Rhodes: Cruise with 3 Stops, Lunch and Unlimited Drinks

That first step onto a wooden deck sets the mood. This half-day Rhodes cruise is all about easy swimming stops and included food and drinks along the island’s calmer east coast. You’ll glide out from Mandraki and spend the day hopping bays, not bouncing through a long bus tour.

What I like most is the pace, each stop gives you real water time, then you get fed. The other big win is the crew, led by Theo/Theodore, who keep things smooth and upbeat, with drinks flowing all day.

One thing to think about: shade is limited on deck, and if you board later you may end up with a less ideal seat. If the sea is a bit choppy, it can also feel rough, so bring a calm mindset, and maybe ask the crew for help if you feel off.

Key things to know before you go

• Small, social boat day: multiple reviews point to an intimate vibe (around 18 people), not a cattle-car feeling
• Three anchor-and-swim stops: Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Springs each have its own water mood
• Snorkeling gear is provided: you’re set up for the clear-water bays without extra rental steps
• Lunch plus unlimited basics: Greek lunch buffet with vegetarian options, fruits, wine, beer, and soft drinks are included
• Best views come with positioning: top-front areas get the best sightlines, so arrive early if you can
• Theo/Theodore runs the tone: friendly, hands-on hosting is a repeated theme in the feedback

Entering the day: Rhodes port, the wooden boat, and the right mindset

The cruise starts near Mandraki, with the meeting point listed as the desk for Royal Sailing Rhodes next to Evangelismos Church, opposite of Starbucks. From there, you’re heading out by a traditional wooden boat, the kind that makes you feel like you’re doing something older and slower than modern sightseeing.

The vibe is relaxed, but it’s not chaotic. The day is built around timed swimming windows, plus a Greek lunch buffer-style on board. That matters because it keeps you from constantly thinking about logistics, like where you’ll eat and how you’ll get to the next beach.

Also, do not ignore the small comfort details. You’ll have a shower onboard, a first aid kit, and free WiFi is mentioned. WiFi won’t replace the sea air, but it helps if you need to message someone back home or handle a quick mapping moment before you swim.

Dress like you expect to be in and out of the water. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel since towels are not included. And for deck time, plan for the sun, shade is not the main character here.

The route that matters: three stops on Rhodes’ calmer east coast

This cruise focuses on Rhodes’ east side, where the day can feel like a string of postcard moments instead of a crowded beach crawl. The sailing portion includes travel time between bays, and each stop is built around a photo plus water mix.

Your first leg is about an hour on the water before you hit Anthony Quinn Bay, then there’s an easy hop to Afandou Beach, followed by the final swim window at Kallithea Springs before heading back. You’re on the water for about 5.5 hours total, so the day stays short enough to still enjoy Rhodes afterward.

Here’s the practical value of this kind of route: you get variety without wasting your limited vacation hours. Instead of choosing one beach and living there, you see how water color and coastline change from cove to cove. And because you anchor close to swimming areas, you spend more time in the sea than finding the right spot on land.

One more note. The schedule includes photo stops and guided time at each bay, so you’ll get just enough context to understand what you’re seeing, without the day turning into a lecture.

Stop 1, Anthony Quinn Bay: snorkeling and that emerald-water feeling

Anthony Quinn Bay is where the cruise starts to feel special fast. The schedule includes sightseeing plus a swimming and snorkeling window of about 50 minutes, along with an aperitif-style moment. This is your first taste of Rhodes as a coast, with emerald waters and lush green vegetation described as part of the scenery.

You’ll use the snorkeling equipment provided, and this is one of those stops where “provided” is a big deal. It means you are not spending money on gear, and you’re not hunting for rentals on a tight timeline. You just get in, float, and look around.

What I’d do if you want the best comfort: decide early whether you’re snorkeling first or enjoying a relaxed swim. If you go snorkeling right away, you get it done while the group energy is fresh, then later you can just enjoy the bay without pressure to rush.

And yes, the sea can be different day to day. One concern that comes up in the feedback is choppiness. If you feel off, tell the crew early. They’re attentive, and they actively help people during rougher conditions, which can turn a “maybe I should sit this out” moment into a still-fun day.

Photo lovers also have an advantage here. If you like clear views, get your best deck position early, since the boat has limited shaded spots.

Stop 2, Afandou Beach: quiet time, lunch energy, and optional water fun

Afandou Beach is longer, with about 110 minutes in the mix. That extra time matters because it turns this stop from a quick swim session into a real break. You get photo-stop style time, free time, and the chance to swim and snorkel again.

This is also where the lunch happens. Once you’re back on board, there’s a Greek lunch buffet with vegetarian options, plus fruits and included drinks. Wine and beer are listed as part of the included set, and soft drinks are included too. Reviews repeatedly describe the “drinks keep coming” feeling, which is exactly what you want on a day built around water and sun.

If you’re picky about food, keep expectations realistic. This is a buffet served on a boat, not a white-tablecloth taverna. Still, it’s meant to feel local, with local flavors and vegetarian dishes built in. If you crave a very specific Greek grill classic, you might find the buffet style not quite as targeted as a dedicated restaurant menu.

One practical detail: sun management. The extra time at Afandou makes it tempting to stay in the open deck sun, but shade is limited, so plan for sunscreen reapplication. If you’re sensitive, I’d treat this as your “sun block and slow down” moment.

The schedule also mentions kayaking as part of the Afandou stop. The data doesn’t spell out whether it’s free for everyone, so just look for what’s available on the day and follow crew instructions.

Stop 3, Kallithea Springs: rock ladders, clear water, and a last swim hit

The final stop is Kallithea Springs, with about 50 minutes in the water area. This bay is described as a longer enclave of clear blue water surrounded by rocks, and it includes ladders down into the sea, which makes getting back on board much easier after a swim.

This stop tends to work well for both swimmers and snorkelers. If you just want to float, you can take it easy, because the area is designed for easy entry and exit. If you want to snorkel, the clear-water feel is the reason people come back for one more look at marine life.

The timing also helps. By the third stop, you know your rhythm. You’ve already practiced getting in and out, and you know whether you’re the type to snorkel for 10 minutes or 30. The crew guides are there to keep things organized, but the bay is still your playground for the hour.

After that, it’s the return trip to Rhodes Town. In a good way, the day ends before you’re exhausted. You’ll feel sun-warmed, fed, and pleasantly tired, instead of “I need a vacation from my vacation.”

On board details: unlimited drinks, Wi-Fi, and the deck setup

One of the strongest selling points here is that you’re not just getting a snack. You’re getting a full day’s support: lunch buffet, fruits, wine, beers, soft drinks, plus water time. Cocktails are not included, but there’s an offer to buy them separately.

That included drink flow is part of why people rate this so highly. It turns the cruise into more than a sightseeing trip. When you’re swimming and sunning for hours, included drinks reduce the awkward moments of figuring out what you can afford mid-day.

Wi-Fi is listed as free, which is handy for navigation and message-checking. Just don’t expect to rely on it for streaming. Use it for basics, then put your phone away for the good part, the water.

Deck strategy matters. Several pieces of feedback recommend getting to the front or top areas for the best views. Also, one comment notes that boarding timing can affect where you sit. So if you want a better seat, arrive close to boarding time, not right after the line looks long.

Music is mentioned as easy listening and not overpowering. That helps keep the atmosphere social rather than turning into a party boat you did not book.

Value check: is $70 worth a 5.5-hour Rhodes boat day?

At $70 per person for about 5.5 hours, you’re buying three things at once: boat transport, three swimming stops, and an included lunch with drinks. If you price those separately, it usually adds up fast in Rhodes, especially once you factor in snorkeling gear and the cost of staying hydrated all day.

Where the value really shows is in the time efficiency. You get multiple bays without arranging separate taxi rides or hunting down beach clubs. And because snorkeling equipment is provided, you don’t pay extra just to see what the water looks like underwater.

The drinks being included is also big. It’s not just one round with lunch. The cruise model is built around keeping you refreshed during swim windows.

Potential drawback on value: the lunch is a buffet on board. The portion and variety are generally described as good, but if you expect a restaurant-level menu, it might not hit that bar. Still, it’s included, and it prevents the classic boat trip trap of paying extra for everything.

Overall, for a half-day that mixes swimming, snorkeling, and food without complicated logistics, this is strong value.

Who should book this Rhodes cruise, and who should reconsider

This cruise is a great match if you want a relaxed day at sea with real swim time. It’s ideal for couples, friend groups, and anyone who likes beaches but does not want the hassle of moving between them.

It also makes sense for mixed ability groups. The schedule includes snorkeling, but there’s also time to relax, float, and just enjoy the coastline. Reviews mention water floats being available, which suggests it’s supportive for less confident swimmers, but you should still follow crew guidance and wear swim aids if you need them.

If you’re traveling with kids, the short overall duration can be a plus. The day is structured with time windows, so it’s not a long slog. That said, if your child hates boats or seasickness is an issue, plan for that. Choppy conditions can happen. The crew seems attentive if someone feels rough, but you’ll still want to be prepared.

Should you reconsider? If you hate sun and want lots of shaded deck space, this might feel too exposed. Shade is limited, and a few reviews mention it as a minor downside. And if you want a guided, land-based cultural deep dive, this is not that. This is water time first.

Should you book this cruise or skip it?

Book it if you want an efficient Rhodes experience: three sea swims, snorkeling gear included, and a lunch with plenty of drinks, all in one smooth 5.5-hour chunk. The best reasons to go are the combination of water access plus how the crew keeps the day moving, with Theo/Theodore frequently named for friendly hosting and good energy.

Consider a different option if your top priority is shade-heavy lounging or if you strongly prefer restaurant-style meals over a boat buffet. Also, if you are very sensitive to motion, treat this as “bring your best sea-day attitude,” and lean on the crew if you feel unwell.

Bottom line: for most people, this is one of the most practical ways to spend a half-day on the water in Rhodes while getting real beach time and real included comfort.

FAQ

What’s included in the lunch and drinks?

The price includes a Greek lunch buffet with vegetarian options, plus fruits and drinks onboard. The included drinks are wine, beers, and soft drinks. Cocktails are not included and are available for purchase separately.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and the cruise includes snorkeling time at the stops.

How long is the cruise, and how many stops are there?

The activity lasts about 5.5 hours and includes three main stops: Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Springs.

Where do I meet the boat?

You meet next to Evangelismos Church, opposite of Starbucks, at the desk for Royal Sailing Rhodes.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear and sunscreen. Also bring a towel, since towels are not included.

Are cocktails included?

No. Cocktails are not included in the standard price and can be purchased separately.