From Kos: Half Day Boat Trip to Pserimos Island with Lunch

An Honest Look at a Compact but Delightful Aegean Adventure

If you’re looking for a quick yet memorable escape from the bustling streets of Kos, this half-day boat trip to Pserimos promises a charming slice of Greek island life. While it’s not a full-day extravaganza, the blend of snorkeling, scenic views, and a tasty Greek meal makes it a worthwhile choice. We like that this trip combines fun, relaxation, and authentic touches without breaking the bank, costing just $30 per person.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for everyone—non-swimmers, wheelchair users, and those prone to seasickness might want to consider other options. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, family-friendly day with scenic water stops and a lively boat atmosphere.

In this review, we’ll explore what makes this trip stand out, what to expect at each stop, and how to make the most of your four hours on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At around $30, this tour offers good value for a scenic boat ride with included lunch.
• Comfortable & Fun Atmosphere: The pirate-themed boat adds a playful touch, making it particularly appealing to families and kids.
• Stunning Stops: Multiple swim spots, including Pserimos and the Blue Lagoon, ensure plenty of time in inviting waters.
• Authentic Greek Cuisine: A freshly prepared meal featuring souvlaki, Greek salad, and bread keeps you fueled for the day.
• Knowledgeable Crew: Reviews praise the guides and staff for friendly service and good local insights.
• Weather Dependent: Be aware that bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellations, so stay flexible.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Kos & Setting Sail

Your day begins at the port of Kos, where you’ll find the “Pirates of Kos” boat waiting. Arrive 15 minutes early to settle in and get ready for the fun. The boat is described as lively and themed with a pirate vibe—an element that makes the trip feel more like a mini adventure rather than just a boat ride.

The professional crew welcomes you aboard, and within moments, you’re cruising out into the Aegean. The boat’s size tends to keep groups intimate but lively, with most reviews mentioning a friendly, accommodating staff.

First Stop: Pserimos Island Swim & Exploration

The first highlight is the swim stop at Pserimos. Here, you’ll have ample time (usually around an hour) to splash into the clear waters, snorkel, or relax on the sand. Reviewers like Sabine noted that the swimming stops in Pserimos and Blue Lagoon were “really great,” emphasizing how the calm, turquoise waters are perfect for cooling down and taking in the vibrant marine life.

The island itself is simple but charming, with laid-back vibes and shady spots—especially appreciated by families with kids, as Katia pointed out, mentioning plenty of shady space.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch on the Deck

After swimming, the boat pulls back to the deck for lunch. The meal is described as delicious, authentic Greek fare. You can expect succulent pork souvlaki, fresh Greek salad, and warm bread, all served with panoramic views of the island and sea. Several reviewers, including William, appreciated that the meal was good and plentiful—a solid value considering the tour price.

The atmosphere onboard is relaxed and convivial, with many guests enjoying their meal under the sun. Some noted that the bar prices are affordable, making it easy to indulge without worry.

Blue Lagoon: The Final Highlight

The last stop is the famous Blue Lagoon, known for its crystal-clear waters and underwater visibility. This spot is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating lazily on your back while soaking in the scenery. It’s a highlight for many travelers, with reviewers like Dietmar calling it a “really nice trip” and highlighting the great stops.

The lagoon offers a paradise-like environment, and since it’s relatively close to Pserimos, you’ll get plenty of time (about an hour) to enjoy the peaceful waters. Keep your camera handy—this vivid blue is as stunning as the postcards suggest.

Returning to Kos

As the afternoon wanes, the boat sets sail back toward the port of Kos. The return journey often includes lively music and conversation, rounding out a fun, relaxed day.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

Transport & Duration: The tour lasts around 4 hours. It’s a perfect option for those wanting a quick island escape without committing to a full day. The boat departs from the Kos port, and you should arrive 15 minutes early to find the boat “Pirates of Kos.”

What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, and a towel are essential. The boat provides the lunch and swim stops, but packing extra water and snacks is never a bad idea, especially if you’re particularly hungry or sun-exposed.

Weather & Cancellations: The trip is subject to weather conditions, so bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellation. This flexibility is why booking with the option to reserve now and pay later is recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour? It’s best for families, first-time visitors, and those seeking a relaxing day with scenic water stops. Non-swimmers and those with mobility issues should note that the activity isn’t suitable for them.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Insights

Reviewers consistently mention friendly guides and crew who provide helpful tips and local insights—important for making the experience more engaging. For example, the reviews highlight knowledgeable staff and a lively atmosphere that makes the trip enjoyable for both kids and adults.

Many guests appreciate the balance of swimming, relaxation, and eating, describing the lunch as satisfying and the water stops as peaceful. Several comments mention the cleanliness and comfort of the boat, noting that the pirate theme adds a playful, family-friendly touch.

A couple of travelers pointed out minor issues, such as the music being a bit loud during the trip or wishing the cocktails had a bit more kick. But overall, these are small quibbles compared to the fun and value of the day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Boat Trip Worth It?

For those seeking a short, scenic escape from the hustle of Kos, this half-day boat trip to Pserimos offers a combination of crystal waters, good food, and lively atmosphere at an accessible price. It’s especially valued by families, groups, or couples who want a relaxed day with plenty of swimming and beautiful views.

The affordable price point makes it a smart choice for travelers looking for a snapshot of Greek island life without overcommitting time or money. The friendly crew and authentic meal enhance the experience, making it more than just a boat ride.

While it might not satisfy those looking for a full-day adventure or specific accessibility needs, for most visitors, it hits the sweet spot of fun, scenic, and relaxing.

FAQs

How early should I arrive at the port?
Arrive about 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to find the boat “Pirates of Kos” and settle in comfortably.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps some extra water. The boat provides lunch and swim stops, but personal items are always handy.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, it’s not recommended for non-swimmers as swimming and snorkeling are integral parts of the trip.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to its setup and activity nature.

How long is each swim stop?
Swim stops are typically around an hour, giving enough time for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach.

Does the tour include drinks?
The tour includes lunch, and while it mentions cocktails, the reviews suggest that bar offerings are reasonably priced but might not be extensive.

What is the theme of the boat?
The boat is pirate-themed, which adds a playful and family-friendly vibe to the experience.

What kind of food is served?
A traditional Greek meal featuring pork souvlaki, Greek salad, and bread—simple, tasty, and filling.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellations, so check the forecast and remain flexible.

To sum it up, this boat trip offers an enjoyable, value-packed way to experience some of the best water spots near Kos. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a quick, scenic, and fun day out that combines swimming, good food, and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this tour delivers a relaxed and picturesque slice of Greek island life, with plenty of authentic touches and memorable moments.

You can check if your dates are available here: