Shared Day Cruise from Kos to Kalymnos & Pserimos

A Day on the Water: Shared Cruise from Kos to Kalymnos & Pserimos

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the Mediterranean sea breeze, stunning views, and a taste of local island life, this shared day cruise from Kos offers a compelling option. The tour covers three islands — Kalymnos, Pserimos, and nearby bays — with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor, all packed into about 7.5 hours. Prices are reasonable, especially considering the included buffet lunch with vegetarian options, and the opportunity to explore islands at a relaxed pace.

What we love most is the chance to glide between islands in a comfortable boat, with pauses that allow you to take in incredible blue waters, explore charming villages, and unwind on sandy beaches. The boat’s natural fjord entrance into Vathi offers a particularly memorable start, giving travelers a sense of adventure and awe. Plus, the refreshing cocktails served during happy hour add a nice touch of leisure to the day.

One thing to consider is that the group is not private, meaning you’ll be sharing the boat with others, sometimes quite a crowd — as a review mentioned, up to 350-400 people! This can impact comfort and service, especially during busy times or if you’re looking for a more intimate experience. Also, some reviews have expressed disappointment over certain aspects, like limited time at each stop or the overall value for the cost, so it’s worth weighing your expectations.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, are okay with a more lively group, and are seeking a full-day adventure that combines scenic views with an authentic taste of island life. If you’re after a relaxing, less crowded experience, you might want to explore quieter options or private tours instead.

Key Points

• Scenic Stops: Visit Vathi’s dramatic fjord, the crystal-clear waters of Plati, and relaxing Pserimos beaches.
• All-Inclusive Lunch: Enjoy a buffet lunch with pork or chicken Souvlaki and vegetarian options like beans and dolmades.
• Group Size: This is a shared tour, possibly crowded, with up to 400 participants depending on availability.
• Flexible Itinerary: Departure times may change based on weather, and the boat used can vary.
• Limited Time on Islands: Expect about 1.5 hours on Kalymnos and Pserimos each, which might feel rushed for some.
• Authentic Experience: Ideal for those who enjoy social boat atmospheres and scenic island exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Highlights

Starting from Kos, the tour’s first wow moment is entering the spectacular Vathi fjord. The boat glides into a narrow inlet, revealing a hidden natural wonder that feels like entering a secret world. We loved how the boat enters what feels like a peaceful natural passage, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of adventure. The views of the valley slowly opening up are a real treat.

Following this, the boat anchors at an attractive bay where a buffet lunch is served. The meal is simple but satisfying—pork or chicken Souvlaki, fresh salad, tzatziki, and bread, with vegetarian options available. It’s a good way to fuel up for the rest of the day, especially since the tour runs for over 7 hours. You’ll find this included in the tour price, which seems reasonable considering the food and scenic stops.

Next up is Plati islet, renowned for its unbelievably clear waters. You can easily see the sandy bottom through the vibrant blue and turquoise waters — perfect for a swim or just floating in the warm sea. During this stop, a happy hour kicks off with cocktails at low prices, adding a festive touch to the day.

The final stop is Pserimos, a tiny island with a charming village vibe and a modest beach. Here, you’re free to explore, swim, or just relax at a local café or tavern. This laid-back atmosphere is one of the tour’s highlights, providing a chance to soak up local island life at a gentle pace.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s main attraction is the boat ride and stops at scenic locations, with the lunch included. However, drinks are not included in the package — you’ll need to buy those on board or ashore, which adds to the overall cost if you’re thirsty. Towels are also not provided, so bring your own if you plan to swim.

The Boat & Group Dynamics

The boats available can differ from the pictures shown, depending on availability. This could mean a different boat experience each time you book. The group is typically not private, and the large crowds can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you value serenity. One review vividly described the experience as “crammed together like chickens,” with up to 350-400 people on board, which might not be ideal for everyone.

Flexibility & Practical Considerations

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and you can reserve now and pay later. Departure times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking. The activity is in English, but it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so keep accessibility needs in mind.

Authentic Experiences & Downside

While the scenery and island stops are genuinely beautiful, some travelers have expressed disappointment over limited time at each stop and value for money. As one reviewer put it, “not even a bottle of water was included,” and the lunch portions were small. These comments suggest that if you’re after a more luxurious or private experience, this might not be the best fit.

Who Would Love This Tour

This cruise suits adventurous travelers who enjoy group activities, scenic boat rides, and exploring multiple islands in one day. It’s especially good if you’re seeking photo opportunities of stunning waters, fjords, and local villages. However, if you prefer quiet, intimate experiences or have limited time, you might feel the crowds and quick stops are less appealing.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This cruise offers a lively, scenic, and tastefully inclusive way to see parts of the Dodecanese from the water. You’ll love the beautiful views, especially entering Vathi’s fjord and swimming in Plati’s pristine bay. The lunch adds value, and the relaxed island stops let you stretch your legs and enjoy some local flavor.

At the same time, it’s important to recognize that the large group size can diminish comfort, and the limited time at each stop means you’ll need to prioritize what to see and do. For travelers happy with a social atmosphere, this trip delivers fun, scenery, and a taste of island life.

For those seeking peace and quiet, or a more private experience, alternative tours or smaller vessels might be worth exploring. But if you’re ready for a full day of exploring, swimming, and socializing in beautiful surroundings, this cruise offers solid value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with starting times depending on availability. It includes scenic stops, swimming, and a buffet lunch.

What islands are visited on this cruise?
You will visit the bays of Kalymnos, Plati, and Pserimos, with the first stop being Vathi’s fjord, then Plati islet, and finally Pserimos island.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch with pork or chicken Souvlaki, salad, tzatziki, and bread is included. Vegetarian options are also available, such as beans and dolmades.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included and can be purchased on the boat at extra cost. During happy hour, cocktails are served at low prices.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Not really — it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and involves a large group. If you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience or have mobility challenges, consider alternative options.

To sum it up, this shared boat tour is a lively, scenic way to explore the islands around Kos. It offers the perfect mix of spectacular water views, island exploration, and social fun — ideal for travelers who enjoy a bustling atmosphere and don’t mind a busy schedule. Just keep in mind the large crowds and brief stops if you’re looking for a more relaxed, exclusive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: