Kalymnos, Pserimos & Plati Island Cruise with Hotel Transfer

Discover the beauty of the Dodecanese with the Kalymnos, Pserimos & Plati Island Cruise. For just $62 per person, this 8-hour trip offers a fantastic mix of sun, sand, and sea, with hotel transfers included. You’ll hop aboard a comfortable boat and visit three very different islands, each offering its own charm—from the sponge-diving fame of Kalymnos to the quiet beaches of Pserimos and the untouched rocky landscape of Plati.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic island experiences—like visiting a sponge workshop on Kalymnos—and the chance to relax in some of the most beautiful bays Greece has to offer. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the boat trip provides plenty of opportunities to unwind.

A couple of considerations: this is primarily a swimming and lounging trip, so if you’re hoping for a detailed cultural tour or extensive exploration of each island, you might find it a bit brief. The tour also doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Still, if you enjoy a laid-back day with scenic views, this tour is a great fit—especially for travelers looking to experience the islands without the hassle of planning transportation or boat logistics.

This experience suits travelers who want a combination of beach time, scenic cruising, and authentic local culture. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a relaxed pace and are happy to spend most of the day on the water or at the beach.

This experience made our article of Kos’s 10 Best Private Driver Services: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Transfers: Hotel pick-up and return make it easy and stress-free.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit a sponge workshop on Kalymnos for a glimpse into local tradition.
• Beautiful Bays & Beaches: Swim and relax in some of the region’s most stunning spots.
• Short but Sweet: An 8-hour trip perfect for a day of leisure and scenic cruising.
• Limited Time on Land: Focus is on boat and beach, not extensive island exploration.
• Cost-Effective: At $62, it offers good value for a full day of island hopping.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Kalymnos, Pserimos & Plati Island Cruise

What the Tour Entails

This day-long cruise begins with convenient hotel pickup, which many travelers appreciate as it takes the stress out of arranging transport. The boat departs from Kos and takes you through a scenic route to three very different islands. The itinerary is flexible enough to allow for swim breaks and leisurely exploration, but keep in mind that the focus is on enjoying the sea, the beaches, and local sights rather than detailed island tours.

Exploring Kalymnos: Sponge Diver’s Paradise

The first major stop is the island of Kalymnos, renowned for its sponge divers—a tradition that has shaped the island’s identity for generations. You’ll have the chance to visit a local sponge workshop, where guides like Nikos might explain the industry’s history and show you how sponges are harvested and processed. This adds an authentic touch, giving you a glimpse into local livelihood and craft.

The harbor promenade on Kalymnos is also quite charming, lined with tavernas and cafes where you can stroll and soak in the maritime atmosphere. Some travelers, like a reviewer from GetYourGuide, felt the time here was a bit limited, wishing for more exploration. Still, the visit provides a snapshot of Kalymnos’ unique character.

Pserimos: A Quiet Beach Retreat

Next, the boat heads to Pserimos, a tiny island with a population of just 130 residents. Its main attraction is the beautiful sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing or taking a dip. Here, you’ll find some free time to relax, swim, or explore the local village.

The island’s unspoiled nature and laid-back vibe make it a favorite for travelers seeking tranquility away from busier tourist spots. It’s an excellent spot for a peaceful swim and a chance to enjoy crystal-clear waters without the crowds.

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Plati: The Rocky Uninhabited Island

The final stop is Plati, a rocky, uninhabited island that’s great for swimming and snorkeling. The tour encourages guests to jump into the cool, turquoise waters—an activity that many find the highlight of the trip. The scenery here is rugged and natural, offering a contrast to the sandy beaches of Pserimos.

Due to its uninhabited status, Plati provides a sense of untouched nature, perfect for quiet reflection or just floating in the sea. Some reviews mention that the time here is brief, but it’s enough to enjoy the scenic beauty and cool off.

What’s Included & Not Included

For the price, the hotel transfers and boat trip are well worth it, especially considering the convenience. Keep in mind that lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during your free time on the islands. The tour is offered in English and German, making it accessible for many travelers.

What Travelers Say

Feedback is generally positive, with a 4 out of 5-star rating based on 25 reviews. Many mention the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as highlights. A traveler noted, “Great adventure, I recommend,” reflecting the enjoyable nature of the cruise.

However, some reviews highlight limitations. For example, one traveler wished to see more of Kalymnos and felt that “there was not enough time.” Another simply described the trip as “a swimming trip,” emphasizing the focus on sea and relaxation rather than cultural or scenic exploration.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear and sunscreen—the Greek sun can be intense, especially mid-day.
• Since lunch isn’t included, pack some snacks or plan to buy something on the islands.
• This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or pets, so plan accordingly.
• The duration is 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day out.
• Check the availability ahead of time to see the exact starting times, as they can vary.

Overall Value and Experience

At $62, this cruise offers a cost-effective way to see some of the most picturesque islands around Kos. It’s particularly good for travelers who want a relaxing day on the water, enjoy swimming, and are interested in a taste of local traditions like sponge diving.

The scenic boat ride itself is a highlight, providing excellent opportunities for photos and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. The combination of beach relaxation and authentic island visits makes this a well-rounded day trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those who prioritize sea and beach time over extensive land exploration. If you love swimming, relaxing in quiet bays, and experiencing local crafts like sponge diving, you’ll enjoy this trip. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer a laid-back, scenic day and are comfortable with a mostly boat-and-beach itinerary.

However, if you’re looking for a cultural tour with in-depth exploration of each island, or have limited mobility, this trip might feel a bit too brief or passive. Still, for a value-packed, scenic, and authentic experience, it hits the right notes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and return transfer, making it very convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including transfers, boat time, and free periods on the islands.

What’s not included in the price?
Lunch is not included, so you’ll need to bring snacks or plan to buy food on the islands.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Swimming is a key part of the trip, especially at Plati and Pserimos. Pack your swimwear and sunscreen.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While it’s a relaxing day on the water, the focus on swimming and beach activities makes it suitable for families with children who can handle a full day outdoors and in the water.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges.

What language is the tour guide?
Guides speak English and German, providing clear explanations and helpful insights.

To sum it up, the Kalymnos, Pserimos & Plati Island Cruise offers a relaxed, scenic way to experience some of the most enjoyable parts of the Dodecanese. It’s a solid choice for those looking to unwind, enjoy beautiful beaches, and get a taste of local island life, all at a reasonable price. Just remember to bring your swim gear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: