Rhodes:1-hour Sightseeing Day Cruise on an 18th-Century Boat

Rhodes: 1-hour Sightseeing Day Cruise on an 18th-Century Boat is a charming way to see the city’s highlights from a different perspective. If you’re visiting Rhodes and looking for a relaxed, visually rewarding experience that doesn’t overcommit your day, this cruise might just fit the bill. It’s a brief yet scenic jaunt around the old and new parts of Rhodes, on a beautifully crafted boat inspired by 18th-century vessels.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines a unique, historic style of sailing ship with the stunning views of Rhodes’ coast. Plus, the fact that the cruise includes soft drinks like Cola, Fanta, or water makes it feel like a well-rounded little outing. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that this isn’t a guided tour — so if you’re hoping for detailed commentary, you might find it a bit light on info. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers who want a peaceful, scenic break from walking or exploring on land. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy the water and want a calm, no-fuss way to admire Rhodes’ architecture and harbor views.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: The cruise lasts just an hour, ideal for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.
• Scenic Perspectives: You’ll get great views of Rhodes’ Old Town, New City, the Ancient Port, and surrounding harbors.
• Historic Charm: The boat, inspired by 18th-century xebecs, adds a nostalgic feel to your ride.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: No guided commentary, just peaceful sailing and beautiful scenery.
• All-in-One: Soft drinks included add a nice touch, perfect for staying refreshed.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility issues or those needing special accommodations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Rhodes from the Water: What to Expect

When you hop on this 1-hour cruise, you’re stepping into a vessel that’s a bit different from your typical tourist boat. Handmade and inspired by 18th-century designs, it offers a glimpse into maritime history while providing a comfortable, stable platform to see Rhodes’ coastline.

The cruise begins near the central bus station at Mandraki harbor, where you’ll find the meeting point near the “Queen Christine Cruises” sign. Once aboard, you’ll set out to explore the island from a vantage point that’s both relaxing and visually rewarding. Don’t expect a guided narration — instead, the focus is on the scenery and the atmosphere. You can lean back, enjoy the breeze, and take in the sights.

The Highlights of the Cruise

Rhodes Old and New City Views
One of the best parts of this trip is how it showcases Rhodes’ dramatic balance of history and modern life. From the sea, you’ll be able to admire the medieval fortifications and the historic Old Town, which looks particularly picturesque against the Mediterranean backdrop. The views include the Old Port, which is filled with sailing boats and historic charm, and the newer parts of the city bustling along the shoreline.

The Ancient Port and the Medieval City
The cruise offers an ideal angle to appreciate the ancient port’s layout and the medieval architecture. Nathan, in his review, mentioned that “the background music made it a very pleasant experience,” which hints at a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for soaking in the scenery.

Mandraki Harbor and Elli Beach
These spots are visible from the deck and are among Rhodes’ most recognizable sights. Elli Beach, with its lively atmosphere, is especially fun to spot from the water, giving you a sense of the beach scene without getting sand in your shoes.

The Atmosphere of the Boat
The boat itself is part of the experience. It’s handmade, inspired by 18th-century xebecs, which gives it a slightly pirate-like, nostalgic charm. From the reviews, it’s clear that the crew makes the ride enjoyable — friendly, experienced, and ensuring everyone stays comfortable.

Value for Money and Practical Aspects

At a price that includes entry, a boat cruise, soft drinks, and an experienced crew, the overall value is quite good. You’re paying mainly for the scenery and the experience of sailing on this beautiful vessel. Since it’s not guided, you might miss out on detailed historical commentary, but you’ll gain a peaceful, scenic perspective that’s perfect for Instagram moments or simple relaxation.

The 1-hour duration keeps it manageable, especially if you’re tight on time or prefer a low-key activity. The included drinks are a nice touch, making the experience feel a bit more special without adding extra costs.

Limitations and Considerations

Since the tour is not guided, you won’t get commentary about the sights. If you’re interested in learning about Rhodes’ history, you might want to pair this with a guided walking tour later. Also, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues. The boat has no air conditioning, so on hot days, it’s best to dress comfortably and bring sun protection.

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The Experience from the Reviews

Multiple reviews highlight how this cruise is an easy, enjoyable way to see Rhodes. Carly described it as a “lovely boat, excellent value, and lovely staff,” emphasizing how it does exactly what it promises: a pleasant hour on the water. Michael summed it up as “a small pirate ship,” calling it an “excellent quick spin,” which captures the informal, fun vibe.

Nathan appreciated the affordability and the views, noting that it was a good way to see the city and get a sense of what longer trips might offer. Though he mentioned that some commentary would be nice, the overall consensus is that this cruise delivers a peaceful, scenic experience without any frills.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect if you’re seeking a short, relaxed experience that offers beautiful views and a touch of maritime charm. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see Rhodes from the water without committing to a longer or more expensive tour. It’s also great for those who appreciate historic-style boats and want to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere in a laid-back setting.

Because it doesn’t include guided commentary or food, it’s less ideal if you’re after detailed history or a meal onboard. It’s a simple, enjoyable outing that complements a broader exploration of Rhodes’ rich sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
It lasts about 1 hour, making it a quick but scenic highlight of your day.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It starts near the central bus station at Mandraki harbor, at a meeting point near “Queen Christine Cruises.”

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided cruise focused on sightseeing and relaxing. There’s no commentary included.

Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks like Cola, Fanta, or water are included in the price.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the cruise is a short, gentle voyage. However, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or very young children who might not enjoy the motion or lack of guidance.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before with a full refund.

Is the boat air-conditioned?
No, there’s no air conditioning on board, so dress comfortably for the weather.

To sum it up, this Rhodes sightseeing cruise offers a relaxed, scenic way to get a fresh perspective on the city’s iconic sights. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate maritime charm, stunning coastal views, and a peaceful atmosphere. While it lacks guided commentary and isn’t accessible for everyone, its affordability and unique vessel make it a charming addition to any Rhodes itinerary. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who just wants a different outlook on the city, this hour-long sail can be a memorable, visually pleasing experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: