Luxury Transfer and 3 Island Cruise from Kos

Taking a boat trip around Kos to visit three of its charming neighboring islands promises a day filled with sunshine, scenic views, and memorable moments. While I haven’t personally experienced this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect. It’s an ideal option for those craving a mix of relaxation, cultural exploration, and stunning seascapes without breaking the bank.

What we love about this experience? First, the inclusion of luxury hotel pickup and drop-off makes the day stress-free. Second, the diverse stops—from the tiny fishing village of Pserimos to the sponge-dotted shores of Kalymnos—offer a genuine taste of local life. Third, the balance between leisure time and sightseeing ensures you get to soak up the sun, swim in crystal waters, and explore at a comfortable pace.

A potential consideration? The crowd levels can vary, especially on busy days, which might affect comfort and shade availability onboard. For travelers seeking a peaceful, intimate cruise, this is worth noting.

This tour suits those looking for value-packed day trips with a mix of scenic sailing, cultural stops, and leisure, particularly if you want everything arranged for you from hotel pickup.

Good To Know

• All-inclusive convenience with hotel pickup, comfortable transportation, and lunch.
• Multiple islands offering distinct atmospheres—fishing village charm, sponge diving history, and tranquil beaches.
• Flexible stops allowing ample time for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.
• Authentic experiences such as trying local produce and wandering through traditional alleys.
• Good value for a full-day adventure, especially considering the transportation and lunch included.
• Variable crowd levels might affect comfort during peak times.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Kos Harbour

The tour begins early, with a pickup around 9:30 am, making the most of the day. From the port in Kos, you board a well-equipped vessel, often with air conditioning and onboard restrooms, which help keep things comfortable as you set sail. The initial cruise takes about an hour to Pserimos, a tiny fishing village known for its peaceful beaches and laid-back vibe.

Many reviewers mention the ease of the transfer—“The pickup was rather uncomplicated and the trip itself was very pleasant,” one reviewer notes. However, some travelers have experienced minor hiccups, such as being dropped off further from their hotel than expected, so a bit of flexibility is helpful.

Pserimos: A Relaxed Beach Day

Once on Pserimos, you’ll find around 1 hour and 45 minutes to unwind. The island is celebrated for its quiet sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just wading into the clear waters. Reviewers highlight how ideal this spot is for relaxation, with one saying, “The perfect sandy beach to relax on, have a refreshment, work on your suntan.”

Tavernas along the beach serve local food, and the salty sea breeze makes for a lovely meal or drink—though drinks are not included, you can purchase them onboard or ashore. This stop offers a break from the hustle, letting you soak up island life without the crowds.

Kalymnos: The Sponge Island’s Charm

Next, the boat cruises for about 60 minutes to reach Kalymnos, the famous sponge harvesting island. This stop is a favorite among travelers who appreciate authentic local culture. The town of Vathy, with its charming alleys and sea views, beckons for exploration. Many reviewers loved the local shops and tasting opportunities—”try local orange juice, wild honey, figs, and traditional donuts,” a trip report notes.

You’ll have around 2 hours here, giving ample time to stroll through the streets, visit sponge stores, or sip a cold Fredo coffee at a waterfront café. The highlight? The stunning waters, described by one guest as “the clearest and most turquoise waters” they’ve seen in Greece. This is a prime photo-op and ideal for a quick swim or just enjoying the scenery.

Plati: The Serene Sandy Beach

The final island stop is Plati, with about an hour and 5 minutes to relax on its sandy beaches or explore the quaint surroundings. This spot is perfect for those who want to unwind after the day’s adventures, soaking up the sun or wandering through quiet alleys. One reviewer said, “Plenty of room on board and very reasonable priced drinks plus the BBQ was great,” emphasizing the value and comfort of this part of the trip.

Return Journey and Optional Extras

The cruise back to Kos typically involves cruising along the coast, enjoying the views and perhaps spotting some marine life—dolphins are occasionally seen, according to reviews. Onboard, you can purchase drinks and enjoy BBQ-style lunch, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request, making the experience accessible for dietary preferences. The entire day wraps up with a smooth transfer back to your accommodation, rounding out a full 8 hours of island hopping.

What Travelers Appreciate Most

Authentic local flavor and scenery top the list. Many rave about the friendly crew, especially guides like Captain Morgan, who is praised for being knowledgeable and helpful. The good value for money is frequently mentioned—considering the boat, stops, lunch, and transfers, the $45 price tag is regarded as very reasonable.

Swimming in clear, turquoise waters at each island is a common highlight, with guests noting that the beaches are clean and inviting. The stops at Kalymnos and Pserimos seem particularly treasured for their tranquility and natural beauty.

Food onboard also attracts praise, with a BBQ lunch that includes vegetarian and vegan options. Reviewers say it’s tasty and sufficient, especially given the scenic setting.

However, some mention the crowd density—on busier days, the boat can get quite full, which might reduce comfort and shade availability. A few travelers also point out that the transfer service isn’t perfect—sometimes they’ve had to walk or were dropped further than expected—but overall, these are minor inconveniences compared to the experience.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The luxury transfer from and back to your hotel is a major plus, especially for those who dislike waiting or navigating local transit. The tour operates with a maximum of 130 travelers, so it’s large enough to be lively but not so crowded as to feel overwhelming. Most travelers find the timing—starting early in the morning and returning by late afternoon—perfect for fitting into a day’s holiday plans.

The duration of about 8 hours includes all stops, lunch, and the cruise, providing a comprehensive experience without feeling rushed. Having a mobile ticket and pickup service simplifies planning, reducing the typical stress of day trips.

The Value of This Tour

At $45, the tour offers notable value, especially considering the inclusions: hotel pickup, cruise, multiple island stops, and a BBQ lunch. When you compare the cost to what you’d pay for separate transportation, meals, and activities, this package makes good sense for budget-conscious travelers who want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing individual tickets.

While drinks are purchased separately, the onboard bar offers reasonable prices, and the scenic settings make for a worthwhile splurge. The flexibility in meal options—vegetarian and vegan dishes—also adds to its appeal for diverse dietary needs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back day with scenic sailing, culture, and beach relaxation. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate a balance of guided exploration and free time. Families, couples, and solo travelers will find it offers enough comfort and flexibility.

However, if you prefer a more intimate or peaceful experience, or are averse to crowds, you might find the larger group size and busier days less appealing. Still, most reviews mention the overall quality and value, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting to see multiple islands without the stress of planning.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour features luxury pickup and drop-off, making it easier to start and end the day comfortably.

How long is the entire tour? Approximately 8 hours, including all stops, lunch, and transfer times.

Are vegetarian and vegan meals available? Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be requested upon timely notice.

Can I purchase drinks onboard? Yes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available at the onboard bar, but they are not included in the price.

What is the main boat used for this tour? Many reviews mention the crew of Santa Maria, indicating this as the vessel’s name or at least the crew’s reputation.

Is the tour suitable for families? Most likely, yes—though it’s best for those comfortable with a group setting and some walking/exploring ashore.

How crowded does it get? On busy days, the boat can be quite full, which might limit shade and seating options.

Are there opportunities for swimming? Absolutely—each stop offers time for swimming in crystal-clear waters, which is a highlight for many guests.

What should I bring? Bring cash for drinks and souvenirs, sun protection, swimwear, and comfortable shoes for exploring ashore.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This luxury 3 island cruise from Kos strikes a nice balance between guided comfort and free exploration. It promises stunning scenery, authentic island stops, and good value for the price—especially with the included transfer and lunch. While it can get crowded and some minor logistical hiccups are possible, most travelers find the experience well worth the effort and cost.

If you want to see the best of Kos’s surrounding islands without stressing about transportation or planning every detail, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable solution. Perfect for those seeking a full, relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and sampling local flavors.

To sum it up, this cruise is best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free way to explore multiple islands with a comfortable, guided experience. It’s a fantastic option for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking to maximize their time in Kos without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.