Kos 3-Island Boat Cruise: Vathi Fjord, Plati Swim & Pserimos Lunch

Summary

Swim clear waters, stroll tiny villages & share Greek lunch

You’ll board from Kos port for a relaxed boat cruise to three nearby islands—wandering Vathi’s peaceful fjord village, swimming in unbelievably clear water at Plati (maybe spot dolphins), then sharing Greek BBQ lunch and slow moments on Pserimos’ sandy beach before heading back with salt in your hair and new stories to tell.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the smell of sunscreen mixing with coffee as we shuffled onto the Odyssey Boat at the port of Kos. Our captain waved us aboard — he had that sun-worn look you only get from years at sea. We set off right on time, and before I’d even finished my first sip, the coastline was sliding away and someone put on music that sounded like summer. I didn’t realize how close these islands were; Kalymnos popped up out of nowhere. As we drifted into Vathi’s fjord, the water turned this deep blue-green, so clear you could see little fish darting around. The village itself felt almost paused in time — quiet streets, a woman selling homemade orange juice (I bought some; it tasted like sunlight), and old sponge warehouses where you could still smell salt and something faintly sweet.

After an hour wandering Vathi, we headed for Plati. On the way, our guide pointed out fish farms — apparently dolphins sometimes show up there. We actually saw two! Not leaping through hoops or anything, just surfacing near the boat while everyone scrambled for their cameras. At Plati they dropped anchor and said “jump in if you want.” The water was so clear it almost looked fake; I’m not much of a swimmer but couldn’t resist. There was a happy hour going on back on deck — cocktails clinking, people laughing in five different languages. My towel ended up half sandy, half wet; didn’t really care.

Pserimos was our last stop. Only about fifteen families live there in winter — our guide told us that over souvlaki and salad (the BBQ lunch is included). Some folks went straight for the shallow beach; I wandered off down a narrow path behind a taverna and found myself alone with cicadas buzzing so loud it felt like heat itself. There’s not much to do except slow down — which is probably the point. On the way back to Kos, I sat by the rail watching sunlight flicker on the waves and realized I hadn’t checked my phone all day. Still think about that orange juice sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day 3-island boat cruise

• Depart from Port of Kos at 10:00
• Enter natural fjord and photograph Vathi
• Explore Vathi village for 1 hour
• Visit fish farms and watch dolphins
• Arrive at Plati islet and swim
• Enjoy happy hour with cocktails on boat
• Stop at Pserimos island for 1 hour
• Swim, explore, or relax at Pserimos
• Return to Port of Kos by 17:15

Top questions

How long is the 3-island boat cruise from Kos?

The tour runs daily from 10:00 to 17:15, so about 7 hours total.

Is lunch included during the Kos island cruise?

Yes, a BBQ lunch with meat or vegetarian options is served on board.

Can you swim during this day trip from Kos?

Yes, there are swimming stops at Plati islet and Pserimos island.

Are there vegetarian meal options on this cruise?

Yes, vegetarian meals including beans and dolmades are available.

Do you visit small villages on this tour?

Yes, you have time to explore Vathi village on Kalymnos and Pserimos island village.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup; you depart directly from Kos port.

Are drinks included on board?

No drinks are included but cocktails are available for purchase during happy hour.

Can children join this 3-island cruise?

Yes, children can join; infants and strollers are welcome too.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Kos port aboard Odyssey Boat with three island stops—Vathi’s fjord village walk, swimming at Plati islet with optional cocktails for purchase, one hour free time at Pserimos’ sandy beach or tavernas, plus a BBQ lunch (with vegetarian options) served by the friendly crew before returning by evening.