Full Day Kos Guided Boat Tour Including Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to see some of the most beautiful spots around Kos without the hassle of planning each detail yourself, a full-day guided boat tour might be just what you need. This particular excursion, offered by Pulia Tours, takes you on an 80-foot wooden vessel through the Dodecanese, stopping at three charming islands: Vathi in Kalymnos, Plati, and Pserimos. While the experience has its ups and downs, overall it offers a memorable taste of Greek island life with plenty of opportunities for swimming, cultural exploration, and relaxation.

What I find appealing about this tour is the balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure. You get to explore a lively little port, swim in crystal-clear waters, and relax on a golden beach—all with a friendly crew and a delicious Greek BBQ lunch included. Another standout feature, based on reviews, is the chance to see dolphins, which adds an element of surprise that many travelers cherish. On the flip side, some travelers note that the experience can be marred by logistical hiccups, particularly related to communication and cancellations. Still, if you’re eager for a relaxed day on the water and around islands, this tour delivers a lot for the price.

One of the biggest draws is the opportunity to visit Vathi in Kalymnos, a small, authentic port ideal for wandering and tasting local treats like honey, figs, and fresh orange juice. The next stop, Plati, is all about the aquamarine waters and a tiny church—perfect for a quick swim and photo op. The final stop at Pserimos offers a classic Greek beach experience—golden sands, a relaxed vibe, and plenty of time to soak up the sun or cool off in the water. The tour’s length—around 7 hours—strikes a good balance, giving enough time on each island without feeling rushed.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic island visits: You’ll explore real ports and beaches, not just tourist spots.
• Dolphin sightings: The crew keeps an eye out for dolphins, which often accompany the boat—exciting for kids and adults alike.
• All-inclusive lunch: The Greek BBQ features vegetarian and vegan options, making it easy to enjoy local flavors without extra cost.
• Flexible stops: Each island offers different experiences—swimming, strolling, or relaxing on the beach.
• Tour size: With a maximum of 95 travelers, it’s a social experience, but smaller groups might find it more intimate.
• Some communication issues: A few reviews mention lack of multilingual support or poor customer service, so prepare for potential language barriers or last-minute changes.

Setting Sail: A Practical Look at the Itinerary

This tour starts at 10:00 am from the Kos Cruise Experts Port. That early start is perfect for taking advantage of the full day without feeling rushed. The boat itself is described as plush with sundecks, shaded areas, and a modern bar—great spots to relax and enjoy the scenery. The journey involves about three hours of sailing between islands, giving plenty of time to enjoy the ocean views and maybe spot some dolphins, which are a common sight.

Vathi in Kalymnos: A Port of Authentic Charm

The first stop, Vathi, offers a taste of real Greek island life. You have an hour and a half to explore at your own pace. The reviews suggest that this stop is a highlight, especially for those who appreciate local food and a laid-back atmosphere. You might find vendors selling honey, figs, and fresh orange juice—perfect for a quick snack or souvenir. One reviewer noted, “Lovely crew, food, and scenery. Jumping off the boat for a swim was very memorable.”

Plati: Crystal Waters and Tiny Churches

Next, you’ll head to Plati, a striking spot with turquoise waters so clear you’ll want to jump right in. This 45-minute stop is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll also see a small, uninhabited island with a tiny church and plenty of fish—an idyllic scene for nature lovers. Several reviews mention how stunning the water is here, with one observer calling it “the clearest turquoise waters you have ever seen.”

Pserimos: Relaxing Beach Time

The final island, Pserimos, is all about unwinding. With 45 minutes allocated, you can lounge on the golden sands, indulge in an ice cream, or take one last dip in the inviting water. This stop is ideal if you want a classic beach day, and many reviewers appreciate the relaxing atmosphere. It’s where you might work on your tan or explore the tiny, charming village.

Food and Drink: A Greek Feast on the Water

Included in the tour is a Greek BBQ lunch—a significant value add. The menu features traditional flavors and caters to vegetarians and vegans. While alcoholic beverages aren’t included, you can purchase drinks at the bar, which many find convenient. The food is noted as “delicious,” and it’s a good way to fuel up after a morning of swimming and exploring.

Customer Service and Experience

Reviews highlight that the crew is friendly and professional, with some reviewers mentioning specific guides or staff who contributed to a positive atmosphere. However, not all feedback is glowing. One reviewer lamented a “deplorable welcome” due to language support issues, and others expressed frustration over cancellations and poor communication. It’s worth noting that the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours—a good safety net if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy relaxed days on the water, exploring small islands, and sampling local food. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate swimming, scenic views, and a laid-back atmosphere, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s also ideal for those who want to see dolphins in their natural environment—an element that adds a magical touch, according to several satisfied reviews.

However, if you’re sensitive to language barriers or prefer a more personalized experience, you might find the larger group size less intimate. Also, those expecting a highly structured or educational tour might find it more casual and free-form.

Price and Overall Value

At $47.12 per person, this tour offers reasonable value given the inclusions—multiple island stops, a hearty lunch, and the chance to see dolphins. The main draw is the combination of scenic sailing, authentic island experiences, and the chance to relax. However, some reviews suggest that logistical issues—like poor communication or last-minute cancellations—can impact the experience. Still, if you’re flexible and open to a relaxed, social day on the water, it can be a worthwhile adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This full-day boat tour provides an accessible, scenic way to explore some of Kos’s nearby islands without the stress of independent planning. The stops offer a nice mix of cultural sights, pristine beaches, and swimming opportunities. The included lunch and the possibility of dolphin sightings are definite pluses, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed day out.

If you value knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic island visits, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Just keep in mind that logistical hiccups have been noted, so staying flexible and arriving with reasonable expectations will help you make the most of this experience.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, a Greek BBQ lunch featuring vegetarian and vegan options is included, saving you the hassle of finding a meal on the islands.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, drinks are extra and can be purchased at the boat’s bar.

What are the main stops on the tour?
You’ll visit Vathi in Kalymnos, Plati, and Pserimos, each offering different sights and activities like swimming, exploring villages, and relaxing on beaches.

How long is the total trip?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, with about 3 hours spent traveling between islands.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 95 travelers, which means it’s lively but may lack intimacy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the minimum age for alcohol consumption (18). The relaxed pace makes it suitable for families with kids who enjoy swimming.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and maybe some cash for extra drinks or souvenirs.

Is there any language support during the tour?
Some reviews mention a lack of support for French speakers, so if language is important, check with the operator in advance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start date for a full refund.

Whether you’re after a scenic day on the water, authentic island charm, or just a relaxing break, this boat tour around Kos offers a good balance of fun and flavor. Just keep your expectations aligned with the reviews—some hiccups are possible, but the scenery, dolphins, and friendly crew make for a memorable day.