Three islands plus swim stops from Kos? Yes. This Santa Maria 3 cruise is a full 7.5-hour sampler of the Aegean—Pserimos beach time, a quick Kalymnos dolphin safari, a Platy swim break, and then Vathy in the afternoon. What I like most is the mix of relaxation and variety, and the fact that lunch is handled for you with a traditional onboard BBQ.

I also love the free audio guide you load on your smartphone, because it turns random coastline moments into real context without making you wait for a talk. If you want a calmer day than the giant party boats, the ship’s max 150 cap matters.

One thing to consider: the best moments depend on weather and sea conditions. This cruise requires good weather, so you’ll want a flexible plan if the Aegean acts up.

Key highlights at a glance

• Pserimos beach time (40 minutes) with an easy, low-key island feel
• Dolphin watching safari (20 minutes) while cruising the natural habitat area
• Platy stop (40 minutes) for cliff jumps and a swim in the turquoise water
• Vathy port exploration (1 hour 20 minutes) plus time to swim and then onboard BBQ lunch
• Free phone audio guide in several languages, designed for a smoother day
• Small-ship feel with a maximum of 150 travelers and plenty of places to relax aboard

A 7.5-hour circuit that keeps moving (without feeling rushed)

The cruise runs from 9:30 am and returns to the same place in Kos. The timing is built around sea travel plus multiple short stops, so you don’t spend all day trapped on board. At the same time, it’s not a nonstop speed race either. It feels like a day trip that lets you sample several places and then enjoy a proper break to swim.

In practical terms, you’ll want to show up early. Meet the team at the Kos Cruise Experts port about 30 minutes before departure so you can board, pick your spot, and settle in without stress.

This format is ideal if you’re based in Kos and want a break from the usual beach chairs and town wandering. You get a “see it, swim it, snack it later” day, without the logistics of ferries and hop-on hop-off schedules.

Price and what you really get for $30.25

At $30.25 per person, this cruise is good value because you’re paying for more than just a boat ride. You’re also getting a full lunch onboard, WiFi, and a free personalized audio guide through your smartphone. Add in the restroom on board, and it checks the boxes for an easy day where you don’t have to manage every little detail.

Lunch is a key part of the value. The trip includes a traditional BBQ lunch served aboard the vessel. That means you don’t need to plan a restaurant stop or carry food supplies between islands.

The one place where the price is not all-inclusive: drinks and bottled water aren’t included. Alcohol is only allowed for 18+, and those beverages are not part of the package either. So if you’re the type who expects bottled water or cocktails to be built in, you’ll want to plan on purchasing drinks separately.

Free audio guide on your phone: the easy way to learn

I really like the way this cruise uses the audio guide without turning it into a lecture. You get a personalized free audio guide through your smartphone, and it’s available in several languages (the tour is offered in English as well). That means you can follow along during the sailing time—when you’d otherwise just be watching the coastline.

This matters on a route like this, because the stops are relatively short. You don’t have hours to wander with a guidebook. With the audio, you can connect what you see—beach coves, ports, and the general setting—to something meaningful while you’re still on the water.

If you’re traveling with kids or you don’t want to keep asking questions, audio guidance is a simple fix. You can also take it at your pace: listen while you’re getting a sun spot, pause when you swim, then restart when you’re back aboard.

Start in Kos, then ease into island time

The cruise begins at the Kos Cruise Experts port in Kos. That’s convenient if you’re staying somewhere walkable or near local transit. Once you’re aboard, the day feels organized enough to relax, but open enough that you can choose what you do during each stop.

You’ll typically be splitting your attention between three things: beach time, short explorations, and sailing views. Because the route includes multiple islands, it helps to treat it like a sampler platter. You’re not trying to conquer every street or beach. You’re trying to get a feel for the Aegean rhythm—sun, sea, and ports.

A small-ship limit also helps here. With a maximum of 150 travelers, the boat doesn’t feel like a cattle call. Based on what people say about the experience, the mood is more chill, and there are plenty of places to spread out.

Stop 1: Pserimos beach break with a simple island vibe

Pserimos is your first stop, and the timing is perfect for a low-effort beach reset: 40 minutes. This isn’t a shopping stop. You won’t find many stores, but you get an enjoyable sandy beach moment to stretch out and cool off.

What I like about starting here is the tone it sets. After the morning departure, you’re not thrown into complicated logistics. You can either:

• explore the island at an easy pace, or
• grab ice cream if that’s your style, then settle in for sand-and-sea time

The trade-off is obvious: with only 40 minutes, you won’t have time for a deep look at the island. But for most day-trippers, the point is to relax, swim a bit, and be ready for the next leg.

Stop 2: Kalymnos dolphin watching safari (short, but exciting)

Then comes the dolphin segment: a 20-minute dolphin watching safari. The idea is straightforward—look for dolphins while you pass their natural habitat area. Even if you don’t spot them instantly, the activity adds movement and anticipation to the day.

Important reality check: wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. What you are paying for here is the chance to be in the right area and scan the water. If you’re the kind of person who gets excited by small moments at sea, this stop is a good fit.

Also, because it’s short, it doesn’t derail the schedule. You don’t lose half your day waiting. You get the experience, then you’re back on the route.

Stop 3: Platy island for cliff jumps and a turquoise swim

Platy is tiny, and that’s part of the appeal. You get another 40-minute stop, and the main attraction is water time. The schedule includes cliff jumps and swimming in the turquoise water.

This is the most “active” portion of the day, so it helps to travel with the right mindset. Come prepared for quick in-and-out water fun, not a slow beach stroll. If you want to hang back, you can still enjoy the swim without joining the cliff-jump crowd.

One practical consideration: this kind of stop usually rewards people who are comfortable getting in the water efficiently and moving around safely. If you prefer gentler shore access, you may want to spend more time just floating and soaking in the scenery.

Stop 4: Vathy port in Kalymnos plus onboard BBQ lunch

The final stop is where the cruise turns from sightseeing bites into a proper port feel. You enter the little port of Vathy and get 1 hour 20 minutes total—time to explore the small town, try local tastes, swim, and then eat.

This is the moment for food ideas. You might get the chance to try freshly squeezed orange juice and the popular honey of Kalymnos. If you’re someone who likes tasting your way through a place, this stop is built for that.

Then the lunch happens onboard. You’ll enjoy the freshly cooked BBQ lunch aboard the boat after your time in Vathy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if you request ahead of time, so if you’re traveling with dietary needs, plan to handle that during booking.

What makes this stop work is the pacing. You get time to wander a bit, then you’re not forced to choose between exploring and swimming. You can do both, then cap the day with a hot meal in a comfortable place.

Onboard vibe: sun spots, WiFi, restrooms, and fun moments

You’re not just sitting at sea. The cruise includes a restroom on board, plus WiFi—a nice touch for quick messages, maps, and posting a photo or two after you’ve swum.

People also describe the ship as friendly and fun, with music and dancing on board. That kind of atmosphere matters on a day trip. It turns the ride between islands into part of the experience rather than wasted travel time.

One detail I’d keep in mind: smaller boats tend to feel more personal. With mats available for sunbathing, you can relax without feeling like you’re fighting for space or stuck standing in the same narrow walkway. If you’re trying to avoid the chaos of larger themed sailing ships, this setup is a strong advantage.

And yes, there’s been at least one notable contingency case where the Santa Maria stopped sailing right before departure, and the company transferred guests to a sister ship called Captain Morgan. That kind of backup planning is worth noting. It suggests they work to keep the day on track rather than leaving people stranded.

Who should book this cruise from Kos?

This cruise fits best if you want a day that mixes:

• port wandering without hours of walking,
• swimming at multiple points,
• and an easy, included lunch so you’re not hunting for food all day.

It’s also a good choice if you like structure. The schedule is clear, and the audio guide helps you get more out of the scenery.

If you strongly prefer quiet, long beach lounging with zero activity, this may not be the match. The route is active enough to feel like a curated day. The upside is that it stays fun and varied. If you want variety without heavy planning, that’s basically the point.

Should you book Santa Maria 3 from Kos?

I’d book it if you want the most value per hour: a reasonably priced Aegean cruise with lunch included, a phone audio guide, and multiple chances to swim. The stop mix is smart for day-trippers—Pserimos for easy beach time, dolphins for excitement, Platy for water fun, then Vathy for town vibes and local tastes.

I’d think twice if you’re the type who needs long stays in one place, because this is a sampler with short stops. Also, because it depends on good weather, keep your schedule flexible. If you’re coming with that mindset, Santa Maria 3 is a solid way to get far more Aegean in one day than you’d manage with just Kos town alone.

FAQ

FAQ

How much is the Santa Maria 3 cruise from Kos?

The price is $30.25 per person.

How long is the cruise?

The duration is about 7 hours 30 minutes.

Where does the cruise start?

It starts at the Kos Cruise Experts Port in Kos, Greece.

Which stops are included on the itinerary?

The cruise includes Pserimos, Kalymnos (including dolphin watching), Platy, and a port/town visit in Vathy in Kalymnos.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A traditional BBQ lunch is included and served onboard.

Are drinks included with the lunch?

No. Beverages are not included. Alcoholic beverages are not included either, and alcohol is allowed only for guests 18+.

Do I get a free audio guide?

Yes. You get a personalized free audio guide through your smartphone in several languages.

Is there WiFi and a restroom on the boat?

Yes. There is WiFi on board and a restroom on board.

What if weather is poor or the cruise is canceled?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It also requires a minimum number of travelers, and if that minimum isn’t met, you’ll get a different option or a full refund.