Rhodes: Full Day East Coast Bay to Bay Boat Trip with Lunch

Discovering Rhodes: Full Day East Coast Bay to Bay Boat Trip with Lunch – A Practical Look

Rhodes’ east coast offers some of the most captivating seaside scenery and crystal-clear waters in Greece, making it a prime spot for a boat trip. This full-day adventure, operated by Manos Ggoing, promises to take you to four of the island’s most famous bays, with ample time for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a hearty Greek meal. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking both a scenic outing and authentic local flavors, but as with any tour, it’s worth weighing the details to see if it matches your expectations.

One aspect we really appreciate about this trip is the combination of sightseeing and leisure—you get to visit iconic bays like Anthony Quinn’s and Tsambika, then enjoy plenty of time in each spot to swim, sunbathe, or explore. The lunch included is another highlight, offering traditional Greek dishes that satisfy water sports appetites without breaking the bank. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the pace of the day, especially if you prefer more relaxed or private adventures, since the itinerary is quite packed and involves multiple ferry rides.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy group outings, are comfortable with water-based activities, and want a rundown of Rhodes’ eastern coastline in one day. It’s especially good for those who prefer guided tours with included transportation, meals, and organized stops, rather than planning everything independently.

Key Points

• Scenic boat journey: Enjoy panoramic views of Rhodes’ medieval town and coastline.
• Four iconic bays: Swim in Anthony Quinn’s, Tsambika, Afandou, and Kallithea Bays.
• Authentic Greek lunch: Tucking into traditional dishes like moussaka and fresh salads.
• Varied itinerary: Combines swimming, sightseeing, and relaxation with ample stop times.
• Inclusive transportation: Pickups from multiple locations make logistics easier.
• Group size and comfort: The boat accommodates up to 280 people, with facilities like a snack bar and WC.

An In-Depth Look at the Rhodes East Coast Boat Trip

Starting the Day: Easy Access and Organized Pickup

From the moment you book, the tour is designed to be straightforward. Pickup from various locations such as Rhodes Town, Ialyssos, Ixia, and Kallithea means you won’t have to worry about complicated transport arrangements. The activity begins early in the morning—most travelers report meeting the Manos Ggoing staff at Mandraki Port around 8:30 AM, where a friendly guide will check your booking confirmation and hand over boarding tickets and a map. The shuttle bus then takes you to the port, making the transition from land to sea seamless.

The Ferry Ride: A Warm-Up at Sea

The first leg of the journey is a roughly one-hour ferry ride, giving you a chance to settle in and soak up the sea breeze. During this time, you can get a glimpse of Rhodes’ medieval walls from the water—an impressive sight that sets the tone for the day. Reviewers mention that the ferry is comfortable, with enough space to relax, and the staff are friendly and accommodating.

Anthony Quinn’s Bay: Crystal Waters and Rocky Shores

Our first swimming stop is Anthony Quinn’s Bay, famed for its emerald waters and sheltered rocky beach. It’s a favorite among visitors for its stunning water clarity and natural beauty. The two 30-minute stops allow you to snorkel among fish, sea urchins, and coral, with many reviewers noting that the water is warm and inviting. One guest especially appreciated the cliffs towering above the water, which make for great photo opportunities. The sheltered nature of this bay makes it an ideal spot for families or less confident swimmers.

Tsambika Bay: Golden Sands and a Buffet Feast

Next, the boat heads to Tsambika Bay, known for its long, golden sandy beach. The two-hour window here is generous, giving plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. Many travelers mention that the beach is perfect for lounging and that the water remains calm and clear. After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a buffet-style lunch aboard the boat, featuring traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, fresh salads, pasta, and oven-baked potatoes. Reviewers repeatedly praise the quality and variety of the food, with some noting it’s surprisingly good for a boat lunch.

Afandou Cave: Exploring from the Water

Following lunch, the boat stops at Afandou, where you can swim to the rocky shoreline and explore its famous cave. It’s a quick, 30-minute stop, but one that many say is quite special—an opportunity to see a natural formation that’s only accessible from the water. Expect to snorkel around the caves or simply enjoy the unusual landscape.

Kallithea Bay: Final Swim and Relaxation

The last swimming stop is Kallithea Bay, a sheltered cove known for its thermal springs and calming waters. The roughly 20-minute swim or sunbathing session here is appreciated as a peaceful end to the water activities. Many guests mention that it’s a relaxing spot to unwind before heading back to Rhodes.

Returning to Rhodes: Reflection and Comfort

After the final stop, the boat heads back, with an estimated arrival around 5 PM. The overall experience leaves many feeling satisfied, having experienced a good mix of scenic beauty, water fun, and authentic Greek cuisine. The boat itself is large, with three decks suitable for different preferences—some prefer the shaded areas, others the sun decks.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The stunning coastal scenery is the core of this trip. From the cliffs and coves to the colorful marine life visible during swims, the views are consistently praised. Reviewers rave about the crystal-clear waters, especially in Anthony Quinn’s Bay, where visibility is excellent for snorkeling.

The Greek lunch is another highlight. Unlike some excursions that offer uninspired buffets, this one delivers a hearty, well-prepared meal with classic dishes that allow you to indulge after a morning in the water. Multiple guests have emphasized the quality of the food, describing it as delicious and satisfying.

The organized transport from multiple pickup points simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying outside Rhodes Town. The tour’s flexibility, with options to reserve a private group or join a larger one, adds to its appeal.

Considerations and Tips

While this trip offers a lot of value, there are a few things to keep in mind. The itinerary is quite full, with ferry rides, multiple swimming stops, and a lot of ground covered in one day. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or fewer stops, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s especially worth considering if you’re not comfortable with boat trips or water activities, as most of the main activities involve swimming or being comfortable at sea.

The boat’s capacity of 280 guests means it can feel crowded at peak times, especially on sunny days. Bringing a sunscreen and sunglasses is essential, along with a towel and swimwear. While pool noodles and life jackets are available for small children, the tour isn’t specifically tailored for non-swimmers or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.

Beverages and snacks are not included, but they are available for purchase onboard. Many reviews note that prices are reasonable and that the snack bar offers a good range of options. If you’re particularly thirsty or hungry, bringing some extras might be wise.

Price and Value for Money

At $68 per person, this tour provides solid value considering the long duration (8-9 hours), the guided nature, multiple stops, and the included Greek buffet lunch. The experience offers a well-rounded taste of Rhodes’ coastline—something you might find difficult to replicate independently without renting boats or arranging several different activities.

Guests repeatedly mention that the quality of the food and the scenic stops make this a worthwhile investment, especially for travelers wanting a hassle-free day packed with highlights. The included transportation from various pickup points further boosts its value, removing the stress of organizing transfers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day boat trip is ideal for travelers who crave a blend of adventure and relaxation. If you enjoy swimming, scenic views, and authentic Greek food, it’s a great way to spend a day. Families with kids can appreciate the sheltered bays and support for small children with provided life jackets, though non-swimmers should be comfortable in the water.

It’s also suitable for those who want a guided, all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning every detail. However, those seeking a very private or leisurely pace might find the packed schedule a bit busy. It’s also not tailored for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the nature of water stops and boat movement.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
Meetings typically begin around 8:30 AM, with the activity starting from Mandraki Port. Exact pickup times depend on your accommodation, with transfers scheduled between 7:30 and 8:15 AM.

How long is the whole trip?
The total duration is 8 to 9 hours, including transfers, boat rides, swimming stops, and lunch.

Where does the tour depart from?
It starts at Mandraki Port in Rhodes, with pickups from various locations like Rhodes Town, Ialyssos, Ixia, and Kallithea.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation from select locations, a buffet Greek lunch, and safety equipment for small children are included.

Are drinks and snacks included?
No, they are available for purchase on board at the snack bar.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Pool noodles and life jackets are available for small children, but the itinerary involves multiple water stops and boat rides, so parental discretion is advised.

Can I reserve a private group?
Yes, private group options are available, making it ideal for special occasions or family gatherings.

Will I get seasick?
Most guests find the boat ride comfortable, but if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions.

Is there a dress code?
Swimwear, comfortable clothing, and sunscreen are recommended. Bring a towel for swimming.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses to shield from the sun.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes full-day boat trip offers a fantastic way to explore the island’s east coast without the stress of planning multiple activities. The combination of beautiful bays, refreshing swims, and a hearty Greek lunch makes it a well-rounded package for those who want an authentic, scenic, and fun day out. The well-organized logistics and friendly crew enhance the experience, especially for first-time visitors or those short on time.

While the crowded nature and busy schedule might not suit everyone, the stunning scenery and quality food ensure most guests leave feeling they got their money’s worth. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy group tours, water activities, and want a comprehensive taste of Rhodes’ coastline in one go.

To sum it up, if you’re after an active yet relaxing day that combines scenic vistas with good food, this boat trip is a reliable choice. It offers a great balance of adventure, cultural flavor, and comfort—perfect for creating lasting memories of Rhodes’ beautiful east coast.