Three swim stops make the day fly.

I like how this Rhodes pleasure cruise builds in lunch and wine while you bounce between the island’s best-looking water spots. I also like that snorkeling gear is included, so you’re not scrambling for equipment once you’re on the boat. The catch: you’ll be swimming from the boat during the breaks, with limited true shore time.

You’ll depart at 10:00 am from Mandraki Marina (Port Plotarchou Plessa 2) and return to the same place, with about one hour at each stop. It’s priced at $54.06 per person and the boat holds up to 85 people, so it’s a solid value if you want water time more than sightseeing on land.

Key things to know before you board

• Anthony Quinn Bay first for classic postcard views and great swimming conditions
• 3 swimming breaks total (about 1 hour each) so you get variety without rushing
• Snorkeling gear plus noodles are provided, making it easy for beginners
• Lunch, water, and wine are included, with seasonal fruit thrown in
• Onboard bar sells soft drinks and beer if you want more than the included drinks
• You swim from the boat, not from a dock, so come ready to get in the water

Why this Rhodes 6-hour boat cruise fits real vacation schedules

This is the kind of tour that works when you want Rhodes to feel effortless. You’re not managing multiple buses, no museum timing, no waiting around for taxis. You show up in Mandraki, step onto a boat, and spend your day on the water.

The cruise is built around three separate swim periods. That means you can choose your pace: swim, snorkel, float, grab photos, or just sit in the sun (or shade) while the crew handles the moving parts.

There’s also a practical rhythm to the day. With stops at Anthony Quinn Bay, Kallithea Beach, and Afandou Beach—each around one hour—the schedule stays active but not frantic. It’s the right length for people who like a full morning out, but still want the afternoon free.

Price and what you truly get for $54.06

For $54.06 per person, you’re not just paying for transportation. You’re paying for three organized swimming breaks plus food and drinks, which is where this tour becomes good value.

Here’s what’s included:

• Lunch
• Water and wine
• Seasonal fruits
• Snorkeling equipment
• “Noodles for swimming”
• A bar onboard for soft drinks and beer (extra purchases, but it’s there)
• Three swimming stops, with time to photos, swim, snorkel, and relax

That combo matters because it cuts down the usual “holiday math” you’d do on your own: boat day food costs add up fast, and snorkeling gear rental or last-minute purchases can eat into the value. This cruise covers the basics so you can focus on the water.

One note for expectations: the included lunch is boat-catering style Greek food. Based on the menu details shared by the operator, it’s typically moussaka, Greek salad, Greek tzatziki, and pita. If you’re a picky eater, you may want to eat light before you board, but most people are fine with this kind of set meal on a shared tour.

The itinerary: Anthony Quinn Bay, Kallithea, Afandou (and what each stop feels like)

All three stops are structured similarly—around one hour each. In practice, that hour is your whole game: get your photos early, decide whether you want to snorkel or swim, and then settle into a comfortable pace.

Also, don’t expect shore wandering. These are swim-focused breaks. You’ll spend your time in the water and around the boat rather than walking the coastline.

Stop 1: Anthony Quinn Bay (about 1 hour)

Anthony Quinn Bay is often the kind of place you hear about for a reason. Here you get clear water, and the time is mostly for photos, swimming, and snorkeling. The boat also plays music during the stop, which makes the whole thing feel more like a day out than a strict activity.

This stop is where you’ll want to do your “best suit of sunscreen” moment. The schedule gives you about an hour, so if you want multiple tries at snorkeling or you want a calmer float before you swim, plan to do that while the light is still strong.

Possible downside: if you don’t feel confident swimming, you’ll need to rely on the provided float supports and crew assistance. The cruise is set up for getting in from the boat.

Stop 2: Kallithea Beach (about 1 hour)

Kallithea Beach is another good swimming and snorkeling option. The boat stays there about one hour for swim and snorkel time, keeping the day balanced instead of turning into a “one great stop, then filler.”

This is a nice contrast to the first bay. If you like variety—different coves, different water texture, different photo angles—this second hour helps you feel like you actually got multiple destinations, not one long stop repeated.

Practical thought: bring something you can easily rinse and put back on. After your first water break, you’ll usually be more comfortable about how wet your clothes or gear will get.

Stop 3: Afandou Beach (about 1 hour)

Afandou Beach rounds out the loop with another swim and snorkel session. This stop includes a buffet setup and the onboard bar is there if you want additional soft drinks or beer. Expect the usual relax-and-music vibe again during your final hour in the water.

Afandou is also a good choice if you want to slow down at the end. By the third stop, most people are done trying to “do everything” and just want a comfortable last swim before heading back.

One consideration: by stop three, the sun can feel relentless. If you’re the type who burns easily, rotate between shaded seating on the main deck and getting back in the water.

Snorkeling gear, noodles, and how to make the most of your water time

This cruise gives you snorkeling equipment and noodles for swimming. That matters because it reduces friction. You’re not hunting for rentals, paying extra, or carrying gear from beach to beach.

For beginners, the noodles are especially helpful. They let you float while you get used to breathing through the snorkel and adjusting your position. For more confident swimmers, noodles can still be a comfort tool when you want a break without leaving the water.

Do one smart thing: before each swim stop, take a moment to decide your goal for that hour. If your goal is photos, snorkel gently and avoid thrashing around near the surface. If your goal is actual snorkeling, give yourself 15–20 minutes to settle in before you judge how it’s going.

If you’re nervous about swimming, you’ll want to know the crew can help. The operator response to a negative review mentions providing life jackets for a woman and a child in that group. So the cruise isn’t a total leap into the deep end, but you should still come prepared to get wet and to follow crew guidance.

Lunch, wine, seasonal fruit, and the onboard bar

The included food is a big part of why this tour feels stress-free. You get lunch plus water and wine, and seasonal fruit is part of the onboard spread. That means you don’t have to spend your limited Rhodes time searching for a meal between swimming plans.

The lunch menu details provided by the operator line up with what you’d expect from a boat day: moussaka, Greek salad, Greek tzatziki, and pita. This isn’t gourmet dining, and it’s not trying to be. It’s practical, filling, and designed for a mixed group on a moving vessel.

The wine is included, and the water is included too—so you’re not forced into paying for drinks just to stay comfortable. If you want more variety, the boat has a bar where you can buy extra soft drinks and beer.

A balanced expectation: if you’re hoping for a long, plated meal, you won’t get that. This is a cruise with stops, so the food fits the day’s pace.

Getting there: Mandraki Marina morning logistics that won’t ruin your day

The meeting point is Mandraki Marina (Port Plotarchou Plessa 2, Rhodes 851 00, Greece). The cruise starts at 10:00 am and ends back at the same meeting point, so you don’t need to plan a separate return.

“Transfer not included” is the one line to take seriously. If you’re staying outside walking distance, arrange your own way to Mandraki. The good news is it’s near public transportation, so you likely have options without complex planning.

Since the day is around six hours, I recommend you treat it like your main outing. Don’t schedule a late dinner reservation that makes you sweat the end time. Aim for a leisurely afternoon plan after you’re back in town.

Also, because this is a swim-focused tour, dress like you’re going to get wet even if you’re just watching. Bring a swimsuit, quick-dry layer, and something you can keep track of. That way you don’t waste your first swim stop fumbling with your bag.

Boat comfort, shade, and the stuff that matters in real life

This is a boat tour, not a lounge cruise. The vessel is set up for traditional boat style seating and open deck time. That’s part of the charm, but it also means you should expect more basic comfort than you’d find on a modern ferry.

One review complaint was about hard, uncomfortable seats and limited sun cover. The operator response counters that there is shadow on the main deck. Translation: you’ll have shade options, but you may need to choose your spot smartly.

If you want comfortable deck time:

• Grab seating under the main deck shade early
• Keep an eye on where the sun sits during the first hour
• Be ready to move between shade and water as you want

Toilets are another practical concern. One review mentioned a toilet that wasn’t great, and the operator clarified it has a marine system toilet (because it’s a boat). So yes, there’s a toilet onboard, but it’s not built for home-level comfort.

The overall takeaway is simple. This cruise is about water time and included meals, not luxury seating.

Who should book this cruise, and who might want a different plan

I’d point you toward this tour if:

• You want a simple day on the water with three swim chances
• You care about included snorkeling gear and float support
• You’d rather trade planning work for relaxing time
• You’re comfortable swimming from the boat

You might rethink booking if:

• You strongly prefer staying on shore and walking around
• You don’t like basic boat conditions (harder seating, marine-style toilet setup)
• You burn easily and want lots of easy shade without thinking

Since the group cap is 85, it will feel social, especially when everyone’s back onboard between stops. If you enjoy quiet swimming, you might still find peace by choosing your spot quickly and timing your snorkel moments.

Should you book Rhodes Sea Cruises?

If you want a low-stress Rhodes highlight day, I think it’s a good pick. The strongest value is the mix of three swim stops plus lunch, water, wine, and snorkeling equipment. For $54.06, it’s hard to match that convenience if you’d otherwise be paying for boat time, gear, and meals separately.

My advice is to book if your priority is water and views—especially Anthony Quinn Bay. Pack for swimming, plan to spend your “shore time” as water time, and choose shade wisely on deck.

Skip it if you need lots of land time, top-tier comfort, or a more traditional itinerary with beach walking. For that style of vacation, another format (beach-hopping on land) might fit better.

FAQ

How long is the pleasure cruise?

The cruise lasts about 6 hours.

What time does it start, and where is the meeting point?

It starts at 10:00 am at Mandraki Marina, Port Plotarchou Plessa 2, Rhodes.

Do I need to arrange transportation to the port?

Transfer is not included, so you’ll need your own way to get to the meeting point.

What swim stops are included in the 6-hour itinerary?

The cruise includes three stops: Anthony Quinn Bay, Kallithea Beach, and Afandou Beach.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkelling equipment is included, and noodles for swimming are also provided.

Is lunch and wine included?

Yes. Lunch, water, and wine are included.

Can I buy drinks onboard?

Yes. There is a bar on the boat where you can buy soft drinks and beer.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, the tour is offered in English.

Is free cancellation available, and what if weather causes cancellation?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. There’s also a minimum number of travelers requirement; if it doesn’t meet the minimum, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.