed. Similarly, those seeking a luxury or all-inclusive experience may find the $41 price point a fair trade-off, but don’t expect high-end amenities.

The Sum Up

This 3 Island Cruise offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, light adventure, and tasty local food, all at a reasonable price. With visits to volcanic landscapes, quaint towns, and relaxing swimming spots, it’s a good way to see some of the most iconic parts of the Dodecanese without overthinking logistics.

Travelers who enjoy scenic vistas, a bit of cultural exploration, and the simple pleasure of a good BBQ on the water will find a lot to love here. The tour’s friendly crew, flexible stops, and stunning views make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting an active, picturesque day out.

If you’re after a value-packed experience with a genuine feel of the islands, this cruise ticks most boxes. Just remember to bring your sunhat, comfy shoes, and a camera—you’re likely to come away with some memorable photos.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers are welcome since they can stay onboard during swim stops. The boat provides a comfortable environment whether you prefer to swim or relax.

How long do we stay on each island?
The itinerary includes time at each stop—St. Antonios, Nisyros, and Yali—though the exact duration at each varies. You’ll have enough time for swimming, exploring, and taking photos, especially in Nisyros and Yali.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers round-trip boat tickets, bus transfer to the volcano in Nisyros, onboard BBQ lunch, all taxes, sunbathing mats, and insurance.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the onboard BBQ, ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal.

How much does the volcano entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee to visit the volcano is €5 per person, payable on site.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, beachwear, and a towel are recommended. Bringing some extra cash for souvenirs or snacks is a good idea.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the relaxed pace and gentle activities suit older children and teens. It’s a good option for anyone wanting a scenic and enjoyable day in Greece.

Traveling with a sense of adventure and a love for gorgeous scenery, this cruise showcases some of Greece’s best, making it a solid pick for your Aegean itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: