From Kos:A full day cruise in the newest luxury vessel!

This cruise is interesting because it packs Kos island hopping into one smooth 7-hour day, with a brand new ship and multiple chances to get in the water. You sail the waters around the Dodecanese, hop between islands, and still come back to Kos with sun, photos, and a full day’s worth of memories.

I especially like the way Captain Morgan is built for comfort at sea. The ship has three decks, lots of cushioned sun spots, shaded areas to cool down, and an onboard bar, so you can float between sun and shade without feeling stuck below deck. I also love that the crew adds real personality, and Ariel, the mermaid performer, shows up with big energy and solid local storytelling.

One consideration: this can feel like a party cruise. Music can run loud, the boat keeps the vibe going like a bar that stops for swims, and if you want quiet conversation the whole day, you may find it a bit much.

Key things to know before you go

• A brand new 2024 vessel designed for day cruising, with three decks and lots of open-air seating
• Four swim-and-relax stops plus an added surprise stop during the day
• Ariel the mermaid and a lively crew style that keeps the mood up
• Dolphin watching is built into the schedule, and sightings do happen
• BBQ lunch included, with drinks sold separately on board

Captain Morgan in 2024: why this Kos cruise feels more like a day at sea

Kos is packed with “island hopping” tours, but this one has a clear advantage. Captain Morgan is a newly built day cruiser (2024), and the ship design is meant for hanging out all day, not just sitting and waiting.

The ship is 33 meters long, has three decks, and carries up to 300 passengers. That matters because it sets expectations: there is space for a lot of people, but during peak sailing time and swim stops, you will notice crowds, especially on the most comfortable seating.

The price is also a big part of the appeal. At about $35 per person for roughly 7 hours, you are paying for transportation, time at multiple islands, and lunch. Drinks are extra, but the core day plan is covered.

Deck comfort and the seat strategy that actually works

If you care about where you sit, arrive with a plan. The ship has sundecks with very comfortable cushions, plus shaded areas for breaks, and tables that make it easier to eat and relax with your drink of choice.

One practical tip from real day-of experience: board early if you want to keep your seats after each stop. If you leave your towel on your chair, it is easier to reclaim your spot when everyone moves for boarding again.

Also, understand the rhythm. Between islands you will be on board for sightseeing sailing, then you will get a swim window, then back on board again. During those transitions, the deck can feel busy, so having your “home base” makes the day calmer.

Finally, the bar is part of the culture here. People mention the onboard drinks are reasonably priced, and the cocktails get positive comments, so the bar works best as a social hub rather than a quiet end-of-day treat.

Your 7-hour itinerary: from Pserimos to Vathy, Kalymnos, Plati, and a surprise stop

This cruise is built around short scenic sail segments and multiple island time blocks, so the day stays active. You are out for about 7 hours, returning to the Kos Cruise Experts meeting point.

Here is how the day flows, and what each stop means for you.

Pserimos Island: quick island time and a good swim window

The first big island break is Pserimos, with about 45 minutes free time plus sightseeing. Pserimos is a smaller stop, so you typically will not get long museum-style touring. Think swim, walk around a bit, and take in the water views.

This is a nice warm-up stop. After you get going on the ship, Pserimos gives you your first real chance to cool off and reset your day.

Vathy Port on Kalymnos side: photos, shopping, and a longer break

Next you head to Vathy Port (Rina area) for about 1 hour. This stop includes a photo stop, shopping, sightseeing, and swimming.

That hour is the most flexible block in the schedule. If you want to browse for small gifts, stretch your legs, or grab a snack outside lunch, this is where you can do it. It is also where the crew’s photo moment tends to happen, so you can plan to dress for it and be ready when the group pauses.

One helpful detail: the photo option is low-pressure. People report they offer prints for around €5, and you can decide without feeling pushed.

Kalymnos: dolphin watching built into the sail

Then you sail toward Kalymnos, with about 20 minutes focused on dolphin watching. Even if you do not spot dolphins, the water and coastline views make the time worthwhile. And on days when you do see dolphins, the whole group tends to light up.

Because the dolphin watching is short, do not treat it like a guaranteed wildlife tour. Instead, think of it as a bonus activity that fits the cruise style.

Plati Island: your main swimming block

Your next longer swim chance is Plati Island, with about 45 minutes of free time and swimming. This is the kind of stop where you want to be ready as soon as you arrive, because the best water moments often happen early in the swim window.

Plati is known for clear, calm water and beach time, so it fits the cruise’s overall goal: get out of your chair, get into the water, then come back to the ship for the next sailing segment.

The surprise stop: one more chance to relax or swim

The itinerary also includes a surprise stop, a hidden gem style break for relaxing or swimming. You will not have a long time budget to plan ahead for it, so your best move is to treat the entire day like a “bring your swim gear and stay ready” day.

This is the part that often feels like the most fun, because it breaks the routine. Some days it becomes your favorite swim, simply because it shows up when you least expect it.

Swimming, snorkeling, and the boat’s lively onboard rules

This cruise clearly centers on water time. You get multiple swimming opportunities across the route, and the ship crowd generally behaves like a swim day, not just a sightseeing day.

If you want the maximum value, bring swimwear and come ready to change quickly. Even with plenty of onboard deck space, you will be happier if you can get in and out efficiently when the boat stops.

The boat also has a reputation for playful moments in the water, including people mentioning cliff jumping. That means you should watch what others are doing and follow crew instructions, especially if you are new to this style of cruise activity.

Snorkeling is not spelled out as a formal program, but the way the stops are timed supports it. You will have water access long enough to do short swims and explore near the surface.

One more reality check: the ship can be full. When everyone gets on board after a swim, it takes a little organization, so expect a bit of crowding during transitions.

BBQ lunch and the bar scene, plus how to make the photo stop work for you

The cruise includes Greek BBQ lunch. People describe it as fine for a day trip, and it is clearly there to keep the day moving. Do not expect gourmet restaurant portions, but it is convenient, filling, and timed so you do not lose the afternoon’s momentum.

Drinks are not included, so budget for bar spending if you plan to sip cocktails or other beverages. The upside is that people report the onboard prices are reasonable, and cocktails get strong praise on some days.

If you care about your first drink of the day, plan it early. The vibe is social, the bar is a focal point, and ordering early helps you settle in before the ship turns into a full-on swim and music rhythm.

The photo moment is worth understanding too. There is a photo stop at Vathy Port, and a photo option is available afterward for a small cost, reported around €5 per print. If you want these memories, pick simple swim-friendly outfits and be ready to move when the group gathers.

Party cruise energy vs. sightseeing calm: who this is best for

This is a strong match for people who want a fun day, not a quiet day. Music can run loud, and the crew keeps the mood up in a way that feels like a bar at sea, with stops added for swimming.

That said, it is not only for nightlife types. People mention the day can work well for a range of ages, and the atmosphere can be lively without becoming chaotic.

Here is how to decide quickly:

• If you like upbeat energy, group games, and deck time, you will probably have a great day.
• If you prefer calm conversation, slower pacing, or museum-style tourism, you may want to choose a quieter boat.

Also, consider your tolerance for sound. On a full day like this, the music vibe is part of the experience, and it is easy to get overwhelmed if you were hoping for a peaceful cruise.

Price and value: what you are paying for at about $35

At around $35 per person for a 7-hour cruise, this is positioned as a value-packed day. You get transportation by a modern ship, time at multiple islands, a BBQ lunch, and repeated swim opportunities.

The main tradeoff is that drinks cost extra. If you plan to order cocktails, juices, or water onboard, your final bill may climb. Still, people report the drink pricing is reasonable, and some say the cocktails are excellent.

The schedule also makes financial sense for solo travelers or couples who do not want to piece together ferries, taxis, or separate island entry times. One ticket gives you a full plan.

The other value factor is time efficiency. Instead of spending your day figuring out how to reach places, you follow the route and spend your energy on swimming and relaxing.

Where the meeting point fits in (and how to get on fast)

You meet at the Kos Cruise Experts location, and you should look for the pirate ship, Captain Morgan. This is one of those logistics details that sounds simple, but it matters because boarding can get busy.

If you get there a bit early, you settle your gear, pick your deck spot, and start the day in a relaxed way.

Should you book the Captain Morgan cruise from Kos?

Book it if you want a full day that mixes island hopping and swim time without complicated planning. I like this style of tour for travelers who want maximum time in the water and a ship that keeps things comfortable between stops.

Skip it, or at least consider your expectations, if quiet is your top priority. This cruise can run loud and party-focused, and that is not a bug, it is the theme.

If you do book, pack for the water and board early for the best seating. And if you are curious about the entertainment side of the day, keep an eye out for Ariel, because she is repeatedly described as a key part of what makes the cruise feel special.

FAQ

How long is the Captain Morgan cruise from Kos?

It lasts about 7 hours.

What stops are included on the cruise?

The cruise includes stops at Pserimos Island, Vathy Port (Rina), Kalymnos, Plati Island, and it also includes a surprise stop.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A Greek BBQ lunch is included.

Are drinks included in the price?

No. Drinks are not included, and you can purchase drinks onboard.

Where do I meet the group?

Meet at Kos Cruise Experts. Look for the pirate ship, Captain Morgan.

What languages are the live guides available in?

The live tour guide is available in English, French, German, Italian, and Polish.

What is the cancellation policy?

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