Sailing tour around Lindos with food and drinks

Lindos looks different from sea level. This small-group sail around Lindos is all about real time on the water, with a local skipper, prosecco and lunch onboard, and multiple swim stops at places like Red Sand and the caves.

Two things I really like: you move on the wind using sails, so it feels calm and quiet compared to typical boat days, and you get plenty of time at swim and snorkel spots instead of quick photo stops. The food also matters here, with a proper Greek lunch plus fruit served on board.

One consideration: the exact stops and timing shift with the weather, since the skipper schedules swim breaks to keep things safe and comfortable. Also, if you’re booking last-minute (under 12 hours), lunch may not be available.

Key points before you go

• Small group feel, up to 13 guests, typically closer to 10
• Sailing with mainsail and gib, with chances to steer and help with sails
• Cove-hopping swim stops such as Red Sand, Agathi caves, Lindos Bay, and St Paul’s Bay
• Snorkel kit and floats included, plus a waterproof camera
• Prosecco and drinks included, with drink limits depending on your option
• A real sailing day length range, 3 to 8 hours based on package and conditions

Meeting the crew at Gin Tonic Lindos, then out to sea

Your day starts at the big jetty near Pallas Beach. The meeting point is straightforward, and once you’re onboard you’ll notice the boat is set up for comfort, not just getting from A to B. There’s a spacious deck with a large swim platform at the back, and the seating looks more like “relax mode” with cushioned, bed-like seating.

Before you step aboard, plan to arrive sand-free. You’ll also want to have a towel ready, since you’ll be in and out of the sea multiple times. The crew is operating with safety first, and you should expect the skipper to guide everything, from where to move on deck to when it’s time to swim.

And yes, you’ll meet Georgios, the skipper many people rave about for being friendly, sharing sailing knowledge, and making you feel at ease quickly.

Sailing with real sails, not just a boat tour

This is the kind of trip where sailing feels like the main event. You’ll sail using a mainsail and gib, and the boat moves from cove to cove with wind power when conditions allow. You’re not just sitting. If you want to participate, the trip includes hands-on moments like steering and helping with the sails, such as trimming lines or hoisting sails when the skipper lets guests join in.

If you choose a sailing-only option, you’ll be sailing with no engine. Even on days where the engine is used, it’s mainly for practical needs like anchoring, finding the right wind, or when there’s not enough breeze to make acceptable progress. That means fewer loud engine moments and more peaceful sailing time.

This matters because Lindos coastlines look better when you’re moving slowly and quietly. You’re closer to the water texture and the cliffs, and the timing of each swim stop tends to feel more natural.

The Red Sand Beach stop: where the water turns into a postcard

One of the standout stops is Red Sand, reached early in the day on the 10am-style schedule. You typically get around 40 minutes here for swimming and snorkelling. The timing is great because the morning light can make that red-toned shoreline look extra dramatic.

What you’ll enjoy most is the combination of easy swimming access and clear water conditions. You can stay on the surface with snorkel gear, then switch to pure swimming when you want a break from holding still. Since snorkel equipment is included, you don’t have to hunt down rentals or fight with gear that doesn’t fit.

A practical tip: put your towel where it’s easy to grab right after you pull yourself onto the swim deck. It sounds small, but with multiple stops, quick transitions keep the day from feeling rushed.

Agathi caves: snorkel time with a different kind of scenery

After Red Sand, the next common stop is Agathi Caves. This one also tends to be about 40 minutes for swimming and snorkelling, and people like it because the scenery feels more “coastal adventure” than just another beach.

Expect calm, shallow opportunities for snorkelling, with spots where you can swim along the cave area and check out the rock shapes. Even if you’re not an expert snorkeller, this kind of stop is often easier because you’re not dealing with open-water conditions for the whole time. You get a built-in pace, with the skipper managing the timing so the group isn’t scrambling.

If you’re the sort of person who enjoys looking around while staying comfortable, this stop fits your style.

Lindos Bay and the other swim breaks: plan for variety

Later in the day, many packages include time at Lindos Bay for another swim and snorkel session, again around 40 minutes. This is a good point in the day to slow down a bit. By then, you’ve usually had enough sea time to loosen up, and the group energy can shift from “let’s snorkel” to “let’s relax and float.”

Depending on the departure time and what the weather is doing, you may also trade in or add stops such as:

• Stegna caves
• Haraki
• Navarone Bay and the Blue Lagoon area
• St Paul’s Bay (included on the 9am-style and 4pm-style timing)

The St Paul’s Bay stop, in particular, gets attention because it’s tied to one of the most famous views of the Lindos coastline. And the big bonus is that you’re experiencing it from the water, not from a crowded viewpoint on land.

Lunch onboard: Greek food that actually restores your energy

Lunch happens onboard, typically around the early afternoon block on the longer 10am-style schedule. The meal includes Greek lunch, salad, and fruits. This is not “just a snack.” After swimming and snorkelling, you’ll appreciate something warm and filling, especially with the fruit to keep you refreshed.

What I like about having lunch on the boat is timing. You don’t lose an hour to transfers and you don’t have to find food near the port. Plus, the day flows like a sequence: swim, regroup, eat, then keep exploring.

If you’re booking last-minute under 12 hours before departure, lunch might not be included. So if you care about that meal, try to reserve with more lead time.

Drinks and prosecco: included fun, with clear limits

Drinks are part of the experience, and you’ll see plenty of that “celebration at sea” vibe without it feeling like a party cruise. Included drinks include prosecco, beer, wine, soda or pop, and bottled water. Free water is included as well.

One thing to watch: the drinks are complimentary based on the option you book. Your package might be limited to up to 4 drinks per person, or it might be unlimited. If you’re the group type that wants to keep ordering, double-check which option you selected so you’re not surprised mid-day.

A practical note for comfort: pace the drinks with water, especially in the sun. You’ll be out on the water, usually with direct light, and snorkel breaks mean you’re moving and re-drying repeatedly.

Steering the yacht and trimming sails, without feeling pressured

This trip is built around interaction. The idea is simple: you can steer the boat, and you may help with sail handling when it’s safe and practical. People mention a “captain until the sun sets” feel, and the schedule often includes a longer sailing segment around the Lindos bay area.

If you want to steer, do it early rather than waiting until the end. It’s easier to get used to the feel of the boat when you have plenty of time, and the skipper can adjust what he asks you to do as he sees how comfortable you are.

Also, if you just want to relax, you can. The boat runs with one main crew member, and the skipper still manages the group so people who prefer to watch can enjoy the sailing without feeling like they must participate.

Snorkel gear, floats, and the small extras that help

Snorkel gear is included, along with noodle-type floats. A waterproof camera is also provided, which is a nice touch since you’ll probably want pictures without worrying about your phone.

If you like photo moments, this is a good way to get them. The mix of bright water, pale cliffs, and red-sand tones makes visuals easy. Just remember you still need to follow the skipper’s instructions, especially around where people sit, how the group moves during stop-and-swim periods, and when gear goes back in the right basket.

Two common “don’t think about it” rules that keep everyone safe:

• Don’t jump into the sea when the engine is on.
• Keep the boat tidy, especially clear pathways and the swim platform area.

Getting the most out of the day: simple packing and conduct

Bring a towel. That’s the one item the tour specifically calls out. You might also want your own sunscreen and swimwear that dries quickly, but those are your personal choices rather than tour-provided items.

You’ll also be asked for passenger names and passport or ID numbers due to local laws for safety at sea. Plan to have that information ready so check-in goes smoothly.

Onboard conduct is part of the comfort. Keep the aft of the boat unobstructed during mooring, use the head properly (including using the bin for waste and flushing before returning to deck), and follow litter rules. It’s not fussy. It’s just how shared space stays pleasant.

Optional add-ons if you want to level up

The main package already covers snorkeling gear, floats, food, and drinks. But if you’re the active type, there are extra options that cost more:

• Stand Up Paddle board: 30€/day
• Seascooter: 70€/battery cycle
• Fishing rods: 30€/day

If you’re trying to keep the day uncomplicated, skip add-ons and enjoy the cove time. If you’re the sort of traveler who loves extra motion, an e-scooter can extend your snorkel range in a low-effort way.

Price and value for a 3 to 8 hour sailing day

At about $76 per person, the value is mostly about what’s included, not just the base ticket. You’re getting:

• A local skipper
• Fuel and insurance
• Snorkel gear and floats
• Greek lunch, salad, and fruit
• Drinks including prosecco
• Multiple swim stops around the Lindos area

Many boat options in the region charge separately for food and drinks, and some leave you scrambling for snorkel rentals. Here, you’re paying for a full sea day with meals baked into the experience.

The only time the value might wobble is if your selected package includes limited drinks and you’re expecting unlimited. In that case, your cost per drink can climb fast. So pick the drink option that matches your group.

Also remember the trip length can be 3 to 8 hours. If you’re comparing prices, compare time too. A shorter morning sail can feel like a great deal, while the longer day gives you more water time and more chances at multiple coves.

Who should book this sailing trip around Lindos

This fits best if you want:

• Real time on the water, not just a quick coastal cruise
• Plenty of swimming and snorkelling stops
• A small-group atmosphere with up to 13 guests (often around 10)
• A skipper who talks about sailing and invites you to steer

It’s a good choice for couples, friends, and families who want a relaxed day but still want memorable stops like Red Sand, cave areas, and St Paul’s Bay.

It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and people over 80 should avoid it.

If you’re traveling with someone who gets seasick easily, you’ll want to be cautious. The information we have doesn’t spell out seasickness policies or remedies, so you’d need to decide based on your own experience and comfort level.

Should you book Gin Tonic Lindos Sailing?

I’d book it if you want Lindos from the water with a mix of sailing, swimming, snorkel time, and onboard Greek lunch, plus included prosecco. The small group size and the chance to steer or help with sails makes it feel personal, not like a crowded excursion.

Skip it only if you hate weather-dependent plans or you need a fully rigid schedule. The skipper adjusts stops based on conditions, and that’s part of how they keep the day safe and enjoyable.

If you want a sea day that feels both fun and genuinely “of the place,” this one is hard to beat.