From the Port of Kos: Full Day Boat Cruise to 3 Islands

A Full Day of Island Hopping with a Friendly Greek Touch

If you’re looking to make the most of a day in Kos without the hassle of planning or a hefty price tag, a full-day boat cruise to three nearby islands offers a relaxed way to see some of the area’s most picturesque spots. This experience, run by Odyssey Boat, gets rave reviews for its friendly crew, stunning scenery, and generous lunch — all for around $34 per person. From the moment you meet at Kos Old Port to the final return, this trip balances adventure and leisure beautifully.

What I particularly appreciate about this cruise is how it combines beautiful natural scenery with authentic local villages. The stops at Kalymnos, Plati, and Pserimos are well-paced, giving plenty of time to explore, swim, and relax. Two standout points are the dolphin sightings and the chance to wander through peaceful villages with traditional charm. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suited for travelers with mobility challenges, as it involves some walking and steps.

Another aspect worth noting is the cost-effectiveness. For just over 30 euros, you get lunch, multiple swimming stops, and expert guides. This makes it a great value for anyone wanting a stress-free, memorable day on the water, especially given the consistently positive reviews praising the captain and crew’s friendliness, as well as the delicious, plentiful meals.

Key Points and Takeaways

• Authentic Greek Experience: The crew, including Captain Yannis, is celebrated for their friendly attitude and local knowledge, making the trip feel personal and welcoming.
• Stunning Scenery and Wildlife: Passengers often spot wild dolphins and enjoy breathtaking views cruising past fjords, rugged cliffs, and colorful villages.
• Great Value: For around $34, you get a full day of activities including lunch, swimming, and sightseeing — reviews frequently highlight how this trip exceeds expectations for the price.
• Flexible and Well-Organized: The itinerarybalances sightseeing, swimming, and free time, with stops at Kalymnos, Plati, and Pserimos, each offering unique sights and experiences.
• Excellent Food: The onboard Greek buffet includes souvlaki, salads, tzatziki, with vegetarian options like beans and dolmades, satisfying even discerning eaters.
• Comfortable and Intimate: The Odyssey boat is praised for its size and organization, making it easier to move around and enjoy the day without feeling crowded.
• Dolphin and Fish Farm Encounters: Many reviews mention exciting wildlife sightings, adding a magical element to the trip.
• Photo Opportunities: The natural fjords of Kalymnos and the turquoise waters at Plati provide fantastic photo ops that you’ll cherish.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: Perfect for those who want a mix of adventure and downtime, with enough free time to explore each island at your own pace.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Kos Old Port, the cruise departs early with a sailboat crossing that sets the tone for the day: gentle, scenic, and laid-back. The first stop is the village of Vathi on Kalymnos, which is described vividly as “beautiful” with “magnificent views of a natural fjord.” You’ll have about an hour here to stroll the quiet streets, take pictures of the gulfs and caves, and savor some local treats. Many reviews emphasize how peaceful and charming this village is, providing a taste of authentic Greek island life away from tourist-heavy spots.

Lunch on board is a highlight, with a Greek buffet featuring pork or chicken souvlaki, fresh salads, tzatziki, and bread. Vegetarian options—beans and dolmades—are widely appreciated for accommodating different diets. The crew’s friendliness shines through, with several reviewers mentioning that the staff “went the extra mile” to make everyone feel comfortable and well-fed.

After lunch, the boat heads toward fish farms, an interesting sight where you might also catch glimpses of dolphins swimming near the water surface. Many travelers are excited to spot wild dolphins, with some reviews noting the captain’s active efforts to divert the boat for dolphin sightings — truly a special moment.

Next, the boat moves to Plati Islet, a favorite swimming spot. The turquoise waters here are described as paradise-like, perfect for jumping in from the boat or relaxing on the soft sand. Many reviews mention this as a highlight—a chance to cool off and enjoy some of the clearest waters in the region.

Finally, the visit to Pserimos island offers about an hour to explore at your own pace. The island’s sandy beaches and relaxed vibe make it an ideal place to unwind, take photos, or simply soak in the sun before heading back to Kos in the evening.

