From Kos: Kalymnos, Pserimos and Plati Day Cruise with Lunch

Trying to picture your perfect Greek island escape? If so, a day spent sailing the Dodecanese on a lively pirate boat might just be your ideal outing. This cruise from Kos offers a fantastic mix of scenic views, swimming opportunities, and local flavor, all wrapped in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. While it’s designed as a day of leisure and exploration, it’s also a well-organized trip that balances sightseeing with plenty of downtime.

What we particularly love about this cruise? First, the chance to explore three diverse islands with their distinct character. Second, the onboard vibe — lively, friendly, and full of music and dancing. Third, the included Greek meal, which is surprisingly good value considering the experience. That said, it’s worth noting that the stop at Kalymnos is quite brief, so if you’re eager for more time on land, this might feel a little rushed.

This tour suits travelers looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, especially those who enjoy swimming, local food, and a lively boat atmosphere. It’s perfect for singles, couples, or families who want a hassle-free way to see some of the most charming islands near Kos without the stress of planning.

Key Points

• Authentic island experience: Visit three unique islands with a mix of beaches, towns, and scenic views.
• Lively onboard atmosphere: Music, dancing, and a fun crew make the day memorable.
• Great value: Includes lunch, swimming stops, and insurance, making it a budget-friendly option.
• Flexible options: Vegetarian meal requests are accommodated, and hotel transfers are available for a fee.
• Short stops: Time on each island varies, so it’s ideal for those who prefer quick visits over long stays.
• Ideal for active and social travelers: Perfect for those who enjoy both relaxing and engaging in lively group settings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day at Sea

Meeting and Departure from Kos

The day kicks off around 10 am at the port of Kos, where you’ll find the Pirates of Kos boat ready for departure. If you’ve booked the transfer option, a pickup from your hotel will be arranged, easing your morning. The boat itself is designed for fun, with a pirate-themed vibe—think lively crew, music, and plenty of space to relax or dance as you set sail.

First Stop: Pserimos Island

Around noon, the boat pulls into Pserimos, a tiny island covering a mere 15 square kilometers. Here, you’ll have about an hour to enjoy its golden sandy beach and crystal-clear waters—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the Greek sunshine. Reviewers like Anna loved this first stop, describing the beach as beautiful with a really good vibe. The crew prepares a simple but tasty Greek meal with souvlaki and salad, adding a nice touch to your island experience.

Second Stop: Kalymnos

Next, the boat heads towards Kalymnos, renowned for its rugged beauty and sea-centric activities. The main port, Pothia, is home to charming cafes, shops, and some historical sights. While only given about 45 minutes to explore, many find this enough to enjoy a quick walk through the town, appreciating its lively atmosphere and scenic harbor. Reviewers like George mention the guide being “informative and funny,” which adds to the overall enjoyment of the trip.

Kalymnos is also famous for its climbing and maritime traditions, but during this cruise, the focus is on sightseeing and enjoying the local scenery. If you’re a lover of striking landscapes, this stop offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs.

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Final Stop: Plati Island

The last stop is Plati, where the party seems to kick into high gear. With stunning views and a lively environment, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for fun—swimming, testing your diving skills from the boat’s platform, or just relaxing on deck with a cocktail. Reviewers mention that the atmosphere here is fun and very laid-back, with music, drinks, and good company. Many, like Yanneke, highlight the “very fun” last stop as a highlight of the trip.

Return to Kos

By 5 pm, the boat departs from Plati and heads back to Kos, concluding a full day of island hopping, swimming, and good food.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Boat cruise with lively crew
• Stops at three islands with swim opportunities
• Lunch featuring souvlaki, salad, and bread (vegetarian options available upon request)
• Insurance and all legal fees

Not included:

• Extra drinks and coffee
• Hotel transfers (available at an extra charge)

The price offers solid value considering the itinerary, meals, and swimming opportunities. From reviews, many guests appreciated the reasonable onboard prices for drinks, making it a budget-friendly day out.

The Vibe and Experience: What You’ll Feel

Most reviews highlight the upbeat and friendly atmosphere onboard. The crew, especially the “main man” according to Anna, is funny, helpful, and eager to keep guests entertained. The music is lively, encouraging dancing and a relaxed party mood. Expect plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and socializing—perfect for travelers wanting a fun, social experience rather than a quiet, contemplative day.

The quality of the food also gets good marks. The included lunch is simple but satisfying, with some reviewers noting it’s not gourmet but more than enough to fuel the afternoon. Vegetarian options can be arranged in advance, which is a considerate touch.

Authenticity and Scenic Moments

Guests love the stunning views as the boat approaches each island, with many mentioning that the sight of Kalymnos’ rugged coastline or Plati’s panoramic vistas made the trip worthwhile. The brief stops are enough to get a taste of each place, but if you’re after more in-depth exploration, you might find this a little quick.

Swimming and Water Activities

The stops at Pserimos and Plati are the highlights for many. Clear waters, the chance to snorkel or dive from the boat, and the waterslides and diving platforms—these features add a splash of excitement. Reviewers like George appreciated the optional swimming and the waterslide, describing it as “awesome.”

Length and Pace

With a duration of around 7 hours, the trip hits that sweet spot between full day and overlong. However, some guests like Dani felt that more time on Kalymnos would enhance the experience, as the brief visit limits your time to explore the town or relax on the beach.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Arrive early to ensure your spot, especially during peak season.
• If you prefer to be on land longer, this may not be the best choice; the stops are quick.
• Bring essentials: sun protection, swimwear, towel, and a waterproof camera or phone case.
• Meal preferences: Inform ahead if you’re vegetarian to ensure your lunch is suitable.
• Optional transfers can be booked to make your day even smoother.
• Drinks and extras: While the included lunch is good value, onboard drinks are paid separately, so budget for that.

Who This Trip Is Best For

This cruise appeals most to travelers seeking an energetic, social day on the water, perfect for those who enjoy swimming, lively atmospheres, and scenic island views. It’s especially suitable for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a fun, no-fuss way to explore nearby islands without the hassle of arranging transport or multiple bookings.

If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced visit to the islands that allows plenty of time ashore, you might find this tour a bit rushed. But if vibrant boat vibes, swimming, and sampling Greek food appeal to you, this is a great choice.

FAQs: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup included?
Hotel pickup is not included by default, but you can add a transfer when booking. If arranged, it makes starting the trip easier.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, towels, and waterproof devices for photos. Cash for extra drinks and souvenirs is recommended.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested in advance, ensuring everyone gets a satisfying meal.

How long do we stay at each island?
Stops are brief—roughly 45 minutes to an hour—enough to enjoy the beaches or quick explorations, but not for extensive land visits.

Is there enough time for swimming?
Yes, the stops are designed for swimming, with water slides and diving platforms adding to the fun.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat has a lively, party vibe with ample space for relaxing, dancing, and enjoying the views.

Can I participate in water activities?
Absolutely, swimming and diving are encouraged during stops, and the boat features a diving platform and waterslides.

What is the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, from departure around 10 am to returning by 5 pm.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to spend your day on this Kalymnos, Pserimos, and Plati cruise means embracing the joy of Greek island life with a lively, social twist. The combination of scenic stops, delicious food, and a fun onboard atmosphere makes it a popular choice for those wanting an easy, enjoyable day out. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value good value, friendly guides, and a taste of local island charm.

While the quick visits mean you won’t get a deep dive into each place, the experience is about the fun, freedom, and stunning scenery of Greece’s islands. If you’re ready for a day of swimming, dancing, and enjoying authentic Greek vibes, this cruise delivers.

In essence, this trip is a lively, value-packed way to see some of the most beautiful islands near Kos, with enough flexibility for a relaxed yet vibrant day on the water. Perfect for those who want a social, scenic, and delicious escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: