Rhodes Town: Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views

Thinking about adding a unique water-based experience to your Rhodes trip? The Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views offers an intriguing way to see the city and its marine life, without needing to get wet. This tour from Poseidon Submarine promises a quick but memorable 45-minute journey beneath the waves, giving you a different perspective on Rhodes’ harbor and old town.

What we genuinely like about this experience is its affordability — at just around $17 per person, it’s accessible for most budgets, and it’s a comfortable way to see underwater life from the safety and comfort of an air-conditioned cabin. Plus, with the option to step out onto the deck, you get a blend of underwater marvels and fresh sea breezes.

That said, a possible downside is the short duration — 45 minutes isn’t long, and if you’re hoping for a deep dive into marine exploration, this might feel brief. Also, the visibility can sometimes be affected by water conditions, which reviewers note can turn the fish-watching a bit cloudy at times. Still, if you’re after a light, family-friendly outing or a quick scenic escape, it’s a solid choice.

This tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective, family-friendly activity that combines sightseeing and a touch of marine fun without demanding much time or effort. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something relaxed, with good views, and a bit of underwater magic in Rhodes’ harbor.

Key Points

• Affordable adventure at around $17 per person, great for budget-conscious travelers.
• Short and sweet — 45 minutes makes it easy to fit into a busy day.
• Underwater views are complemented by a diver feeding the fish, which is a highlight.
• Comfortable experience with an air-conditioned cabin and deck options.
• Good for all ages, especially families or anyone wanting a relaxed water activity.
• Limited diving or snorkeling — this is mostly a sightseeing cruise from a submerged vessel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Rhodes Submarine Experience

If you’re curious about experiencing Rhodes from a different angle, this submarine trip offers just that. Departing from Mandraki Harbor, the journey begins in the heart of this historic port, giving you immediate access to some notable sights. The vessel is designed to keep you above sea level at all times, with its hull submerged about 2.5 meters below the surface, allowing for unobstructed panoramic underwater windows.

What’s Included and How It Works

For a reasonable price, you get access to a submarine cruise with an onboard audio guide available in English and German, which adds context and enhances the experience. There’s also a bar onboard, so you can grab a drink during your trip — a small but nice touch. The cruise is fully guided, and the crew is noted for their professionalism and friendliness, making it a smooth ride for everyone.

The itinerary takes you from Pl. Eleftherias to several notable points: the mandraki port, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the Old Town walls. The boat then heads toward the water, where the real magic happens. The highlight? Watching a diver feed the fish right outside your window, with many reviewers mentioning how colorful and abundant the fish are — a real crowd-pleaser.

What You Can Expect During the Trip

The actual cruise is designed to give you a panoramic view of Rhodes’ coastlines and marine life, with approximately 20 minutes dedicated to viewing the underwater scene. This is where the diver feeds the fish, and you’ll want your camera ready. Many reviews mention how the diver added that extra touch, with some even capturing underwater videos or photos, which they appreciated.

While some mention that water clarity can vary, many still found the experience worth it. One reviewer pointed out that the fish feeding was a real highlight, with “loads of fish to see,” and others appreciated the spectacular views of the Old Town from the water.

The experience is well-paced, with positive comments about the “nice short trip” that doesn’t drag or feel rushed. It’s a relaxing activity suited for a quick break in your day or as a fun introduction to Rhodes’ harbor.

The Experience on the Boat

The vessel is described as friendly and clean, with a small onboard bar for drinks, which adds to the casual vibe. Some reviews note that the views can be a bit cloudy when water conditions aren’t perfect, but overall, the windows are well-maintained for viewing.

The boat’s size and layout mean a cozy atmosphere, which some found to be “a bit cramped” but generally manageable given the short duration. Kids, couples, and solo travelers all seem to enjoy the experience, especially those interested in marine life or seeking an inexpensive activity.

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Practical Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, but the process is straightforward, and they offer free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• The start times vary, so check availability for the 45-minute slots, especially if you want to align with other plans.
• The cruise does not include a diving show at the 18:30 slot, so if that’s on your list, plan accordingly.
• Wheelchair accessibility is available, making this a good option for guests with mobility needs.
• For those wanting a more immersive experience, consider booking an activity that includes scuba diving or longer marine encounters.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at Pl. Eleftherias, the tour’s first part is a quick 10-minute cruise to Mandraki Harbor, setting the scene and giving you a first taste of the water. From there, the boat moves along the coast, passing the Palace of the Grand Master and the Old Town walls, offering scenic views that you can enjoy from the water.

The main event occurs once the vessel reaches the underwater observation point, where the diver feeds fish in front of the large windows. This segment lasts about 20 minutes, giving you ample time to snap photos or simply take in the colorful marine life.

The cruise then heads back to the starting point, completing a compact but visually rewarding trip. Thanks to the short itinerary, you won’t feel overwhelmed, and it leaves room for other activities in Rhodes.

The Value for Money

When considering the cost of around $17, most reviews agree that this activity offers excellent value. You get a genuine chance to see the underwater environment without the need for diving experience or additional gear. The professional crew, onboard commentary, and the fish feeding show make every penny worth it.

While it’s a short trip, many people feel it’s a fun and worthwhile addition to their day, especially given how affordable it is. The positive reviews highlight how the experience exceeded expectations, with many saying it’s “well worth the money” for what you get.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for families, couples looking for a light adventure, and solo travelers wanting a quick, inexpensive activity. If you’re interested in marine life, harbor views, or just a different perspective on Rhodes, this cruise fits the bill. It’s also good if you’re after a relaxing, casual outing that provides good photo opportunities and some fun underwater moments.

It’s not ideal for those seeking a longer or more immersive marine exploration, or for travelers looking for snorkeling or diving. Still, if you want a memorable, budget-friendly experience that combines scenic views with underwater sights, this is a solid pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts about 45 minutes, which makes it a perfect short activity to include in a busy day.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the submarine cruise, an English and German audio guide, and access to a bar onboard for drinks.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for all ages, especially since it’s primarily a sightseeing experience in a comfortable environment.

Is the underwater visibility good?
Generally, yes — but some reviews mention water clarity can vary, which might affect fish visibility. However, most still enjoyed the feeding show and the views.

Can I walk on the deck during the cruise?
Yes, you can leave the cabin and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze on the deck for part of the trip.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it convenient for guests with mobility concerns.

What sights will I see during the cruise?
From the water, you’ll see the mandraki port, Old Town walls, Elli beach, and the Palace of the Grand Master, among others.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Does it include any diving or snorkeling?
No, this is mainly a viewing cruise—no snorkeling or diving are included, though you can see the feeding fish outside the window.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a cost-effective, family-friendly activity that lets you see Rhodes from the water without much fuss, this submarine cruise ticks many boxes. The underwater views, friendly crew, and scenic harbor sights provide a relaxed but engaging experience. While the trip is on the shorter side and water clarity can sometimes vary, most travelers find it fun, informative, and a good value.

It’s especially suited for those who want to introduce kids to marine life or simply enjoy a peaceful boat ride with a bit of underwater magic. The ability to walk outside and enjoy the sea breeze adds a nice touch for those who prefer a mix of enclosed comfort and open air.

For the price and duration, this tour offers a light, enjoyable glimpse into Rhodes’ waterscapes, making it a worthwhile addition to your island adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: