Full Day Boat Cruise to 3 Islands with optional pickup

Traveling to Kos and craving a genuine Greek seaside adventure? This full-day boat tour, exploring three unique islands, offers a fantastic way to spend your time on the water. With a stellar 4.5-star rating from over 500 reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find this experience memorable and well worth the price.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning stops at Pserimos, Vathi, and Plati—each offering a different slice of island life and scenery. Second, the opportunity to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, with equipment included. Third, the delicious Greek lunch and relaxed atmosphere on the boat—perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back day.

One consideration to keep in mind is the potential for overcrowding. Several reviews mention that during peak season, the boat can feel quite full, which might impact your comfort and experience. Still, for the price and variety of activities, this trip offers solid value and authentic charm. It’s especially suited for those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor without breaking the bank.

Who is this tour best for?

If you love island hopping, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and want to taste local Greek life, then this cruise is a no-brainer. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, all-in-one day trip that balances scenic stops with good food and fun on the water.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-rated: Costing just under $35, this tour is a budget-friendly way to see multiple islands.
• Authentic stops: Visit tiny islands like Pserimos and Plati, with peaceful beaches and local tavernas.
• Swimming & snorkeling included: Equipment is provided, making it easy to cool off in the turquoise waters.
• Tasty Greek lunch: Enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and representative of local flavors.
• Flexible options: Pickup is available, though you can also meet at the port.
• Crowd considerations: During busy months, expect a packed boat, but for many, the lively atmosphere adds to the fun.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Pserimos – Small but Stunning

The first island, Pserimos, is home to just 60 residents. Despite its size, it captures the essence of Greek island charm. The highlight here is the crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming in the calm coves. You’ll find small tavernas right on the beach, serving fresh fish and local drinks—an ideal setting for a laid-back lunch or snack.

Reviewers love the simplicity of Pserimos, emphasizing how peaceful and authentic it feels. “Enjoyed the beaches and the small tavernas, just a handful of locals and visitors,” shared one traveler. You get about an hour here, plenty of time to dip your toes or relax on the sand.

Stop 2: Vathi – A Picture-Perfect Village

Next, the boat ventures into the spectacular fjord of Vathi on Kalymnos. This stop offers a chance to explore a quaint village with peaceful streets and friendly locals. Vathi’s setting is stunning—gulf waters, caves, and lush greenery make it a favorite for photos.

Visitors have enjoyed walking around, trying local sweets and fresh orange juices, and soaking in the island’s relaxed vibe. “The valley of Vathi is slowly revealed, and the surrounding gulfs and caves are just breathtaking,” notes a traveler. You have roughly an hour here, enough to walk around, take photos, and enjoy some local treats.

Stop 3: Plati – Swim and Relax

The third stop, Plati, is a tiny island situated between Kos and Kalymnos. The boat anchors close to the shore, making it easy to jump into the crystal-clear waters and swim around the boat. Reviewers frequently mention how noticeably sandy and inviting the seabed is, with many enjoying a swim before heading back on board.

While the stop is shorter—around 45 minutes—the sense of calm and the chance to cool off in warm waters makes it worthwhile. Drinks on the boat during this time are reasonably priced, and many mention how refreshing the experience is.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers good value for money, especially considering the variety of stops, swimming, and food included. The price covers lunch, snorkeling equipment, all fees and taxes, as well as WiFi and restroom facilities on board.

Drinks, however, are not included, and some reviewers note that they are only cash-only, so come prepared with euros if you want to buy beverages. The lunch is generally described as tasty, with some reviewers mentioning it’s a good-sized meal, though a couple shared that the lunch might not be gourmet, but perfectly decent for the price.

The Experience on Board

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with sunbeds and shaded areas to relax. Several reviews praise the crew for their friendliness and energy—many mention how the staff gets everyone involved, with dancing and singing, especially on the return journey, which adds a fun, lively vibe.

One guest, Billy_L, shared, “The atmosphere on the boat was lovely, and the staff were very friendly, including getting everyone up dancing with them on the return journey.” This indicates the tour isn’t just about sightseeing but also about creating a joyful, social experience.

The Crowd and Group Size

The tour caps at 80 travelers, which helps maintain a lively but manageable atmosphere. However, during the high season, some reviews mention the boat feeling quite crowded, with over 120 people—making it less comfortable for some. If you prefer more space and a quieter vibe, early booking or traveling in shoulder season might be better.

Timing & Flexibility

The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting from the port of Kos. You’ll spend most of the day on the water, with flexible departure times and pickup options available. Be prepared for variable weather—if it’s very windy, the trip can be rough, and some stops might be abbreviated or canceled, as noted by one reviewer.

The Value of This Tour

At just $34.83 per person, this trip offers excellent value considering the multiple stops, the included lunch, snorkeling gear, and the overall experience. It’s a great way to see islands that are otherwise tricky to access independently, especially if you’re not renting a boat yourself.

The reviews reinforce that many find the experience worth every cent, with comments like “Really good value and family-friendly,” and “Incredible day out and excellent value for money.” It’s clear this tour balances affordability with authentic, enjoyable activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a relaxed day exploring Greek islands with plenty of swimming and fun. It’s also great if you enjoy local food, beautiful scenery, and social activities like dancing and chatting on board.

Travelers seeking a quiet, private experience might find the crowds a bit much, especially during peak season. But if you’re after a lively atmosphere that combines sightseeing, swimming, and good food, this trip hits the spot.

FAQs

Where does the tour start? It begins at the port of Kos, Greece.

Can I join if I don’t have transport? Yes, the tour offers optional pickup, or you can meet directly at the port.

How long is the trip? It lasts approximately 8 hours.

What’s included in the price? Lunch, snorkeling equipment, all fees and taxes, restroom use, WiFi on board, and air-conditioned transport.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included and are cash-only on board.

Is vegetarian food available? Yes, a vegetarian option is available if advised during booking.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, most travelers can participate, and children tend to enjoy the boat and island stops.

What should I bring? Summer clothes, swimwear, towel, hat, sunscreen, and cash for drinks.

What if the weather turns bad? The tour is subject to favorable weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you can choose an alternative date or get a full refund.

How crowded does the boat get? During peak season, it can feel crowded. Book early or travel slightly off-peak if you prefer more space.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip offers a genuine taste of Greek island life with its scenic stops, warm waters, and friendly atmosphere. For just under $35, you get a full day of exploration, swimming, tasty local food, and lively company—what’s not to love?

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure, and aren’t bothered by the possibility of a bustling boat. While crowds can be an issue during high season, the overall experience is lively, authentic, and quite a steal considering what’s on offer.

Whether you want to relax on quiet beaches, explore charming villages, or simply enjoy a fun day on the water, this trip makes a great choice for creating lasting memories on your Greek holiday.