If you’re eyeing a way to see more of Kos and its neighboring islands without spending your whole vacation on land, a full-day cruise tends to be a popular choice. We’ve looked into one of the most reviewed options—the 3 Island Cruise—and here’s what you should know before booking.
What catches most travelers’ attention are the opportunities for dolphin sightings and the chance to explore Kalymnos, Pserimos, and Platy all in one day. Plus, with included lunch and onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and restrooms, it sounds pretty comfortable.
However, there are some things to consider, such as the variability in stop durations and the importance of booking well in advance—most people are planning around 11 days ahead. If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic day with a dash of adventure, this tour is likely a good fit. For those wanting a more flexible or personalized experience, it might be worth pondering other options.
Ideal for travelers who want to tick off multiple islands in a single day, enjoy a lively boat atmosphere, and savor traditional Greek fare, this cruise seems to strike a good balance between fun and value.
- Key Points
- Setting the Scene: What the Tour Entails
- Why the trip stands out
- The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Day
- Stop 1: Kalymnos – Dolphin Watching and Fish Farms
- Stop 2: Kalymnos – Vathy Port and Lunch
- Stop 3: Platy – Cliff Diving and Swimming
- Stop 4: Pserimos – Relaxing Beach and Local Shops
- Onboard Experience and Extras
- What Travelers Say
- The Value for Money and Who It’s Best For
- Final Thoughts
- Full-Day 3 Island Cruise Tour in Kos Island
- FAQs
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Kos
- More Tour Reviews in Kos
- More Kos experiences we've covered
Key Points
- Multiple islands: Visit three different islands—Kalymnos, Pserimos, and Platy—in one day.
- Dolphin watching: Hope to see dolphins near Kalymnos—many travelers find this a highlight.
- Comfort features: Wi-Fi, restrooms, and a lively boat environment make the trip more enjoyable.
- Included lunch: A traditional Greek meal is part of the package, adding great value.
- Timing: Expect about 7.5 hours from start to finish, with a packed but flexible itinerary.
- Booking: Book about 11 days ahead on average for guaranteed spot, especially in peak season.
Setting the Scene: What the Tour Entails
This cruise is designed for those who want to maximize their island-hopping without the hassle of arranging multiple ferries or tours. Starting at the Port of Kos at 9:30 am, you’ll hop on a boat operated by Kos Cruise Experts, which comfortably fits up to 130 travelers. The experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, making it a full day’s adventure but not overly exhausting.
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Why the trip stands out
Most reviews praise the value for money, with the price hovering around $44.69 per person. For that, you get not only the scenic travel but also the chance to experience local life on each island and enjoy the boat’s amenities.
The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Day
Stop 1: Kalymnos – Dolphin Watching and Fish Farms
The adventure kicks off with a chance to see dolphins near Kalymnos—an experience many find magical. The boat pauses for about 15 minutes in an area known for its fish farming facilities, which many reviews highlight as a favorite. The dolphins’ appearance is a spontaneous thrill, often cited as a “great surprise.”
We loved the way this part of the trip feels like a natural bonus rather than a scripted show. Though dolphins are not guaranteed, many travelers report seeing them and enjoying the playful encounter.
Stop 2: Kalymnos – Vathy Port and Lunch
Next, you’ll enter Vathy, a charming little port. Here, you’ll have roughly 2 hours 30 minutes to explore the town, grab local delicacies like freshly squeezed orange juice and honey, and enjoy swimming in the clear waters.
This stop is the longest, giving you enough time to wander, take photos, or dip into the water. The lunch—a traditional Greek meal—comes with dishes that many reviewers rave about, noting that the food is good quality, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Be aware, drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.
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Stop 3: Platy – Cliff Diving and Swimming
The tiny island of Platy offers about 50 minutes for a quick swim or some cliff jumping. The turquoise waters here seem to beckon for a refreshing dip, and the small size of the island makes it easy to explore quickly.
Several reviews mention this as a fun, low-key stop with scenic views perfect for photos. It’s a brief but meaningful chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the water.
Stop 4: Pserimos – Relaxing Beach and Local Shops
Finally, you’ll visit Pserimos for about 40 minutes. The beach here looks inviting, with options to relax and enjoy a cold drink or explore the tiny church and souvenir shops. Some reviewers mention that this is a peaceful ending to the day, a chance to unwind before heading back.
Onboard Experience and Extras
Travelers appreciate the comfortable vessel, often describing it as spacious enough to find a good spot, especially if you arrive early. The Wi-Fi is a perk, allowing some connectivity, and restrooms are available on board, which is handy during such a long trip.
The music and lively atmosphere are frequently praised, making it feel more like a party than a stiff tour. Many reviews highlight the affordable cocktails, with prices as low as £5, which adds to the fun.
What Travelers Say
The general consensus is that most people find this tour great value for money. A typical glowing review mentions the beautiful islands, the dolphin sighting, and the good food, all wrapped into a well-organized day.
Some reviews do note minor hiccups like the need to arrive early to secure a good spot or the early serving of lunch, which can leave some feeling a bit hungry later. Also, a few reviewers mention communication issues or cancellations—if you’re on a tight schedule or arriving via cruise, it’s worth confirming your booking well in advance.
The Value for Money and Who It’s Best For
Considering the price point, the tour offers a significant chunk of island exploration, entertainment, and a tasty meal. For those who want a full day of sightseeing, socializing, and swimming, it’s hard to beat.
This tour suits active travelers who enjoy a lively boat trip, aren’t overly concerned about rigid schedules, and want to see multiple islands without planning each leg individually. If you’re traveling on a budget or looking to experience the local vibe with minimal hassle, this cruise ticks those boxes.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Island Cruise in Kos presents a solid mix of scenic stops, fun onboard atmosphere, and local flavors. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to see more than just the main island and are okay with a busy but well-organized day. The hope for dolphin sightings adds a touch of magic, and many travelers leave raving about the value.
On the flip side, the limited stop durations mean you won’t get hours on each island—but that’s often the case with day tours. Arriving early, bringing essentials, and preparing for a lively boat experience will help you make the most of it.
All in all, this cruise is best suited for those wanting a cost-effective, socially vibrant day trip that offers a taste of island life, scenic views, and a touch of adventure.
Full-Day 3 Island Cruise Tour in Kos Island
“10/10 experience, would higjly recommend! Crew were fabulous and the boat was great. There were a mix of couples and families and everyone had a gr…”
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, children who enjoy swimming, boat trips, and sightseeing should find this enjoyable. Keep in mind that the trip can be lively and involves some walking and water activities, so consider your kids’ comfort and safety.
How early should I book?
Most travelers book about 11 days in advance, especially during peak season, to secure their spot, as it’s quite popular.
What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the boat ride, dolphin watching, stops at three islands, a traditional Greek lunch, onboard Wi-Fi, and restroom access.
Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages and other drinks are not included. Drinks are available for purchase on board at reasonable prices.
How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7.5 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning to the port of Kos.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
What’s the group size?
Up to 130 travelers can join, so it’s a lively, bustling environment.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.
Is there free time on each island?
Yes, each stop offers a window for exploring, swimming, or relaxing, ranging from 40 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes.
Will I have time to take photos?
Absolutely. The stops are scenic, and most travelers find plenty of time to capture beautiful memories.
If you’re looking to explore Kos beyond the streets and beaches, this cruise offers a lively, well-organized, and reasonably priced way to do it. Just remember to arrive early, stay hydrated, and enjoy the ride!
