Kos 3 Island Cruise: Swimming Stops & BBQ Lunch on Captain Morgan

Summary

Kos island hopping cruise with dolphin watching and fresh BBQ

You’ll hop between three Dodecanese islands by boat from Kos, stopping to swim in clear bays and wander tiny ports like Vathy with a local guide. Watch for dolphins off Kalymnos, try local honey or sponges if you want, then relax with a BBQ lunch on deck (vegan/vegetarian options too). It’s easygoing but somehow memorable—the kind of day that lingers quietly after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the Captain Morgan at Kos port just after the morning rush, and I could already smell sunscreen and the sea mixing together. The boat’s bigger than I expected—three decks, all new and shiny, with these thick blue cushions that make you want to flop down immediately. Our guide, Yannis, greeted us with a grin and a joke about “Greek time” (he wasn’t wrong—we left ten minutes late). There were families, couples, some solo travelers like me. Everyone seemed to loosen up as soon as we pulled away from the dock.

The first stop was this small beach—honestly, I never caught the name—with sand so pale it almost looked white under the sun. Some locals waved from their fishing boats; one old man shouted something friendly in Greek and tossed an orange to a kid on our deck. The water was cold at first but clear enough that you could see every pebble. I floated for ages, just listening to people laughing and the faint sound of music from someone’s speaker. Not sure why that sticks with me.

In Vathy port on Kalymnos, Yannis led us through narrow streets where the air smelled sweet—turns out it was fresh honey from a tiny shop near the dock. He explained how sponge diving used to be everything here; there’s even a shop selling sponges next to jars of orange marmalade. I tried saying thank you in Greek (Efharisto?)—the woman behind the counter smiled politely but definitely knew I butchered it. Back on board, lunch was ready: grilled veggies for me (vegetarian option), souvlaki for others. Eating outside with salty hair just makes food taste better, you know?

After lunch came dolphin watching off Kalymnos—I didn’t think we’d actually see any but suddenly there they were, slicing through the water right beside us. Everyone got quiet for a second except one little girl who shrieked “look!” so loud she startled herself. Last stop was Pserimos—a “surprise,” Yannis said—and we swam again before heading back. My towel still smells like sea salt and sunscreen days later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury cruise with island stops and swimming

• Board Captain Morgan vessel
• Explore tiny town and swim
• Visit Port of Vathy and try local flavors
• Enjoy lunch on board
• Go dolphin watching safari
• Stop at hidden gem on Pserimos island
• Swim in crystal-clear small bays

Top questions

How many swimming stops are included on this Kos 3 island cruise?

There are four swimming stops during the cruise.

Is lunch included on the Captain Morgan island cruise?

Yes, a BBQ lunch is included with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request.

Does this day trip include dolphin watching?

Yes, there is a dolphin watching segment off the coast of Kalymnos.

Are drinks available on board during the cruise?

Yes, there are two modern bar areas serving cocktails and other drinks.

Is there shade available on Captain Morgan?

Yes, there are shaded relaxation areas as well as sundecks with cushions.

Can infants join this 3 island cruise from Kos?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult's lap; prams or strollers are allowed.

How long is the Captain Morgan vessel?

The vessel is 33 meters long.

Are public transportation options nearby for boarding?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point.

What’s included

Your day includes four swimming stops around three Dodecanese islands by boat from Kos, dolphin watching near Kalymnos, free time in small ports like Vathy to explore or try local treats, plus a freshly prepared BBQ lunch on board with vegetarian or vegan meals if needed.