From the Port of Kos: Full Day Boat Cruise to 3 Islands

If you’re planning a trip to Kos and want a way to see some of the nearby islands without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, a full-day boat cruise to three islands might just be your perfect solution. We’ve looked into this popular experience, and it seems to hit the sweet spot for many travelers. Whether you’re into swimming in clear waters, exploring charming villages, or simply relaxing with good food and drinks, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the area.

What really caught our attention is how highly rated this trip is—boasting a 4.8 out of 5 from nearly 4,000 reviews. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly crew, and the inclusion of a traditional Greek lunch makes it a standout option for anyone seeking a laid-back day at sea. Plus, the price point is quite attractive—around $33.88 per person—especially considering the length and variety of stops.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is about 7.5 hours long, so it’s a full day of activity. For some, that’s perfect; for others, it might feel a bit long, especially if you prefer shorter, more relaxed outings. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good company on the water.

If you’re looking for an authentic, value-packed adventure that showcases Greek island life, this cruise from Kos seems to tick many boxes. Read on for a detailed breakdown of what you can expect, along with honest insights to help you decide if it fits your holiday plans.

Key Points

• Stunning Island Stops: Visit three charming islands—Kalymnos, Plati, and Pserimos—with plenty of time to explore and swim.
• Excellent Value: At around $34, the trip includes a Greek buffet lunch, swim stops, and beautiful scenery.
• Family-Friendly Aspects: Suitable for most travelers except those with mobility issues; plenty of swimming and relaxed exploration.
• Memorable Encounters: Opportunities to see wild dolphins and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Soft music, cocktails, and scenic cruising create a laid-back vibe.
• Well-Reviewed Crew: Many travelers praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff and smooth organization.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Full-Day Island Hopping Experience

Starting Point and Booking

Your day begins at the Kos Old Port, near Dolphin Square, where you’ll meet the boat named “Odyssey.” The location is easy to find if you’re already exploring Kos town, and arriving by 9:30 am ensures you get checked in without any rush. The process is quick and straightforward, especially if you’ve booked online, with options to reserve and pay later for flexibility.

The boat itself is described as a comfortable vessel—smaller than some of the larger tour boats, which many reviews find a plus because it feels more personal and less crowded. The crew is on hand to help with check-in, and the friendly atmosphere starts early on.

The Voyage Begins

Once onboard, the cruise kicks off with a relaxing sail across the water. For about an hour, you’ll be cruising past fish farms and watching for dolphins—a highlight for many. Multiple reviews rave about how the crew helps spot dolphins and shares interesting commentary about the surroundings, adding a layer of engagement to the trip. The boat’s sound system plays soft music, contributing to a chilled-out vibe as you settle into the journey.

First Stop: Kalymnos and Vathi Village

Your first destination is Vathi, a beautiful village on Kalymnos. Here, you’ll have around an hour to wander its peaceful streets, take pictures of the rugged fjords, caves, and the surrounding gullies. Many reviews mention the spectacular views from this area, with some quoting “magnificent views of a natural fjord” as a highlight.

This stop is well-placed for a quick exploration or just some relaxing time soaking in the scenery. The village offers local specialties to try if you’re feeling hungry, adding a bit of authentic flavor to your visit.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Refreshments

Back on the boat, a Greek buffet awaits, including options for meat eaters and vegetarians. The lunch features pork or chicken souvlaki, salad, tzatziki, and bread—an honest, tasty meal that offers good value for the price. Vegetarian options like beans and dolmades are available, making it accessible for different dietary needs.

Many reviews praise the food as being surprisingly good and filling, with some even calling it “better than hotel food.” The crew serves drinks and cocktails at reasonable prices, perfect for enjoying while cruising or relaxing on deck.

Second Stop: Fish Farms and Dolphin Spotting

After lunch, the boat sails past fish farms, with ample opportunities to catch sight of wild dolphins jumping out of the water. Several travelers mention how thrilling it is to see these animals in their natural environment, often thanks to the crew’s enthusiastic spotting tips like “left! right! right again!”

Third Stop: Plati Islet for Swimming

Next, you’ll dock at Plati Islet, a small and idyllic spot perfect for swimming. The clear turquoise waters beckon, and many reviewers mention jumping from the boat into the sea as a highlight. There’s also snorkels available to explore the underwater world, adding some extra fun for those interested.

The swim stop here is praised for its beauty, with some saying they could stay in the water for hours. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time to swim, float, or just lounge on the boat’s deck.

Final Stop: Pserimos

The last island on the itinerary is Pserimos, a quiet and unspoiled place with a sandy beach and charming streets to explore. You’ll have around an hour here, which many find enough to wander, relax, or take more photos before heading back to Kos.

This stop caps the day with a peaceful, scenic atmosphere—a perfect way to end the island visits.

The Cruise Back and Final Thoughts

The return journey involves a brief sail, often with the crew pointing out more sights and sharing stories. Many reviews highlight how smoothly everything runs, even when the weather is windy or rough, thanks to the experienced skipper.

You’ll arrive back at Kos Old Port in the evening, tired but happy from a full day of sun, sea, and scenic beauty.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Value

For around $33.88, this trip packs in a lot. The included lunch, swim stops, island exploration, and dolphin sightings**—many reviewers agree it’s excellent value for money. It’s a full 7.5 hours of fun, with enough variety to keep everyone entertained.

The Scenery and Stops

Each island offers something different. Kalymnos is dramatic and scenic, Plati is all about swimming in clear waters, and Pserimos is a tranquil getaway. The stops are well-spaced, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

The Crew and Atmosphere

Repeated praise of the friendly, knowledgeable crew makes a difference. They’re often described as helpful, funny, and attentive, making the experience all the more enjoyable. Many travelers mention how they even helped spot dolphins or adjusted to weather conditions, which shows genuine care.

The Food and Drinks

The Greek buffet lunch is straightforward but tasty, with vegetarian options available. Drinks are available for purchase, and many reviews point out how affordable and tasty the cocktails and refreshments are onboard.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, all-in-one day of island hopping, swimming, and soaking up Greek scenery. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a social atmosphere, good food, and a bit of adventure in the form of dolphin watching or snorkeling.

While not suitable for people with mobility impairments, it does cater well to most able-bodied travelers looking for a fun, value-for-money day on the water. Families with older children or teens may also find it a great way to spend a day together—especially if they’re into swimming and nature.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, children who are comfortable in the water and enjoy boat rides will likely have a good time. Note that it isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments.

Do I need to bring my own towels?
Towels are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring your own, especially for swimming stops.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are available for purchase on the boat. Many reviews mention that drinks are reasonably priced and tasty.

How long are the stops?
Stops at each island vary—around an hour at Kalymnos and Pserimos, with plenty of time to explore and swim. The swim stops are typically around Plati, offering enough time to jump in and relax.

Is the lunch vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, vegetarian options such as beans and dolmades are available alongside the meat options.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel. Pack light, as storage on the boat is limited.

What happens if the weather is windy?
The trip is described as smooth even in windy conditions, thanks to the experienced skipper. The crew is attentive to safety and comfort.

Can I see dolphins?
Many travelers report seeing wild dolphins during the cruise, especially near fish farms, making this a memorable bonus.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts

This full-day boat cruise from Kos offers a flavorful taste of Greek island life—beautiful scenery, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and a delicious Greek lunch—all at a surprisingly affordable price. The friendly crew and well-organized stops make it a great choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free, scenic, and social day on the water.

While it’s not for those with mobility issues and requires a full day commitment, most other travelers find it to be a memorable highlight of their Kos trip. Whether you’re seeking stunning views, dolphin sightings, or just a relaxing day in Greece, this cruise seems to deliver on all fronts.

If you enjoy a bit of adventure mixed with comfort, and you want to see a handful of islands without the fuss, this experience is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: