Phil AKA Giles Parker, Author
A word of caution - they're friendly but check what you're buying!
The sunset cruise (very cheap) is totally worthwhile, a slow sail along the south of the island, see the sunset, then a quicker jaunt back, but for only 5 it's a pleasant couple of hours.
But the 3-island Nysiros volcano tour... The volcano is worth seeing, Mandraki is cute but small. Then you're off to Island 2 - Gyali. Which is hardly the most picturesque as it's being mined for pumice. There was a large freight boat docked, and another waiting nearby. They're not pretty. But it's ok as you don't actually get onto this island, you just jump off the boat into the water for a swim (if you want). The water is lovely and clear, to be fair.
Then, after about 20 minutes, it's off to Island 3 - St Anthony (?) which is literally 200 metres away. You actually dock here so can walk off the boat into the narrow, stony beach where you'll spend an hour wondering why you're there. There's only 1 tree providing shade and no other facilities (unless you wish to brave the climb up the slippery slope, lined with prickly bushes, to the church at the top. I made it about half way up, I didn't see anyone else try). You can swim again, of course, and the water is beautiful. But once again, your view is of the not picturesque Gyali, and you'll even enjoy the sound effects of the pumice being mined and tipped really for collection...
The boat ride is pleasant, Nysiros is pleasant, but don't bother with the other 2 islands.
(Note: there are other 3 Island tours on offer, but these are to Kalimnos, Plati and Pserimnos to the north of Kos. I expect those to be very different).
We also booked the Greek Night at Zia with Sail Away - that's very much worth doing, and seemed good value. Plenty of food and drink (we were told only unlimited wine was included, not soft drinks or water, but they were all included), good entertainment and a pretty good sunset if you're lucky.
So...choose carefully!
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