The Santa Maria Full-Day Island Cruise in Aegean Sea

Exploring the Aegean: The Santa Maria Full-Day Island Cruise in Kos

Imagine spending a leisurely day cruising on the Santa Maria, visiting three charming islands—Kalymnos, Platy, and Pserimos—without the hassle of organizing your own boat. This 7.5-hour tour, priced at around $44.76 per person, offers a relaxed way to see some of Greece’s lesser-known gems. The experience is perfect for those wanting a taste of authentic island life, scenic views, and a bit of adventure, all while enjoying a traditional barbecue lunch onboard.

What we love most about this cruise is how effortless it is—just hop on, relax, and let the waters of the Aegean guide you. The opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and explore coastal villages makes it a genuinely immersive experience. Plus, the chance to spot dolphins adds a sprinkle of excitement. The only thing to consider is that some stops are quite brief—so if you’re after a slow pace or in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for most travelers, it strikes a lovely balance of sightseeing and leisure.

This tour suits travelers looking for value and convenience—especially those who prefer a guided experience over renting their own boat. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a shared adventure. If you enjoy beach time, local cuisine, and island scenery, this cruise is likely to hit the spot.

Key Points

• Visit three islands in one day—Kalymnos, Platy, and Pserimos.
• Included lunch provides a traditional BBQ meal, saving you money and time.
• Swim and relax on beaches or enjoy cliff diving on Platy.
• Dolphin sightings are a possibility as your boat passes through natural habitats.
• Short stops mean quick but memorable visits; perfect for a taste of island life.
• Group discounts and a maximum of 150 travelers ensure a lively, social atmosphere.

Discovering the Santa Maria Full-Day Island Cruise

If your idea of travel involves sun, sea, and authentic local flavor without the stress of planning, this cruise might be precisely what you need. Starting at the Port of Kos at 9:30 am, you’ll board the Santa Maria and set sail into the Aegean Sea. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 60 reviews, many travelers find it a well-organized, fun, and rewarding experience.

Visiting Kalymnos: The First Stop

Your journey begins with a gentle approach into the port of Vathy on Kalymnos, known for its fishing boats and vibrant local life. Here, you’ll get around 2 hours to explore the small town. Many visitors, like Carolyn, appreciated the friendly staff and smooth transfer to a sister ship when Santa Maria was temporarily unavailable—highlighting the company’s flexibility and commitment to guest satisfaction.

You’ll love trying freshly squeezed orange juice and sampling Kalymnos honey, which is a local delicacy. The swimming opportunity is a major highlight; the water here is often described as refreshingly clear, perfect for cooling off after a stroll through the town. The lunch served at a local tavern is a favorite, offering authentic Greek cuisine and a chance to mingle with locals. The two-hour window provides enough time to get a feel for the island’s charm without feeling rushed.

The Cliff Dive and Swim at Platy

Next, the boat heads to Platy, a tiny, lesser-known island. Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes to enjoy the cliff diving and turquoise waters. The reviews often mention the beautiful beaches and the fun of jumping into the sea—a highlight for thrill-seekers and families alike. The brief stop makes it ideal for a quick swim or exploring the shoreline, though some travelers might wish for more time here.

Relaxing at Pserimos

The final stop is at Pserimos, famous for its sandy beaches and quiet ambiance. You’ll have another 40 minutes to unwind, explore, or grab some ice cream. While the island lacks extensive shopping or urban attractions, many find its laid-back vibe and stunning beach a perfect way to end your day. The reviews praise the friendly staff and the beautiful, relaxing environment—a peaceful contrast to the busier islands.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in your ticket is a traditional BBQ lunch—a real treat that saves you the hassle of packing or finding food ashore. Beverages and drinks are not included, and alcohol is only allowed for travelers 18 and over. The cruise also offers WiFi onboard and a restroom, making the trip comfortable.

Extras like souvenirs or additional drinks are not included, so bring some cash if you want to buy souvenirs or snacks at the stops.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Arrive early at the Port of Kos to avoid last-minute rushes.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—the sun can be intense during the summer months.
• Swimwear and a towel are essential if you want to make the most of the water stops.
• Snacks or additional drinks can be purchased ashore if you prefer more variety.
• Group discounts could be a smart way to save if you’re traveling with friends or family.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

From the friendly staff to the delicious local fare, many reviews highlight the personal touches that make this cruise memorable. Kimm F called it “thoroughly relaxing and fun,” emphasizing the opportunities to swim and enjoy the scenery. Tamara R enjoyed the music and dancing, adding a lively atmosphere that makes the day feel celebratory rather than just a sightseeing outing.

The dolphin sightings are a bonus many travelers mention, adding a touch of magic as the boat glides through the waters. The scenic views of the islands’ coastlines and unique beaches are a highlight, especially for those who appreciate natural beauty and coastline charm.

One of the main advantages of this tour is its value. For less than fifty dollars, you get a full day of island hopping, culture, swimming, and a traditional meal. It’s an efficient way to tick off multiple islands in a single trip, especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided logistics over self-organized tours.

However, the brief stops mean you won’t have time for in-depth exploration or shopping, which could be a downside if you’re looking for a more immersive experience. Still, for a taste of the islands, this cruise hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to travelers who love scenic boat rides, beaches, and authentic Greek snacks. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore at your own leisure. Families with children, couples, or groups of friends will find it a fun, social environment.

If you value convenience and good value for money, and don’t mind the shorter stops, this trip offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation. It’s also good for first-time visitors to Kos wanting to see multiple islands without the hassle of planning individual boat trips.

The Sum Up

The Santa Maria Full-Day Island Cruise in the Aegean offers an enjoyable, well-organized way to experience some of the most picturesque islands near Kos. With delicious local food, opportunities for swimming and relaxing on beaches, and a chance to glimpse local life, it provides a solid value for travelers wanting a taste of island hopping without the fuss.

The friendly crew, scenic routes, and lively atmosphere make it a memorable day, especially suited for those seeking a light, scenic, and social excursion. While the brief stops mean it’s not for travelers craving in-depth exploration or extensive shopping, it’s perfect for a relaxed, scenic escape that combines comfort with authentic charm.

In short, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, fun-filled day on the water that offers a good mix of sights, swim, and local flavor, this cruise is a reliable pick.

FAQ

What islands are visited during this cruise?
You’ll visit three islands: Kalymnos, Platy, and Pserimos, each offering unique scenery and experiences.

How long do we spend on each island?
Kalymnos gets about 2 hours, while Platy and Pserimos each have roughly 40-minute stops.

Is food included?
Yes, a traditional BBQ lunch is included, but drinks are not.

Can I swim during the trip?
Absolutely. There are swimming opportunities at Kalymnos, Platy, and Pserimos, with many reviews praising the crystal-clear waters.

What is the start time?
The cruise departs at 9:30 am from the Port of Kos.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially with the swimming and beach stops, but consider the brief stops if traveling with very young children.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, the tour offers group discounts.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, hat, sunglasses, and maybe some cash for souvenirs or extra drinks.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, WiFi is provided during the cruise.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Navigating Greek island tours doesn’t have to be complicated. With this cruise, you get a comfortable, scenic, and deliciously simple way to experience the beauty of the Aegean, making your time in Kos truly memorable.