If you’re dreaming of a day filled with sun, sea, and a little adventure, this Pirate Boat Cruise from Kardamena might catch your eye. It promises to whisk you away on a ship called Maria Magdalini to explore three of Kos’s beautiful bays, topped with a Greek BBQ lunch and plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy some lively atmosphere.
We’ve read through the reviews, tour details, and all the little extras to give you a clear picture of what to expect. Whether you’re into scenic boat trips, delicious food, or just soaking up the sun in a gorgeous setting, this experience offers a lot. But, like any tour, there are some things to consider before booking.
What we really like about this cruise is the variety of stops—each bay has its own charm and vibe—and the lively onboard atmosphere, featuring music and dancing, which helps keep the energy high. Plus, the inclusion of a Greek BBQ lunch makes it feel like a proper indulgence rather than just sightseeing from afar.
However, one thing to keep in mind is mobility at certain stops—some reviewers mention climbing rocks or navigating uneven terrain. So, if you’re not particularly mobile or traveling with someone who isn’t, it’s worth considering whether you’ll comfortably enjoy all the stops.
This tour suits travelers who want a mix of fun, scenery, and good food in a social, lively setting. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy swimming in clear waters, relaxing on deck, and don’t mind a little noise and activity onboard. It’s a flexible experience that balances sightseeing with leisure.
Key Points
- Scenic Bay Visits: You’ll spend around 1.5 hours at Kefalos Beach, plus time at Kastri Island and Paradise Beach, each offering stunning waters and opportunities for swimming.
- Lively Atmosphere: Expect onboard music, dancing, and a party vibe that keeps energy high throughout the day.
- Delicious Food: The included BBQ lunch features traditional Greek flavors, with vegetarian options available, and the quality is generally well-reviewed.
- Flexible Experience: The cruise caters to a variety of travelers, from those wanting to relax to those eager for active swimming and exploring.
- Family-Friendly? It’s suitable for most travelers, but some stops involve climbing or uneven terrain, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility concerns.
- Value for Money: With round-trip boat tickets, a full lunch, and multiple stops, many reviewers say it’s good value, especially considering the lively atmosphere and scenic locations.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Planning more time in Kardamaina? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary & Stops
The cruise kicks off at 10 am from Kardamena port, a lively hub where you’ll spot the pirate ship Maria Magdalini easily by its appearance. From there, you’re heading to Kefalos Beach, a favorite for many. You’ll get about 1.5 hours here, which is plenty of time to stretch your legs, stroll along the pristine sands, and soak up the peaceful surroundings. This part of the bay is praised for its clear waters and quiet, secluded vibe—perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing on the beach.
One review describes it as “beautiful bays with a good amount of time at each,” emphasizing the balance between exploration and relaxation. Keep in mind, if you’re someone who loves unhurried exploration, this schedule offers enough time without feeling rushed.
After Kefalos, it’s back on the Maria Magdalini for a delicious Greek BBQ lunch. The menu includes souvlaki skewers, Greek salad, bread, and vegetarian options. Reviewers highlight the quality of the food—not just as a simple meal but as a satisfying, flavorful addition to the day. The onboard barbecue feels like a genuine local experience, especially if you’re a fan of grilled meats and traditional dishes.
Kastri Island & Paradise Beach
Next stop is Kastri Island, renowned for its crystal-clear water—a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing. The water here seems to be a standout feature, with visitors commenting on how inviting and clean it is. It’s an ideal place to cool off and enjoy the scenery, whether you prefer to float, snorkel, or just dip your toes.
The final stop is Paradise Beach, or Bubble Beach, where you’ll spend about 2 hours. Many reviews mention the fun activity of jumping off the boat into the warm waters, which adds a splash of adventure to the trip. Be aware that getting to this beach is not straightforward—the boat doesn’t dock directly at the shore, requiring a swim or some climbing, which might not be suitable for everyone. As one reviewer said, “It’s best for swimmers and fit persons,” especially since there’s climbing involved to access the water.
The Atmosphere Onboard
Expect a lively environment with music, dancing, and socializing. The upper deck offers sun loungers and a bar, making it easy to relax and catch some sun, while the lower deck provides picnic-style tables for eating and chatting. The music is described as “party-style,” adding to the fun, but if you want a quieter experience, there are designated calmer areas.
Reviews from Emma, April, and Lucy paint a picture of a fun-filled day with great value. Emma raves about the waters, saying, “A great way to spend the day enjoying the crystal clear waters Kos has to offer,” and highlights the convenience of a bar to buy drinks and snacks. April enjoyed the large, clean boat with pirate-themed touches, and Lucy appreciated the activity-packed day with excellent stops and a tasty BBQ.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details & Considerations
The tour runs for about 6.5 hours, starting at 10 am and returning around 4:30 pm. The price includes boat tickets, lunch, taxes, and insurance, making it a straightforward booking without hidden costs. You might want to bring sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and beachwear to stay comfortable during the day.
While the experience is family-friendly, keep in mind the climbing at certain stops and the active swimming—not ideal for very young children or those with limited mobility. The tour caters to a broad audience, from solo travelers to groups, and aims for a lively, inclusive vibe.
If you’re seeking a relaxed, peaceful day on the water, this might be a bit too energetic. Conversely, if you love social scenes, scenic swims, and a bit of adventure, you’ll likely find plenty to enjoy.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and onboard fun. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy music, dancing, and a party atmosphere. The included BBQ lunch adds value and makes it feel like a full-day outing, not just a quick boat ride.
It’s also a good pick for those who want to explore beautiful bays without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers or boat rentals. However, if you’re looking for a super quiet, laid-back day or have mobility issues, you might find certain stops challenging.
This cruise offers a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and social fun, making it a popular choice for groups and those looking to make the most of a day at sea.
FAQs
Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise welcomes everyone, including families with young children. However, keep in mind that some stops involve climbing rocks or swimming, so consider your children’s mobility and comfort level.
What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and beachwear. Towels might be handy if you plan to swim, and a change of clothes is always good for after swimming.
Does the cruise run rain or shine?
The provided details don’t specify weather conditions, but typically, boat tours like this operate in most weather unless conditions are unsafe. It’s best to check close to your date.
Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are included in the BBQ lunch, along with the main dishes like souvlaki.
What time does the cruise start and end?
It begins at 10 am and returns around 4:30 pm, making it a full-day experience with plenty of time to relax and explore.
Is there any additional cost I should expect?
Drinks and snacks apart from the included lunch are not included, so you might want to budget for those if you plan to purchase beverages onboard.
Kardamaina: Pirate Boat Cruise to 3 Bays with BBQ Lunch
“Amazing cruise! A great way to spend the day enjoying the crystal clear waters kos has to offer! Lunch was great and a bar at top of boat to buy dr…”
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a fun, lively day on the water with beautiful scenery and good food, this pirate-themed cruise from Kardamena ticks many boxes. It offers a combination of swimming, sightseeing, and onboard entertainment that many travelers seem to really enjoy. The stops at Kefalos Beach, Kastri Island, and Paradise Beach are highlights, each offering different experiences—whether it’s relaxing on the sand or jumping into warm waters.
While some stops involve rocky terrain or swimming that might not suit everyone, most will find the balance of activity and relaxation appealing. The included BBQ and the friendly, party atmosphere onboard make it a memorable way to spend a day at sea, especially if you’re traveling in a group or with friends.
For those who love social outings with scenic views and don’t mind a bit of activity, this cruise offers solid value and plenty of fun. Just remember to bring your sun protection and a sense of adventure—and prepare for a day full of sun, sea, and a dash of pirate spirit.
You can check availability for your dates here: