From Kardamena: Nisyros, St.Antonios & Yali Cruise with BBQ

Exploring the Greek Islands: A Detailed Look at the Nisyros, St. Antonios & Yali Cruise from Kardamena

This 8-hour sailing adventure offers a glimpse into Greece’s stunning Dodecanese islands, combining scenic cruising, cultural stops, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation. Operated by Sail Away Tours, the tour promises an engaging journey with visits to three distinctive islands—Nisyros, St. Antonios, and Yali—with a delicious on-board BBQ included.

One of the most appealing aspects of this trip is its balanced itinerary: you get to explore a traditional Greek town, enjoy peaceful natural scenery, and splash around in crystal-clear waters. The cost—roughly $41 per person—makes it a budget-friendly way to experience multiple islands in a single day, especially considering the included lunch and insurance.

However, a potential consideration is the crowd factor—Nisyros can be quite busy, and the boat itself is described as “not full,” which some might see as a positive for intimacy, but others might find it a bit crowded depending on their expectations. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, relaxing, and socializing in a lively yet scenic setting.

This cruise suits those looking for an authentic, laid-back Greek island experience with a touch of adventure—perfect for first-timers or families seeking a well-organized day out.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At about $41, this cruise offers excellent value with multiple island visits, lunch, and insurance included.
• Varied Itinerary: From exploring a traditional town to swimming in volcanic waters, the trip provides diverse experiences.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: The boat, a pirate-themed vessel, features two decks and a casual, friendly vibe—great for unwinding.
• Authentic Food: The onboard BBQ with Souvlaki and salads delivers a taste of Greece, with vegetarian options available if requested in advance.
• Stunning Views & Activities: Expect clear waters for swimming, scenic island vistas, and some reviewers mentioning fun jumping spots.
• Well-Organized: Punctual departures and smooth transfers, plus helpful crew knowledgeable about the islands.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Departure from Kardamena

Your day begins at the port of Kardamena, where the pirate-themed boat Maria Magdalini awaits. The vessel has two decks, offering plenty of space to relax or find a shaded spot. Departing at 10 am, the crew ensures a laid-back vibe and clear instructions, making the start of your day smooth.

Stop 1: St. Antonios (Uninhabited Island)

Within an hour, you’ll arrive at St. Antonios, a tiny, uninhabited islet. This stop is an ideal spot for peaceful swimming in clear waters and exploring the small church of St. Antonios—perfect for those craving tranquility. Reviewers mention enjoying sunbathing and swimming here, with one describing it as a “natural paradise.”

This island’s charm lies in its seclusion and unspoiled surroundings. The crew often prepares a Greek BBQ lunch onboard during this stretch, allowing you to dine with views of the water and relax in the sunshine.

Stop 2: Nisyros

Around noon, you’ll arrive at Nisyros, a volcanic island known for its rugged landscapes and charming town, Mandraki. The port is the main hub, with narrow streets inviting you to stroll and soak up its authentic atmosphere.

You can choose to climb about 200 steps to visit the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, which offers panoramic island views and a chance to admire the traditional Orthodox architecture. Alternatively, many opt to simply explore Mandraki’s quaint streets, browse souvenir shops, or enjoy a coffee or local dessert at Ilikiomeni Square.

One reviewer noted, “The small town is lovely but can get quite crowded,” which highlights the popularity of Nisyros, especially during the day. For those interested in geology, you might want to ask the crew about visiting the volcano—some travelers have expressed interest in this optional visit.

Stop 3: Yali Island (Volcanic Island)

The third stop is Yali, a tiny volcanic island with only 21 residents. The boat anchors in a calm bay perfect for swimming and diving, and many enjoy testing their skills jumping from the boat into the water.

Reviewers often mention how beautiful the water is, with one describing it as “like the Caribbean,” and others appreciating the relaxed vibe of just drifting or sunbathing. You can also enjoy cocktails or cold drinks from the boat’s bar while soaking up the sun, making Yali a fantastic spot for unwinding after a busy morning.

