Kardamaina: 3-Bay Pirate Boat Cruise with BBQ Lunch offers a delightful way to explore the Aegean’s stunning coastline without breaking the bank. For just around $34 per person, you’ll spend a leisurely half-day aboard the pirate-themed Maria Magdalini, cruising through three scenic bays—Kefalos Beach, Camel Bay, and Bubble Beach—with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying authentic Greek flavors. The cruise runs approximately 6.5 hours, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging day on the water.
Two things we especially like are the well-paced itinerary, giving enough time at each stop to truly enjoy the scenery, and the home-cooked Greek BBQ, which offers a tasty taste of local cuisine with the backdrop of sun, sea, and sky. The boat is equipped with sun mats on the open deck, perfect for relaxing between swims, and the included lunch is a real highlight—souvlaki, fresh salads, and bread, with vegetarian options available if needed.
A potential consideration is that snacks and drinks are not included—so if you’re a snacker or prefer your own beverages, bringing a little extra is wise. This tour is best suited for those looking for a laid-back experience, with enough time to unwind, swim, and soak up the scenery, rather than a high-energy adventure.
This cruise appeals most to travelers who love authentic seaside experiences, enjoy light physical activity like swimming and exploring beaches, and want a cost-effective way to see multiple bays while savoring Greek cuisine. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly crew, the beautiful views, and the opportunity to swim in warm, clear waters. If that sounds like your ideal day, this cruise should be on your list.
Key Points
- Affordable value at around $34 per person for a full day on the water.
- Three scenic bays: Kefalos Beach, Camel Bay, and Bubble Beach, each offering unique views and swimming opportunities.
- Relaxed itinerary with ample free time to explore and enjoy at each stop.
- Greek BBQ lunch onboard, with vegetarian options available, providing a hearty taste of local fare.
- Comfortable amenities including sun mats, toilets onboard, and a snack bar.
- Authentic experience with friendly crew and beautiful, less crowded beaches.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
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Getting Started: Departure and First Stop at Kefalos Beach
Your adventure begins promptly at 10 am from Kardamena port. The boat, a pirate-themed vessel named Maria Magdalini, adds a playful touch that many travelers find charming. We loved the way the crew’s enthusiasm made everyone feel welcomed and ready for a fun day.
The first destination is Kefalos Beach, located northwest of the island. Once the boat anchors, you’re free to disembark and spend around 1.5 hours exploring this beautiful stretch of sand. The water here is famously clear, perfect for a quick swim or a peaceful walk along the coast. You might find yourself wandering along the small coves, soaking in the views, and appreciating the relaxed vibe. As one reviewer put it, “it was just fantastic,” to relax by the water and soak up the scenery.
Enjoying a Greek BBQ on the Boat
After your beachtime, you’ll return to the boat for a Greek-style BBQ. The included souvlaki, salad, and bread give you a hearty taste of Greece, served with a side of sunshine. Vegetarian options can be arranged if requested beforehand, which is helpful for those with dietary restrictions. The crew’s friendly service and the quality of the food make the onboard lunch a real highlight, especially when enjoyed with the gentle rocking of the boat and views of the sea.
Camel Bay: The Deserted Camel-shaped Beach
Next, you’ll cruise towards Camel Bay, so called because of its camel-shaped shoreline. You’ll spend around half an hour here, giving plenty of time for a quick swim and some photos of the pristine, turquoise waters. The simplicity of this stop is part of its charm: a quiet, deserted beach where you can relax and take in the natural beauty. Several travelers mention how peaceful and uncrowded this spot is—a much-needed break from busy tourist beaches.
More Great Tours NearbyBubble Beach (Paradise Beach): Warm Waters and Water Activities
Your final stop is Bubble Beach, or as some call it, Paradise Beach. This is the largest stop, offering roughly 2 hours to swim, sunbathe, and explore. Due to veins of volcanic activity from Nisyros, the water here tends to stay warm—a bonus for those who prefer gentle, warm waters for swimming or snorkeling.
The beach has a lively vibe, with bars and water activities available if you want to extend the fun beyond swimming. Many reviews highlight how this spot exceeded expectations, with one reviewer noting, “you can swim to the shore or just relax on the organized beach with its bars.” It’s a great way to unwind after the morning’s cruising, and the scene is perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the sunset colors.
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End of the Day: Return to Kardamena
At around 4:30 pm, the boat returns to Kardamena port, concluding a day filled with sunshine, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek flavor. Many travelers say the overall experience is excellent value for money, especially considering the included lunch and the chance to visit three distinct bays.
Practical Details and Tips
- Timing: The cruise departs at 10 am and returns around 4:30 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
- Inclusions: Round-trip boat tickets, a Greek BBQ lunch, sun mats, and insurance are all included, making it straightforward and convenient.
- Not included: Snacks and drinks outside the provided meal are extra, so bring some water and snacks if you like.
- Meeting point: Find the Maria Magdalini at Kardamena port and show your mobile voucher to the crew.
- Accessibility: Toilets are available onboard, and the boat is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with a day at sea.
- Language: The cruise is hosted in English, so communication is straightforward for most visitors.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to see multiple beaches without the hassle of driving or planning individual trips. It’s perfect for those who enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a relaxed pace—plus, the friendly crew and tasty lunch make it feel like a genuine local experience. The stop at Bubble Beach with its warm waters and the peaceful Kefalos Beach are highlights appreciated by past guests, especially for those who love authentic, uncrowded coastal spots.
If your idea of a perfect day includes floating in warm, clear waters, enjoying a Greek-style meal, and relaxing on a boat with friendly guides, this cruise will tick all those boxes. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or groups seeking a laid-back, scenic day with easy access to beautiful beaches.
FAQs
How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 6.5 hours, from departure at 10 am until return around 4:30 pm.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers boat transportation, the BBQ lunch onboard, sun mats, and insurance. Snacks and drinks outside the provided meal are not included.
Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested when booking, ensuring everyone enjoys the onboard meal.
Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
Yes, since snacks and drinks are not included, bringing your own water or snacks is a good idea, especially for longer stops.
What are the main stops on the tour?
The cruise visits Kefalos Beach, Camel Bay, and Bubble Beach, each offering swimming, photos, and relaxation.
Is the boat suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and family-friendly activities make it suitable for children who are comfortable on boats and enjoy swimming.
What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a light cover-up. The boat has toilets and sun mats, so dress casually for comfort and sun protection.
In essence, this pirate boat cruise from Kardamena offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, authentic Greek flavors, and relaxed beach time—all at a very accessible price. Whether you’re looking to unwind, swim in warm waters, or take some memorable photos, this tour delivers a genuine experience that many travelers find well worth the modest cost.
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