Santa Maria 3 Island Cruise

The Santa Maria cruise is one of several three-island boat days from Kos, and its distinguishing feature is the free audio guide. That small detail matters on a day when the boat passes headlands, villages, chapels and islands that you might otherwise just photograph without understanding. A recorded commentary can explain the geography of the Dodecanese, the story of the islands that you pass, the legends and history attached to them and the wildlife that you might spot in the water or on the cliffs. It is a good fit for people who enjoy learning a little as they go and for families who like to keep children interested between swims. The shape of the day follows the classic pattern. You board in the morning at the harbour in Kos, cruise towards the group of islands that sits between Kos and Kalymnos, anchor in clear bays for swimming and snorkelling and spend time on the sundeck. Typical destinations for these cruises are Pserimos, Kalymnos and Plati, with a beach stop, a small village stop or a lunch break at some point. The sea is calm and shallow in the sheltered bays, with white pebbles and turquoise water, and the landscapes are dry, rocky and quiet compared with the cultivated plains of Kos. The shift in scenery is part of the appeal, because it feels like a short voyage rather than a transfer.

The product linked here is titled The Santa Maria 3 Island Cruise in the Aegean with Free Audio Guide, and it has attracted a large number of positive reviews. The title confirms the audio guide, but not the stops, lunch or drinks, so ask the operator for the route, the languages of the commentary, the meal arrangements and the pickup point. Confirm also what happens if the sea is rough, as operators sometimes change the order of stops or shorten swim breaks when the wind rises.

Pack as for any boat day. Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a light shirt are all useful, as are reef shoes and a small waterproof bag. Bring cash for extras such as drinks, souvenirs or sun beds at a beach stop. Take a seasickness remedy if you are susceptible, especially in July and August when the meltemi blows. The boat usually has shade, but the sun is strong on the open deck, so reapply cream through the day.

Compared with the other three-island cruises, this one is a good match for curious travellers and for families with school-age children, who can follow the commentary and spot the places mentioned. If you prefer a lively party atmosphere, look at the pirate-style boat instead, and if you want fewer people, consider the small-group catamaran or sailing trip.

Combine the cruise with a quiet evening, since the sun and salt are tiring, and consider a light dinner in Kos Town or at your hotel. As a first or second boat day, the Santa Maria is a dependable and informative choice that leaves you with a clearer picture of the islands you can see from the coast.

Listen to the commentary early in the day, when the headlands are closest and the stories are fresh, and then simply relax. Children can turn the audio guide into a game by ticking off islands and landmarks as they are named. Remember to download or charge any device you plan to use for photographs, because the day offers more good views than you will expect.