Rhodes Bay to Bay Swim Cruise-Greek Buffet w/wine included

This Rhodes cruise offers a delightful way to explore some of the island’s most beautiful spots from the water, all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Setting sail from Mandraki Port, you’ll enjoy stops at picturesque bays perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun, alongside plenty of stunning scenery and fascinating historical sights.

What makes this experience truly stand out is the combination of scenic stops, tasty Greek cuisine, and unlimited wine, all at a very reasonable price—just $68.50 per person. It’s a great option for those looking to combine relaxation, adventure, and culture in one affordable day.

One potential caveat is that the tour lasts around six hours, which might be a bit long for travelers with limited stamina or small children. The group size is capped at 100, ensuring a fairly intimate vibe but still lively enough for socializing. This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a mix of scenic beauty, good food, and fun in the sun without breaking the bank.

Key Points

Stunning Views: The cruise offers breathtaking perspectives of Rhodes’ medieval walls, the ancient port, and the famous Colossus of Rhodes site.
Excellent Swimming & Snorkeling: Stops at Anthony Quinn Bay and Kallithea Springs provide crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Authentic Greek Cuisine & Drinks: The buffet includes tasty, fresh Greek dishes, vegetarian and gluten-free options, plus unlimited wine, water, and soft drinks.
History & Culture: Passing by historical sites like the medieval walls and the port’s ancient monument brings an added layer of interest.
Value for Money: At $68.50, the cruise includes food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and multiple stops—making it a well-priced, all-in-one experience.
Relaxed Atmosphere: From the comfortable shaded decks to friendly crew, the vibe is laid-back and welcoming, perfect for all ages.

An In-Depth Look at the Rhodes Bay to Bay Swim Cruise

This cruise promises a full day of enjoying Rhodes’ spectacular coastlines and cultural gems, all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat. We’ll walk you through what to expect from each part of this journey, pulling in insights from real reviews to give you a genuine sense of the experience.

Departure & Initial Views

The adventure begins at Mandraki Old Port, the bustling heart of Rhodes. As the boat pulls away, you’ll be greeted with stunning glimpses of the Medieval Walls and the Old Town, framing your photo ops of the historic heart of Rhodes. This opening scene alone makes the cruise worthwhile; the water-level view of these ancient fortifications offers a fresh perspective on the city’s history.

Travelers have pointed out how photogenic these moments are, with one reviewer noting the “unique photo opportunity” of the port’s entrance where the Colossus once stood. Although the statue itself no longer exists, passing by its supposed location stirs a sense of awe.

Stop 1: Kallithea Springs

Within about 45 minutes of sailing, the boat reaches Kallithea Springs. This spot is famous for its natural thermal springs, which have drawn visitors for centuries. The waters here have reputed healing properties, and the reddish hue of the water—due to mineral content—adds a mystical quality.

Expect about an hour to explore this area and take a dip. Reviewers mention the “refreshing swim” and appreciate the thoughtful Italian-designed buildings, which blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. The springs have a long history, from ancient times through Italian architects like Pietro Lombardi and Alberto Mocci, who added decorative touches that complement the environment.

Travelers often say this stop is a “nice break” to relax and stretch after the boat ride, with many describing the water as invigorating. It’s also a chance to enjoy some quiet time or capture beautiful photos of the rocky formations and lush greenery.

Stop 2: Anthony Quinn Bay

Next up is Anthony Quinn Bay, renowned for its dramatic high rocks enveloping a small, inviting cove. From the boat, the bay looks like a postcard—crystal-clear waters, sheltered and perfect for swimming. It’s named after the actor Anthony Quinn, who starred in The Guns of Navarone, and who visited Rhodes during filming.

Here, you’ll get about an hour to snorkel among a multitude of tiny fish, using the complimentary gear provided. Reviewers note that the “snorkeling gear was in good condition” and that the underwater scenery is lively and colorful. One guest humorously mentioned that no fish has ever bitten anyone, so you can relax and enjoy your meal of bread or just observe the marine life.

The bay’s setting—surrounded by lush high rocks—means you get a little privacy and a sense of adventure. It’s a highlight for many, offering both a visual feast and a chance to cool off from the summer heat.

Passengers’ Experiences at Anthony Quinn Bay

Multiple reviews emphasize how fun and relaxing this stop is. One reviewer says, “The snorkeling was a blast,” and appreciated the freedom to explore at their own pace. The warm waters and vibrant marine life make this spot well-loved, and many commented on the friendly, helpful crew who manage the snorkeling equipment smoothly.

Scenic Cruise Past Ladiko Bay

Cruising past Ladiko Bay, the narrative shifts to history—the name “Ladi,” meaning oil, hints at its past as an oil-loading point, a detail that adds depth to the landscape. The area was once a busy trading hub, and shipwreck artifacts like clay containers have been found here, adding an element of underwater archaeology.

Today, Ladiko Bay remains popular for underwater activities and its caves. Reviewers note its picturesque quality, although most agree it’s more of a scenic highlight than a swimming stop.

Stop 3: Afandou Beach

The final major stop is Afandou Beach, a long pebble beach stretching about 6 km. Traveling from Anthony Quinn Bay takes around 45 minutes, and you’ll have about 1 hour and 15 minutes to relax, swim, or explore.

Guests rave about Afandou’s beauty—its clear waters and the fact that the stones from here were historically used in Rhodes’Old Town sidewalks. The area has seen repeated attacks over centuries, from pirates to Turks, which shaped its resilient character.

The beach is also famous for its golf course, but the main attraction here is the wide, pebble-strewn shoreline. Travelers often describe the water as “crystal-clear” and the environment as relaxed and scenic.

Return Journey & Final Views

On the way back to Rhodes, the boat cruises past Faliraki Beach, another popular tourist hotspot, which offers a lively contrast to the calm bays. Many travelers mention the comfort of the shaded decks and the friendly crew who keep the atmosphere upbeat, especially as the cruise winds down.

Food & Drinks

A key highlight of this tour is the Greek buffet lunch, which features a variety of local dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Reviewers consistently praise the “delicious” food, with highlights like tender chicken, ratatouille, and tasty salads. The buffet is served with white and rose wine, which guests report as being “good quality” and plentiful.

Throughout the day, guests also enjoy bottled water, soft drinks, lemonade, and unlimited wine, which keeps the mood lively and relaxed. Several reviewers appreciated the inclusive nature of drinks, noting that it significantly adds value to the experience.

Comfort & Facilities

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with cushioned seating and shaded decks—a much-appreciated feature in the summer heat. Reviewers mention the boat isn’t overcrowded, allowing for a relaxed experience, and the crew is praised for their attentiveness and friendliness.

Showers, life jackets, floaters, and pool noodles are included, making swimming and relaxing easy and safe. The availability of shaded areas means you can escape the sun when needed without sacrificing the scenic views.

Overall Experience & Value

The reviews consistently highlight how this cruise balances beautiful scenery, good food, and friendly service at a very reasonable price. Travelers find it to be an excellent way to see Rhodes’ coastline, enjoy saltwater swims, and indulge in Greek cuisine without spending a fortune or dedicating multiple days.

While some note that the day can feel quite long—especially if you’re not used to extended boat trips—most agree that the variety of stops and the quality of the food and drinks make it worth the time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day out with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy local flavors. It appeals particularly to those who appreciate comfort, good value, and authentic environments. Families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a mix of adventure and leisure will find this experience hits the mark.

It’s less suited for those looking for high-adrenaline activities or a quick, superficial overview. But if you enjoy beautiful coastlines, historical sights in the context of the landscape, and a good Greek meal with wine in the sunshine, this cruise will tick many boxes.

The Sum Up

In essence, this Rhodes Bay to Bay Swim Cruise offers an excellent blend of natural beauty, cultural intrigue, and authentic Greek hospitality—all at a very accessible price point. Its stops at Kallithea Springs, Anthony Quinn Bay, and Afandou Beach give you a taste of Rhodes’ diverse landscapes, while the included Greek buffet and unlimited wine make it feel like a true taste of local life.

The comfort of the boat, the friendliness of the crew, and the relaxed atmosphere make it suitable for all ages and types of travelers. Whether you want to lounge in the shade, snorkel among colorful fish, or simply soak up the sun and scenery, this tour delivers a memorable day out.

If you’re seeking a laid-back adventure filled with stunning views, tasty food, and a touch of history, this cruise is a solid choice. It offers incredible value for money, making it easy to recommend for anyone wanting to experience Rhodes from a different angle.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately six hours, giving you plenty of time to explore multiple bays and enjoy the amenities onboard.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Greek buffet with vegetarian and gluten-free options is included, served with white and rosé wine, plus water and soft drinks.

What snorkeling gear is provided?
Complimentary masks and snorkels are available for guests to use at the snorkeling stops, especially at Anthony Quinn Bay.

Is there transportation from hotels?
Hotel transfers are optional and not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to plan your own transportation to Mandraki Port.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is the boat crowded?
Most reviews mention that the boat isn’t overfilled, offering a comfortable experience with plenty of space on shaded decks and seating areas.

This Rhodes cruise combines scenic beauty, historical sights, and authentic Greek flavors into a day that’s both relaxing and adventure-filled. Perfect for those wanting to see the island’s coastline in style without breaking the bank.