Return to Kardamena

By 5:30 pm, you’ll be back at the port, tired but happy, with plenty of memories from a day well spent on these contrasting islands.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

Included in the price are your boat tickets, a lunch of Souvlaki, salad, and bread, all licensed fees and taxes, plus liability insurance. Vegetarian options are available if you request ahead of time, which is a thoughtful touch for dietary needs.

Not included are drinks and coffee, so consider bringing some cash if you’d like to purchase beverages or souvenirs during your stops. The boat features a bar that remains open during the cruise, offering a range of drinks.

The cruise likely attracts a mixed group, as some reviews mention a “very pleasant atmosphere” with guests of all ages from children to seniors, and the crew seems accommodating and friendly.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a towel and beachwear for swimming and sunbathing.
• Arrive early at the port of Kardamena to find your boat easily—look for the Maria Magdalini with its distinctive pirate theme.
• Notify the crew in advance if you prefer vegetarian food; they are happy to accommodate.
• Expect to spend around 8 hours on the water and islands, so wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.
• The vessel has toilets onboard, which adds convenience on a full-day trip.
• Group size seems manageable, but be prepared for a lively, social atmosphere—it’s not a secluded retreat.

Authentic Experiences & Review Highlights

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable crew and their good organization. One describes the lunch as “very tasty”, reinforcing the value of the included meal, especially considering the boat’s modest price.

The swimming spots stand out as the most praised aspect—reviewers frequently remark on how clear the water is and how fun it is to jump off the boat into the Caribbean-like bays.

A German reviewer appreciated the relaxed vibe and the fact that the boat was not crowded, which made the experience more enjoyable. Meanwhile, a different traveler mentioned that Nisyros can get crowded, so visiting early in the day might help avoid peak crowds.

Few downsides are noted—some found the wooden boat a bit slow and uncomfortable for long hours, and the lunch was described as “bland” by a less satisfied guest. These seem minor compared to the memorable scenery and authentic island vibes.

Who Will Love This Tour

This cruise is a fantastic pick for families, first-time visitors, or those eager to see a mix of natural beauty and traditional Greek culture in one day. If you enjoy swimming, scenic islands, and simple, tasty food, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It also appeals to travelers on a budget, given the reasonable price for an all-day experience with transportation, lunch, and insurance included.

However, if you prefer a more luxurious or private experience, or if you’re sensitive to crowds, you might want to consider alternative options or private tours.

The Sum Up

The Kardamena Nisyros, St. Antonios & Yali Cruise offers an inviting, well-rounded day out in the Greek Dodecanese. It balances relaxation, exploration, and fun with excellent value, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

The highlights—swimming in pristine waters, wandering charming towns, and enjoying authentic Greek food—are what make this trip memorable. The friendly crew and organized schedule ensure you get the most from your island-hopping adventure without feeling rushed.

While not the perfect choice for those craving luxury or solitude, it’s a reliable, enjoyable way to experience some of Greece’s most striking islands in a single day. If you’re looking for a genuine, fun, and affordable adventure, this cruise might just be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

What is the duration of the cruise?
The entire trip lasts about 8 hours, starting at 10 am and returning around 5:30 pm.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Greek BBQ lunch with Souvlaki, salad, and bread is served on board. Vegetarian options are available if you request in advance.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring a towel, beachwear, and sunscreen. It’s also good to have some cash for drinks or souvenirs, as drinks are not included.

Can I visit the volcano on Nisyros?
Yes, visiting the volcano is an option, and you can ask the crew about it for more details.

What kind of boat is used?
The vessel is called Maria Magdalini, designed with a pirate theme, and has two decks for plenty of space.

Is there a bar onboard?
Yes, the bar is open during the cruise, offering drinks and cocktails.

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention a mix of age groups, from infants to seniors, and the atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly.

This well-organized, authentic Greek island cruise is a fantastic way to see diverse landscapes, enjoy local flavors, and relax in a friendly, scenic setting. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a break to soak in the views, it delivers a memorable experience at a fair price.