Rhodes is a fantastic destination for quick, immersive tours that pack a punch in just a few hours. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat trip to swim in crystal-clear waters, an exciting city scooter tour, or a unique underwater experience, the island offers plenty of options. One thing’s certain—Rhodes’ mix of beautiful beaches, historic sites, and lively towns makes it a perfect place to explore in just a few hours. We particularly like the Sun & Sea All Inclusive 3 Hour Swimming Cruise, because it combines sailing, snorkeling, and stunning scenery with all-inclusive snacks and drinks, making it a great value for a quick getaway.
While some tours focus on the water — like boat cruises or submarine adventures — others offer a fast-paced way to discover Rhodes’ historic neighborhoods or charming villages. Today, we’ve rounded up the best 3-hour tours that give you a taste of Rhodes’ magic without taking up your whole day. From sailing to exploring on scooters or Segways, each offers a different way to enjoy the island’s highlights. Let’s dive into the details.
1. Sun & Sea All Inclusive 3 Hour Swimming Cruise (WITH PICK UP SERVICE)
This highly-rated group catamaran cruise takes you to three of Rhodes’ most beautiful swimming and snorkeling spots in just about three hours. Starting from Faliraki Harbor, it’s perfect for travelers who want a quick but memorable sea adventure. The tour visits Afantou Beach, Ladiko Beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay, with time to snorkel inside the Traganou Cave. The comfort of a 36-foot catamaran with couch seating makes this cruise relaxing, and all snacks, soft drinks, and snorkel gear are included.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on the most picturesque swimming spots, including the famous Anthony Quinn Bay — a favorite for its emerald waters and pine trees. Reviewers love the friendly staff and the short, well-paced schedule that leaves you time to explore Rhodes afterward. The round-trip transport from Faliraki hotels adds convenience, especially after a day in the sun.
Bottom Line: This cruise is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed, all-in-one experience with snorkeling, scenic views, and comfort on a spacious catamaran. It’s excellent for families, couples, or groups who want quality time on the water without sacrificing comfort.
2. 3-Hour Adventure With Hippo Submarine
For around $45, the 3-Hour Adventure With Hippo Submarine offers a completely different perspective—sea level exploration with the chance to see marine life through the submarine’s large viewing windows. This tour combines sightseeing around Vlicha, Lindos, and Navarone Bay with a fascinating underwater experience. You start at the Tomb of Kleoboulos, where you can feed the fish and learn about the ancient Greek philosopher who believed in balance as the key to happiness.
Next, you board the spacious submarine at St. Paul’s Bay, where you relax in air-conditioned comfort, listen to music, and watch the seabed through the massive portholes. The tour emphasizes the underwater view, making it perfect for travelers who want to see marine life up close without diving. It’s a family-friendly choice, especially for those who prefer a calm, narrated experience. Reviewers rave about the friendly staff and the “incredible” fish observations — many say it’s a highlight of their trip.
Bottom Line: If underwater scenery and a relaxed, informative experience appeal to you, this tour offers a unique, value-packed way to explore Rhodes from beneath the surface.
3. Explore the new town and the medieval town of Rhodes on scooters – 3 hours
This tour is perfect for those who want to cover more ground quickly while avoiding crowded streets. Using a self-balancing electric Trikke scooter, you glide through both the modern and medieval parts of Rhodes. The route begins at Mandraki Harbour, where you’ll see the famous Dama-Dama deer and the spot where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood. You’ll pass the town hall, the National Theater, windmills, the lighthouse, and the Knights’ Castle, with plenty of time for photos and questions.
What makes this tour special is the mix of history and vibrant city life combined with the fun of riding a scooter. The guide is knowledgeable, and many reviews mention the guide’s humor and helpfulness. It’s especially popular among travelers who want an active, engaging way to see the city without walking for hours. The private group setting means you can ask questions and take your time.
Bottom Line: This is a fantastic option for active travelers and those curious about Rhodes’ architecture and history, delivered in a fun, informal way with a focus on personal experience.
4. Lindos, Pefkos: Summer Breeze 3 Hour All Inclusive Swimming Cruise
Starting from Vlicha Bay, this 3-hour swimming cruise offers a scenic journey along the coast with stops at Lindos’ Hidden Caves, Navarone Bay, and St. Paul’s Bay. The tour emphasizes swimming and snorkeling in some of Rhodes’ most impressive spots. You’ll swim into the caves, relax at Navarone Bay with fresh Rhodian fruit, and enjoy the views of St. Paul’s Bay’s stunning setting.
The inclusion of snorkel equipment and the opportunity to swim directly into Lindos’ caves make this tour stand out. Reviewers mention the “amazing scenery” and the “well-organized stops,” making it suitable for those who want a balance of sightseeing and water fun. The itinerary allows plenty of time to enjoy the water, with a focus on natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active swimmers and water lovers, this cruise combines scenic cruising with snorkeling in iconic locations, all within three hours.
5. Rhodes: Explore the New and Medieval city on a Segway – 3 hours
If you prefer a high-tech way to explore, this 3-hour Segway tour offers a fun, less tiring alternative to walking. Starting at Arionos Square, the guide takes you through the narrow streets of the old town and the modern city highlights. You’ll see Mandraki Harbour, the Knights’ Street, the medieval moat, and the main harbor — with some stops for photos and explanations.
This tour is especially good for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground without getting tired. The small group size (up to four people) ensures a personalized experience. Reviewers mention the guide’s “knowledge and humor,” as well as how easy it is to learn to ride the Segway, even for beginners.
Bottom Line: This tour provides a lively, engaging way to uncover Rhodes’ sights, ideal for explorers who want to combine sightseeing with a little fun.
6. 3 Hour Yellow Semi Submarine Swimming Cruise with Drinks Included!
This semi-submarine cruise offers a different perspective on Rhodes’ coast. It’s an underwater adventure with large viewing windows, allowing you to see marine life without getting wet. The tour stops at Traganou Caves and Anthony Quinn Bay, giving you chances to swim and snorkel with provided gear. The open bar with beer and soft drinks adds to the relaxed vibe.
Passengers love the underwater view and the opportunity to spot fish and other sea creatures from inside the boat. The stop at the caves, where you can swim inside, is a real highlight. Reviewers mention the “friendly crew” and the “beautiful scenery,” making this a good choice for families or anyone wanting a mix of underwater sightseeing and swimming.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a semi-submarine adventure combined with swimming and relaxed drinking, all in a three-hour window.
7. 3-hour boat tour
This straightforward boat tour covers the south coast highlights like Ladiko Beach, Traganou Caves, and Anthony Quinn Bay. It offers a quick route to some of Rhodes’ best coastal spots, with soft drinks and fruit included. The tour is useful if you want a short, scenic trip with minimal planning.
Reviewers appreciate the professional guides and the chance to see the coast from the water. Some note that the boat ride can be bumpy, so it’s better suited for those comfortable with slight motion. It’s ideal for travelers who want a simple, no-fuss way to see Rhodes’ beaches and caves.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for a quick, scenic boat ride that hits some of Rhodes’ most popular coastal locations.
8. High Speed Sunset Cruise to Symi Island with 3 hours of free time
For those seeking a breathtaking sunset experience, this high-speed cruise takes you to Symi, with about three hours to explore the island. Departing from Mandraki Harbor, it includes a quick photo stop at St George’s Bay before arriving in Symi’s colorful fishing harbor.
While most of the trip is about the speed and scenery, your free time in Symi allows for a leisurely walk, lunch, or swim. The trip is perfect for travelers who want a taste of a Greek island in the late afternoon, topped with a beautiful sunset on the way back. Reviewers mention the “beautiful views” and the “relaxed pace” as highlights.
Bottom Line: Best for sunset lovers and those wanting a quick, scenic trip with a taste of Symi’s charm.
9. A Sunset Remedy: 3-hour All-inclusive Ride in Rhodes Town
This evening cruise offers a relaxed way to see Rhodes at sunset. Starting at El Greco Cruises, you’ll cruise past Kallithea Springs and the Knights Castle, with plenty of time for photos and drinks. Swimming is optional, and the views from the water as the sun sets behind the medieval fortress are spectacular.
Reviewers point out the serene atmosphere and the chilled drinks, making it a good choice for couples or travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic finish to their day. The tour’s shorter duration makes it easy to fit into an evening schedule.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a tranquil sunset experience with a touch of history and beautiful city views.
How to Choose the Right 3-Hour Tour in Rhodes
Picking the perfect tour depends on your interests and travel style. If you love swimming and snorkeling, the Sun & Sea Catamaran or the Lindos cruise offer excellent water experiences. For underwater viewing, the Hippo Submarine provides a relaxing marine adventure without getting wet.
Active explorers seeking a fun way to see the city can opt for the Rhodes Segway or the scooter tour. Budget travelers will find value in the boat or semi-submarine cruises, which pack highlights into a compact timeframe. Those wanting a sunset experience might prefer the Rhodes sunset cruise, which combines scenic views with relaxing drinks.
Planning your tour around the weather, your fitness level, and whether water activities appeal most will help you pick the best option. Booking early is wise during peak season (May to September) since these shorter tours tend to fill fast.
Final Thoughts
Rhodes offers a range of engaging 3-hour adventures, from sailing and snorkeling to city exploration and underwater viewing. The Sun & Sea cruise is a standout for its cleanliness and all-inclusive vibe, while the Hippo Submarine offers a relaxing underwater perspective. For those who want to see both old and new Rhodes on the move, the Segway tour combines fun with sightseeing.
No matter your style, booking early and choosing a tour that matches your interests will ensure your short stay in Rhodes is memorable. These options make it easy to enjoy the best of what the island offers without sacrificing your schedule. Happy travels!
