Pirate Cruise from Kos to Kalymnos, Pserimos, Plati & BBQ

Traveling in Greece often means exploring picturesque islands, enjoying delicious food, and soaking up the sun. This particular cruise from Kos offers a delightful mix of all three, wrapped up in a fun, pirate-themed adventure. We haven’t personally set sail with this tour but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s a well-rounded experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

What we really love about this cruise is its casual, friendly vibe — thanks to its lively crew, scenic swim stops, and the inclusive Greek BBQ onboard. The flexibility to relax on the boat or explore at each island makes it ideal for families, couples, or even solo travelers seeking a taste of local life.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that some experiences might depend on weather conditions or boat availability, as the operator occasionally uses different vessels to accommodate capacity. This cruise suits those looking for an authentic, fun-filled day on the water, especially if you’re keen to escape the crowds and enjoy small island charm.

This experience made our article of 5 Best BBQ Experiences In Greece (With Reviews & Prices).

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Key Points

Authentic Greek Experience: Combining island hopping with a lively, friendly crew and traditional food.
Multiple Swim Opportunities: Perfect for cooling off in crystal-clear waters and enjoying scenic beaches.
Flexible Scheduling: About 7 hours long, with multiple stops and optional hotel pickup.
Value for Money: Includes a Greek BBQ, swim stops, and visits to three islands for a reasonable price.
Family-Friendly: Comfortable for small kids and non-swimmers, with onboard refreshments.
Authentic Atmosphere: Pirate-themed boat with decks for dancing, lounging, and enjoying the views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: Breaking Down Each Stop

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Departure from Kos and Boarding the Pirate Ship

Starting at the port of Kos, you’ll meet the crew and board the “Pirates of Kos” or “Pirates of the Aegean,” depending on the day. The boat itself receives praise for being comfortable, with space both inside and outside, making it suitable for all weather conditions. The crew, often praised for their humor and friendliness, sets a lively tone right from the start.

First Stop: Pserimos Island

The first stop is Pserimos, a tiny, peaceful island with a stunning golden sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. Reviewers mention the brief stop here, around an hour, as perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing with a good book. Its small size—just 15 square meters—is ideal for unwinding without the crowds.

While there, our crew prepares a Greek meal featuring souvlaki, salad, and bread, which is included in the tour price. One reviewer shared how the simple but satisfying lunch added to the laid-back vibe of the trip. Non-swimmers can stay aboard comfortably, and those who enjoy sunbathing will find plenty of deck space for relaxing.

Second Stop: Kalymnos

Next, the cruise takes us to Kalymnos, famed for its rugged coastline and lively maritime culture. The main town, Pothia, offers a taste of authentic island life with its bustling harbor, historic sights, and local eateries. Reviewers note that the landscape here is striking — perfect for photos and absorbing the natural beauty.

Kalymnos’ appeal extends beyond scenery; it has a lively atmosphere, especially around the harbor, where you can explore or grab a drink at a local tavern. The stop here isn’t long, but enough to get a feel for the island’s character and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two.

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Final Stop: Plati Island

The last island is Plati, which turns into the party zone of the day. Known for its lively atmosphere, here you can enjoy cocktails, sunbathing, and even some diving if you’re feeling adventurous. Reviewers highlight the excellent drinks selection and the chance to test your diving skills in clear waters.

The crew keeps the energy high and the music lively, making it a favorite among guests who want a fun, relaxed vibe to wind down the day. The views of the setting sun make the perfect backdrop as you head back to Kos.

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Returning to Kos

By around 5 pm, the cruise returns to the port, wrapping up a scenic, social day filled with swimming, sightseeing, and great food. The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, balancing sightseeing with leisure.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour covers all the essentials for a fun day on the water, including:

An experienced crew who keep the atmosphere lively and safe.
Swim stops at scenic locations like Pserimos and Plati.
Visits to three islands, each with its own charm.
A Greek BBQ onboard featuring souvlaki, salad, and bread, with vegetarian options available.
All taxes and fees included, plus insurance coverage for peace of mind.

However, keep in mind that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the port unless you opt for the optional pickup service. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase onboard, with some reviewers mentioning reasonably priced drinks and a snack bar.

The Experience: What You’ll Love and What Might Be Less Ideal

The Crew and Atmosphere

Guests frequently mention the friendly, humorous crew as a highlight. One reviewer praised the guide’s funny storytelling, which kept everyone entertained throughout the day. The boat’s decks are suited for dancing, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the stunning views of the Aegean, with several reviewers noting how comfortable and spacious the vessel is.

The Food and Drinks

The Greek BBQ included in the tour is simple but satisfying, with many appreciating the quality of the souvlaki and fresh salad. One guest pointed out that the lunch was “fair for the price,” and vegetarians are accommodated. The onboard snack bar offers additional drinks, which guests say are reasonably priced, especially considering the all-day nature of the trip.

The Swim Stops

Multiple reviews highlight the swim stops as a major plus. The blue lagoon-like waters, especially during the swim in Plati, are perfect for cooling off and enjoying the clear waters. Non-swimmers and families with small children find the experience non-intimidating, as there’s always the option to stay on the boat.

The Price and Value

For around £25 per person, guests feel the cruise offers solid value. The inclusion of a meal, multiple island visits, and swimming opportunities means you’re getting a lot for your money. Plus, the lively atmosphere and friendly staff make for a memorable day.

Potential Drawbacks

Weather can influence the experience, as the operator may switch vessels based on capacity needs, which could slightly alter the vibe. Also, since the cruise is around 7 hours, some travelers might find the midday sun intense during peak summer months, so packing sunscreen and a sun hat is advisable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed yet lively day on the water. It’s perfect if you enjoy social atmospheres, scenic swimming spots, and authentic Greek cuisine. Families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a fun, affordable way to explore multiple islands will find it especially appealing.

It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a casual, informal environment with plenty of opportunities to lounge, swim, and meet fellow travelers.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation to the port included?
Not automatically. You can opt for an optional hotel pickup service, but otherwise, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the departure point.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and beachwear. Don’t forget your towel if you plan to swim, and some cash for onboard drinks and snacks.

Can non-swimmers participate?
Yes, non-swimmers can stay onboard during swim stops and still enjoy the scenery and social atmosphere.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, with the main stops and activities fitting into that timeframe.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarian options are included in the onboard meal.

What’s the best time to book?
Availability depends on the season, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak months, to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

This pirate-themed cruise from Kos offers a well-balanced day of island hopping, swimming, and relaxed social fun. The inclusion of a traditional Greek BBQ, multiple scenic stops, and a friendly crew makes it a value-packed choice. It’s especially suited for travelers looking to combine sightseeing with a lively, informal atmosphere.

For those wanting to enjoy Greece’s stunning islands without the fuss, this cruise provides a memorable, laid-back adventure on the water.

(Note: The information above is drawn from detailed reviews and the official tour description. Always double-check current availability and specific details before booking.)