A pirate ship plus three islands in one day sounds like a fun cheat code. This Barco De Pirata Cruise is built for time-tight travelers: you sail in a themed boat, look out for dolphins, and then hop off for swims and short exploring. I love how the day packs in three islands without you juggling ferries, and I also like that lunch is a real Greek-style barbecue on board (with meat and vegetarian options). One thing to consider: the stops are time-boxed, so if you want long beach hangs or slow wandering, you may feel a bit rushed.

If you’re the type who enjoys a social atmosphere at sea, this can hit the sweet spot. The trip runs about 7.5 hours from the Port of Kos and returns right back where you started, so it’s simple to slot into a holiday schedule. Just be ready for a day that’s part sightseeing, part swim break, and part party vibes.

Key things I’d clock before you go

• Three islands, one ticket: Kalymnos, Pserimos, and Plati in a single day from Kos
• Snorkeling gear is on board: You can swap between deck relaxing and getting in the water
• Greek barbecue lunch included: Choose from chicken, pork, fish, vegan, or vegetarian dishes
• Pirate-themed ship energy: Costumes, music, and a crew that plays up the theme
• Dolphin possibility on the route: You’ll have multiple stretches of sea time to look out
• Max 200 passengers: Big-boat feel, with occasional crowding depending on boarding time

Pirate Ship Island Hopping From Kos: What You’re Really Buying

You’re not just paying for a boat ride here. For about $34.76 per person, you’re buying a structured day that does three things well at once: island hopping, water time, and lunch.

The “pirate” part matters because it changes the tone. You’re on a themed vessel with an active crew, not a quiet ferry. That’s great if you want energy—music on board, playful interaction, and a sense that the day is meant to be fun. In fact, some people specifically called out how easy it is to get into pirate mode, with staff who keep the atmosphere moving.

Two practical reasons I think this is good value:

• You get sequencing handled for you. You don’t have to plan transportation between islands. You just show up at the Port of Kos and let the day run.
• Lunch is included and it’s not a sad add-on. You choose from five options, and the food is grilled outside on the boat.

The trade-off is also practical: because it’s three islands in one day, you’re working with short stop windows. That can feel perfect for a quick hit—less so if your ideal day is hours of beach time or museum-level wandering.

A Typical 7.5-Hour Day: Kos to Kalymnos to Pserimos to Plati

The cruise starts at the Port of Kos at 9:45 am, and it ends back at the same meeting point. Expect around 7 hours 30 minutes total, give or take the rhythm of boarding and sea conditions.

Here’s how the day tends to feel in real life:

Leaving Kos: get on board early if you can

You’ll meet at the port, then settle in for the first stretch of sailing. This is one of those tours where timing at the dock can affect your experience. Some people reported a delayed start as the boat took on additional passengers, which can make the ship feel more crowded at first. If you’re picky about getting the best deck spot, arriving early helps.

Once you’re under way, you’ll have a mix of deck time and open-water cruising—exactly when you want to glance toward the horizon for dolphins.

Stop 1: Kalymnos (quick swim + first island taste)

Kalymnos is the first island on the itinerary, and you’ll have a chance to hop off and get some water time. The tour is set up so you can go from ship to swim without friction. That means you’re not spending your whole time on logistics; you’re spending it in the water.

The drawback: stops are short. One review noted the swimming window at the first island can be around 30 minutes max if you’re lucky with timing. So come prepared to make that window count: sunscreen, water shoes if you use them, and a quick plan for where you want to swim.

Stop 2: Pserimos (harbor browsing, optional mini-train)

Pserimos is where you may get more of the “island look” vibe: walk around the harbor area and decide how you want to spend your time. There’s also mention of a mini train option that some people used to see more quickly—especially helpful if the heat is heavy.

Here’s the heads-up I’d give you from what’s been reported: some mini-train experiences may lean into shopping, including sponge sales from a specific store. That doesn’t make it bad, but it means you should treat it as a shortcut with a commercial stop attached—not a neutral sightseeing loop. If you’d rather just browse on your own, plan a simple route near the harbor.

Stop 3: Plati (often the shortest feel)

Plati is the third island and it’s the one people most often describe as less substantial than the pitch suggests. There’s at least one report claiming the boat didn’t really visit the island in the way expected, with the ship anchoring rather than providing a full stop. Even when it does function as a stop, the key point is that your time window can feel tight.

So if you’re hoping for a big final beach moment, keep expectations flexible. In practice, you may get more “see it, swim if you can” than “linger and explore.”

Snorkeling and Dolphin Spotting: How to Make Sea Time Work

This cruise gives you real water options. You can relax on board, swim in the clear water, and use snorkeling gear that’s available on the boat. That’s a big part of why this trip works for many people: you’re not waiting until the end of the day to get into the sea.

Snorkeling gear is included, but bring your habits

Snorkel equipment is available on board, which saves you from renting gear elsewhere. Still, your comfort matters. If you’re prone to foggy masks or you hate tight straps, it’s worth having your own basics if you already own them.

Also, because stops are short, you’ll want to be quick once you’re in the water. Decide: snorkel seriously for a bit, or focus more on swimming and floating. Trying to do everything in limited time can leave you feeling like you got rushed.

Dolphins: not guaranteed, but you’ll have time to look

The day includes sailing stretches where dolphins are possible. You’ll want to use that time. Head out to the deck, keep your eyes on the water, and don’t stay glued to your phone during the cruising stretches. Even if you don’t see dolphins, the open sea views tend to be part of the charm.

The Greek Barbecue Lunch: What’s Included (and What to Watch)

Lunch is the heart of the included value here. You get a barbecue meal on board with five menu choices: chicken, pork, fish, vegan, and vegetarian. The food is prepared fresh outside on the boat, which is a key detail because it usually helps the meal feel more like an event than a pre-made package.

In most reports, people sounded happy with the fact that lunch is included and that the crew handles it well. Some even described the overall day as great value with the meal as a plus.

But I’d be honest about the downside: a couple of reviews raised concerns about food quality, including comments about meat being hard or not tasting as fresh on some days. That doesn’t mean every lunch is like that, but it does mean you should expect the meal to be good, not gourmet perfection.

Quick practical take:

• If you’re picky about meat texture, pick a different main option from what seems safest to you (fish or vegetarian/vegan can be an easy hedge if that matters to you).
• Drink enough water before lunch and after swimming. A sea day can sneak up on you.

Crew, Music, and the Pirate Atmosphere: Fun for Most, Risk for Some

The crew is a huge part of why this cruise works. One review specifically called out Spiros as a standout staff member, especially memorable because it was his first day working the boat. Others praised friendly service and an upbeat vibe, with hosts and dancers adding to the theme.

That social energy is often the reason families and couples love the trip. Kids tend to enjoy the pirate concept, and adults often like that the crew doesn’t act bored or distant.

But there’s one clear “consider” note. If you’re sensitive to loud music, this is not a quiet tour. At least one person reported the music was so loud they got a headache. So if you’re the type who needs silence to relax, pack earplugs. It’s a small thing that can save the day.

Also, keep in mind the ship can feel crowded when boarding runs late. Some people described a delayed start and then a crowded feeling as additional passengers joined later. If you get overwhelmed by tight spaces, plan to move around the boat during the day rather than expecting one perfect spot for hours.

Price and Scheduling: Is It a Good Deal for Your Day?

Let’s talk money in a grounded way.

At $34.76, you’re getting:

• ferry-style transport to islands (without you planning schedules)
• snorkeling access
• a lunch with multiple dietary options
• a themed, animated onboard atmosphere
• a day that can substitute for separate half-day activities

If your alternative is piecing together ferries plus paying for lunch plus trying to find snorkeling gear, the math can easily swing in favor of this cruise. And because it’s one ticket from Kos with return to Kos, it’s easy to manage in a tight itinerary.

When it might feel less worth it:

• If you’re craving longer time at each island
• If you’re mainly after calm, low-energy sightseeing
• If you hate short swim windows and rapid stop schedules

One more scheduling reality: the cruise depends on good weather. That’s normal for sea days. Also, while free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, there’s at least one report of a last-minute cancellation the night before. It sounds rare, but it’s enough that I’d keep a flexible plan for your day, just in case.

Who Should Book This Cruise (and Who Might Prefer Another Option)

This is a strong match for you if:

• you want a quick island-hop without complicated planning
• you like themed fun and don’t mind some noise
• you want both swim time and lunch in one ticket
• you’re traveling with kids or a group that enjoys group energy

You might consider a different option if:

• you need lots of time on one beach or one town
• you’re sensitive to loud onboard music
• you want shopping-free sightseeing (some harbor areas or transport options can be tied to selling souvenirs like sponges)

If your goal is to sample islands around Kos and get out on the water without building a whole schedule, this cruise fits nicely.

Should You Book Barco De Pirata Cruise at 3 Islands?

Yes, I’d book it if you’re aiming for a fun, efficient day: sailing from Kos, snorkeling with gear on board, a Greek barbecue lunch, and the chance of dolphin sightings. The pirate-ship vibe and crew energy are real parts of the value, not just marketing.

I’d only hesitate if you’re extremely time-sensitive about island experiences—because stops can feel short—and if you’re bothered by loud music or crowding. If that’s you, bring earplugs, keep your expectations realistic about stop lengths, and choose your meals and swim plan quickly once you’re at each island.

FAQ

FAQ

What islands does the cruise visit?

The cruise visits Kalymnos, Pserimos, and Plati.

Where do you meet for the Barco De Pirata cruise?

You start at the Port of Kos, Kos 853 00, Greece.

How long is the cruise?

The duration is about 7 hours 30 minutes.

What time does the tour start?

Start time is 9:45 am.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included.

What food options are available for lunch?

The lunch menu includes five choices: chicken, pork, fish, vegan, and vegetarian.

Are alcoholic beverages included?

No. Alcoholic beverages are not included.

Is there snorkeling time, and is gear provided?

Yes. You can snorkel, and snorkeling equipment is available on the boat.

How many people are on the boat?

The cruise has a maximum of 200 travelers.

Is the ship accessible for people with special needs?

The vessel is accessible, and special services and toilet facilities are provided.

Can I cancel and get a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.