Rhodes Town: Scenic Cruise to Lindos with Swim Stops

Thinking about a day soaking up sun, sea, and charming Greek villages? This full-day cruise from Rhodes Town to Lindos offers just that—plus refreshing swim stops, scenic views, and a taste of local life. With around three hours of free time in Lindos and two inviting swim stops, it’s an adventure that balances relaxation with exploration.

What really makes this experience shine is the organized pickup and drop-off service, ensuring hassle-free logistics. The boat itself, accommodating up to 280 passengers across three decks, promises plenty of space to relax, socialize, and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. And at a price of around $50.82 per person, it’s packed with value—especially when you factor in the included transportation, swim stops, and free time.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary can vary slightly depending on weather conditions, which might affect timing or the experience at Lindos. Also, the tour isn’t suited for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone with heart problems, since it involves boat travel and some walking around. But if you’re looking to combine scenic cruising with a taste of authentic Lindos village life, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make it easy to start your day relaxed.
• Three Hours in Lindos: Plenty of time to explore the village, relax on beaches, or visit the Acropolis.
• Swim Stops: Two refreshing opportunities to cool off and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
• Scenic Journey: Views of Rhodes’ iconic landmarks like the St. Nicholas Lighthouse and Anthony Quinn Bay.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, boat ride, swim stops, and a detailed Lindos map.
• Limited Guide Interaction: No official guide on board, but crew are friendly and helpful.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

The adventure kicks off early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel or a convenient nearby location in Rhodes Town. The exact pickup time varies depending on where you’re staying, so check your confirmation and be ready to meet your friendly Manos Ggoing driver—look for the red Manos Going sign outside the Church of Evangelismos by Mandraki Port. This pre-arranged transfer sets a smooth tone for the day ahead.

Once at Mandraki Port, you’ll board a spacious boat that can hold up to 280 passengers. The vessel features three decks, a snack bar, and bathrooms. Despite the large capacity, reviews suggest that arriving early helps you secure the best seats, especially if you want unobstructed views from the front or the roof—trust us, the scenery from up top is worth the dash.

The cruise begins with a scenic sail along the east coast of Rhodes, passing by notable landmarks like the Dama Dama Deer Statues, the Church of Evangelismos, and the lighthouse. You’ll also see the resorts of Kallithea and Faliraki, giving you a glimpse of the island’s popular beaches and lively nightlife.

Swim Stop at Anthony Quinn’s Bay

The first swim stop is at Anthony Quinn’s Bay, a picturesque cove made famous by the actor himself. The reviews consistently describe this as a “nice place for a swim” and “absolutely beautiful,” making it a highlight. This 20-minute stop is perfect for cooling off and snorkeling in the clear waters. Some guests mention that this is a great chance to take photos of the rugged coastline and enjoy the serenity of the bay.

Arrival at Lindos Village

After the swim, you’ll continue sailing toward Lindos, a charming village with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional white houses, and a historic acropolis perched above. The three-hour free time here is ample to stroll through the labyrinthine alleys, visit local shops, or relax on one of the sandy beaches. Some reviews mention taking the opportunity to walk up to the Lindos Acropolis, which offers panoramic views of the sea and the town, but note that queues for tickets can be long during peak season.

The tour provides a complimentary map with directions, so you can get the most out of your time exploring. Many guests recommend climbing up to the Acropolis early or booking a “fast pass” to skip long lines, especially in hot weather.

Snorkeling at Tsambika Bay

The final swim stop at Tsambika Bay is another highlight—crystal-clear water and lively marine life await snorkelers. The review from a guest named Jacqueline noted that the swim stops were “worthwhile,” and another reviewer praised the “fabulous” marine environment. This is a relaxed way to end the day, with opportunities to paddle or just float and take in the scenery.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

As the day winds down, you’ll sail back toward Rhodes, soaking up the last vistas of the coast. The boat’s crew are noted for their friendliness, and the transfer back to your hotel runs smoothly, with many locations covered—ranging from luxury hotels to local supermarkets.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Morning Pickup: From your hotel or nearby, depending on your booking.
• Port Transfer: At Mandraki, board the boat and settle in.
• First Scenic Sail: The journey along Rhodes’ east coast, with views of landmarks like the lighthouse and Kallithea resorts.
• Swim Stop at Anthony Quinn’s Bay: About 20 minutes of swimming and snorkeling.
• Arrival in Lindos: Spend three hours exploring the village at your own pace—visit beaches, wander alleyways, or take in panoramic views from the acropolis.
• Second Swim Stop at Tsambika Bay: A relaxing spot to snorkel and paddle.
• Return Cruise: With scenic sea views and a relaxed vibe.
• Drop-off at your hotel: Safe and organized.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests consistently praise the smooth organization of pickup and drop-off, with many saying it removes stress—”very organized” and “pick-up smooth as ice.” The crew’s friendliness and the scenic views are also frequently highlighted. One reviewer mentioned that arriving early on the boat gets you better seats for the views, which is a good tip for anyone wanting the best photo spots.

The swim stops are often called “refreshing” and “fabulous,” with many appreciating the opportunity to snorkel among colorful marine life. Lindos is described as “beautiful” and “breathtaking,” with plenty of time to walk around or relax on the beach.

Some guests expressed a wish for more time in Lindos, suggesting that a longer visit might allow for a deeper exploration of the village and its acropolis. Still, three hours is generally enough to see the highlights and soak in the atmosphere.

The Value Proposition

At just over $50, this tour offers a comprehensive day out—transportation, scenic boat ride, swim stops, and free time in Lindos. Without additional costs for tickets or transfers, it’s a solid deal for travelers wanting a mix of relaxation and sightseeing. The included Lindos map and the organized logistics make it a stress-free choice for those unfamiliar with the area.

The boat itself, with its comfortable decks and onboard amenities, ensures you can enjoy the journey whether you prefer sunbathing, shade, or a quick snack. Plus, the two swim stops appeal to those who love cooling off in beautiful waters, making the overall experience both fun and restorative.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideally suited for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed day with a balance of sea, sand, and cultural exploration. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic village experiences combined with scenic cruising. If you’re not keen on guided tours and prefer exploring at your own pace, the free time in Lindos offers plenty of flexibility.

It’s also a fantastic choice for sea lovers and snorkelers, thanks to the swim stops at Anthony Quinn Bay and Tsambika Bay. However, if you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or are sensitive to long boat rides, you might need to consider other options.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rhodes Town, Ixia, Ialyssos, Kallithea, and Faliraki. Exact times depend on your location, so check your confirmation.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 to 9.5 hours, depending on weather and other factors. It starts early in the morning and returns in the evening.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing for the day.

Are there food and drinks on board?
While food and drinks aren’t included, there is a snack bar on the boat offering refreshments at reasonable prices. Guests recommend arriving early to secure good seats and enjoy snacks while cruising.

Can I visit the Lindos Acropolis?
Yes, you have three hours of free time to explore Lindos, including the possibility to walk to the Acropolis. Be aware that queues can be long in peak season, so arriving early or booking a fast pass can help.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the family-friendly aspects—swim stops, scenic views, and free time—make it suitable for many children. However, the boat ride and walking around Lindos should be considered when planning.

Is there a guide on the boat?
No official guide is included, but crew members are friendly and helpful. The Lindos map provided is useful for self-guided exploration.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may vary slightly depending on weather conditions, possibly affecting swim stops or timing in Lindos.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind when planning.

This scenic cruise to Lindos with swim stops balances comfort, adventure, and cultural discovery. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Rhodes’ most beautiful sights without the hassle of multiple bookings or complicated transportation. The combination of refreshing sea dips, free time in Lindos, and scenic sailing makes it a well-rounded day trip.

If you enjoy being on the water, discovering charming villages, and taking in spectacular views, this tour is a superb choice. It’s especially good for those who value organized logistics, value for money, and a relaxed-paced journey that leaves plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Whether you’re looking to relax on sun-drenched beaches, explore historic Lindos, or simply enjoy a scenic boat ride, this tour offers a true taste of Rhodes from the sea.