From Rhodes City: Boat Day Trip to Lindos

A Complete Guide to the Rhodes to Lindos Boat Day Trip

If you’re visiting Rhodes and craving a day filled with sunshine, scenic views, and a taste of local charm, a boat trip to Lindos might be just what you need. Offered by Rizos Cruises, this full-day adventure takes you along the east coast of Rhodes, giving you the chance to snorkel in crystal waters, explore an ancient acropolis, and soak up the laid-back vibe of Lindos Village.

What we particularly love about this experience is the combination of a relaxing cruise with enough time to wander on land and enjoy the beaches. Plus, the multiple swimming stops and the chance to explore Lindos independently means you can tailor your day to your interests.

A possible consideration is the timing—while the trip offers a lot of flexibility, some travelers mention that the two hours in Lindos can feel a little rushed, especially if you want to climb the acropolis or enjoy a long lunch. Still, if you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of sea, sun, and cultural exploration, especially those who appreciate a good value for money and don’t mind a full day out on the water. Families, singles, and couples alike find this trip appealing, especially if they enjoy being active and exploring at their own pace.

Key Points

• Relaxing yet active: A well-balanced day with swimming, sightseeing, and free time.
• Affordable: At around $45, it offers excellent value considering the multiple stops and included amenities.
• Flexible exploration: You get about 3 hours in Lindos to explore the village and its ancient acropolis independently.
• Multiple swim stops: Enjoy the Blue Lagoon, Tsambika Beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay — some reviewers called the swim spots “amazing.”
• Comfortable boat: The vessel is described as clean, modern, and well-maintained, with ample space and sunbeds, including an open sundeck.
• Helpful staff and good organization: Several reviews highlighted the friendly crew and smooth logistics, making for a stress-free day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

Your day begins at Rhodes City’s Mandraki port, where you’ll look out for the “DISCOVERY” boat almost opposite the Nea Agora Building, near the bus stop Roda. It’s recommended to arrive about 30 minutes early, especially if you want a top-deck sunbed — these go quickly, and some reviews suggest arriving as early as 8 am to secure a prime spot.

The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned bus from various drop-off locations, making it easy to reach the port without worries. The trip duration is roughly 8 to 8.5 hours, with starting times varying based on seasonality and availability.

The Cruise: A Sea-Faring Adventure

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with an open sundeck and plenty of sunbeds, perfect for soaking up the Greek sun. The boat has a bar selling drinks like cocktails, coffee, and snacks, which you can purchase during the journey—nothing beats sipping a cold beverage while gazing at the coastline.

The cruise takes you down the east coast of Rhodes toward Lindos, with the first major highlight being the chance to swim in Anthony Quinn Bay, famously used as a filming location for “The Guns of Navarone.” Many reviewers mention how safe and enjoyable the water is, with some quoting how they appreciated the friendly staff and the availability of floats and snorkel gear for those wanting to explore under the water.

Following this, your journey continues to Tsambika Beach and the Blue Lagoon, two of the most beautiful swimming spots on the island. The Blue Lagoon, in particular, gets praise for its clear waters and vibrant marine life, giving snorkelers a real treat. One reviewer mentioned snorkelling with fish among the coral and seaweed, highlighting how refreshing and lively the experience felt.

Free Time in Lindos Village

After about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours en route, you’ll arrive in Lindos. This is the highlight for many: a 3-hour window to explore this charming village at your own pace. The reviews reveal that visitors love having the freedom to wander through cobblestone streets, browse local shops, or climb the ancient Acropolis of Lindos — a must-see for history buffs, offering panoramic views of the coast.

One reviewer noted that “the time in Lindos and the swimming stops are very good,” appreciating the balance between sightseeing and relaxation. Others enjoyed grabbing a traditional Greek meal at one of the taverns, often described as “delicious and reasonably priced,” adding a taste of local cuisine to the day.

The Return Journey and Final Stops

On the way back, the boat heads towards Anthony Quinn Bay again or nearby spots, with the chance to snorkel or simply unwind. The crew encourages guests to purchase drinks, ice creams, or snacks as you cruise along the stunning coastline, providing a relaxing end to your island adventure.

Some reviews mention dolphins swimming alongside the boat, adding a magical touch to the return trip. The journey concludes back at Rhodes harbor, with plenty of time to reflect on a day well spent.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Comfort and Value

The modern, clean boat with its spacious sundeck and shaded areas offers a comfortable environment for the entire day. Many guests appreciated the onboard amenities like WiFi and toilets, making it easy to relax without feeling crowded or cramped. The price point of around $45 per person is considered highly reasonable, especially considering the multiple swimming stops and free time in Lindos.

Authentic Experiences

From snorkeling in Blue Lagoon to exploring Lindos’ narrow streets and acropolis, this tour blends natural beauty with cultural charm. Several reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable staff who keep everything running smoothly, ensuring guests feel safe and well cared for.

Flexibility and Independence

The two hours in Lindos are enough for most to climb the acropolis and enjoy a leisurely lunch without feeling rushed. Guests can explore at their own pace—some even mentioned that they used their bags to explore the village unencumbered, thanks to the boat’s convenient storage options.

The Snorkel and Swim Stops

The highlight for many is the opportunity to snorkel with colorful fish or simply float in the calm waters of Anthony Quinn Bay and Tsambika Beach. These stops are praised as “beautiful,” “amazing,” and “great for families,” making them suitable for all ages and swimming abilities.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This boat tour is ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see Lindos without the stress of planning transport or activities. It’s perfect if you’re after a full but relaxed day that combines swimming, cultural exploration, and scenic views. Families, couples, and solo adventurers will find plenty to enjoy, especially if they appreciate having independent time to explore.

If you’re on a budget but still want a comprehensive experience, this trip offers value for money — especially given the quality of the stops and the boat’s comfort. Just be prepared for a long day, and consider arriving early for the best deck spots.

FAQ

What is the starting point for this tour?
The departure is from Rhodes City’s Mandraki port, near the Nea Agora Building, opposite the bus stop Roda. Arrive 30 minutes early to check in and secure a good spot.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is approximately 8 to 8.5 hours, with the actual sailing time and stops included.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You need to meet at the port.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, cash, and snorkeling gear if you have it. Light jackets are recommended for early or late season.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard at reasonable prices.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, WiFi is available, along with toilets and floats for snorkelling.

How much time do we get in Lindos?
About 3 hours are allocated for exploring Lindos, which is enough to see the acropolis and enjoy the village.

Are the swimming stops suitable for children?
Yes, the stops are generally suitable for families; floats and life jackets are available for kids.

Is the boat accessible for all?
While the reviews praise the crew’s helpfulness, individuals with mobility issues might find climbing the acropolis challenging. The boat itself is described as modern and comfortable.

Can I get a sunbed on the top deck?
Yes, but they are limited and highly sought after. Arriving early increases your chances of securing one.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Rhodes to Lindos offers a well-rounded day packed with natural beauty, cultural exploration, and relaxed swimming. The ship’s comfort, coupled with the friendly staff and excellent value, makes it an appealing choice for a wide range of travelers.

You’ll love the freedom to explore Lindos at your own pace, especially the chance to climb the ancient acropolis or enjoy a local meal in the village’s charming streets. The multiple swim stops, particularly at Anthony Quinn Bay and the Blue Lagoon, provide refreshing breaks that are perfect for cooling off and snorkelling.

While the timing in Lindos can be a little tight for those wanting a long, leisurely stay, most guests find that the balance between land and sea activities is just right. The trip’s affordability and flexibility make it a standout option for anyone seeking a memorable Greek island day.

If you’re after a comfortable, value-packed adventure that combines scenic views, cultural highlights, and time in the water, this cruise is a fantastic pick. Just remember to arrive early for the best deck spot and bring your sense of adventure!