Lindos Full Day Boat Tour with Swimming

Traveling to Rhodes and eager to see the island from a different perspective? A full-day boat tour that includes exploring Lindos, swimming at scenic spots, and enjoying stunning coastline views might just be what you’re after. It’s a popular choice for those who want a relaxing day afloat while ticking off some of Rhodes’ most beautiful sights.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how flexible and laid-back it feels. You get ample free time to wander Lindos on your own, which is fantastic for soaking up the atmosphere and discovering tucked-away corners. Plus, the stops at Tsambika Beach and Anthony Quinn Bay are ideal for snorkeling, offering a chance to see vibrant marine life up close.

That said, this tour isn’t perfect for everyone. The snorkeling stop is brief and, according to some reviews, doesn’t always live up to expectations — it’s more about cooling off than discovering underwater marvels. If your primary aim is extensive snorkeling or detailed exploration beneath the waves, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re happy with a scenic cruise combined with some beach fun, it’s a solid choice.

In terms of who this suits, we think it’s especially good for travelers who want a relaxed, visually stunning day with opportunities to explore at their own pace, and who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and swimming. It’s great for those who appreciate a well-organized schedule without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Flexible free time in Lindos allows for exploring at your own pace.
• Scenic boat rides provide beautiful views along Rhodes’ coastline.
• Snorkeling stops at Tsambika Beach and Anthony Quinn Bay give a chance to see underwater life.
• The experience is well-suited for groups seeking a relaxed, enjoyable day without heavy activity demands.
• The tour is fairly priced at around $46 per person, offering good value for the length and inclusions.
• Weather considerations are important, as bad weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Setting Sail from Rhodes Harbor

Your adventure kicks off early, with a meet-up at Alpha Centaurus Sailing Trips & Cruises in Rhodes at 8:45 am. The boat departs around 9 am, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the anticipation of a day on the water. The boat, operated by Rizos Daily Cruises, is reported to have a comfortable, air-conditioned interior and a sundeck with sunbeds—perfect for catching some rays or relaxing in the shade.

A key point here is the group size, with a maximum of 245 travelers, so expect a lively and sociable atmosphere but still enough space to find your own corner.

Cruising to Lindos: What to Expect

The boat journey to Lindos takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes. During this time, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views, chat with fellow travelers, or simply relax. Many reviews note the professional and friendly crew, making the journey smooth and enjoyable.

Once you arrive, you’ll have around three hours of free time to explore Lindos itself. This ancient village is a highlight of Rhodes, with its narrow, winding streets and iconic Acropolis. You’ll love the chance to climb up to the Acropolis, which offers panoramic views over the sea and the town, or simply wander through the charming lanes lined with traditional taverns and shops.

Exploring Lindos: Freedom to Discover

The reviews mention Lindos as “so beautiful,” with one traveler saying, “Swimming was in beautiful places, good team on boat, very professional, everything more than expected.” That’s a good sign that your free time can be well spent. You can opt to visit the Acropolis (which might involve an entrance fee if you choose to go up), relax on the sandy beach, or browse the local shops and cafes.

A common note is that the village is quite graphical and picturesque, making it an excellent spot for photos and leisurely strolling. You might find that the local taverns serve excellent traditional Greek cuisine, perfect for a solo lunch or snack if you prefer to dine out rather than on the boat.

Scenic Stops for Swimming and Snorkeling

After Lindos, the boat heads to Tsambika Beach, known for its vibrant snorkel sites. The stop here lasts about 30 minutes, giving you just enough time to cool off and explore underwater. The reviews note that the seabed is colorful and lively, with fish and seaweed to see beneath the surface.

Next, the boat makes its way to Anthony Quinn Bay, famous for its natural beauty and cinematic history—it’s where The Guns of Navarone was filmed. The 30-minute stop here is ideal for more snorkeling or simply relaxing on the rocks and soaking up the scenery.

Many reviewers, like Mirjam_B, mention that swimming in these spots was “more than expected” and that the crew was very professional. Others, like Pamela_C, pointed out that the snorkeling was brief and mainly for cooling off, rather than extensive underwater exploration. So if snorkeling is your main goal, be aware that the stops are short and more about enjoying the moment than detailed diving.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

The boat departs from Anthony Quinn Bay at around 17:00, returning to Rhodes harbor by 17:30. The coastline views on the way back are often highlighted as a highlight, with many reviewers noting the stunning scenery along Rhodes’ coast.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of about $46.44 per person offers good value, considering the full day of activities. It includes transportation, air conditioning, and two swimming stops, but you’ll need to cover your own expenses for food and drinks. Many travelers like to bring snacks or purchase at Lindos or along the coast.

Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: The tour starts early, so arrive promptly to avoid missing the boat.
• Weather: The experience is weather-dependent. Cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Group size: Up to 245 travelers, so expect some lively company.
• What to bring: Sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towel, and some cash for snacks or souvenirs.
• Suitability: While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the tour suits most travelers comfortable with boat travel and walking around Lindos.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

If you’re after a relaxed, picturesque day with opportunities to explore a charming village and enjoy some snorkeling, this boat tour offers solid value. The views are stunning, and the free time in Lindos is one of its biggest perks. The snorkeling stops seem to satisfy most travelers, even if they’re brief, and the crew’s professionalism receives positive mentions.

On the downside, the snorkeling isn’t the main event—it’s more about cooling off—and the stops might be a bit short if underwater exploration is your focus. The price point is reasonable, especially considering the full day’s activities and scenic cruising.

This tour is best suited for those who want a mix of sightseeing, relaxing on the water, and exploring Lindos at their own pace. If you’re looking for a straightforward, enjoyable day out with great views and some swimming, this could be a perfect fit.

Is there a meal included in the tour? No, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch in Lindos or at the beaches.

How long is the boat ride to Lindos? The boat takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Lindos from Rhodes harbor.

How much free time do I get in Lindos? You’ll have approximately three hours to explore the village, visit the Acropolis, relax on the beach, or grab a bite.

Are the snorkeling stops worth it? They’re more about cooling off in beautiful spots than extensive underwater exploration, but many reviews say the seabed is colorful and lively.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and cash for optional extras or snacks.

Is this a family-friendly tour? While not explicitly marketed as family-oriented, it’s suitable for most travelers who can handle boat travel and some walking.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, the tour can be canceled due to poor weather, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

What’s the price of the tour? Around $46.44 per person, which is good value for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and scenic cruising.

How big are the groups? Up to 245 travelers, so expect a lively boat but enough space for comfort.

If you love the idea of combining scenic boat rides, exploring a beautiful Greek village, and enjoying refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters, this tour offers a really enjoyable way to spend a day in Rhodes. Just keep your expectations realistic about the snorkeling, and you’ll likely have a memorable trip.