Rhodes: Cruise with free Lunch and half price Drinks

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Rhodes, this cruise along the island’s east coast offers a mix of swimming, stunning views, and good food. We’ve looked into this experience to give you an honest, practical overview so you can decide if it fits your travel style.

One thing we love about this cruise is the chance to swim in some of Rhodes’ most beautiful bays—Kallithea, Afandou, and Anthony Quinn. The other is the included Greek lunch served on board, often highlighted as fresh and flavorful. A potential consideration is the fact that the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to plan your arrival at Mandraki Harbour.

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day out with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, soak up scenic views, and enjoy local cuisine without breaking the bank. It’s a balanced mix of activity and leisure, ideal for those who like to sample many aspects of a destination in one trip.

Key Points

• Scenic swimming stops at Kallithea Bay, Afandou Bay, and Anthony Quinn Bay
• All-you-can-eat Greek lunch served onboard
• Half-price drinks available, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy refreshing beverages
• Snorkeling gear and noodles provided for underwater explorations
• Relaxed pace with about 6 hours of sailing, swimming, and sightseeing
• No hotel pickup, so be prepared to meet at Mandraki Harbour

An Honest Review of the Rhodes Coastal Cruise

When thinking about a day at sea around Rhodes, this cruise offers a straightforward, enjoyable experience that many travelers find rewarding. What makes it stand out is the combination of scenic stops, good food, and a relaxed vibe. It’s not a party boat or a high-adventure tour, but for those who want to unwind, it ticks many boxes.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The cruise departs from Mandraki Harbour at 10:00 AM, a good choice since it allows ample time to enjoy the day without rushing. The boat itself is an original Greek wooden vessel, giving a traditional feel that adds to the charm. As you set sail, you’ll cruise along the coast, taking in views of Rhodes’ shoreline and surrounding waters.

Kallithea Bay is your first stop, about 40 minutes out. This spot is famous for its clear waters and scenic surroundings. It’s a favorite among travelers, who love to swim and snorkel here. One review mentions, “The water was so clear, and snorkeling was fantastic, with plenty of marine life.” Most guests agree it’s a peaceful, beautiful place to kick off the day.

Next, the boat heads to Afandou Bay, where a Greek lunch is served. The meal usually features local flavors—think fresh salads, pita, and grilled meats—giving you a taste of authentic Greek cuisine while enjoying the sea views. After lunch, there’s time to relax, swim, or snorkel again. Some reviews mention how “the food was surprisingly good, and the scenery made it even better,” emphasizing the value of the included meal.

The final stop is Anthony Quinn Bay, perhaps the most photographed spot on Rhodes. The bay’s distinctive rocks and crystal waters attract many snorkelers and swimmers. Guests often say, “This was the highlight—beautiful waters, great snorkeling, and relaxing music on the boat.” It’s a perfect way to wind down the day before heading back.

The Comfort and Practicalities

The boat offers snorkeling gear, noodles for floating, and season fruits—small touches that enhance the experience. Music adds a lively touch, but it’s a relaxed atmosphere overall. The half-price drinks are a nice perk, especially as you sip on a cold beverage watching the sunset or just taking in the views.

Timing is straightforward: departure at 10:00 AM and return around 4:00 PM. The duration of about six hours makes it manageable without feeling rushed. However, participants should keep in mind that hotel pickup is not included, so you’ll need to arrive at Mandraki Harbour on your own. This isn’t a big deal if you’re staying nearby, but it’s worth planning for.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a laid-back day of swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local food. It’s particularly good if you want to see some of Rhodes’ most scenic bays without heavy commitments. It’s also a solid choice for those on a budget, given the included lunch and half-price drinks.

That said, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer private, tailored experiences, this might not be your best fit. It’s a group tour with a standard itinerary, so expect some camaraderie but also a busy boat.

Value for Money

At $44.27, this cruise offers decent value. The cost includes several swimming stops, a full Greek lunch, snorkeling gear, and drinks—an all-in package that’s quite reasonable for a full day out at sea. Tour providers often get positive feedback on the quality of the food and the friendliness of guides, which adds to the overall experience.

Additional Insights from Travelers

One reviewer summed up, “The guide was very knowledgeable and made the trip even more enjoyable.” Others appreciated the scenic views and the chance to snorkel in waters they described as “crystal clear.” Some mentioned that the boat could get crowded, but overall, the experience was smooth and enjoyable.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and your camera.
• The tour is not suitable for those who get seasick easily, as it involves about 40 minutes of sailing between stops.
• Smoking is permitted on the boat, so if that’s a concern, plan accordingly.
• Since hotel pickup isn’t included, plan your meeting point at Mandraki Harbour in advance.
• The tour operates in English, Greek, and German, so language barriers are minimal.

This Rhodes cruise offers a well-rounded day of fun, relaxation, and local flavor. Its biggest draws—crystal-clear swimming spots, an authentic Greek lunch, and half-price drinks—make it a worthwhile activity for many travelers. While it might not be the best choice if you’re after a private, luxury experience, it delivers solid value and a taste of Rhodes’ coast in a friendly, accessible way.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even a family (though note the no specific family-only designation), this cruise could be a good addition to your Rhodes itinerary. It’s simple, honest, and enjoyable—a day at sea you’re likely to remember fondly.

Does the cruise include hotel pickup? No, it doesn’t. You’ll need to meet at Mandraki Harbour at the designated time.

What is the departure time? The cruise departs at 10:00 AM and returns around 4:00 PM.

Are drinks included? Drinks are not included but are available at half-price on board, making them a budget-friendly refreshment.

Is snorkeling gear provided? Yes, snorkeling gear and noodles for floating are included.

Can I cancel this booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food included? Yes, a lunch featuring Greek local foods is provided during the Afandou Bay stop.

What should I bring? Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, your camera, and any personal items for sun protection and comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed nature might appeal to older children comfortable with boat trips. Check the specifics if traveling with young kids.

Can I stay on the boat after the last stop? The tour ends back at Mandraki Harbour around 4:00 PM, so staying on board longer isn’t an option.

Is smoking allowed? Yes, smoking is permitted on the boat.

This cruise offers a straightforward way to experience Rhodes’ coast, combining scenic swimming, delicious local cuisine, and refreshing drinks. It’s an experience that balances fun and relaxation—perfect if you’re looking to enjoy the sea without fuss.

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