Discover the Charm of the Dodecanese with the Kos 3-Island Wooden Ship Cruise
If you’re dreaming of a day spent sailing through clear blue waters, stopping at charming islands, and experiencing authentic Greek hospitality, then the Kos 3-Island Wooden Ship Cruise with Lunch on Captain Hook might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, fun-filled day on the water that many travelers find memorable.
One of the things we love about this experience is the chance to see multiple islands in one day, making it perfect for those who want a taste of different Greek spots without the hassle of multiple bookings. Plus, dolphin watching seems to be a delightful highlight, often captivating guests with these playful creatures sometimes swimming alongside the boat. On the flip side, some travelers mention that seating on the top deck can be less comfortable, especially during longer stretches, so it’s worth packing a bit of patience and a soft cushion or towel if you can.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of relaxing sunbathing, light adventure like cliff jumping, and cultural exploration. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic day out with a friendly crew, this could fit the bill. However, keep in mind that it’s not ideal for those over 70 or anyone seeking a more luxurious or quiet experience—this is lively, active, and family-friendly but with a party vibe often noted in reviews.
Key Points
- Multiple island visits in one day, offering diverse scenery and experiences
- Dolphin sightings are common, adding a magical touch to the cruise
- Casual, social atmosphere with music, friendly staff, and opportunities for swimming and cliff jumping
- Authentic Greek lunch onboard, typically featuring souvlaki, salads, and tzatziki
- Good value for money with plenty included like swimming, sightseeing, and tasting local treats
- Comfort levels vary; top deck seating may be less cozy for some travelers
The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
The journey begins at the Port of Kos, where you’ll meet the crew and hop aboard the impressive 85-foot wooden yacht known as Captain Hook. The boat itself is part of the charm—its traditional wooden design and ample deck space immediately set a relaxed, nautical tone. Expect sundecks with soft seats, covered areas for shade, and a lively bar area to keep refreshments flowing.
The cruise kicks off with an 80-minute sightseeing cruise around the islands, giving you sweeping views and the chance to settle into the gentle sway of the boat. From there, you’ll spend around 15 minutes dolphin watching, an experience that regularly delights guests. Watching these creatures leap and play is a real highlight—many reviews mention how they often meet dolphins during their trip, which adds a touch of magic.
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First Stop: Kalymnos
Next, you’ll dock at Kalymnos, famous for its little port of Vathy. Here, you get a generous amount of free time—usually around 80 minutes—to explore the town, soak in the scenery, and learn about the island’s famous sponge harvesting, honey, and orange juice. Many travelers enjoy wandering through the narrow streets, shopping for souvenirs, or just relaxing by the water. The crew provides a hearty Greek lunch onboard, featuring souvlaki, salads, and tzatziki, which many say is a real treat—especially after some time in the sun. One reviewer mentions that the lunch was great, with good portions and tasty ingredients.
Second Stop: Plati Island
After leaving Kalymnos, the boat cruises for about 25 minutes before arriving at Plati Island. This spot is perfect for swimming and snorkeling—a quick 45-minute stop that leaves many guests eager for more. The water here is described as crystal clear, making it an ideal place to cool off, float around, and enjoy the marine life. Some reviews mention how much fun it is to climb back onto the boat from the water, especially when jumping off the top deck into the sea—an activity that many find exhilarating.
Final Stop: Pserimos
The last island stop is at Pserimos, where you’ll have about 45 minutes of free time. This tiny island offers a relaxed atmosphere with opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, and swimming. Many guests take advantage of the calm waters and scenic beaches to unwind before heading back. The reviews note that the beach of Pserimos is ideal for sunbathing and dipping into the water.
More Great Tours NearbyReturning to Kos
The day wraps up with a 20-minute cruise back to the port of Kos, giving everyone a chance to soak in the last views and maybe share stories of their favorite moments.
What We Love About This Trip
The combination of scenic island stops, dolphin sightings, and a lively boat atmosphere makes this cruise a real crowd-pleaser. The crew’s reputation for being friendly and helpful, as highlighted by reviews, helps make the day enjoyable. The music, dance shows, and relaxed vibe contribute to a social, fun environment that many travelers, especially those traveling with friends or in groups, find particularly appealing.
The dolphin sightings are often described as enchanting, with guests marveling at the playful animals swimming alongside the boat. The cliff jumping opportunity at Plati Island adds a splash of adventure—if you’re comfortable with a bit of adrenaline, it’s worth trying.
In terms of value, most reviews praise the experience as worth the price, especially given that lunch, swimming, and sightseeing are all included, with no hidden extra costs for the main activities. The all-day duration of about 7.5 hours means you’re getting a full, relaxed experience without feeling rushed.
The Downsides and Considerations
While many guests rave about the trip, some mention that seating on the top deck can be less comfortable—harder seats or exposure to the sun might be an issue for sensitive travelers or those with back problems. Bringing a towel or cushion could help.
Also, the trip is not suitable for people over 70, likely due to the physical activity involved in swimming, jumping, and boarding. If you’re seeking a luxurious, quiet experience, this lively, social boat tour might feel a bit busy or noisy for your taste.
Lastly, drinks are not included, so if you’re planning to enjoy beers, wines, or cocktails, be prepared for extra costs. The crew’s bar is well-stocked, and reviews mention reasonably priced drinks, but it’s good to budget accordingly.
Is This Tour for You?
If you’re an active traveler who loves scenery, water activities, and a social atmosphere, this cruise offers a solid blend of all three. It’s ideal if you want to see several islands in one day without the hassle of local transport or multiple bookings. The dolphin sightings and snorkeling opportunities are a bonus, making it especially suitable for those who enjoy marine life and water adventures.
However, if comfort or tranquility are your top priorities, you might find the seating less than ideal or the lively vibe a bit overwhelming. Also, if you’re on a strict budget, remember drinks aren’t included, and extra costs could add up.
For families or groups with kids, the relaxed, fun environment and opportunities for swimming and jumping will likely appeal, but always consider the physical activity involved. Meanwhile, older travelers or those with mobility issues should evaluate their comfort with the boat’s setup and activity levels.
Kos : 3-Island Wooden Ship Cruise w/ Lunch on Captain Hook
“Great value for money, not always very comfortable on the top deck but it is what it is. The staff were friendly and put on a dance show, i would d…”
FAQ
How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 7.5 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.
What’s included in the price?
The tour includes dolphin watching, swimming on Platy and Pserimos islands, free time at Kalymnos, tastings of local honey, orange juice, and Greek donuts, plus a traditional Greek lunch onboard.
Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the price, but the boat has a bar with reasonably priced options.
Is there a dress code?
Bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. Casual summer clothing works best—no formal attire needed.
Can I jump off the boat?
Yes, cliff jumping is available at Plati Island, and many guests find it the most fun part of the day.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially with opportunities for swimming and relaxing, but consider your children’s comfort with activity levels.
What about the comfort of the boat?
Seating on the top deck can be less cushioned and more exposed to the sun, so plan accordingly.
How do I get to the meeting point?
Meet at the port of Kos, look for Captain Hook’s Wooden Ship. The exact details are provided when booking.
What languages do the staff speak?
The crew offers services in English, German, Greek, French, and Italian.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a passport or a copy. If you’re planning to jump or swim, these essentials will keep you comfortable and ready.
To sum it up, the Kos 3-Island Wooden Ship Cruise offers a lively, scenic day out that balances relaxation, adventure, and cultural glimpses. It’s especially appealing for those who love water activities, beautiful island scenery, and a friendly, social atmosphere. While it might not suit travelers seeking peace and quiet or those with mobility concerns, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a full, fun day on the water that captures the essence of the Greek islands.
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