Kos Town: Kalymnos & Pserimos Day Cruise & Optional Transfer

A Relaxing Day on the Aegean: The Kos, Kalymnos & Pserimos Day Cruise

If you’re looking to escape the busy beaches of Kos and experience a laid-back day exploring some of the nearby islands, this boat cruise offers a blend of stunning scenery, authentic Greek charm, and fun water activities. The trip, usually lasting around 7.5 hours, takes you from Kos Harbor to the peaceful islands of Pserimos and Plati, with a special stop in Vathy, a fishing village that looks straight out of a postcard. The reviews reveal a lot of happy travelers enjoying dolphin sightings, delicious food, and gorgeous clear waters.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances relaxation with sightseeing. The crew is praised for being friendly and attentive, making sure everyone enjoys their day. Plus, the stops at Pserimos and Plati are perfect for swimming, exploring, and soaking up some genuine island life—far from crowded resorts. I also appreciate the included Greek lunch, which features traditional dishes like souvlaki and fresh fruit, offering real value. However, one thing to consider is that drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some cash or your own beverages.

Another aspect worth noting is the itinerary’s flexibility. This tour is suitable for all ages, and the small-group vibe keeps things intimate, especially if you’re traveling alone or with family. The boat, called POSEIDON, is described as a smaller vessel, which usually means more personal attention and less chaos compared to larger cruise ships. Overall, it promises a day of beauty, fun, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and photo-taking, with some reviews mentioning dolphins, which are always a highlight.

Key points / Takeaways

Authentic Greek experience – Enjoy traditional food and visit tiny islands that feel untouched by mass tourism.
Friendly crew and guides – Many reviews praise the staff for their energy and helpfulness, making the day extra enjoyable.
Great value for money – Around $31.62 per person, including lunch, swimming, and island visits, offers a good price-to-experience ratio.
Customizable stops for swimming and exploring – Plenty of chances for water activities and sightseeing at each stop.
Stunning scenery and clean waters – Expect clear, blue seas perfect for snorkeling and cooling off, as many travelers highlight.
Flexible options for pickup – Hotel transfers are available from several locations in Kos, easing logistics and saving you time.

The Entire Experience: A Detailed Look at the Day Cruise

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Kos Port or Akti Kountourioti, conveniently close to the city center. If you opt for the pickup service, it’s available from key spots like Kos Town, Psalidi, and Marmari, which makes this trip accessible without the need to navigate the busy port on your own. The boat, named POSEIDON, departs in the morning, with pickups starting as early as 8:00 AM from Kardamena and as late as 8:45 AM from Lampi, depending on your chosen pickup point.

The journey to the islands starts with a 45-minute bus or coach ride, giving you some time to relax before hitting the water. The size of the group seems to be small enough for a comfortable experience, and many reviews mention the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness, which can make a big difference when you’re on a day-long trip.

The Cruise and Pserimos: The First Island Stop

Once on board, you’ll cruise for about an hour, enjoying the views of the Aegean Sea. The highlight of the first stop is Pserimos, a tiny island with just about 60 inhabitants. You’ll spend over an hour here, which is enough to relax on the sandy beach, swim in the calm waters, and browse the local shops. Many reviews highlight Pserimos’s peaceful vibe and beautiful, clean beaches. The crew usually anchors near the coast, giving you a chance to jump into the water directly from the boat or explore on land.

Some travelers praise the local taverns right on the beach, where you can enjoy a cold drink or a light meal. The island feels very authentic—an ideal spot for anyone wanting to escape the crowds and experience genuine Greek island life. As one reviewer put it, “Pserimos was the most beautiful island of the three, and we really enjoyed being able to swim in the sea and do souvenir shopping.”

Vathy: A Picturesque Fishing Village

After Pserimos, the boat heads toward Vathy, a small fishing village that looks like a fjord. Many visitors are enchanted by its natural beauty and tranquility. You’ll get about an hour here, which is perfect for strolling along the waterfront, taking photos, or jumping off the cliff diving platform, a favorite for those seeking a little thrill.

Reviews describe Vathy as “one of the most beautiful fishing villages in the Dodecanese” and mention the clear waters of Rina, a popular swimming spot. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite for travelers who want to unwind and soak in the scenery, away from hectic tourist spots.

Lunch in Plati: Authentic Greek Flavors

The next stop is Plati on Kalymnos, where a hearty Greek lunch is served on the boat, featuring classics like souvlaki, Greek salad, tzatziki, and fresh fruit. Many reviews rave about the delicious, well-prepared food and the generous portions. This is a great chance to try local flavors without leaving the comfort of the boat.

For those with dietary needs or picky eaters, the meal is usually straightforward, but the reviews suggest it’s a highlight of the trip. The included lunch offers excellent value, especially considering the scenic setting and the fact that you’re dining on a boat in the middle of the Aegean.

Swimming and Free Time at Plati and Rina

After lunch, the crew drops anchor for a swim stop at Plati, where you can hop into the turquoise waters or explore the coastline. The water is frequently described as crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. Many reviews mention the quality of the water, with some lucky travelers even spotting dolphins, a magical bonus many cherish.

Later, another swim stop is made at Rina, near Vathy, where the waters are equally inviting. Some travelers even dive off the cliff diving platform, adding a splash of adventure to their relaxing day. This flexibility to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on deck is what makes this tour appealing.

Final Stop and Return

The trip wraps up with a return cruise back to Kos, usually arriving in the late afternoon. The small boat’s atmosphere, lively crew, and beautiful scenery make the return journey a pleasant wind-down. Many reviews express satisfaction with the overall experience—highlighting the friendly staff, stunning locations, and the value for the price paid.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is ideal for those who love a mix of relaxation, light exploration, and water activities. Families, solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an authentic slice of Greek island life will find plenty to enjoy. If you’re a fan of snorkeling, swimming in pristine waters, and savoring traditional Greek dishes, this trip offers a lot for a reasonable price.

It’s particularly suitable for travelers who prefer a smaller, more intimate boat experience rather than large, crowded cruises. If you’re seeking a stress-free day with scenic stops, friendly guides, and the chance to see dolphins (if lucky), you’ll be very happy with this excursion.

Note: The tour involves some walking and swimming, so comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sun protection are a must. Also, since drinks are not included, bringing your own or purchasing on board is recommended.

Pricing and Value

At just over $31 per person, including lunch and island visits, this tour offers excellent value. The reviews repeatedly mention how much they got for the price—dolphins, peaceful islands, and good food—making it a cost-effective way to see more of the Aegean without breaking the bank. Keep in mind that drinks are extra, so plan accordingly.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book early especially during peak season, to secure your spot and select your preferred pickup point.
• Bring essentials such as sunscreen, sunhat, swimwear, and a towel.
• If you’re prone to sea sickness, consider taking precautions as the boat can sometimes be choppy.
• Arrive early at the port to avoid last-minute stress, especially if you’re not opting for hotel pickup.
• Pack some cash for drinks or souvenirs, as they are not included.
• Relax and enjoy—many reviewers mention how friendly and lively the crew is, making the whole day fun and memorable.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the optional transfer, your pickup from specified hotels in Kos is arranged, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the cruise?
The full experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, including stops, swimming, and lunch.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
No, lunch is included in the tour, featuring traditional Greek dishes like souvlaki, salad, and fruit.

Can I swim during the stops?
Absolutely. The waters are clear and inviting, and many travelers mention swimming or snorkeling at each stop.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, but they can be purchased on board at reasonable prices.

Is the boat big?
No, the boat is smaller than typical cruise ships, which is often praised for creating a more personal atmosphere.

Is this suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, the tour suits all ages, but basic swimming ability and comfort with boat travel are recommended for children.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled in bad weather, but generally, safety is the priority, and crew will inform you if any changes are needed.

In essence, this boat cruise is a well-rated, affordable way to spend a relaxing day among Greek islands, with friendly staff, scenic stops, and delicious local food. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, a chance to swim in the blue waters, or just want to enjoy the beauty of Kos’s surroundings, this tour is worth considering.