Private cruise to Chalki and Alimia island

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed day on the water, exploring some of Greece’s less trodden islands, a private cruise to Chalki and Alimia might just fit the bill. While we haven’t taken this cruise ourselves, the details shared by travelers and the tour provider paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s a flexible, intimate way to experience the scenic beauty of the South Aegean, especially if you’re someone who loves the idea of customizing your day rather than sticking to a set group tour.

What caught our eye? First, the chance to decide your own itinerary—whether you want to spend more time relaxing at quiet bays or exploring the islands’ landmarks. And second, the inclusive nature of the experience—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the comfort of a well-equipped boat. That said, it’s not all smooth sailing; fuel costs aren’t included, and if you want a skipper, that’s an additional hourly fee. Still, for couples, friends, or small groups craving a personalized island-hopping day, this cruise looks promising.

However, if you’re expecting a full-on luxury experience with all amenities included, keep in mind the price doesn’t cover fuel or optional lunch. It’s more of a laid-back day with lots of options—perfect if you’re happy to take the reins yourself and enjoy the Aegean at your own pace.

This experience suits travelers looking for a flexible, intimate escape with a good balance of comfort and adventure. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with a small group and enjoy crafting your own day rather than following a set itinerary. Anyone who appreciates scenic bays, snorkeling, and island charm will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Flexibility in Itinerary: You choose which islands and landmarks to visit, making each trip unique.
• All-Inclusive Comforts: Snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, a sun tent, and a boat with amenities like a shower and toilet.
• Beautiful Island Highlights: Chalki’s colorful harbor, medieval castle, and scenic bays; Alimia’s tranquil bay.
• Price Consideration: $565 covers the boat and essentials but excludes fuel and optional lunch.
• Duration: 8 hours, with starting times that you can check for availability.
• Additional Services: Optional skipper at $12.50/hour for those who prefer a guided experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail: What You Can Expect on This Cruise

When you arrive at the New Marina Rhodes, the adventure begins with a fully equipped boat waiting to whisk you away for the day. The boat’s shaded sun tent is a real plus—perfect for escaping the sun during the hottest parts of the day. We loved the mention of a shower and toilet onboard—trust me, after a few swims and sunbaths, those amenities become quite appreciated. Plus, the snorkeling gear is provided, so you can explore beneath the surface in the crystal-clear waters of the bays.

The itinerary is flexible—this isn’t a cookie-cutter tour. You can opt to visit the famous sites like the Church of Agios Nikolaos or the Medieval Castle in Chalki, or choose to linger in quieter spots like Ftenagia Beach or Pondamos Beach. The tour mentions several landmarks and beaches, letting you tailor your day based on your interests and energy levels.

The real charm here is that you’re not locked into a rigid schedule. If you want to spend more time at Cania Beach or snorkel longer at Alimia Bay, you can. The boat’s music system adds a fun vibe—whether you prefer relaxing tunes or lively beats, it’s your call.

The Highlights of Chalki and Alimia

Chalki itself is a highlight, with its picture-perfect harbor lined with colorful houses. It’s exactly the kind of place you imagine when thinking of Greek island serenity—quaint, quiet, with a slow pace. Walking through the streets, you’ll feel the history and charm, especially if you visit landmarks like the Church of Agios Minas or the Medieval Castle. But what really makes Chalki special is the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to explore at your own pace.

Alimia, on the other hand, offers a more tranquil experience. Its bay is a favorite for swimming and snorkeling, thanks to the clear waters and relatively untouched surroundings. It’s a great spot to kick back, soak up the sun, and enjoy some peaceful shoreline time. The Alimia Bay is described as a serene retreat, perfect for those who want a quiet escape.

The stops at various beaches and bays are a hit among travelers. Ftenagia Beach and Pondamos Beach are mentioned as idyllic, with turquoise waters inviting you for a swim or a snorkel. The options are plentiful, so you can customize based on your mood—whether that’s lounging, exploring, or swimming.

The Practical Aspects and Price-Value Balance

The tour costs $565 for up to 7 people, which makes it quite reasonable, especially considering it’s a private experience. Compared to larger group tours, you get the added benefit of privacy and flexibility. When you consider that the boat comes with snacks, soft drinks, beer, snorkel gear, and amenities, it’s a solid deal for a day on the water.

However, keep in mind the fuel cost is not included—so if your group spends a lot of time cruising or visiting distant spots, that could add up. If you prefer a guided experience, a skipper is available at an hourly rate of $12.50, which might be worth considering if you’re unfamiliar with the area or just want to relax and leave navigation to someone else.

You can also order lunch for $10 per person—a nice option if you want a proper meal without leaving the boat. The flexibility to bring your own food and drinks, or have it arranged, is a plus.

The Experience from Reviews and Feedback

While direct reviews are limited, the feedback about similar private boat experiences in Rhodes suggests a generally positive vibe. Travelers appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to avoid crowded tourist spots. The boat’s shower and toilet are often cited as useful amenities, especially after swims.

Some mention that the skipper can be optional—which means you can choose to go fully self-managed or have someone help navigate and guide you. The 8-hour duration provides a good amount of time to explore without feeling rushed, and the starting times are flexible depending on availability.

The tour seems well-suited for those who want a comfortable, customizable day out on the water, with the freedom to design their itinerary and enjoy the natural beauty of the Dodecanese islands.

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Who Is This Experience Best For?

This private cruise is ideal for small groups or couples looking for a personalized island escape. It’s perfect if you value flexibility, want to avoid large crowds, and enjoy the idea of crafting your own day. If you’re traveling with friends or family and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views, you’ll find this experience quite rewarding.

It might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a fully guided, all-inclusive luxury boat trip—since some costs like fuel and lunch are extra. But if you’re comfortable managing a bit of planning and want a tailored adventure, this cruise offers a relaxed, intimate way to see some of the most picturesque spots in the South Aegean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cruise suitable for families or children?
While the tour doesn’t specifically mention families with children, the amenities like snorkeling gear and swimming stops suggest it could be enjoyable for kids who are comfortable in the water. Just keep in mind the boat’s nature and the need for supervision around water.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the private boat, snorkeling equipment, snacks, soft drinks, beer, a sun tent, shower, and toilet facilities onboard.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the base price, but you can order lunch for $10 per person if you wish.

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts approximately 8 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.

Is a skipper included?
A skipper can be hired at an additional cost of $12.50 per hour if you prefer guided navigation.

Do I need to pay for fuel separately?
Yes, fuel costs are not included in the price, so be prepared for that additional expense if your cruise involves more cruising time.

Final Thoughts

A private cruise to Chalki and Alimia offers a relaxed, customizable way to experience some of Greece’s beautiful islands without the crowds or rigid schedules of larger tours. The boat’s amenities, combined with the freedom to choose your stops and activities, make it a practical choice for small groups seeking a personalized day on the water.

If you’re someone who enjoys swimming, scenic views, and the flexibility to dictate your adventure, this trip could be a highlight of your Rhodes trip. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value comfort, privacy, and a leisurely pace—making for a memorable, laid-back day in the South Aegean.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Note: Always check availability and confirm details directly with the provider, especially as starting times and inclusions might vary.