Rhodes looks better from the water. This Rhodes day cruise pairs three swim-and-snorkel stops with an easy all-in day at sea, capped by a homemade-style lunch and unlimited drinks. The format is simple and fun: you hop off, get back on, eat well, and repeat.

I like that the snorkeling setup is handled for you, with snorkeling equipment included, plus enough time at each bay to actually get in the water. I also like the onboard extras that keep the day comfortable, from a restroom to a shower after you’ve finished swimming. One thing to consider: each stop is about 50 minutes, so if you want long snorkeling sessions, you may feel a bit rushed.

Key points before you go

• 3 stops you can swim at: Afandou Beach, Anthony Quinn Bay, and Kallithea Springs, each around 50 minutes
• Snorkeling equipment included (plus floats commonly available on board)
• Lunch and drinks are genuinely part of the deal: wine, beer, sodas, juice, coffee/tea, and snacks
• Small group feel: up to 35 people on the boat
• Onboard comfort features: restroom, shower, and WiFi
• A real meet-up spot to find: Royal Sailing Rhodes along the marina at Pl. Eleftherias

Rhodes Day Cruise on a Wooden Boat: What You Really Get

This is a half-day sea day from Rhodes that runs about 5.5 hours. You’re on a traditional wooden boat, and the vibe is more chill than hectic. With a max of 35 people, it’s small enough to feel like you’re on a shared outing, not herded through a factory.

The structure matters. You get three separate chances to swim and snorkel, instead of spending most of the time just cruising from one point to the next. That’s why people tend to rate this one highly: it’s built for water time, not just sightseeing.

One more practical detail: the cruise includes more than the basics. Along with lunch, you get bottled water, fruit snacks, coffee/tea, and soda/juice, and alcoholic drinks like beer plus red and white wine. If your idea of a great day in Rhodes includes sea air and a full lunch without extra effort, this fits well.

Royal Sailing Rhodes Meeting Point and Check-In Tips

Your meet-up is at Royal Sailing Rhodes, Pl. Eleftherias, Rodos 851 00, Greece. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

This is one of those days where getting there early pays off. Many people recommend showing up at least 30 minutes before departure to grab better spots on the boat. You’ll also want time to get your bearings at the marina, especially if you’re arriving from a cruise ship or walking through the port area.

You’ll use a mobile ticket, and confirmation is received when you book. The boat is described as having a restroom and a shower, so it’s geared for staying out at sea comfortably once you’re on board.

Afandou Beach Stop: Quiet Swim Time and Lunch With Local Flavor

The first stop is Afandou Beach, with about 50 minutes to swim, snorkel, and relax. This is the kind of start that helps you settle in fast. The water at these Rhodes bays tends to be clear enough to make snorkeling worth your effort, and the stop length gives you time to find your rhythm.

Afandou also includes lunch as part of the flow, which is a big deal. The buffet is described as having a local feel, including vegetarian options, plus red or white wine. The meal lineup you’ll see includes things like Greek salad and tzatziki, plus bread and several hot mains.

What you should do here: don’t overpack your routine. Swim first, then eat. If you eat too early, you’ll spend part of the swim feeling heavy. If you swim too long, you’ll be hungry right when lunch is most convenient.

Anthony Quinn Bay: The Favorite Swim Stop for Many People

Stop two is Anthony Quinn Bay, reached on the wooden boat. This is often the highlight for good reason: it’s a top Rhodes swimming spot, and people repeatedly call out the clear water and calm feel during this portion of the cruise.

Your time here is also about 50 minutes for swimming and snorkeling, and snorkeling gear is provided. If you only care about one stop, this is the one to watch—especially if you’re picky about water visibility and want a satisfying snorkel session without fighting crowds.

A practical way to use your time: do a quick snorkel first to check how comfortable you are in open water, then switch to a relaxed swim. You’ll get more enjoyment if you treat the stop like a mini beach outing, not a race.

Kallithea Springs: Crystal-Clear Final Stop Before You Head Back

The third and last stop is Kallithea Springs, again with around 50 minutes of swimming and snorkeling. By this point, you’ll have the boat rhythm figured out: where to sit, where your gear is, when drinks show up, and how you like to pace your water time.

This final stop is a good “capstone” because it lets you end the day on clear water rather than rushing back to land. If you’re the type who wants to see one more good angle of the coast, this is where you can squeeze it in.

Also, plan your energy. The day is only about five and a half hours total, so the third stop isn’t the moment to experiment with a long snorkel and then ignore lunch and drinks. Instead, aim for steady enjoyment: swim, snack, and enjoy the sea air while you still have time to spare.

All-Inclusive on Board: Food, Drinks, and Small Comforts That Add Up

This cruise is built around “included” rather than “pay-as-you-go.” You’ll find lunch items like chicken, rice, pasta, Greek salad, tzatziki, olives, and bread. There’s also a starter list that includes things like olives and tzatziki, and bread is part of the buffet.

