Dory’s Glass Bottom Boat Adventure in Pserimos and Pserimos Beach

If you’re exploring Kos and looking for a way to enjoy the sea without diving too deep into the underwater world yourself, a glass-bottom boat trip like Dory’s offers a nice mix of scenic views, gentle adventure, and relaxing stops. It’s a popular choice among visitors, with over 80 reviews giving it a solid 4.5-star rating. While it’s not without its quirks, it’s a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see some of the highlights around Pserimos Island.

What we really like about this tour is the comfort of the vessel—it’s shaded, has onboard restrooms, and the crew handles all the navigation, so you can just sit back and soak in the views. Another big plus is the unique opportunity to see a shipwreck up close and enjoy swimming in clear blue waters. However, a potential downside is the occasional frustration over booking hiccups or crowded spots, which some reviews highlight. Still, for those seeking a laid-back, scenic outing, this tour hits many of the right notes.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who enjoy gentle boat rides, stunning vistas, and easy access to swimming and photo moments. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a relaxed pace, this could be a good fit—just keep in mind the potential for crowds and weather dependence.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Kos from sea level provide a new perspective on the island.
• Comfortable vessel with shade and onboard restrooms makes it easy to relax.
• Underwater and land stops include a swim at Pserimos Beach and a visit to a famous shipwreck.
• Accessible for most travelers, with a mobile ticket and no complex logistics.
• Affordable price point at around $26.70 per person offers good value.
• Some reviews mention crowding and booking issues, so arrive early and be prepared for busy days.

What to Expect from Dory’s Glass Bottom Boat Adventure

This roughly 2.5-hour tour offers a relaxed way to enjoy the Aegean Sea, especially if you’re not keen on strenuous activities or diving. The journey starts from the Kos Cruise Experts port, a convenient departure point. You’ll hop aboard a comfortable boat equipped with a shaded area—perfect for those who want to avoid the sun—and restrooms, making it suitable for longer or warmer days. The small group size (up to 70 travelers) ensures a less rushed and more intimate atmosphere, but it can still get crowded during peak times.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The trip begins with a scenic view of Kos Harbour from the water, setting the tone for an enjoyable cruise. The first major stop is at Pserimos, a tiny island with a stunning beach. When you arrive, you’ll have about 40 minutes to relax, take photos, and enjoy a swim. The water here is clear, inviting, and perfect for cooling off. Travelers have enjoyed this stop, with one review noting, “Exciting to swim in the blue waters,” and suggesting bringing snacks and drinks for kids.

The second highlight is the shipwreck near Avlakia Beach. This old cargo vessel has become a local landmark, and many find it fascinating to see such a relic in the sea. You only get about 15 minutes here, but it’s enough to snap some great photos and marvel at this piece of maritime history. Several reviews mention the shipwreck as a “brilliant” and “awesome” sight, adding a memorable element to the trip.

Underwater Views and Photo Opportunities

Thanks to the glass-bottom boat, you’ll get a good look at fish and underwater life without getting your feet wet. While some reviewers note that the windows are relatively small—about 20 cm by 90 cm—and that crowds can limit viewing during busy times, the overall experience is still enjoyable. The boat’s design allows a decent glimpse into the underwater world, especially if you sit near the windows.

Comfort and Convenience on Board

A key feature that sets this tour apart from more basic boat excursions is the comfortable vessel. It’s equipped with a shaded area, protecting you from the sun, and restrooms inside, which is a thoughtful touch, especially for longer or hot days. The trip is easy to book with a mobile ticket, and the activity is suitable for most travelers, including those who may prefer a less active day. The crew handles all navigation, so there’s no need for you to worry about steering or directions.

The Swimming and Beach Stop

The blue lagoon near Pserimos is highlighted as the main swimming spot. It’s described as not too deep and great for a relaxing dip. The reviews mention the blue lagoon as an “awesome” place to enjoy the water, with some noting that it was crowded, which can affect the viewing experience from the boat. Still, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters with friendly fish makes it a bucket-list moment for many.

The Real Experience: Pros and Cons

Looking at the reviews helps paint a more complete picture. Many travelers loved the scenery and the friendly crew, describing the experience as “great” and “brilliant.” The shipwreck is often highlighted as a unique sight, and the swimming in the blue waters is a highlight for all ages. The price point feels justified for the experience offered—considering the scenic views, the stops, and the comfort.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some travelers experienced booking issues or missed the boat because it departed earlier than scheduled, which underscores the importance of arriving early and confirming your details. Others found the windows small and the crowds overwhelming, especially during peak times. There was also a mention that the trip was canceled without notification, which can be frustrating, so it’s good to keep a close eye on confirmation details.

This tour offers good value for money, especially if you’re after a relaxed, scenic outing rather than an in-depth underwater exploration. It’s perfect if you want a straightforward way to enjoy the sea, take great photos, and spend some time swimming in beautiful waters.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy gentle boat rides, scenic views, and easy access to swimming spots, this trip suits you well. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxing day on the water without complicated logistics or strenuous activities. Families with children might find it enjoyable as well, especially with the onboard amenities and the shallow swimming areas, but be mindful of timing and crowds. If you’re after a more in-depth underwater experience or want to snorkel extensively, this might not fully satisfy that craving.

Travelers who appreciate good value and straightforward sightseeing will find this tour hits the right balance. Those looking for a quieter, less crowded experience should plan to go early or avoid peak season if possible.

Final Thoughts

Dory’s Glass Bottom Boat Adventure offers a solid, no-fuss way to see some of Pserimos’s highlights without the need for diving gear or extensive planning. The scenic views from the water, combined with the chance to visit a shipwreck and swim in clear blue waters, make it a memorable outing. It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and affordability.

While it’s not perfect—crowds, small windows, and occasional booking issues are worth noting—the overall experience is enjoyable and well worth the modest price. If you’re looking for a laid-back sea adventure that highlights some of the most picturesque parts of the area, this might be just what you need for a relaxing day in Greece.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is generally suitable for most travelers and families. The boat has onboard restrooms and shaded areas, making it comfortable for kids, and the swimming stops are in shallow, kid-friendly waters. Just keep an eye on timing and crowds.

What does the tour include?
The trip includes a glass-bottom vessel with a shaded area and restrooms. You’ll visit Pserimos Beach and the shipwreck near Avlakia Beach, with swimming time at the blue lagoon. It does not include snacks or drinks, so consider bringing your own.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, from departure in Kos to return, including stops and swimming time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the Kos Cruise Experts port and finishes back at the same meeting point.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Make sure to check the forecast if you’re concerned about rain or strong winds.

This glass-bottom boat trip strikes a nice balance of scenic views, gentle adventure, and comfort, making it a relaxing way to enjoy the Greek seas. Just plan ahead, arrive early, and enjoy the sights—this could be one of those simple, memorable moments you’ll be glad you took the time for.