Rhodes: Cruise with 3 Stops, Lunch and Unlimited Drinks

Rhodes looks best from the water. This 5.5-hour cruise pairs three fine swimming stops with a traditional wooden boat, a Greek buffet, and drinks included in the $70 price. I especially like the relaxed pace and the warm, attentive crew, with Theo and Theodore singled out for making people feel welcome. The main thing to consider is the sun: shade is limited, and the best seats can go early.

You will swim and snorkel at Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Springs, with about 50 minutes at each stop. I also like that the boat supplies snorkeling gear, floats, showers, WiFi, and vegetarian lunch options. The ride can feel choppy on some days, and the lunch is plentiful but may not satisfy you if you are expecting a full spread of classic Greek specialties.

Rhodes cruise highlights at a glance

• Three swimming stops in 5.5 hours: Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Springs each offer a different setting for swimming and snorkeling.
• A traditional wooden boat: The older-style boat gives the day a more appealing character than a plain modern ferry, and it photographs well.
• Drinks included throughout: Wine, beer, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and fruit are included, while cocktails cost extra.
• A friendly crew: Theo and Theodore are praised for attentive hosting, regular drink service, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Lunch served at Afandou Beach: The buffet includes local flavors and vegetarian dishes, with red or white wine.
• Arrive early for better seating: The front pads and upper areas offer fine views, but early arrivals have the best chance of choosing them.

Starting at Mandraki Port with a traditional wooden boat

You meet Royal Sailing Rhodes next to Evangelismos Church, opposite Starbucks, at the company desk. From there, the boat leaves Mandraki Port in the morning and heads along Rhodes’ east coast.

The boat is one of the pleasures of the trip. It is a traditional wooden vessel rather than a stripped-down transport boat, with room to sit, stretch out, and sunbathe. One especially positive detail is the intimate feel reported on some departures, with one group describing roughly 18 people on board. The exact number can vary, but this is not described as an uncomfortable party boat.

I would arrive early. The boat may have enough room for everyone, yet the most desirable positions disappear first. The front pads offer the best views, and the upper deck is useful if you want a clear look at the coast. A few people have found the back less appealing after arriving later than others.

Shade is the weak point. One account specifically wished for more cover from the sun, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and a willingness to move around during the day. A towel is not provided, and you will want one after the swimming stops.

The cruise includes free WiFi, though the real attraction is the sea around you. The crossing time gives you a chance to settle in, order a drink, and enjoy the changing views before the first stop.

Anthony Quinn Bay: emerald water and a scenic first swim

The first stop is Anthony Quinn Bay, reached after roughly an hour on the boat. The bay is known for its green water, rocky edges, and thick vegetation around the shore. From the boat, you get a particularly attractive view of the curved inlet and its clear water.

You have about 50 minutes here for swimming and snorkeling. The crew provides snorkeling equipment, so you do not need to pack your own mask and fins unless you prefer familiar gear. The water is the main event. You can swim from the boat, look for marine life below, or simply sit on deck with a drink and admire the setting.

This is a strong first stop because it delivers the classic Rhodes postcard view without requiring a long land transfer. It also gives confident swimmers a chance to jump straight into the sea from the boat. If you are less comfortable in open water, floats are available, and you can stay close to the vessel.

The bay can feel busy in peak summer, although the boat-based visit keeps your stop focused on swimming rather than a long stay on shore. Do not expect a guided nature lesson or a serious snorkeling expedition. The crew explains the stops and helps with the equipment, but this is primarily a relaxed swim cruise.

Afandou Beach: the longest stop and lunch break

After about 10 minutes of sailing, the boat reaches Afandou Beach. This is the longest portion of the outing, lasting around 110 minutes in total. You get time to swim, snorkel, relax, and enjoy lunch once you return to the boat.

Afandou works well as the middle stop because it breaks up the morning. You can spend time in the water, take a breather on the beach, or try some of the available water activities. Kayaking is listed among the options, though you should confirm availability with the crew on your departure.

The water here is calm enough for a broad mix of abilities, but you still need to take normal care around the boat and shoreline. The crew provides snorkeling gear, and the stop offers another chance to look beneath the surface rather than simply admire the view from the deck.

Lunch is served on board and includes a buffet with local flavors, vegetarian choices, fruit, and wine. Beer and soft drinks are also available. The quantity is a strong point. I would expect you to leave well fed, especially since fruit and smaller snacks may also appear during the day.

The food receives high praise overall, with several people calling it delicious and more generous than expected. At the same time, one useful criticism is that the buffet could include more unmistakably traditional items such as gyros or souvlaki. So keep your expectations realistic: this is a good boat lunch with Greek touches, not a dedicated food tour.

Red and white wine are included with the meal. Beer, soft drinks, coffee, and tea are also part of the standard package. The crew keeps drinks moving throughout the day, which adds real value to the price, especially in the strong Rhodes sun.

Cocktails are not included. You can buy them separately, so do not mistake the phrase unlimited drinks for an open cocktail bar.

Kallithea Springs: clear water beside stone and ladders

The final stop is Kallithea Springs, reached after another longer stretch of sailing. You have about 50 minutes here for swimming and snorkeling.

The swimming area is a long, clear inlet framed by rocks, with ladders leading down into the sea. It has a different feel from Anthony Quinn Bay. Instead of a small green cove, Kallithea offers a more structured setting, with stone, platforms, and easy access points into the water.

This stop suits anyone who enjoys swimming from a ladder or platform rather than stepping directly off the beach. The water is clear, and snorkeling equipment is again available. You can look for small marine life, cool off, or remain on deck if you have had enough sun.

The 50-minute limit is enough for a proper swim but not enough for a long visit to every part of the wider Kallithea area. The cruise is designed around the sea, not a full land visit to the springs complex. If you want to explore the historic buildings and grounds in detail, you would need a separate visit.

Still, Kallithea is a good final stop because it gives the day a different visual finish. After the bright open water at Afandou and the green cove at Anthony Quinn Bay, the rock-lined swimming area feels like a fitting last dip before the return trip.

Food, drinks, and the value of the $70 price

At $70 per person, this cruise offers solid value if you plan to swim and drink on board. The price covers the wooden-boat cruise, three stops, snorkeling equipment, lunch, fruit, wine, beer, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and use of the onboard shower.

The drink package matters more than it might at first appear. A day in the sun can make repeated purchases at a beach bar expensive, while here you can have water, a soft drink, beer, or wine without adding to the bill. The crew is also attentive about offering drinks, which several people found especially enjoyable.

Lunch adds another layer of value. You are not buying a short sightseeing ride with a small snack. You receive a full buffet, vegetarian food, fruit, and drinks during the meal. The generous portions help make the price easier to justify.

The main limits are the separate charge for cocktails and the mixed view of the menu. If food is your top reason for booking, you may prefer a dedicated Greek cooking experience. If you want a full day on the water with swimming, drinks, and a proper meal, the package is much more convincing.

The crew, music, and mood on board

The crew is one of the strongest reasons to choose this particular cruise. The service is described as friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, with staff checking on people who feel unwell and helping with equipment and swimming.

Theo and Theodore receive specific praise for hosting. Their role seems to go beyond simply serving food and drinks. They help keep the mood easy, explain the stops, and make the boat feel sociable without forcing entertainment on anyone.

Music is part of the atmosphere, but it is not meant to dominate the day. Easy-listening music has been appreciated for staying in the background, and another account praised the music selection. That balance matters. You can chat, read, sunbathe, or watch the coast without feeling trapped in a loud party.

The cruise suits couples, families, and small groups of friends. Children and adults can enjoy the swimming stops, while floats help less confident swimmers. You should still be comfortable with a day built around getting wet, climbing ladders, and sitting in the sun.

If you are prone to seasickness, take the possibility of choppy water seriously. One person felt rough on a wavy day but appreciated that the crew checked in and helped. The east coast may be calmer than other parts of Rhodes, but conditions can still change.

Practical tips for getting the best day

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and anything you need for sun protection. Towels are not included, and shade may be limited.

Arrive early if seating matters to you. The front pads and upper deck tend to be the most desirable places for views and sunbathing. If you prefer shade, arriving early also gives you a better chance of finding the most comfortable position.

Use the swimming time wisely. Anthony Quinn Bay is ideal for a first snorkel, Afandou gives you the longest break and lunch, and Kallithea Springs offers a final clear-water swim. You do not need to rush, but 50 minutes passes quickly once you collect equipment and get into the water.

Keep your drinking sensible. Wine and beer are included, but the combination of strong sun, swimming, and alcohol can catch up with you. Water and soft drinks are available, so mix them into your day.

The cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and a reserve-now, pay-later option. Starting times can vary, so check the schedule when choosing your date.

Who should book this Rhodes boat trip?

I would choose this cruise if you want several beautiful swimming stops without organizing transport, beach rentals, lunch, and drinks separately. It is particularly good for a first visit to Rhodes when you want to see the east coast from the sea.

It also suits you if you prefer a friendly, relaxed boat rather than a large excursion vessel with a loud party atmosphere. The traditional wooden design, good food portions, and attentive crew give the day a personal feel.

I would think twice if you dislike direct sun, open-water swimming, or boats that may move around in choppy conditions. You may also be disappointed if you expect a formal sailing lesson, a long guided visit at Kallithea Springs, or a highly specialized Greek-food menu.

For most visitors, the combination of scenery, swimming, food, and included drinks makes this a strong $70 outing. The best value comes from using all three swimming stops and taking advantage of the included beverages without treating the cruise as a cocktail tour.

FAQ

How long does the Rhodes cruise last?

The cruise lasts 5.5 hours, including the sailing time, three swimming stops, lunch, and the return to Rhodes Town.

Where does the cruise meet?

The meeting point is next to Evangelismos Church, opposite Starbucks, at the Royal Sailing Rhodes desk.

Which places does the boat visit?

The boat stops at Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Springs.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is served as a buffet on board and includes vegetarian options, fruit, and local flavors.

Which drinks are included?

Wine, beer, soft drinks, coffee, and tea are included. Cocktails are available for purchase separately.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included for the swimming stops.

Should I bring a towel?

Yes. Towels are not included, so bring your own towel along with swimwear and sunscreen.

Is the cruise conducted in English?

Yes. The live tour guide and listed tour language are English.

Should you book it?

Book this cruise if you want a friendly, well-fed day on the water with three attractive swimming stops and drinks already covered. Arrive early for a better seat, bring serious sun protection, and expect a relaxed buffet rather than a gourmet Greek meal.

I would pass only if you want extensive land sightseeing, guaranteed shade, or a quiet trip with no chance of choppy water. For a straightforward Rhodes day out, the wooden boat, excellent crew, clear bays, and generous inclusions make this one of the better-value ways to see the east coast.