For drinks, the included options cover a lot of what people actually want on a boat day. You get beer, red and white wine, bottled water, plus soda/soft drinks like Pepsi and Fanta, juice, and coffee and tea. Snacks include fruits, and there’s consistent access to drinks across the cruise.

Two practical notes. First, towels and flippers are not included, so if you like your own gear, pack it. Second, cocktails are not included in the standard price and are available for purchase separately. If cocktails are your priority, budget a little extra.

Comfort-wise, this boat includes a shower, restroom on board, and WiFi. Those details matter more than you’d think, especially after swimming and before you head back into Rhodes port life.

Snorkeling Equipment, Seating, and What to Expect in the Water

Snorkeling equipment is included, and some reviews also mention floats being available. That’s helpful if you’re not super confident snorkeling gear-wise or you want a safer, more relaxed way to hang out in the water.

The day works best if you show up ready to move. The cruise offers multiple chances to get in, and each stop is short enough that you’ll probably be switching between wet and dry states. The onboard shower makes that easier, and the restroom gives you peace of mind.

One word of caution from real-world feedback: getting on and off the boat involves stairs. Some people noted it can be a bit challenging. The tour also says most people can participate, but if you’re traveling with someone who struggles with steps, think about your comfort level ahead of time.

Group Size and Atmosphere: Small Boat Energy Without the Chaos

With a maximum of 35 travelers, you’ll likely get a more personal feel. That small-group size tends to help the crew manage questions, gear, and drink service without slowing everything down.

The crew is often highlighted in feedback, especially the host Theodore, who shows up as a key part of the experience. People also mention special moments like live entertainment on board, such as Silas (premusic48). When that happens, it turns the cruise from just a transport-and-swim day into a more memorable outing.

If you want a boat trip that feels social but not overcrowded, this style fits. It’s also a solid choice for groups that want swimming time but don’t want to spend the whole day organized around changing locations on land.

Price and Value: Is $72.56 Worth It?

At $72.56 per person (for about 5 hours 30 minutes), you’re paying for three things bundled together: transport by boat, structured swim stops, and a true all-in meal-and-drinks package.

Here’s the value math that matters in real life. You’re getting:

• Three separate bays with about 50 minutes each to swim and snorkel
• Snorkeling equipment included
• A lunch buffet with multiple mains plus starters like Greek salad and tzatziki
• Unlimited drinks covering beer, wine, soft drinks, juice, coffee/tea, and water

If you compare that to booking snorkeling gear separately, paying for lunches on the harbor, and then adding transport, the bundle tends to make sense. People also book it about 20 days in advance, which usually signals it’s a popular slot in the Rhodes lineup.

One fair caution: not everyone measures time the same way. Some feedback complains that stop time felt shorter than expected, often tied to boat pace. A few also reported food quality issues, while many others praised it as fresh. If you’re extremely food-sensitive or you’re coming specifically for long snorkeling, you may want to read carefully and decide if this pace matches your style.

Who This Cruise Fits Best (and Who Might Want Another Option)

This cruise is great for people who want:

• A swim-first day without planning beaches, towels, and gear
• An easy all-inclusive lunch with wine and beer included
• Enough structure to keep the day simple, especially if you’re short on time in Rhodes

It’s also a good match for families and groups, including teens, because the schedule is straightforward: leave the dock, swim in different bays, eat, then repeat.

Who might look elsewhere? If you want long snorkeling sessions at one location, the 50-minute stops may feel like a tease. If you hate stairs or have mobility limits, think carefully since boarding and getting back on the boat uses steps. And if you’re a cocktail-only kind of person, remember cocktails cost extra.

Should You Book the Rhodes Day Cruise With Lunch and Unlimited Drinks?

I’d book this if your top goal is water time plus included food and drinks. The combination of three swim stops, snorkeling gear provided, and a lunch spread with wine makes it feel like good use of a half day in Rhodes.

Skip it only if you know you want longer snorkel marathons or you’re very sensitive to stop timing. In that case, you might prefer a different format with fewer stops and more time per stop.

If you do book: plan to arrive early for a good seat, bring sunscreen, and pack your own towels if you prefer them. Then settle in for a classic Rhodes sea day where the coast’s best colors show up when you’re actually in the water.

FAQ

How long is the Rhodes Day Cruise?

It runs for about 5 hours 30 minutes.

What time does the cruise start?

The start time is 10:00 am.

Where is the meeting point?

You meet at Royal Sailing Rhodes, Pl. Eleftherias, Rodos 851 00, Greece, and the tour ends back at the same point.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and there is also a mention of floats being available on board.

What food is included in lunch?

Lunch includes items such as chicken, rice, pasta, Greek salad, tzatziki, olives, bread, and other options like ndolmadakia.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

Yes. Beer and white and red wine are included, along with bottled water, soda/soft drinks, juice, and coffee or tea.

Is there WiFi and a restroom on board?

Yes. There is WiFi on board and a restroom on board.

What is the cancellation window for a full refund?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and changes within 24 hours aren’t accepted.