Kardamaina 2 Islands Cruise Review: BBQ & Stantonios Yali
Planning a trip to Kos and considering a boat trip? You’re very likely looking at the Kardamaina 2 Islands Cruise, and so you’re wondering if it really lives up to the hype. It’s a full day of sun, sea, and, yes, a tasty BBQ. Very arguably the highlight for many is the stop at Stantonios Yali, a volcanic island that looks like something out of a movie. This review gives you the lowdown, the great, the good, and what could very arguably be a bit better, so you know exactly what to expect.
What’s the Deal with the Two Islands Cruise from Kardamaina?
Right, so this cruise sets off from Kardamaina, which is like your lively resort town on Kos. The promise? You will discover not just one, but two different islands. So, the itinerary usually involves a visit to a spot for swimming, maybe a quick exploration of a cute little village, and, the star of the show, the BBQ right on board. It’s almost a day-long thing, starting in the morning and getting you back just as the sun begins to set, so very perfect for making the most of your vacation time.
Most often, these trips are geared toward a larger audience, families included. Yet, you will get a bit of everyone from solo adventurers looking for a change of pace to groups celebrating something or another. The boats tend to be a reasonable size, ensuring there’s room to stretch out and take it all in, and actually plenty of opportunities to make friends too.
The Boat: Your Floating Home for the Day
Now, about the boats you might discover. It’s worth knowing that they range a bit, yet very tend to have the same key features. You will very likely have both sunny and shaded areas, so if you are like your fair skin friends, you can get out of the heat. A bar will almost certainly be serving drinks, possibly a restroom, and plenty of seating for everyone. You see, what’s kind of crucial is finding a good spot early because those prime locations get snapped up fairly fast. The crew? Usually, they’re a friendly lot, often sharing information about the islands as you sail by.
Stantonios Yali: The Volcanic Marvel
Alright, so let’s chat Stantonios Yali. As a matter of fact, this is where the cruise tends to move from just a nice outing to something rather remarkable. This island, is that really a volcanic islet, and it feels almost lunar with its stark white beaches and unreal rock formations. Very many people compare it to walking on the moon. The waters around Stantonios Yali? Crystal clear and an amazing turquoise. If you’re into photos, you’ll actually be in heaven here.
The cruise will often give you a chunk of time to swim here. Floating in that water, with the volcanic landscape all around you, is almost a unique experience. The island’s quite small, and you can have a walk around, exploring the unique geology. However, a little tip: the ground can get quite hot underfoot, so shoes are a great idea. Seriously, that contrast between the cool water and the hot rocks is kind of invigorating!
What Makes Stantonios Yali So Special?
You may want to know what the hype is all about, so the big draw to Stantonios Yali, beyond its strange good looks, is actually the geology. This is basically the result of volcanic activity, which has created a landscape that’s incredibly different from other Greek islands. Also, because it’s not inhabited, it feels incredibly untouched. Being able to swim in waters beside such an alien landscape? Very Arguably, it is that what creates a memory that sticks with you.
The BBQ on Board: What to Expect
Right, now let’s talk about the BBQ because, well, it’s always on people’s minds. You get very much your traditional Greek fare; expect grilled meats, salads, bread, and dips. Don’t go thinking you will get a Michelin-star dining situation, so it’s simple, tasty food designed to fill you up after a swim. What is nice is that eating on the boat, with the sea breeze, is part of the fun.
Dietary needs? You might have to let them know ahead of time because, for instance, vegetarian options might be more limited if you don’t make arrangements. It’s a relaxed affair, very much serving yourself and mingling with other guests, and very few people go hungry, so it sets up very nicely for the rest of the afternoon.
Drinks on the Cruise
You’ll probably discover a bar is in place to get refreshments. It depends but usually it’s not part of the initial package, so you’ll be buying drinks as you go. You very likely will have your usual options like soft drinks, beer, wine, and maybe some spirits, yet it’s very much a good idea to check what’s included and what’s extra when you book, just so you’re clear. Staying hydrated is genuinely crucial, particularly under the sun, so don’t forget to factor in the cost of drinks.
Other Stops Along the Way
The two islands cruise isn’t all about Stantonios Yali. These trips, for example, usually involve another stop, commonly on a neighboring island or secluded bay. These can vary, yet the aim is similar: some time for swimming in clear waters, or maybe visiting a very small village.
If you’re fortunate, for example, you will discover a quieter spot than the big beaches of Kos, giving you a real sense of getting away from it all. So that second swim stop is ideal for those who want to cool off and savor the aquatic scenery.
Potential Snorkeling Opportunities
It depends a little on the cruise you select, because there may well be an opportunity for snorkeling. Crystal waters are nice to see marine life, so If snorkeling is very much your thing, find out if equipment is offered or if you should bring your own. Even a quick snorkel will bring a touch of something extra to your boat excursion.
What to Bring on the Cruise
Okay, so what do you need in your bag for this cruise? Actually, it’s a standard beach day packing list, yet a few extras make the excursion more satisfying. You see, sunscreen is definitely non-negotiable, yet the Greek sun is very powerful. Also bring a hat and sunglasses. Very also useful is a beach towel and swimwear, perhaps a cover-up for when you have enough sun.
It depends a little if the boat provides them or not, but water shoes are not a bad idea, specifically for Stantonios Yali. Also, it depends but bring some cash for drinks and any souvenirs you may like. Finally, you could want to have a camera to snap those pictures, because you will get a bunch of snap-worthy scenes.
Staying Safe in the Sun
I can not stress enough that the sun is really strong, so regular sunscreen reapplication is something you need to make a habit of. Besides sunscreen, very look for shade when you can and stay hydrated all day. Being aware of the heat really does protect you so you can experience everything with no risks.
Booking Your Cruise: What to Look For
Alright, you may be itching to book. There’s plenty to check out for those cruises, and some things set the great ones from the maybe-not-so-great ones. Start comparing prices because prices actually change. Check reviews and ratings online and from prior travels.
So find out what’s included – for instance if you need to pay additional for drinks, along with pick-up service, meals, and extra hidden fees. Consider how many people will fit on the boat, too because you very likely would like to have some space! Checking all of those helps find what is perfect for what you seek.
A Few Questions to Ask Before Booking
It depends of the experience and boat operators. A few questions should get it straight from a service, to know whether this is the travel that you wish to make! Are there restrooms in the cruise, and do they supply shade if need be?
Is the Kardamaina 2 Islands Cruise Worth It?
So is this trip worthy of that hype? In that case, actually that depends on what exactly you’re hoping for! If you seek an authentic glimpse of traditional island life, perhaps it falls short. What it really is is just a great, stress-free day out on the water, particularly ideal for families and people that appreciate beautiful view-points.
Stantonios Yali tends to make a real difference and stands as the day’s big-hitter. Provided that sounds appealing, and the reviews of the operators looks great, you need to hop on the sea aboard!
Things that Could Be Better
I am only trying to give an honest overview! A few minor details come out: as stated earlier, the lunch and dietary selections have limits, and it would enhance the entire tour if they included options. Although some might enjoy making social engagements from people of the trip, perhaps the journey is crowded, meaning that space may be restrictive and less fun to have space! The key rests very much for a boat which gets solid good reviews, to get an enriched journey overall!