Rhodes Exclusive Swim Cruise with Greek Gourmet Buffet & Drinks

If you’re planning a trip to Rhodes and looking for a way to enjoy the island’s beautiful coastlines without the hassle of organizing your own boat trip, this Rhodes Exclusive Swim Cruise might catch your eye. It promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Greek hospitality—all packed into about six hours of sailing along the east coast. From what we’ve seen and heard, it’s a popular choice, boasting stellar reviews and a high recommendation rate.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are two standout features: the small-group, intimate vibe aboard a traditional wooden caique and the gourmet Greek buffet served onboard. These elements really seem to elevate the experience from just another boat ride to a more personalized and indulgent outing. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the trip is quite structured—if you’re craving a more adventurous or free-form day, this might feel a bit confined.

This cruise seems best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized day on the water, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and enjoy good food without the stress of planning every detail. Families, couples, or groups of friends who appreciate comfort and good company will likely find this cruise hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Small-group atmosphere: Limited guests mean more space and a cozy vibe.
• Multiple swim stops: Including Kalithea Springs Bay, Afandou Beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay.
• Gourmet Greek buffet: Freshly prepared, with vegan and gluten-free options.
• All drinks included: Wines, beer, cocktails, soft drinks, and water.
• Snorkeling and sea gear: Equipment provided, making it easy to explore underwater.
• Beautiful scenic views: From the medieval old town to the ancient port and stunning bays.

What to Expect on This Rhodes Swim Cruise

The Beginning: Setting Sail from Mandraki Harbour

The tour kicks off at the lovely Mandraki Harbour, which has historical significance as an ancient naval port. You’ll start your morning with a gentle cruise past the 7th-century medieval old town of Rhodes—think sea views of ancient city walls and UNESCO World Heritage sites. This initial stretch is perfect for snapping photos and getting into the vacation spirit.

As the boat departs, you’ll pass the spot where the legendary Colossus of Rhodes once stood—though no physical remains are visible, it’s a fun historical tidbit that adds a touch of myth to your journey.

First Stop: Kallithea Springs

The first major stop is at Kallithea Springs, famous for its natural mineral springs dating back thousands of years. Here, you get about an hour to take a swim in the clear, reddish waters that have been known for their healing properties since ancient times.

You’ll love the way the Italian architects seamlessly integrated the buildings into the natural environment, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Guests consistently mention that this stop offers a perfect blend of scenery and comfort—”the water was so inviting and beautiful,” as one reviewer noted.

This stop is a highlight because it combines history, nature, and the chance to unwind in a setting that feels both luxurious and authentic.

Midday: Scenic Return and Coastal Views

On your way back, the cruise passes by Faliraki Beach, showcasing Rhodes’ lively seaside town with its stunning beaches and buzzing nightlife. It’s a quick glimpse, but if you’re into vibrant coastal spots, it adds a fun perspective of what the island offers beyond the bays.

Second Stop: Afandou Beach

The next destination is Afandou Beach, famed for its expansive 6 km stretch of pebble shoreline with crystal-clear waters. This is a great spot to relax, take a swim, or even explore the surrounding monuments and ancient foundations.

Guests often appreciate the size of the beach, noting that the pebbles have even been used in Rhodes’ old town sidewalks. It’s a scenic and less crowded alternative to busy beaches, which makes it ideal for a laid-back swim and some downtime.

Some reviews highlight the rich history of the area, mentioning it was attacked multiple times in history, which adds a layer of intrigue when exploring the surroundings.

Unique Spot: Ladikos Bay

Ladikos Bay is a fascinating stop behind Anthony Quinn Bay, named after the famous actor who was captivated by this site. Historically, it was a commercial point for olive oil loading and unloading, which adds a hint of maritime commerce history. Today, it’s a lively underwater playground, with underwater activities and shipwreck clay containers hinting at its past.

Travelers who enjoy snorkeling will love this area, especially since equipment is provided. The bay’s caves and proximity to Anthony Quinn Bay’s scenic cliffs make it a photographer’s favorite.

Final Stop: Anthony Quinn Bay

Arguably the most iconic stop is Anthony Quinn Bay, famous not only for its beauty but also for its deep, clear waters and high surrounding rocks. It’s a natural amphitheater filled with thousands of small fish, which makes for great snorkeling. You’ll be handed complimentary gear, and many guests find snorkeling here to be a memorable highlight.

The bay’s name is linked to the actor’s visit during filming of “The Guns of Navarone,” and it remains a favorite for visitors looking for a picture-perfect swim spot. Guests often mention that the water is clean, the scenery captivating, and the fish plentiful—”no bites, just lots of beautiful fish swimming around.”

The End: Returning to Mandraki Harbour

After a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and delicious food, the cruise wraps up back at Mandraki Harbour. The journey is smooth, and many guests remark on the comfort of the boat’s seating and the friendly crew that made everyone feel welcomed and well taken care of.

The Food & Drinks: A Greek Feast

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the gourmet Greek buffet. It’s more than just a quick lunch—guests rave about the freshness and quality of the food. The buffet includes vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy local flavors, fresh salads, and hearty mains.

Alongside the meal, drinks are unlimited—think wines, beers, signature cocktails, sodas, and water. Reviewers often mention the drinks flow freely, which makes the entire experience more relaxed and fun. The crew also keeps snacks and aperitifs coming, enhancing the social atmosphere onboard.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers appreciate the high-quality food freshly prepared by the chef, calling it “probably the best meal we had in Rhodes.” The friendly and attentive crew, like Dimitris and George, also get high praise for their service.

Guests consistently mention that the food, drinks, and music create a lively yet laid-back vibe—”the music was great, and the drinks kept coming.”

Pricing & Overall Value

At around $114.70 per person, the trip offers a lot of value for a full day of cruising, swimming, and dining. The reviews support that it’s a reasonable price for such a well-rounded experience. All the main attractions—scenic stops, snorkeling gear, buffet, drinks—are included, which simplifies planning and budgeting.

Some reviews noted that the experience exceeds expectations for the price, especially considering the personalized service and high-quality food. It’s worth noting that hotel transfers are optional and come at an extra cost, so if you prefer door-to-door service, you might want to factor that in.

Group Size & Comfort

The maximum group size is around 40 guests, but many trips seem to have fewer, which keeps the atmosphere intimate and cozy. Several reviews mention that guests loved having their own space and even private areas, especially for bigger groups or special celebrations.

The boat itself is a traditional wooden caique, adding charm and a classic feel, with comfortable seating on bean bags and sun benches.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This swim cruise is suited for travelers who want a relaxing, well-organized day on the water with plenty of swimming, good food, and scenic views. It’s ideal if you enjoy socializing over food and drinks, snorkeling, and exploring without the hassle of planning multiple stops yourself.

While it’s family-friendly in the sense that all ages can participate, it’s more geared toward those who appreciate comfort, good company, and a leisurely pace. It’s not the best choice if you’re after high-energy adventure or want to explore more hidden corners of Rhodes on your own.

FAQs

Is hotel transportation included?
No, hotel transfers are optional and cost extra. You’ll meet at Mandraki Harbour, which is accessible by public transport or taxi.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. Snorkeling gear and flotation devices are provided, but you might want to bring your own if you prefer.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to Mandraki Harbour the same day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but keep in mind the stops involve swimming and snorkeling, so children should be comfortable in the water.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, visits to three scenic bays, all drinks (wines, beers, cocktails, soft drinks, water), a Greek gourmet buffet, snorkeling equipment, and seating on bean bags and sun benches.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes swim cruise offers a relaxed, enjoyable way to see some of the island’s most beautiful spots without the stress of organizing your own boat trip. The combination of scenic stops, snorkeling, delicious food, and friendly service makes it a very appealing choice for those who want a quality day at sea.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort and social atmosphere, and who are happy to spend a few hours exploring the coastline, swimming in crystal waters, and indulging in a tasty Greek meal. If you’re after an easy, memorable experience that blends sightseeing, relaxation, and good food, this cruise is definitely worth considering.