Rhodes Town: Anthony Quinn, Kalithea & Afandou Boat Cruise

Thinking about taking a boat trip around Rhodes? This 6-hour cruise from Rhodes Town offers a relaxed way to see some of the island’s most picturesque spots without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple outings. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a mix of sun, sea, and scenic views, with plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel.

What we really like about this cruise is its affordable price—around $31 per person—which includes three different swimming stops and snorkeling gear. Plus, sailing on a traditional Greek boat adds a genuine touch of local flavor that enhances the experience. On the flip side, some folks have noted that the boat moves quite slowly and that there’s little commentary or guided info during the trip.

This tour could work well if you’re looking for a laid-back day out, especially if you enjoy swimming and snapping photos rather than detailed guided tours. It’s not ideal if you’re after a lively, fact-packed excursion or if you’re sensitive to slow-moving trips, but for those wanting a peaceful day on the water, it’s a decent pick.

Key Points

• Relaxed pace with plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities
• Affordable price point that offers good value for such a scenic experience
• Beautiful coastal views and the chance to sail aboard a traditional Greek vessel
• Limited guided commentary—mostly free time and natural sights
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues
• Good option for water lovers who want to enjoy multiple stops in a day

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Rhodes Boat Cruise

If you’re imagining a day on the water exploring Rhodes’ stunning coastline, this cruise fits the bill. Departing from Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes Town, the boat sets sail on a journey that offers a peaceful yet exciting way to see the island’s coastal gems. The boat used is a traditional Greek style, which adds to the charm, and you’ll have plenty of time to relax and soak up the sun.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day is divided into three main stops, each with about an hour of free time for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on deck. The stops are Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Springs.

Anthony Quinn Bay

Your first stop is Anthony Quinn Bay, a name that will catch your eye. Famous for its striking rocky landscape and crystal-clear waters, this spot is perfect for a quick swim or snorkeling. The water here is famously transparent, which means you’ll have no trouble seeing colorful fish swimming around you. One review captures this well: “the water is so clear, you could see some fish perfectly.”

You’ll appreciate the chance to take some photos of the rugged shoreline and enjoy the peaceful setting. Keep in mind that the boat drops anchor here for about an hour, so if you want more time, it’s best to plan your snorkeling or swimming accordingly.

Afandou Beach

Next, the boat heads to Afandou Beach, known for its long stretch of golden sand and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to unwind, lie back, and soak up some rays. The shallow waters make it inviting for a swim, and snorkeling can reveal some underwater sights. The reviews mention that the water clarity is excellent, but also that there aren’t many shady spots, which can be a challenge in hot weather. Bringing your own shade or a hat is definitely advisable.

This stop is also ideal for those who want to enjoy some leisure time without a rush—just lounging on the sand or jumping in for a quick swim.

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Kallithea Springs

The final stop is Kallithea Bay, famous for its historic springs and elegant architecture. Besides the photo opportunities, it’s a popular swimming spot with interesting marine life—fish, squid, and other small creatures. Again, about an hour is allocated here for swimming and snorkeling.

The reviews highlight that while the water is lovely, the lack of shade can be a downside, especially in the heat of summer. If you’re prone to sunburn or heat exhaustion, plan ahead with sun protection and a hat.

The Sailing Experience

What makes this cruise special is the sailing itself. From the Mandraki Harbor, you’ll enjoy panoramic views as you leave Rhodes behind and head toward the coast. The boat sails slowly, giving plenty of time to admire the scenery, take photos, or just relax with some music onboard.

Some reviewers pointed out that the boat is quite slow and that about half the trip is spent sailing, which might feel a bit long if you’re eager to arrive at the beaches. One traveler said, “the boat is very slow, and you will spend 3 hours of sailing.” On the positive side, this slow pace offers plenty of downtime to unwind and enjoy the sea breeze.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Snorkeling gear is provided, so you just need to bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. The underwater stops are well-loved for their clarity and the chance to see colorful fish and small marine creatures.

One traveler mentioned that the provider isn’t responsible for what you see underwater, which is worth remembering. If you’re hoping to spot specific animals or have high expectations, keep in mind that snorkeling is more about enjoying the moment than a guaranteed wildlife show.

The Group and Atmosphere

The size of the group tends to be moderate, making it a comfortable experience without feeling crowded. While some reviews note the lack of guided commentary or interesting facts about the stops, others, like Annabelle from Germany, appreciated the politeness and attentiveness of the crew. She wrote, “the guide was always very polite and attentive,” which adds to a relaxed, friendly vibe onboard.

Music is played during the trip, which helps set a casual tone, and noodles are provided for swimming. Just keep in mind that the cruise doesn’t include lunch, snacks, or drinks, so plan to bring your own if you want sustenance during the day.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Cost and Value: At $31, this cruise offers a pretty affordable way to see parts of Rhodes from the water. You’re paying mainly for the boat ride, swimming stops, and snorkeling gear, so it’s a good value if you’re on a budget.
• Duration: The 6-hour schedule includes the sail, stops, and some free time. Be prepared for a relaxed day; if you prefer a fast-paced tour with lots of guided info, this might not be your best choice.
• Meeting Point: Look for the Alexander Statue in Mandraki Harbor to find the Alkmini boat. Arriving on time is crucial, as all guests need to be on board for departure.
• What to Bring: Sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are essentials. Remember, bikes are not allowed on board, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
• Weather and Comfort: In hot weather, shade is limited, so bring hats and sun protection. The boat’s open design means you’ll be exposed to the elements, so dress accordingly.

What Reviewers Say

The overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 from 83 reviews suggests that most travelers found this cruise worthwhile, but not without its flaws. For example, Katya from Bulgaria pointed out that “compared to other trips, this is a bit boring,” mainly because of the slow sailing and lack of detailed commentary. However, she also noted it “was not overcrowded,” which many appreciate for comfort.

Kathleen from the Netherlands loved the crystal-clear waters and appreciated the peaceful atmosphere, though she wished for more shady spots and better communication from the crew.

Annabelle from Germany praised the crew’s politeness and even shared a positive experience with their customer service, which adds a nice touch of trust in the operator.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who are water lovers and enjoy relaxing days on the sea with multiple swimming opportunities. It’s ideal for those who prefer a laid-back pace over guided commentary or rapid-paced excursions. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner looking for a peaceful escape with beautiful scenery, this trip will likely meet your expectations.

However, if you’re after a fast, information-rich tour or require accessibility accommodations like wheelchair access, this may not be the right fit. It’s also not suitable for children who might get bored during the long sailing periods or for travelers seeking shaded areas or onshore cultural experiences.

The Sum Up

This Rhodes boat cruise offers a simple, affordable way to explore the island’s stunning coastline from the water, with plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities. The experience benefits from beautiful scenery, a relaxed sailing pace, and a friendly crew that makes the journey comfortable.

While it’s not the most action-packed or guided tour, it provides a peaceful way to enjoy Rhodes’ natural beauty without breaking the bank. It’s particularly good for water enthusiasts who want to spend a good chunk of the day swimming, sunbathing, and capturing photos of the coastline.

If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic outing that emphasizes relaxing on the water, this cruise could be a perfect fit. Just be prepared for a slow pace, minimal narration, and limited shade—so come prepared to make the most of a day spent soaking up the sun and enjoying the sea.

FAQ

Is there a hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to Mandraki Harbor to meet the boat.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. These are essentials for comfort and protection during your day out on the water.

Can I snorkel at all stops?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and you’ll have time to snorkel at each stop—Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Bay.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

How long is the sailing portion?
About half of the total 6-hour trip involves sailing, with roughly 3 hours spent on the water, allowing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the tour price doesn’t include snacks, drinks, or lunch. You may want to bring your own refreshments.

Will I see marine life?
You might see fish, squid, and other small creatures while snorkeling. However, the provider is not responsible for what you see underwater.

What is the boat like?
It’s a traditional Greek-style vessel, adding to the authenticity of the experience, but it moves quite slowly, which some travelers find relaxing, others a bit tedious.

Can I book this last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with a cancellation policy allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Water lovers, sunbathers, and those seeking a peaceful day on the sea will find this cruise appealing. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize scenery, swimming, and a relaxed pace over guided tours or energetic activities.

This cruise offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy Rhodes’ beaches and coastline from a different perspective. It won’t be the most detailed or bustling experience, but if you’re after a calm, scenic journey with plenty of chance to swim, it could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: