Rhodes: Gulet Trip with Food, Drinks, SUP, Kayak & Swimming

Planning a day out on the water in Rhodes? This 6-hour gulet cruise offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s picturesque eastern coastline, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, water sports, and delicious food. Whether you’re a family seeking fun activities or a couple wanting to relax with stunning vistas, this trip has a lot to offer.

One of the standout features is the range of activities included, like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling—free for guests. Plus, the Greek lunch and unlimited drinks ensure your day is both tasty and well-hydrated. That said, it’s not all perfect; some reviews mention crowded spots and the need to arrive early for the best sunbeds. Still, the overall vibe is friendly, relaxed, and packed with value.

If you love being on the water and enjoy a mix of adventure and chill-out moments, this trip is a great fit. It’s especially ideal for those looking for an affordable yet complete day at sea with plenty of photo opportunities and water fun.

Key Points

• Inclusive water activities like SUP, kayaking, and snorkeling are a highlight, perfect for all skill levels.
• Delicious Greek lunch paired with unlimited soft drinks and wine adds a culinary touch to your day.
• The stops at Anthony Quinn Bay, Fun Island-Ladiko, and Kallithea Springs showcase some of Rhodes’ most scenic spots.
• The boat’s friendly crew and organized itinerary make for a smooth experience, with plenty of opportunities to relax or be active.
• Arrive early if you want the best sunbed spots; crowds can fill up quickly.
• The tour’s balance of sightseeing, swimming, and leisure offers good value, though alcohol options are limited to wine and soft drinks.

An Honest Look at the Rhodes Gulet Experience

This cruise is designed to showcase Rhodes’ best coastline in one smooth, 6-hour journey. From the moment you step aboard the traditional wooden gulet, you’re greeted with a friendly atmosphere and the promise of a day filled with water-based fun, scenic views, and tasty food.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The adventure kicks off at El Greco Cruises’ base, right opposite Eleftherias Square in Mandraki Harbour. The boat itself is a classic Greek-style vessel, with plenty of sunbeds and shaded areas to lounge on. Reviewers consistently mention the helpful crew and the comfortable boat, which sets the tone for a relaxing day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour is carefully structured to maximize your enjoyment without rushing. It starts with a 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise, giving you a chance to soak in the views and get comfortable on deck. Early on, you’ll head toward Anthony Quinn Bay, a highlight for many. Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the pebbly beach. Reviewers love this stop for its crystal green waters and lush surroundings, which seem to make every photo pop.

Next, the boat cruises for about 10 minutes before arriving at Ladiko Bay (Fun Island). This is where the water activities really take off. Guests praise the kayaking, SUP, and snorkeling gear, with some mentioning that the staff, like Nikos and Stephanos, are especially attentive and helpful. One reviewer noted, “The SUP moment was the best for me, but you need to ask for the fin because they don’t always use them,” highlighting the importance of speaking up for a better experience.

At Fun Island, the two-hour stop feels like the heart of the day, offering ample time for water sports and relaxing on floating sofas. Many mention that having the space to do activities like kayaking or simply sunbathing makes this a standout part of the trip. “The staff were all great and very helpful,” said one reviewer, emphasizing how much the crew enhances the experience.

Scenic and Cultural Stops

After Fun Island, the cruise continues to Kallithea Springs, a spot loved for its architecture and thermal waters. Here, you’ll get around 30 minutes for swimming, sightseeing, and tasting some local snacks. Reviewers often remark on the stunning scenery and the opportunity to take memorable photos of the famous springs.

The final significant stop is a 45-minute cruise that concludes back at the marina. The entire route offers a nice balance of cruising, swimming, and sightseeing, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Anthony Quinn Bay: Expect emerald waters and a peaceful vibe. It’s perfect for a quick dip or snorkeling to see underwater life. Be prepared for pebbles underfoot—bring suitable footwear if you want to walk around.

Ladiko Bay / Fun Island: A private floating island, accessible only by the gulet, with a lively water sports setup. Kayaking, SUP, snorkeling, and floating sofas make this an active highlight. The two-hour window is enough to try everything or just relax.

Kallithea Springs: Known for its architecture and thermal waters, this stop offers a scenic swimming and photo opportunity. Expect a mix of relaxing in the waters and capturing some stunning pictures of the historic buildings.

The Food and Drinks

The Greek lunch is a standout feature of this trip. Guests rave about the generous portions, with options that cater to vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. A typical meal includes Greek salad, seasonal fruits, and a variety of homemade dishes. Reviewers consistently mention the local wine and unlimited soft drinks, which help keep everyone refreshed for the water activities.

One tip from reviews: Bring some extra snacks if you’re a particularly hungry eater or want to avoid the meal choices, as some found the options simple, but still satisfying. Note that beers, slushies, and cocktails are not included, so plan accordingly if you want a wider drink selection.

Authenticity and Value

The quality of the included food and drinks is well-rated, especially considering the overall cost. Many reviewers say they felt this trip offered excellent value for money, with multiple swimming stops, water sports, and a delicious meal all included.

Practical Details and Tips

Timing: The tour lasts around 6 hours, with starting times varying—so check availability before booking. Arrive early, especially if you want the best sunbeds, as reviews mention that spots fill up quickly.

What to Bring: Pack your sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. The boat doesn’t allow outside food or drinks, so enjoy the unlimited soft drinks and wine provided.

Group Size: While not explicitly mentioned, the reviews suggest a friendly, social atmosphere without feeling overcrowded. The crew, including guides like Nikos and Stephanos, are praised for their attentiveness.

Accessibility: The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this if mobility is an issue.

Cancellation & Payment: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, making the trip both enjoyable and informative. Many describe the water stops and activities as the best part—snorkeling, kayaking, and SUP being frequent favorites. A recurring theme is the great value for money, with multiple saying they’d do it again.

Some note that arriving early improves your chances of securing a coveted sunbed spot. The food gets mixed reviews—most praise the generous portions and tasty local dishes but recommend bringing extra snacks if you’re particularly hungry.

The Sum Up

This Rhodes gulet trip offers a well-rounded day of relaxation, adventure, and delicious food. With included activities like SUP, kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming in some of the island’s most beautiful spots, it provides excellent value—especially when paired with the tasty Greek lunch and unlimited drinks. The friendly crew and organized itinerary make it suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting to enjoy Rhodes from the water.

If you’re after a fun, active day with spectacular scenery and a touch of local cuisine, this tour hits the mark. Keep in mind that arriving early will help secure the best seats and sunbeds, and be ready for some lively water fun.

Overall, it’s a great choice for those wanting a hassle-free, memorable day out on the Aegean Sea that balances sightseeing, water sports, and tasty bites. Perfect for travelers who love a blend of relaxation and activity in beautiful surroundings.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for families with children?
Yes, many reviews mention that the trip is very family-friendly, with activities like swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking suitable for kids, as long as they are comfortable in water.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. The boat doesn’t allow outside food or drinks, but you’ll have unlimited soft drinks and wine included.

Can I participate in all water activities?
Yes, SUP paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling gear are provided for free. Staff are helpful, but it’s recommended to ask for fins at the SUP station for better stability.

What is the lunch like?
The lunch is traditional Greek, with options that suit vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike—think Greek salad, seasonal fruits, and homemade dishes. Reviewers generally find it satisfying and plentiful.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Yes, stops range from 30 minutes at Kallithea Springs to 2 hours at Fun Island, which gives enough time to swim, relax, or try water sports without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited soft drinks and wine are included. Beers, cocktails, and slushies are available for purchase at reasonable prices.

How early should I arrive?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 35-45 minutes early to secure a good sunbed spot, as spots fill up quickly.

Is the tour accessible for disabled travelers?
No, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users due to boat and stop limitations.

What language is spoken on the tour?
Guides speak English and Greek, so communication should be straightforward for most travelers.

This comprehensive review hopes to give you a clear picture of what to expect from Rhodes’ Gulet Trip with Food, Drinks, SUP, Kayak & Swimming. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this cruise promises a memorable day on Greece’s beautiful coast.