3 Island Cruise to Nisyros, St. Antonios & Yali

An Honest Look at the 3 Island Cruise to Nisyros, St. Antonios & Yali

Taking a boat trip around the Greek islands sounds like a classic vacation activity, and this 3 Island Cruise from Kos offers a chance to see some of the archipelago’s most distinctive spots. While it’s not a luxury tour, it packs in a surprising amount of scenery, history, and fun for a reasonable price.

We particularly like the balance of exploration and relaxation—from visiting the volcanic island of Nisyros to unwinding on an uninhabited islet. The included Greek BBQ adds a touch of local flavor, and the overall vibe seems perfect for travelers wanting a straightforward day of island-hopping. That said, the tour’s moderate reviews hint it’s not for everyone, especially those craving more in-depth experiences or a quiet, intimate setting.

This cruise suits those who are seeking a budget-friendly way to see several islands in one day, appreciate scenic boat rides, and are okay with a group setting. If you prefer personalized or slower-paced experiences, you might want to consider other options. Still, for an active, fun-packed day on the water, it’s worth considering.

Good To Know

• Affordable price point provides good value considering the multiple islands visited.
• Includes a traditional Greek BBQ on board, offering a taste of local flavors.
• Stunning views of volcanic landscapes and uninhabited islands, perfect for photography.
• Flexible options for vegetarian meals upon request.
• Group size up to 320 travelers means a lively, social atmosphere.
• Moderate reviews highlight friendly crew and scenic stops, but some may find the duration too rushed.

The Itinerary Explored

Starting in Kardamena

The adventure begins in the port of Kardamena at 10 am, on a well-kept boat that’s reportedly clean and comfortable. The early start means you’ll be on the water as the sun is just rising, setting a lively tone for the day. With a 50-minute cruise to the first stop, the journey itself is short enough to keep your excitement up without feeling like you’re on the water too long.

St. Antonios — A Natural Sanctuary

The first stop is the uninhabited island of St. Antonios, a perfect quick getaway for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. With only 45 minutes on the island, you’ll have time to visit the small church of St. Antonios and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Reviewers mention that this island is a “natural paradise,” ideal for a quick photo session or a peaceful walk. The fact that it’s uninhabited means no crowds—just pure, unspoiled scenery.

Some travelers note that this stop is free of admission costs, which adds to the overall value. If you’re interested in a brief visit to a quiet slice of Greece, this stop hits the mark.

Nisyros — The Volcanic Marvel

Arriving around noon, the highlight for many is Nisyros, a volcanic island famous for its active crater. Here, you’ll get around 4 hours to explore—ample time to wander, take photos, or visit the town of Mandraki. The crew prepares a Greek BBQ on the boat, which is a nice touch, especially since options include pork souvlaki, salad, and bread, with vegetarian choices available if requested.

From reviews, it’s clear that Nisyros offers stunning views of its volcanic landscape, with some visitors commenting on how impressive the island’s terrain is. The port of Mandraki is a charming place to stroll, with a relaxed vibe that invites wandering and discovering authentic local spots.

A notable point is that admission to Nisyros itself isn’t included, so if you wish to visit volcanic craters or other attractions, you’ll need to pay separately. Still, the time allocated seems sufficient for a quick exploration or a relaxed lunch before heading back to the boat.

Yali — A Volcanic Treasure

The last stop is Yali, a small volcanic island with just 21 inhabitants. The review highlights this as a “beautiful location” perfect for swimming or simply relaxing. With 45 minutes here, you’ll have a chance to enjoy the views of Yali’s volcanic terrain or take a dip in the clear waters—an experience that many find memorable.

Since this island is part of Nisyros’ municipality, it adds a layer of geological intrigue, especially for those interested in volcanic landscapes. It’s an excellent opportunity to cool off before heading back to Kardamena.

Returning to Kardamena

The day wraps up with a 50-minute cruise back to the port, arriving around 5:30 pm. While some reviews say the timing is just right, others might feel it’s a bit rushed, especially if you want more time on each island. Still, considering the total package, it’s a way to see diverse scenery in one day without spending a fortune.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of around $42 per person makes this cruise an attractive option—especially since it covers boat tickets, taxes, and liability insurance. The lunch is a notable highlight: a Greek BBQ with pork and vegetarian options, which is generally appreciated for its simplicity and authenticity.

Extras like coffee, tea, or transfer to the volcano cost extra, so if you want a more comprehensive experience (like visiting Nisyros’ crater), be prepared for additional fees. The transfer from your accommodation isn’t included, but most travelers find the meeting point at Kardamena port convenient.

The Real Deal from Reviews

From actual travelers like Rachel, who called the boat “clean and well kept,” the impression is positive for the crew’s friendliness and helpfulness. She mentions the last stop being “a beautiful location” for swimming, and that part of her party, including a 3-year-old, didn’t get off the boat but still enjoyed the scenic backdrop.

Other reviewers appreciate the value for money and the chance to see Nisyros and St. Antonios without breaking the bank. Many find that the scenery and views are what make the trip worthwhile, especially the volcanic landscapes of Yali and Nisyros.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy group boat trips, scenic views, and experiencing multiple islands in one day, this cruise offers a straightforward, fun option. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a somewhat fast-paced day and are looking for affordable sightseeing.

However, if you prefer more personalized experiences, or want to spend longer on each destination, this may feel a bit rushed. The group size of up to 320 means it’s lively, but possibly loud or crowded at times.

This tour offers stunning views and good value, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers craving a taste of Greek island life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total tour?
The cruise lasts about 8 hours, from 10 am to around 5:30 pm, including all stops and transfers.

What is included in the price?
You get boat tickets for the three islands, all fees and taxes, liability insurance, and a Greek BBQ meal onboard.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested on the BBQ, making it suitable for different dietary needs.

Do I need to pay extra for specific attractions?
Yes, visiting the volcanic crater or other specific sites on Nisyros requires separate admission, which is not included in the tour price.

Is transfer from my hotel included?
No, transfer is not included; most travelers meet at the Kardamena port.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 320 travelers, making it a lively, social experience.

Final Thoughts

This 3 Island Cruise from Kos provides a budget-friendly, scenic way to explore some of Greece’s volcanic gems and unspoiled islands. Its value for money is notable, especially given the inclusion of a traditional BBQ and multiple stops.

If you’re after stunning views, a relaxed yet active day, and don’t mind the group setting, it’s a solid option. The cruise’s moderate reviews point to friendly crew and beautiful scenery, although some travelers may find the time on each island a bit limited.

For those eager to experience the volcanic landscapes of Yali and Nisyros without fuss or high costs, this tour checks many boxes. It’s best suited for travelers who want a straightforward, fun-filled day on the water—perfect for families, groups, or first-time visitors seeking a snapshot of Greek island life.

Note: Always check the latest details with the tour provider before booking, as schedules and inclusions can change.