An island in a crowd of islands
Kos sits in the middle of a cluster of small islands, with Turkey only a short sail away, and that makes it a handy base for days at sea. Boats leave from Kos Town and from Kardamena, and the choices range from a cheap, social cruise to a small-group catamaran or a cross-border trip. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Nisyros: the volcano
The most distinctive day trip is to Nisyros, a round volcanic island with a huge caldera. A boat takes you across the strait, and a bus climbs from the port to the crater, where you can walk onto the floor of the Stefanos crater and smell the sulphur from the vents. Most programmes also visit Nikia, a village on the rim with views into the caldera, and Mandraki, the main village, with its cafes and monastery. Allow a full day. Bring a hat, water and sturdy shoes, because the crater has no shade and the ground is rough. The crossing can be rough in the meltemi, so people who suffer from seasickness should take precautions. Several products are available, from simple boat tickets to full guided tours, so check what is included.
Three-island cruises
The classic boat day sails to a small group of islands, usually Pserimos, Kalymnos and Plati, with swimming stops and lunch. These cruises are social and affordable. Choose according to atmosphere: a popular cruise with several swim stops, a version with an audio guide for the curious, or a pirate-themed boat for families with children. They differ in crew, music and food, so read the details and ask what is included. In July and August they fill early, so reserve ahead.
Pserimos and glass-bottom boats
Pserimos is a small island with a sandy bay and a few tavernas, and it is a favourite stop. A glass-bottom boat trip to the island is gentle and especially suited to families with young children, because the beach is shallow and calm. You can see the sea floor through panels in the hull without needing to snorkel.
Small-group sailing and catamaran trips
For a quieter day, a catamaran or sailing boat with a small group is the best choice. You have more space, a personal crew, a meal and swim stops in less crowded bays. These trips cost more, but the comfort and the pace make them popular with couples and friends. They are also good for travellers who dislike large groups.
Fishing with a local family
A short fishing trip on a small boat with a Greek family offers a personal view of island life. It lasts about three hours, so it fits into a morning or an afternoon, and it suits curious travellers who prefer a small, local experience.
Bodrum in Turkey
From Kos Town, a ferry or hydrofoil crosses to Bodrum in a short time, and many visitors go for the day to see the castle, the harbour, the markets and the shops. You will need a valid passport, and entry rules vary by nationality, so check requirements in advance and leave time for border formalities. Boats do not run every day in every season, and schedules change, so confirm times and the last return. A day in Bodrum is a fun change of scene, but it is a shopping and sightseeing trip rather than a beach day, and you should keep some Turkish currency or use a card. Some travellers prefer to book a ticket independently, while others join an organised excursion.
Kalymnos and Rhodes
Kalymnos, a rugged island famous for sponge diving and rock climbing, can be reached by ferry or on cruise routes. Rhodes is farther and is best reached on a longer day or by a ferry with an overnight stay. Check the schedules, because services vary by season, and plan for a long day if you go.
Choosing the right trip
If you have only one day, choose Nisyros for something unusual or a three-island cruise for a classic holiday experience. If you travel with small children, choose the glass-bottom boat. If you want comfort and quiet, choose a catamaran or sailing trip. If you want to cross to Turkey, check your passport, the schedule and the entry rules.
Practical tips
Take sun protection, a towel, water and a seasickness remedy. Check the wind forecast. Arrive at the harbour on time, because boats leave on schedule. Keep some cash for extras such as drinks or beach sunbeds. After a day at sea, plan an easy evening, since the sun and the salt are tiring. With a bit of planning, the islands around Kos can be the highlight of your holiday.
