Kalymnos and Pserimos Day Cruise from Kos

Exploring the Kalymnos and Pserimos Day Cruise from Kos: An Honest Guide

If you’re cruising around Kos and looking for a straightforward way to see a couple of the nearby islands, this Kalymnos and Pserimos day cruise could be worth considering. While it’s not the most luxurious or private experience, it offers a mix of scenic views, swimming, and local charm—all at a reasonable price.

What we like about this cruise is how it combines multiple islands in one day, giving you a taste of each without the need to plan multiple trips. Plus, the included barbecue lunch is a definite highlight, especially since you won’t have to worry about bringing snacks or finding a restaurant on the islands. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the experience can feel a bit rushed, and the food might not wow everyone. Still, if you’re after a relaxed, budget-friendly day out with the chance to hop between islands, this tour might suit you.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a convenient, all-in-one day trip that includes swimming, island exploration, and a decent meal. It’s ideal if you’re okay with a busy schedule and don’t mind a group setting. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a leisurely pace, you might want to keep in mind some of the time constraints noted by previous guests.

Key Points

• Multiple Islands in One Day: Visit Pserimos and Kalymnos in a single trip, maximizing your island-hopping experience.
• Free Swimming & Beach Time: Anchor at Plati Beach for a swim in incredibly clear waters.
• Included Meal: Enjoy a barbecue buffet on the boat with vegetarian options—no need to pack lunch.
• Relaxed Exploration: Have free time for sightseeing or chilling at local cafes on Pserimos and in Kalymnos.
• Group Size: Up to 70 travelers, so the experience is lively but not overly crowded.
• Cost-Effective: At around $52 per person, it offers a decent value—especially considering the included lunch.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off at Port Kos around 10:00 am, a convenient starting point near public transportation. Once onboard, the first stop is Plati Beach, a perfect spot for a quick dip. The boat anchors close to the land, and the water’s clarity makes it easy to see the sandy bottom through the vibrant blue. Spending about two hours here, you’ll have plenty of time for a swim, some sunbathing, or just soaking in the scenery. Our sources rave about the stunning coastal views and the chance to cool off in waters so clear you could spot tiny fish darting around.

Next, the boat heads to Pserimos, a quieter island with a shallow, sandy beach. This stop lasts around an hour, giving you time to relax, explore, or grab a drink at a local café. Many visitors enjoy wandering quiet paths and soaking in the laid-back vibe. One review notes that visitors can discover hidden spots or just chill at the local taverns. Keep in mind, the time here is limited, so don’t expect a thorough tour—this is more about relaxing and taking in the laid-back island atmosphere.

The last stop is Kalymnos, famous for its vibrant, colorful towns. You’ll spend an hour here, strolling through streets painted in different colors, each with its own meaning. It’s a lively, authentic setting, perfect for quick photos or a coffee break. The reviews mention how charming and photogenic the towns are, with one guest emphasizing the colorful houses as a highlight.

The Meal and Onboard Experience

The barbecue lunch is included and features both meat and vegetarian options. It’s served on the boat, which is handy for avoiding crowded restaurants or searching for a bite on your own. However, reviews suggest the meal might not be gourmet—some found it a bit “lacking in effort,” but most appreciated the convenience and the chance to eat while enjoying the views. Drinks are available for purchase, so you might want to bring some water or a bottle of wine if that’s your thing.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The chance to see two islands in one day simplifies planning.
– Free swim at Plati Beach offers a beautiful, calm setting.
– The included barbecue makes for a stress-free lunch.
– The boat offers scenic coastal views throughout the day.
– It fits a budget of around $52, making it accessible for many travelers.

Cons:
– Some guests find the schedule a bit rushed, especially at each stop.
– The food, according to one review, was “a little uninspired.”
– The experience might feel more like a quick tour than an in-depth exploration.
– Extra charges could apply for transfers if you’re staying outside the main pick-up area.

The Real Guest Feedback

Norbert loved the trip, calling it a “great time,” especially praising the crew and entertainment. Monika appreciated the beautiful scenery and well-organized trip, though she felt the meal could have been better. Jeanette had a more mixed impression, mentioning the stressful pace and the extra costs for family groups. Stefano found the experience somewhat disappointing, citing not enough noteworthy stops and a crowded feel.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys simple, hassle-free island hopping with a good balance of swimming, sightseeing, and food, this cruise works well. It’s especially suitable for travelers on a budget who want to tick off multiple places without extra planning. The included lunch adds value, but don’t expect gourmet quality—think hearty, straightforward barbecue.

This trip isn’t ideal if you prefer longer, more relaxed visits or are traveling with very young children who might find the schedule tight. Also, if you’re after a more exclusive or personalized experience, this busy group tour might feel a bit rushed.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
Extra charges may apply for pick-ups from hotels, villas, or Airbnbs outside the main route, but the tour meeting point is easily accessible near public transportation.

What time does the tour start?
The trip begins at 10:00 am from Port Kos.

How long is the entire cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including stops, swimming, and lunch.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available to purchase on board.

Do I need to bring towels?
Towels are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own for swimming.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, up to 70 travelers can join, so it tends to be lively but manageable.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the short stops and swimming could be enjoyable for older children; keep in mind the schedule is somewhat busy.

What kind of scenery can I expect?
Expect stunning coastal views, colorful towns, and tranquil beaches—perfect for photographs and peaceful moments.

Final Thoughts

This Kalymnos and Pserimos day cruise offers a practical way to see some of the Dodecanese islands without too much fuss. You’ll get to swim in beautiful waters, enjoy colorful local scenes, and have a laid-back meal on board. While it’s not a luxury experience, it’s a decent value for those wanting a straightforward, group tour that packs in a lot within a single day.

If your main goal is seeing multiple islands, enjoying a good meal without the hassle of finding your own, and soaking up some scenic views, this cruise might be just right. However, if you crave a slow-paced, boutique experience, or gourmet dining, you may want to explore other options.

All in all, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a fun, easy day out in the Greek islands—no frills, just a bit of everything.