Throughout the day, the crew’s attentiveness and the smooth sailing conditions are frequently praised, even when the water gets a bit choppy, as one reviewer noted it was “still very smooth.” The low-cost cocktails available on board add a fun touch during the cruise, transforming a sightseeing trip into a leisurely party on the water.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This cruise isn’t just about the islands; it’s about the experience. The knowledgeable guides and friendly crew turn what could be a simple boat ride into a memorable adventure. Multiple reviewers mention how the crew, especially Captain Yannis, made everyone feel cared for and entertained, sharing fun facts and pointing out wildlife, such as dolphins or flying fish.

The scenery is undeniably stunning. Cruising past the rugged cliffs of Kalymnos and the peaceful coves of Pserimos offers plenty of photo-worthy moments. Plus, the free time on each island means you can choose to wander around, swim, or just relax, making it a flexible experience suitable for different travel styles.

The lunch is consistently praised for being generous and authentic. It’s a simple Greek buffet, but the quality and variety—especially the vegetarian options—surpass many expectations for an included meal on a boat trip. Reviewers say it’s better than some hotel meals, which is quite the compliment.

Many guests mention the small boat size as an advantage, making the experience more intimate and personalized. You won’t be lost in a crowd, and the crew can cater more closely to individual needs. Plus, the 7.5-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to see multiple islands and enjoy swimming, but not so long that it drags or becomes tiring.

Who Should Consider This Trip?

This experience is ideal if you enjoy relaxed, scenic days on the water, with opportunities to swim and explore. It’s particularly well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an authentic taste of Greek island life without the cost of private boat charters. If you want to spot wildlife or just enjoy a good-value meal amidst stunning landscapes, this trip delivers.

However, it’s not for those with mobility impairments or anyone who prefers a more structured, less flexible schedule. The stops involve some walking and the boat’s layout isn’t designed for wheelchairs or mobility aids. Also, if you’re not comfortable on a boat or prone to seasickness, you might want to check the weather forecast beforehand, as the trip can be a bit windy at times.

Practical Tips for a Great Day Out

• Arrive early at Kos Old Port (by 9:30 am) to ensure a smooth check-in and to find the blue Odyssey boat easily.
• Bring sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light cover-up.
• Pack a swimsuit and towel for the swim stops.
• Consider bringing cash for drinks and souvenirs, although most drinks can be purchased onboard.
• If you want to explore the islands more deeply, bring comfortable shoes for walking.
• Snorkels are available on the boat if you want to see underwater life close up.
• Remember, the cruise doesn’t include hotel transfers, so plan your transportation to the port accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This boat cruise offers an accessible, enjoyable way to experience some of the most beautiful parts of Kos and its nearby islands. The friendly crew, stunning scenery, and delicious lunch make it stand out against more commercialized tours. You’ll love the wildlife sightings, the peaceful villages, and the crystal-clear waters — all for a very reasonable price.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of swimming and sightseeing without the fuss of complicated plans or high costs. If you’re after a memorable, authentic Greek island experience that combines natural beauty with good food and a friendly atmosphere, this cruise should top your list.

FAQs

How early should I arrive at the port?
You should aim to arrive by 9:30 am to check in and board the Odyssey boat comfortably, as the trip departs in the morning.

Is lunch included in the price?
Yes, a Greek buffet lunch with meat and vegetarian options is included, offering generous portions of souvlaki, salads, and bread.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase onboard. The cruise offers cocktails at low prices, and you might find the drinks worthwhile given the quality and ambiance.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s suitable for families, especially since there’s plenty of space to relax and swim. However, the trip isn’t designed for those with mobility issues.

How long is the entire cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with the itinerary including stops at three islands, swimming, and lunch.

Can I swim at each stop?
Yes, swimming is a key part of the trip, especially at Plati Islet and Pserimos. Snorkels are available, and the waters are described as crystal clear.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, towels, and possibly cash for drinks or souvenirs. The boat provides snorkels but bringing your own is optional.

Is this tour suitable if I want to see wildlife?
Absolutely. Many guests have reported sightings of wild dolphins and flying fish, which add an exciting element to the day.

Does the trip have a maximum group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews praise the smaller, intimate boat experience, suggesting it’s less crowded than larger tours.

In all, this trip from Kos offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, relaxation, and authentic island life. It’s affordable, friendly, and packed with memorable moments — the kind of day you’ll talk about long after you’re back home.