East Coast Bay to Bay Full-Day Boat Trip with Transfers

If you’re planning a day out on the water around Rhodes, the East Coast Bay to Bay Full-Day Boat Trip with Transfers offers an inviting way to enjoy the island’s beauty without the hassle. We’ve looked into what this tour delivers, and from what travelers seem to think, it’s a well-organized day packed with scenic stops, swimming, and good food—all for a reasonable price.

We really appreciate the convenience of hotel transfers and the variety of swimming spots that make this tour stand out. The inclusion of a Greek buffet lunch on board keeps you fueled without extra fuss, and the calm and picturesque bays are perfect for relaxing, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun.

However, a couple of things are worth keeping in mind. The boat can get quite busy, especially during peak season, which might affect your comfort and the quietness of the experience. Plus, the commentary on board is mostly in Greek, which might make understanding the details of each stop tricky if you don’t speak the language.

All in all, this trip is likely best suited for travelers who want a leisurely day on the water with plenty of swimming opportunities and don’t mind a lively atmosphere. It’s especially good for those who value good organization and don’t need in-depth historical narration.

Key Points

• Easy logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off from select Rhodes locations.
• Multiple swimming spots including Anthony Quinn Bay and Traganou Caves.
• A well-rounded experience with a buffet Greek lunch included.
• Captivating scenery from a comfortable boat with options for sunbathing and snorkeling.
• Crowded but efficient, typical for peak season, so be prepared for a lively environment.
• Limited English commentary on board, so some details might be lost if you don’t understand Greek.

What the Trip Looks Like in Detail

Starting Your Day and Getting on Board

The tour kicks off early at 7:30 am, with pickup from your hotel if you’re staying in Ialyssos, Ixia, Rhodes Town, or Kallithea. The convenience of this pickup is a real plus—no need to wrestle with taxis or public transport. The meeting point is at Ekklisia Evaggelismos, a spot familiar enough for most travelers.

Once on the boat, you’ll notice it’s large enough to comfortably hold around 20 to 280 travelers, depending on the day and season. The reviews widely mention friendly staff and good organization, so you’ll feel well looked after from the start. As the boat leaves the harbor, you might enjoy the peaceful sailing experience, especially if the wind allows for under-sail movement, which some reviews describe as “so peaceful.”

Anthony Quinn Bay – A Serene Start

Your first stop, Anthony Quinn Bay, is a highlight for many visitors. Known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning colors, it’s perfect for a quick swim or just floating around taking photos. The bay earned the local nickname after the film “Guns of Navarone” was shot there, which adds a fun trivia tidbit. Expect about an hour here, enough time to dip in the water, snap some pictures, or just relax on the rocks.

One traveler noted, “The water in the bay is crystal clear with fascinating colors,” highlighting how photogenic this spot is. It’s a calm, gentle start to the day, ideal for those who want to ease into their island adventure.

Tsambika Beach – Lush Sands and a Lavish Lunch

Next, the boat navigates to Tsambika Beach, famous for its 800 meters of fine golden sand. Here, you’ll moor for about two hours. This gives plenty of room to swim, sunbathe, or explore the surrounding area. The crew prepares a buffet lunch on board, featuring Greek staples like moussaka, salads, meatballs, and pasta.

The reviews praise the quality of the food, with many noting it’s “delicious” and a good value considering it’s all included. You’re encouraged to relax, dry off in the shade, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. The long sandy stretch is perfect for stretching your legs or taking a walk along the shore.

Traganou Bay and Caves – An Adventurous Swim

After working up an appetite, you’ll sail to Traganou Bay near Afandou, where dramatic rocky scenery and caves beckon. This stop is a favorite for those who love a bit of adventure—swimming to the caves, jumping off rocks, or snorkeling among the rocks and crystal waters.

A review describes it as “exciting,” with some daring swimmers even jumping from the rocks into the sea. The scenic backdrop makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. The stay here, about 30 minutes, is enough to take in the view and get some good photos.

Kallithea Springs – The Final Dip

To round out the day, the boat heads to Kallithea Springs, a sheltered bay with calm waters and a relaxed vibe. It’s a good chance for a final swim or simply to soak up the sea breeze before heading back to port. The short 20-minute stop has been appreciated by travelers for its peacefulness, with some saying it’s a nice wind-down after a busy day.

Returning to Rhodes

The return trip is usually quick, and the boat arrives back at the meeting point in the late afternoon. Many reviews mention the efficient organization and the overall smooth flow of the day, which can make or break a boat trip of this length.

Is It Worth It?

When considering value, this tour offers a lot for the price of around $75. The full day of swimming and sightseeing, plus a buffet lunch, makes it a relatively affordable way to see multiple beautiful spots around Rhodes without worrying about transport or planning logistics.

A few reviews, like one from Gordon, highlight how peaceful the sailing can be when the wind is right, and the scenery is truly stunning. Others appreciate the friendly staff and well-managed stops, making the day enjoyable rather than exhausting.

However, it’s worth noting that the boat can get crowded, especially during high season. If you’re someone who prefers quiet, intimate experiences, this might not be your ideal choice. Also, the commentary is mostly in Greek, which means non-Greek speakers could miss out on some of the local stories and details. If you’re a curious traveler who relies on guides to deepen your understanding, this could be a minor drawback.

Final Thoughts: Who Would Love This Tour?

This boat trip is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to swim and soak up the sun. It’s ideal if you appreciate organized experiences that include food and transport, without the hassle of figuring out multiple logistics yourself.

Those who enjoy a lively atmosphere and don’t mind some crowds will find this a fun, social experience. If you’re traveling as a group or family, it’s a great way to share the day without having to plan each detail. However, if you’re seeking a quiet, reflective boat ride or detailed historical narration, you might find this trip a bit too busy or superficial.

Overall, it’s a good balance of comfort, scenery, and value, especially for those wanting to tick off several beautiful beaches and see Rhodes from the water.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available from select Rhodes hotels, including Ialyssos, Ixia, Rhodes Town, and Kallithea, making logistics easier.

What is the duration of the trip?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning in the late afternoon.

What stops are included?
You’ll visit Anthony Quinn Bay, Tsambika Beach, Traganou Bay with caves, and Kallithea Springs—each offering unique scenery and swimming opportunities.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch featuring Greek dishes like moussaka, salads, meatballs, and pasta is included. Many reviews mention it’s tasty and satisfying.

Are there options for non-swimmers?
While swimming is a main activity, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views if you prefer not to swim. The crew provides shaded areas for resting.

How crowded does the boat get?
During peak season, the boat can get quite full, which might affect comfort. The reviews note that it can feel crowded but still well-organized.

Is there commentary during the trip?
Most commentary is in Greek, so non-Greek speakers may miss some of the details about each stop.

Can I cancel the trip?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

What should I bring?
Towels, sun protection, and possibly snacks or water (though water can be purchased on board) are good ideas. Check if your hotel provides towels, as they’re not included in the tour.

This Rhodes boat trip offers a lively, scenic way to spend a day by the sea, especially if you’re after beaches, snorkeling, and Greek food in a friendly environment. Just keep in mind the crowds and language limitations, and you’re set for a memorable adventure.