Kos: 3-Island Cruise with Lunch, Swimming and Audio Guide

Discover the Charm of Kos with a 3-Island Cruise with Lunch, Swimming, and Audio Guide

Taking a boat trip around the Greek islands is often a highlight of any trip to Kos, and this 7.5-hour cruise offers a thoughtful blend of relaxation, cultural insight, and fun. From the moment you step aboard the Santa Maria, you’ll notice how well-designed the experience is — with comfy sundecks, shaded areas, and a lively, inviting crew. We love the way this tour balances sightseeing with plenty of time to unwind.

Three things stand out: the chance to swim in crystal waters, the personalized audio guide in multiple languages, and the delicious Greek BBQ lunch. But, it’s worth noting that the capacity can fill up quickly, so booking early is advisable if you want to guarantee your spot. This trip is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, culturally rich day on the water, especially if you’re traveling in a group or family looking for authentic experiences without the fuss.

Key Points

• Affordable luxury: At around $29 per person, this cruise offers excellent value, including a hearty BBQ lunch and multiple swim stops.
• Cultural insights: The onboard audio guide provides entertaining and educational commentary in your preferred language, enriching your understanding of the islands.
• Wildlife encounters: The chance to spot dolphins and enjoy their playful company makes this trip extra memorable.
• Multiple island stops: Visiting Platy, Kalymnos, and Pserimos, each with its unique charm, offers a well-rounded taste of the region.
• Comfort and convenience: With ample sunbathing space, shaded areas, and on-board facilities, you’re set for a comfortable day at sea.
• Full experience: Swimming, sightseeing, local shopping, and enjoying Greek cuisine make this a comprehensive day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Island Cruise Experience

Meeting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins outside the Santa Maria boat, where you’ll need to arrive about 30 minutes early. Remember to bring your passport or ID, as you’ll go through a quick boarding process. The boat departs promptly, so punctuality is key to making the most of your day. The vessel is approximately 80 feet long, designed to comfortably accommodate a good-sized group without feeling crowded — a frequent compliment from past travelers who appreciated the balance between social and private space.

The Vessel and Onboard Atmosphere

The Santa Maria boasts a classic wooden design, reminiscent of traditional Greek boats, paired with modern comforts. Once aboard, you’ll find super comfy cushions on the sundecks, perfect for soaking up the sun or taking a nap. There are shaded areas if you’d prefer to stay cooler or escape the midday sun. The bar serves up a variety of drinks, with some reviewers noting that prices remain reasonable and the drinks are well-prepared.

The Itinerary and Stops

The cruise makes three main stops at Platy, Kalymnos, and Pserimos, each offering something different for travelers.

• Kalymnos is especially popular among visitors. You’ll get time to explore the small town of Vathy, where local stores sell the famous Greek sponges. One reviewer mentioned how walking around and learning about the sponge industry added a fascinating layer to the visit. You might also find local honey and orange juice, perfect souvenirs or gifts.

• Pserimos is famed for its laid-back beaches and tranquil vibe. Here, you can relax on the sandy shores without worries — a hallmark of Greek island life that many travelers cherish. With ample time to swim and sunbathe, this stop balances relaxation with scenic beauty.

• Platy offers picturesque views and a charming port. Though less detailed in reviews, it’s a quintessential Greek island stop with small tavernas and traditional architecture.

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Swimming and Dolphin Watching

One of the biggest draws is the chance to swim in clear waters at each stop, with three dedicated swimming opportunities during the day. The waters are described as “refreshing,” perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Several reviews also highlight the dolphin spotting — with the crew often alert to the playful creatures gathering around the boat. One reviewer shared how dolphins “gathered around our boat,” making it a moment they’ll never forget.

The Audio Guide and Cultural Commentary

A standout feature is the personalized audio guide, accessible via your phone, available in multiple languages including English, German, Greek, and Italian. Past travelers found this feature entertaining and informative, praising guides like Alex, who kept things lively and interesting. The audio provides trivia, local history, and fun facts about each stop — a great way to learn without feeling like you’re stuck listening to a guide in a crowded tour.

The Food: Greek BBQ on Board

The Greek BBQ lunch is consistently praised. With options like grilled meats, fresh salads, and local specialties, it satisfies even the most discerning appetites. Reviewers like Fernanda described it as “delicious,” complementing the day’s relaxed pace. The lunch is served on the boat, allowing you to eat while enjoying the views, and is included in the price, adding significant value.

Additional Amenities and Tips

• Drinks: While drinks are available onboard at reasonable prices, note that they are not included in the ticket price. It’s advisable to carry some cash for souvenirs, optional drinks, or snacks on land.
• Comfort Tips: Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and a hat. The boat can get busy, so booking early helps secure your preferred spot.
• Group Size and Capacity: The tour is often fully booked, which means you should reserve your spot ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Once onboard, most reviews describe the experience as lively but not overcrowded.

Authenticity and Experience

What truly makes this cruise stand out is its focus on authentic Greek island life. You get to walk around small towns, taste local honey and orange juice, and learn about the islands’ industries from knowledgeable guides. The relaxed pace, coupled with the chance to swim and spot dolphins, creates an experience that feels genuine rather than touristy.

Past Traveler Insights

• One reviewer called it “a very chilled day on the boat,” appreciating the helpful staff and good value for money.
• Several noted how the well-planned route and beautiful stops made the trip memorable.
• The friendly crew and entertaining guides contributed significantly to the positive atmosphere.
• The view of the Greek coastline during the cruise is described as stunning, making photos and memories alike.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed day on the water with plenty of swimming opportunities. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting to combine sightseeing with local culture, especially those interested in learning about the sponge industry or sampling local produce.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments, given the boat’s physical demands and the nature of stops.

The Sum Up

For just around $29, this 3-island cruise offers incredible value — blending scenic beauty, cultural insights, and leisure. The inclusion of a personalized audio guide, the chance to spot dolphins, and the delicious Greek BBQ make it stand out as a memorable part of any Kos holiday.

If you’re after a laid-back, authentic experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly perfect if you enjoy being on the water, exploring small towns, and soaking up the sun in true Greek style.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, this trip offers a well-rounded slice of island life — all wrapped up in a comfortable, fun, and reasonably priced package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to Kos harbor. It’s recommended to arrive 30 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, cash for souvenirs or drinks, and your passport or ID.

How long does the cruise last?
The tour runs for approximately 7.5 hours, offering plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the lunch.

Is food included?
Yes, a Greek BBQ lunch is included in the ticket price, and past travelers say it’s tasty and plentiful.

Can I listen to the audio guide in my language?
Yes, the onboard audio guide is accessible via your phone and available in multiple languages, including English, German, Greek, and Italian.

Is dolphin watching guaranteed?
While many reviews mention dolphins gathering around the boat, it’s an unpredictable encounter. Still, the crew is attentive and hopeful for sightings.

What is the group size like?
The cruise tends to fill up quickly, but most reviews describe the experience as lively yet not overcrowded, allowing for socializing and relaxing comfortably.

This 3-island cruise from Kos offers a fantastic way to experience the region’s natural beauty and local culture without breaking the bank. Perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Greek island charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: