Rhodes: All Inclusive Day Cruise with BBQ & Unlimited Drinks

If you’re visiting Rhodes and craving a day that combines scenic beauty, delicious food, and laid-back luxury, this all-inclusive day cruise aboard the Aphrodite Duchess might just be your best bet. Running for about six hours, this trip promises stops at some of the most beautiful bays and landmarks around Rhodes, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. The icing on the cake? An open bar featuring unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and iced coffee, alongside a mouthwatering Greek BBQ.

What we really love about this cruise is its balance between organized sightseeing and relaxed lounging. Whether you’re bringing your own floaties or sinking into a bean bag on the top deck, there’s a good chance you’ll find your perfect spot. One practical highlight? The crew consistently gets rave reviews for their attentiveness and friendliness, making the experience feel welcoming and seamless.

Of course, a potential consideration is the strict 10:00 departure time; if you’re not an early riser or prone to last-minute worries, arriving a bit earlier might be necessary. But if you’re set on a fun, hassle-free day out with all the essentials covered, this trip suits travelers looking for an authentic, all-in-one Rhodes experience—ideal whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Unlimited drinks, tasty Greek BBQ, hot dog, and waffle hours eliminate the need to carry extra cash or worry about food and drink.
• Stunning Stops: Swim and snorkel in Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Bay, and at Kallithea Springs, with some of the clearest waters around Rhodes.
• Comfortable & Spacious Boat: Plenty of space on the Aphrodite Duchess, with shaded and sunbathing options, plus clean facilities and showers.
• Expert Crew & Guides: Friendly, attentive staff make the day smooth and enjoyable. Several reviews highlight their helpfulness and good humor.
• Balanced Itinerary: The stops are well-paced, giving enough time to relax, swim, and explore, supported by detailed commentary and organized transfers.
• Great Value: For around $73, you get a full day of fun, food, and drinks, with many reviewers calling it excellent value for money.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Boat

From the moment you step onto the Aphrodite Duchess, you’ll notice its spacious layout and welcoming vibe. The boat offers both shaded tables and sunbeds, along with comfy bean bags on the top deck perfect for lounging while soaking up the sun. Many travelers mention how the boat feels roomy, making it easy to find a cozy or lively spot depending on your mood.

The crew, including multilingual guides speaking Dutch, English, French, and German, keeps the atmosphere upbeat and informative. Several reviews mention how helpful and engaging the staff are, with particular praise for the humorous and personable guides like Katia the Duchess, who’s known for her cocktails and lively presence. This friendly energy makes the cruise feel more like a day out with friends than a typical tour.

The Stops: What Makes Them Special

The itinerary is designed to showcase some of Rhodes’ most scenic coastlines and hidden gems. The journey begins with a sightseeing cruise (approximately 40 minutes), allowing everyone to get a feel for the coastline and enjoy the sea breeze.

Kallithea Springs, one of the first stops, is famed for its historic architecture and calm waters—ideal for a quick swim and snorkel. The reviews highlight how clean and well-kept these spots are, and the clear waters invite you to float along and spot colorful fish. The crew provides snorkeling gear and pool noodles, making it easy for even novice swimmers to join in the fun.

Next up is Anthony Quinn Bay, a famously picturesque bay with transparent water and a lively underwater scene. Many guests rave about the water temperature—about 25°C, which is perfect for a long swim. Reviewers note how the bay’s beauty is matched by the helpfulness of the crew, who often assist with gear or just cheer from the sidelines. One reviewer commented, “The water was crystal clear and very inviting,” emphasizing how ideal this stop is for a refreshing dip.

The Traganou Caves provide a different experience—more sheltered and scenic, these caves are another favorite for snorkeling and exploring. The one-hour stop here is just enough to enjoy the natural beauty without feeling rushed.

Throughout the day, the boat takes you on short cruises between stops, giving ample time to relax, chat, or simply enjoy the view. Many reviews mention how these cruising segments are smooth and comfortable, with good music and a lively vibe.

Food & Drinks: The Heart of the Experience

The highlight for many is the all-you-can-eat Greek BBQ, prepared fresh on board by a talented chef. Guests rave about the quality and authenticity of the food—think succulent souvlaki, fresh Greek salad, tzatziki, and bread. The open bar is equally popular, offering endless beers, wines, soft drinks, and iced coffee, keeping everyone refreshed throughout the day.

Two “hours” dedicated to hot dogs and waffles turn into fun brunch and sweet treats that keep the mood light and cheerful. Several travelers mention how the drinks keep flowing without interruption, which is great for those wanting to relax and socialize.

One review notes how the crew, including crew members like Panos and Katia, kept everyone’s glasses full and created a lively, friendly atmosphere. The open bar’s unlimited nature means you can indulge without worry—many people appreciated the value of this inclusivity, especially since the trip costs just $73 per person.

The Final Highlights & Ease of Return

After a final cruise segment (about 1 hour), you’ll head back to Rhodes’ Mandraki Harbour around 4:00 PM. Many travelers highlight how well-organized the trip is, with convenient drop-off points including Ixia, Kolympia, Faliraki, and right at Rhodes Sea Lines.

The transfer options are straightforward, with optional hotel pickups for an extra fee, which many reviews appreciate, especially given the busy streets of Rhodes. If you opt for the transfer service, make sure to book in advance via WhatsApp, as pickups are available only on certain days.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging day of sun, sea, and social fun. It’s perfect for solo travelers wanting a lively atmosphere, couples looking for a romantic yet casual outing, or families eager for a day in the water. The friendly staff, combined with the well-structured stops and delicious food, makes it suitable for all ages, provided everyone enjoys swimming and a good dose of sunshine.

It’s particularly great if you’re after value for money. For under $80, you get a comprehensive itinerary, unlimited drinks, meals, and multiple swim opportunities. If you’re someone who appreciates good reviews, friendly guides, and stunning scenery, this cruise ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. This cruise offers a seamless blend of sightseeing, swimming, and socializing, all wrapped up in a reasonably priced package. The fact that so many people return or recommend it speaks volumes about its value and enjoyment factor.

While the departure time is early, the benefit is an enjoyable, full day of fun on the water with excellent facilities and attentive crew. The high ratings and glowing reviews reflect consistent quality, making it a dependable choice for anyone visiting Rhodes who wants a memorable, stress-free day at sea.

Whether you’re after a lively group atmosphere, a relaxing sunbathing session, or a delicious meal with drinks included, this cruise delivers. It’s about making the most of Rhodes’ beautiful coastline in a way that’s fun, flexible, and genuinely authentic.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $73?
The price covers the full day cruise, all drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks, iced coffee), a Greek BBQ meal, hot dog hour, waffle hour, fruit, and use of snorkeling gear. Optional hotel transfer service is available at an extra cost.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 6 hours, with departures starting around 10:00 AM. It includes several stops for swimming and sightseeing, plus cruising time between locations.

Are transfers included?
Transfers are optional. If you select the transfer option, pickup and drop-off are arranged from specific locations like Faliraki, Ixia, and Kolymbia for an additional fee. You need to book these in advance via WhatsApp.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Kallithea Springs, Anthony Quinn Bay, and Traganou Caves. Each offers opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, with some reviewers mentioning the beauty and cleanliness of these areas.

Can I snorkel without experience?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and several reviews mention how approachable it is even for beginners. The crew is helpful with gear and offers advice if needed.

Is the boat comfortable for all ages?
Yes, the boat is spacious, with shaded areas, sunbeds, and facilities like showers and toilets. It’s suitable for families, solo travelers, and couples.

What’s the main highlight of this cruise?
Most guests highlight the combination of beautiful swim stops, friendly crew, and the unlimited food and drinks, making it feel like a full value day in Rhodes.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and possibly a towel. Everything else, including snorkeling gear and meals, is provided. The crew often supplies pool noodles and goggles for extra fun.

This Rhodes day cruise offers a well-rounded experience designed to maximize your enjoyment of the island’s stunning coastline while keeping things relaxed and friendly. With top reviews reflecting great value, excellent food, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a fantastic way to spend a day in Rhodes.