Kalymnos and Pserimos Day Cruise from Kos

Taking a day trip from Kos to explore the nearby islands of Kalymnos and Pserimos offers a mix of beautiful coastlines, charming villages, and cultural insights—all aboard a comfortable boat with a tasty barbecue included. While it’s not a solitary, private experience, it’s a solid way to see a bit of the Dodecanese archipelago with relative ease.

One aspect we really appreciate is the included barbecue lunch, which lets you enjoy a hearty meal without fussing over packed snacks or overpriced seaside taverns. Plus, the chance to swim at Plati Beach and wander through Kalymnos’ colorful streets adds a nice variety to your day. That said, some may find the pace a tad rushed, especially with only an hour in each location. This tour suits travelers who want to tick off multiple islands in a single day without the hassle of organizing transport or meals themselves.

While it offers a nicely balanced snapshot of the area, be aware that the reviews point out some common concerns—such as limited time on each island and the extra costs for drinks and optional extras. Overall, it’s a reasonable choice for those looking for a relaxed, scenic day on the water, especially if you’re eager to enjoy great views and local flavors.

Key Points

• All-in-one island hopping: Visit Pserimos and Kalymnos in one seamless trip.
• Food included: Enjoy a barbecue buffet with vegetarian options, saving time and money.
• Sandy beaches & colorful towns: Swim at Plati Beach and stroll through Kalymnos’ vibrant streets.
• Limited time: Each stop offers only about an hour—ideal for a quick overview, but not in-depth exploration.
• Great for social groups: The boat accommodates up to 70 travelers, making it lively but not overly crowded.
• Additional costs: Drinks and towels are extra, so budget accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Plati Beach – Perfect for a Refreshing Dip

Your adventure begins with a stop at Plati Beach, where the boat anchors close enough for you to jump straight into the crystal-clear waters. We loved the way the sea’s transparency makes it easy to see the sandy bottom beneath the waves, setting the scene for a relaxing swim or a few playful splashes. You’re free to swim around for about two hours, which sounds ample but can feel a bit rushed if you’re in the mood for a longer lounge session.

One reviewer, Norbert, shared how much he enjoyed this part of the trip, praising the “great time on Poseidon boat” with “best drinks and entertainment,” emphasizing that the clear waters made for a memorable swim. It’s a fantastic way to cool off before heading to the next stops.

Stop 2: Pserimos – Small Island, Big Charm

Next, the boat heads to Pserimos, a tiny island where the shallow, sandy beaches invite you to dip your toes and relax. Travelers tend to spend about an hour here, which is enough to soak up the sun, explore some hidden paths, or just sit back at a local café or tavern. The island’s laid-back vibe offers a taste of authentic Greek island life without the crowds found on other tourist-heavy spots.

Reviews highlight that this stop is perfect for a quick escape from the boat, with some guests noting it’s an ideal spot for a peaceful break. The shallow waters are especially suited for families or less confident swimmers.

Stop 3: Kalymnos – The Colorful Island

The final stop is Kalymnos, renowned for its lively, colorful towns. You’ll have about an hour to wander through streets where each house is painted a different hue, with a history behind the vivid colors. This is a great chance to photograph charming alleyways, browse local shops, or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

One reviewer mentioned that the town’s “tolle Landschaft” (beautiful landscape) and well-organized crew made the experience enjoyable, despite the brief stop. Keep in mind, if you’re someone who loves to explore at your own pace, the quick visit might feel a bit rushed, but it’s enough to get a sense of the island’s lively character.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cruise includes a delicious barbecue lunch on board, offering both meat and vegetarian options, making it a convenient and tasty way to fuel your day. Drinks, however, are paid separately, so bring some cash or be prepared to purchase beverages during the trip. Towels aren’t provided, so bring your own if you plan to swim.

The tour begins at 10:00 am from Kos’s port, with the meeting point conveniently near public transportation. It lasts roughly 7.5 hours, giving you a full day of island sights and sea breezes.

Extra Charges and Considerations

Some reviews mention the extra costs for drinks and the possibility of additional charges for hotel pickups outside the main route. If you’re staying outside the immediate area of Kos’s port, check whether transfers are included or if you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Arrive early: The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am, so plan to arrive at the port a little earlier.
• Bring towels and sun protection: Towels aren’t provided, and the Greek sun can be fierce—sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are must-haves.
• Budget for extras: Drinks are extra, and if you want to purchase souvenirs or snacks, bring cash.
• Time management: With only about an hour on each island, plan your explorations accordingly—don’t expect to see everything in detail.
• Consider your pace: If you prefer more relaxed, unhurried visits, this tour may feel a bit quick, but it’s ideal for ticking off highlights.

Reviews Highlights

While the overall rating is around 3.6, the feedback offers useful insights. One guest, Norbert, raved about the entertainment and drinks, calling the cruise “highly recommend.” Conversely, others like Monika felt the meal could be improved, citing it as “a little thoughtless,” which suggests that food quality varies and isn’t the main highlight.

Some travelers found the stops to be “beautiful,” but also noted the experience was a bit “stressful” due to the tight schedule and running around on the boat. A family of eight mentioned that the additional costs for tickets and extra charges made it less appealing for larger groups.

The Sum Up

This cruise offers a compact, scenic way to experience some of the best parts of the Dodecanese without the hassle of planning multiple trips or transport. The inclusion of a barbecue lunch on the boat is a definite plus, especially for those who prefer not to hunt for eateries on the islands. The stops at Plati Beach, Pserimos, and Kalymnos give you a taste of Greece’s natural beauty, laid-back island life, and vibrantly painted towns.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy spending time on the water, appreciate quick visits rather than in-depth exploration, and don’t mind a lively group atmosphere. If your priority is to relax, swim, and enjoy authentic island scenery with some good food, this trip can be a worthwhile choice. But if you’re after a more leisurely pace or more time ashore, consider other options or private arrangements.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7.5 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the port of Kos.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the boat trip, visits to the islands, and a barbecue lunch with vegetarian options.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available to purchase separately during the trip.

How much time do I get on each island?
Approximately one hour at Pserimos, one hour at Kalymnos, and two hours swimming at Plati Beach.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring towels for swimming, sun protection, and cash for drinks or extras.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially since the waters are shallow at Pserimos, but keep in mind the short duration on each stop—may not suit those seeking in-depth exploration.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date.

Are transfers included?
If you’re staying outside the main port area, extra charges may apply for hotel pickups, but the tour meeting point is near public transportation.

To sum it up, the Kalymnos and Pserimos day cruise from Kos is a solid choice for those wanting an easy, scenic day on the water with some vibrant island experiences. While not perfect for long explorations, it’s a fun, hassle-free way to see a couple of beautiful islands, enjoy authentic Greek food, and cool off in clear waters—all in one memorable day.