Nisyros, Saint Antonios & Yali Pirate Cruise with BBQ lunch

Exploring the Dodecanese islands on a pirate-themed boat cruise offers a delightful mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and fun water activities. This tour promises a full day of adventure, sailing from Kardamena to three distinct islands—Nisyros, Saint Antonios, and Yali—each with its own unique charm.

What makes this experience appealing? We love the chance to see volcanic landscapes up close, the onboard BBQ that keeps everyone fueled, and the opportunity to relax on deck soaking up the Mediterranean sun. A possible consideration is the pace—if you’re not keen on swimming or exploring at a brisk rate, you might find the itinerary quite full.

This trip is ideal for travelers craving a mix of island hopping, cultural sights, and water-based fun, especially those who enjoy a lively boat atmosphere with good company and scenic views. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a full-day escape with plenty of opportunities to unwind and explore.

Key Points

• Diverse islands: Visit Nisyros, Saint Antonios, and Yali, each offering distinct scenery and experiences.
• Cultural highlights: See the church of St. Antonios and the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani for cultural insights.
• Water activities: Swim in crystal-clear waters, sunbathe, or relax onboard Yali.
• Included meal: Enjoy a Greek BBQ lunch with vegetarian options, all prepared onboard.
• Flexible schedule: Approximate duration of 6.5 hours with multiple stops and free time.
• Family-friendly: Non-swimmers are welcomed, as they can stay on the boat during swim stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting Point and Departure:
The adventure kicks off at Kardamena port on a lively pirate-themed boat, the “Maria Magdalini,” with a departure time around 10 am (check availability for exact start times). The crew, speaking English, creates a friendly, relaxed vibe from the moment you step aboard.

Stop 1: Saint Antonios Island
Within the first hour, you’ll arrive at Saint Antonios, an uninhabited spot perfect for a peaceful escape. Here, you can explore the church of St. Antonios, which offers a quiet moment amidst stunning surroundings. The views from this point are often described as breathtaking, with many reviewers noting how the sheer clarity of the waters makes swimming especially enjoyable.

Water activities:
Guests frequently mention that the swimming here is a highlight, with some describing the water as “crystal-clear” and perfect for cooling off after the boat ride. If you’re a sunbather, the open deck provides mats to lie down and soak up the Mediterranean rays. For those feeling more adventurous, swimming and relaxing in this secluded spot are highly recommended.

Onboard BBQ Lunch:
As you take in the views, the crew prepares a Greek BBQ lunch, featuring pork souvlaki, fresh salads, and bread. Vegetarian options are available, which is great for those with dietary preferences. The food is generally praised as tasty and satisfying, making it a perfect fuel for the rest of the day’s adventures.

Stop 2: Nisyros Island
By around noon, you arrive at Nisyros, one of the most well-known volcanic islands in the area. Docking at Mandraki, the island’s main port, you’ll have free time to stroll through the quaint streets. Many visitors highlight how winding alleyways lead to charming cafes and shops, making it an enjoyable way to experience local life.

Cultural and scenic sights:
One optional activity is visiting the mountain Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, perched on the hilltop, offering panoramic views over the island. Climbing the 200 steps to reach it is worth the effort for the stunning vistas and the sense of stepping back into a quieter, more traditional Greece.

Optional Volcano Visit:
For those interested in geology, there’s an additional charge to visit Nisyros’ volcanic crater, which many travelers find fascinating. The tour crew can provide details and help organize this excursion, adding an extra layer of adventure.

Leisure time:
After exploring, you can relax in the town’s squares, shop for souvenirs, or indulge in local treats like fresh cheeses and honey. The pace here is leisurely, allowing guests to soak in the island’s ambiance at their own speed.

Stop 3: Yali Island
The final stop is at Yali, a volcanic island with dramatic vistas and natural beauty. Here, you’ll have opportunities to sunbathe, enjoy tropical cocktails, or even try a diving session—many reviews mention the clarity of the waters making snorkeling or diving very appealing.

Relaxation and fun:
Yali is seen as a perfect spot for unwinding or socializing. The boat stays long enough for you to relax on deck or take a dip before heading back. As the cruise winds down, you’ll start the journey back to Kardamena, arriving around 5:30 pm.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Round-trip boat tickets to all three islands
• Bus transfer to the volcano in Nisyros (if you choose to visit)
• A delicious onboard BBQ composed of pork souvlaki, salad, and bread, with vegetarian options
• All taxes and legal fees covered, ensuring a hassle-free experience
• Sunbathing mats for comfort on the open deck
• Insurance coverage for peace of mind

Not included:

• Snacks and drinks (available for purchase onboard)
• Entrance fee to Nisyros Volcano, costing 5 euros per person

Travelers report that the value for money is quite good considering the comprehensive nature of the day, especially with the included lunch and transportation. The optional volcano trip costs extra but is generally considered a worthwhile add-on for those interested in geology or volcanic landscapes.

Meeting Point and Practical Details

Meeting point:
Look for the pirate-themed boat called “Maria Magdalini” at Kardamena port. It’s a lively start to what promises to be a fun-filled day.

End of tour:
The cruise concludes back at the same meeting point around 5:30 pm, making it easy to plan for the rest of your evening.

Duration and flexibility:
The entire adventure lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with departure times depending on availability. You might want to check ahead and arrive early, especially during peak season.

What to bring:
Comfortable shoes for exploring, a sun hat, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended. Restrooms are available onboard, and there’s a snack bar for refreshments—though some might prefer to bring a water bottle or additional snacks for extra comfort.

Experience Quality and Review Insights

Travelers generally appreciate the friendly crew who speak English fluently and make everyone feel welcome. The boat’s lively atmosphere combined with scenic stops creates a memorable day. Several reviewers mention the stunning views as a major highlight, especially the volcanic landscapes of Yali and Nisyros, which are often described as otherworldly.

Many have noted that the swimming spots are clean and well-suited for all ages, with some saying it’s perfect for families or groups of friends. The onboard BBQ consistently gets high marks for being tasty and filling—an unexpected bonus that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Some guests mention that the pace can be a bit brisk, especially if you want to linger longer at each stop or climb the volcano. Still, most agree that the itinerary is well-organized, offering a good balance of exploration and relaxation.

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The Sum Up

This Nisyros, Saint Antonios & Yali Pirate Cruise offers a lively, scenic way to see some of Greece’s most interesting islands. With its combination of cultural sights, volcanic landscapes, swimming, and onboard dining, it suits travelers looking for a full-day adventure that blends relaxation, exploration, and fun. The inclusion of transport, lunch, and some optional excursions makes it a solid value, especially for those eager to experience the diverse beauty of the Dodecanese from the water.

If you’re after a day filled with sunshine, stunning views, and authentic island charm, this tour is definitely worth considering. Its friendly crew and well-organized itinerary help ensure a memorable, hassle-free experience—perfect whether you’re visiting as a couple, family, or group of friends.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The entire tour lasts about 6.5 hours, from departure at 10 am to return around 5:30 pm.

What islands do we visit?
You’ll stop at Saint Antonios (uninhabited, peaceful waters), Nisyros (famous for its volcano and charming town), and Yali (volcanic island with great swimming and views).

Is food included?
Yes, a Greek BBQ lunch with pork souvlaki, salad, and bread is included, with vegetarian options available.

Can non-swimmers participate?
Absolutely. Non-swimmers can stay on the boat during swim stops and enjoy the views from deck.

What’s the cost for visiting the volcano in Nisyros?
The entrance fee is 5 euros per person, payable locally. The optional volcano visit can be arranged through the crew at an additional charge.

Is there any shopping or extra sightseeing on Nisyros?
Yes, you can explore Mandraki, wander through its quaint streets, and shop for souvenirs or enjoy local treats.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve ahead, as departure times vary and spots fill up, especially during peak season. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

This cruise combines the thrill of a boat adventure with the charm of Greek islands, making it a wonderful choice for those wanting a taste of authentic island life combined with scenic water fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: