Makarounas Fishing Boat Trip with swimming stop and BBQ on board

Thinking of adding a maritime adventure to your Rhodes trip? This Makarounas Fishing Boat Trip promises a mix of fishing, swimming, exploring caves, and enjoying a freshly grilled meal—all in about five hours. It’s a tour that’s gathered rave reviews for its relaxed vibe, friendly guides, and the chance to get out on the water in a way that feels genuine and enjoyable. Whether you’re into fishing or just looking for a scenic day with some good food and swimming, this one might be worth considering.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it is—beginners are welcome, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. Plus, the on-board BBQ serving freshly caught fish or chicken adds a lovely touch that elevates the trip beyond just sightseeing. That said, a potential drawback is the possibility of not catching many fish, which is common in fishing tours, especially if you’re a beginner. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere with a bit of adventure, especially those who appreciate good company and authentic Greek flavors.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of activities: fishing, swimming, cave exploration, and a tasty BBQ.
• Great for beginners: friendly guides teach the basics and make it accessible.
• Small group size: max 12 travelers for a more personal experience.
• Excellent reviews for food and service: fresh fish, Greek salad, and attentive hosts.
• Flexible cancellation policy: free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for those who value authentic, laid-back experiences on the water.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This Rhodes-based boat trip offers a well-rounded, relaxed day on the water that appeals to a wide range of travelers. It’s priced at around $75.31 per person, which, considering the inclusion of fishing, swimming, caves, and a BBQ, feels like decent value—especially if you’re someone who enjoys trying something a little different from typical island tours.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The Fishing Stop: Rhythms of the Sea and Skill Building

The first part of the journey focuses on recreational fishing in some of the region’s most plentiful waters. What’s nice is that the tour caters to both novices and experienced anglers. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, offering hands-on instruction for beginners—teaching baiting and reeling—so even if you’ve never cast a line before, you’ll get a proper introduction. More seasoned fishermen can jump straight into the action, with the possibility of catching local fish.

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that this part of the experience is the highlight for many. As Darlene from her review states, “The fish and Greek salad was the freshest!!” This suggests that the fishing itself, combined with the on-board meal, makes for a memorable and authentic experience. Even if you don’t reel in a big catch, the guided process and fun atmosphere make it worthwhile.

Exploring Kalithea Caves and Rocky Beaches

Next, you’ll visit the famous Kalithea Caves and rocky beaches. This part is all about scenery and activity—swimming and snorkeling in clear, pristine waters. The caves and the surrounding rocks create a perfect backdrop for some quality relaxing and picture-taking. The reviews point out the swim through caves as a particular highlight, with Tracy A mentioning it made up for not catching fish.

This stop gives you a break from fishing and lets you enjoy Rhodes’ natural beauty firsthand. The caves aren’t just a sightseeing spot; they’re a chance to cool off, explore, and even see some marine life if you’re snorkeling. Keep in mind, this is a more laid-back segment, so if you’re expecting a long, deep dive into underwater exploration, you might find it more of a casual swim.

Food and Drinks: Fresh, Simple, and Satisfying

The on-board BBQ is a standout feature. Many reviews rave about the delicious, freshly cooked fish or chicken, paired with Greek salad and simple, tasty sides. It’s served in a relaxed, friendly setting and is seen as more than just a meal—it’s part of the experience. The fact that the fish is caught during the tour adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers appreciate.

Drinks are available, complementing the meal, and the overall vibe is casual and hospitable. From reviews, guests often mention the “amazing” food and attentive hosts, making the meal feel like a genuine part of the day rather than just a quick snack.

What Travelers Say

The reviews consistently praise the guides and crew. Darlene calls Angelo and the captain “amazing,” highlighting their humor, kindness, and helpful attitude. This personal touch makes a difference, especially on a small group tour where interaction with the crew can really shape your day.

Some guests, like Debbie, mention that the fishing might be more suitable for beginners, with not much caught during their trip. That’s worth noting—if your main goal is to fish for a big catch, this might not be the most fruitful tour. But if you’re happy to try, relax, and enjoy the scenery or a swim, it’s plenty rewarding.

Group Size and Booking

With a cap of 12 travelers, this tour feels intimate, allowing for more personalized attention. Booking around 28 days in advance is typical, indicating it’s popular but not overly crowded. The tour departs from a central meeting point in Rhodes, near public transportation, making it accessible.

Pricing and Value

At just over $75 per person, this experience offers a lot: fishing, sightseeing, swimming, caves, and a hearty meal. The reviews indicate that many find it a good deal—especially given the friendly service and quality food. While not a luxury experience, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a varied, authentic day on the water without breaking the bank.

Considerations

The main thing to keep in mind is that fishing success can vary, especially for beginners. If your primary goal is to catch fish, be prepared for the possibility of not reeling in much. Also, the trip’s relaxed pace means it’s not a high-octane adventure—if you’re after adrenaline or a full-day deep-sea fishing expedition, this isn’t it.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back, genuine experience with good guides, tasty food, and scenic stops. It’s perfect if you enjoy small-group adventures, want to try fishing in a friendly environment, or simply love swimming in beautiful waters. Families with teens or older children might also enjoy it, especially if they’re comfortable with boat trips and swimming.

If your priority is high fishing success or long, intense exploration, you might want to look elsewhere. But for those wanting a relaxing day with a bit of everything—fishing, exploring, eating, and swimming—this tour hits the mark.

FAQ about the Makarounas Fishing Boat Trip

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, balancing fishing, sightseeing, swimming, and eating.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get a guided fishing experience, stops for swimming and caves, and a barbecue lunch with drinks.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides are friendly and teach fishing basics, making it accessible for those new to fishing.

Can I catch fish during the tour?
While many enjoy the fishing, success varies. Some reviews mention not catching much, but the experience is still worth it for the scenery and fun.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. All fishing gear and food are provided on the boat.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat trips and swimming.

What about weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is the group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience.

How do I book?
Booking is straightforward online, and it’s recommended to reserve about a month in advance due to popularity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic day on the water in Rhodes, this fishing trip is a solid pick. It’s less about catching a huge haul and more about enjoying the company, the scenery, and freshly made Greek food. Guides are praised for their warmth and helpfulness, which makes the experience comfortable even for first-timers.

The combination of fishing, swimming, exploring caves, and a good meal makes this a well-rounded, enjoyable outing. It’s especially good for travelers who want to combine adventure with leisure and appreciate a touch of local flavor.

While it may not be perfect if you’re solely focused on fishing success, it’s a trip that leaves most guests with plenty of memorable moments—and great stories to tell later. Perfect for small groups or families looking for a genuine taste of Rhodes’ maritime charm.