Three Island Cruise from Kos

If you’re looking for a way to escape the busy streets of Kos and spend a relaxing day on the water, the Three Island Cruise might catch your eye. This tour promises visits to three distinct islands—Kalymnos, Pserimos, and Platiein—giving you a taste of local charm, beautiful beaches, and some interesting sights like a sponge workshop. It’s a popular choice, booked on average about 107 days in advance, which hints at its appeal.

What we like about this trip? First, it offers a chance to see different parts of the region without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or activities. Second, it includes some authentic touches, like the sponge workshop on Kalymnos, which brings a bit of local tradition into the mix. That said, it’s not all perfect—some travelers mention the guide’s approach or the itinerary’s pacing could be improved. Still, if you’re after a laid-back day on the water with manageable travel, this cruise could be a good fit.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a straightforward, well-organized boat day, especially those who enjoy beach time, scenic views, and authentic island visits. It’s also suitable if you’re traveling with a group that prefers a relaxing, family-friendly pace, although children must be accompanied by an adult.

Key Points

• Relaxed and scenic way to explore three islands in one day
• Includes local experiences like a sponge workshop on Kalymnos
• Transport and convenience are handled with hotel pickup and drop-off (in select hotels)
• Timing offers ample beach and swimming time, with around 3 hours at each stop
• Cost around $68.52 per person, offering a decent value for a full-day boat trip
• Not including food and drinks, so plan to bring snacks or purchase on your own

What to Expect from the Tour

The Three Island Cruise is about balancing sightseeing with relaxation. It’s a comfortable way to cover some ground without the stress of organizing multiple excursions. The journey begins early, with pickup from your hotel around 8:00 am, making the day feel full but not rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Kalymnos
Arriving at Kalymnos, you’ll get roughly three hours to explore and enjoy. Known as the island of sponge divers, Kalymnos boasts lovely sandy beaches and scenic coves. The highlight here is visiting a sponge workshop, where you can learn about the island’s traditional industry. Some reviews mention that the guide doesn’t provide much historical commentary, so if you’re a history buff, you might feel a bit left in the dark. Still, many appreciate the chance to stroll along the harbor or relax on the sands, especially if you enjoy a leisurely pace with time to soak in the views.

Second Stop: Pserimos
Next, the boat heads to Pserimos, a tiny island with only about 130 residents. Here, you’ll find a beautiful sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. With around three hours to spend, this stop is all about unwinding—whether you want to take a dip in the turquoise sea or just lounge with a book. One reviewer highlights the village’s charm, describing it as “the small village with 80 inhabitants,” which adds to its appeal as a quiet, authentic getaway.

Final Stop: Platiein Island
The last stop is Platiein Island, where you’ll anchor for swimming in crystal-clear waters. This is a prime chance to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of the Aegean. The calm, inviting waters seem to be a highlight for many, with some reviewers noting the relaxing atmosphere and enjoyable swims. The boat typically stays here long enough for good, leisurely swims before heading back to Kos.

What’s Included and Not Included

The tour price covers local taxes, a tour escort or host, and hotel pickup and drop-off in selected hotels. Be aware that food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly—bring some snacks or plan to buy something on the islands. The tour is designed for convenience, so the focus remains on sightseeing and relaxation rather than culinary experiences.

The Real Experiences: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews reflect the tour’s relaxed vibe. One traveler, Teresa, shared that it was “an incredibly relaxing day just wandering and swimming,” emphasizing the value of downtime in such a scenic setting. She pointed out that there wasn’t much guide interaction or historical commentary, but she enjoyed the opportunity to unwind with a cocktail.

However, not everyone loved the guide’s approach. Peter mentioned feeling disappointed because “they wanted to take you to a shop that sells sponges and a restaurant for food,” implying some commission-driven stops. He questioned whether self-exploration might be better. The tour provider responded by acknowledging these concerns and promising to improve the experience, which shows they’re aware of the feedback.

Other travelers highlighted the friendly atmosphere and the beautiful views. Ines enjoyed dolphin sightings and described the mood as “super,” noting the guide’s clear explanations and humor. Such comments suggest that the overall experience can be quite enjoyable, especially if you’re content with a leisurely, scenic day.

The Pros and Cons in a Nutshell

Pros:

• Ease of travel: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics smooth.
• Varied stops: Visiting three islands offers diversity.
• Beach time: Ample opportunity for swimming and relaxing.
• Authentic touches: Sponge workshop and local villages add character.
• Affordable price: Around $68, offering reasonable value for a full-day trip.

Cons:

• Limited guide interaction: Some reviews mention a lack of historical or local insights.
• Commercial stops: The sponge shop and restaurant visits may feel forced or commission-driven.
• Time management: Some might find the pacing a bit uneven, especially if they prefer more exploration or cultural info.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who want a laid-back, scenic day rather than a packed sightseeing itinerary. If you enjoy lounging on beaches, swimming in clear waters, and visiting small, authentic villages, you’ll feel right at home. It’s a solid option for those who prefer not to be hurried and appreciate some local flavor—like the sponge workshop—without the pressure of a guide constantly explaining history or trying to upsell.

If you’re traveling with kids who love swimming and beaches, this trip provides plenty of fun water-based activities. But keep in mind children need to be accompanied by adults. Those seeking gastronomic experiences or a deep dive into local history might find this tour a bit light on educational content.

The Sum Up

The Three Island Cruise from Kos offers a relaxed, scenic way to explore parts of the Dodecanese without the fuss of multiple bookings or complicated logistics. Its highlights—beautiful beaches, a glimpse into local sponge diving traditions, and the peaceful waters of the Aegean—make it a decent pick for travelers who want a simple, enjoyable day on the water.

While the trip’s pacing and guide interaction may leave some wanting more, many find it perfectly suited for unwinding and soaking up the sun. The hotel pickup and drop-off add a layer of convenience, and the reasonable price helps make it accessible. Just be prepared for some commercial stops and plan ahead for snacks or drinks to keep you fueled throughout the day.

This cruise is best for those who prioritize comfort, scenic views, and a slow pace. If you’re looking for a straightforward, no-fuss island-hopping experience with plenty of swimming and a touch of local charm, it’s worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included if you stay at selected hotels, making the day more convenient.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, with about 3 hours allocated for each stop—Kalymnos, Pserimos, and Platiein—and travel time in between.

What’s the cost per person?
It’s approximately $68.52 per person, which covers transportation, a tour guide, and taxes. Food and drinks are extra.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes visits to the islands, a sponge workshop in Kalymnos, and time for swimming and relaxing. It does not include food or drinks.

Can I explore the islands on my own?
The tour schedule is fixed, but you’re free to unwind and explore at your own pace during the allocated time.

Is the guide informative?
Reviews suggest the guide provides some explanations but is more focused on the relaxation aspect—expect less historical commentary and more laid-back hospitality.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water, and snacks if desired, as food isn’t included.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs are mentioned; the price covers transportation and taxes. Extra expenses like food are on you.

What’s the best time to book?
Since it’s popular, booking well in advance—around 3 to 4 months ahead—is recommended to secure your spot.

If a peaceful, scenic escape with a few local touches sounds appealing, this trip might just be your ideal day out from Kos. Just keep your expectations balanced, bring your essentials, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of island hopping in Greece.