Rhodes Town: Anthony Quinn, Kalithea & Afandou Boat Cruise

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of the Aegean, surrounded by the craggy coastline of Rhodes, with stops at some of the island’s most photogenic beaches. That’s exactly what this 6-hour boat cruise offers — a leisurely way to see the best of Rhodes’ coastline, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and soak up the sun. Priced at around $31 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option that combines scenic views, relaxed beach time, and a touch of local charm.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with actual time in the water. Unlike some tours that spend a lot of time sailing without much interaction, this cruise hits three prime spots with ample opportunities to swim, snorkel, and just lounge about. The traditional Greek boat adds to that authentic feel, and the panoramic coast views are genuinely worth the sail.

However, a notable consideration is that the boat is quite slow and the journey involves about three hours of sailing. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more active, fast-paced excursion, this might feel a bit too laid-back. Also, if you’re looking for guided commentary with historical or cultural insights, this tour might fall a little flat — reviews mention that communication is minimal, and guides don’t share much beyond basic instructions.

This experience suits travelers who love relaxing by the water, enjoy snorkeling, and want a straightforward, affordable day out on the sea. It’s especially appealing for those who value authentic beach visits rather than crowded tourist spots, and for anyone seeking a quiet, scenic way to explore Rhodes’ coast.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastline views from the boat provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Three stops for swimming and snorkeling make it a great option for water lovers.
• Affordable price offers good value for a half-day scenic experience.
• Limited commentary from guides means the focus is on relaxation rather than education.
• Relaxed pace with slow sailing may not suit those seeking adventure or quick excursions.
• Snorkeling gear and noodles provided make water activities accessible, even for beginners.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point: Mandraki Port

The tour begins at Mandraki Harbor, a lively spot lined with cafes, the famous deer statue, and boat operators. Look for the boat named Alkmini, and locate the Alexander Statue as your landmark. We liked how straightforward the meeting point was, with clear instructions and a friendly crew ready to assist.

Anthony Quinn Bay

Your first stop is the renowned Anthony Quinn Bay, famous for its rugged scenery and crystal-clear waters. The bay’s dramatic rocks and lush greenery make it an idyllic backdrop for photos. The stop lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the beach.

One traveler recalled, “The water is so clear, you could see some fish perfectly,” highlighting the quality of the snorkeling. However, some mentioned that shady areas are limited, which can make it uncomfortable in the heat, especially during summer. This means bringing plenty of sunscreen and a hat is wise.

Afandou Beach

Next, the cruise takes you to Afandou Beach, a long stretch of sand backed by rolling hills and olive groves. With about an hour here, you’ll get another chance to swim and snorkel, or simply enjoy basking in the sun. The reviews note that the water’s clarity is impressive, but the lack of shade is a downside. You might want to bring your own shade or plan to spend as much time as possible in the water.

One reviewer mentioned, “It was a very nice boat tour,” and appreciated the polite crew, which made the experience more comfortable. The laid-back vibe and beautiful scenery make Afandou a personal favorite for those wanting a peaceful beach experience.

Kallithea Springs

The last stop is Kallithea Springs, a historic spa complex famous for its ornate architecture and natural mineral waters. This is where the guided tour aspect comes into play — the crew gives you some background on the site’s history, adding a touch of culture to your day. You get around an hour here to swim, snorkel, or take photos of the colorful fish and marine life visible in the waters.

Many appreciate that snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to explore marine life like fish and squid. The reviews indicate that visibility is generally good, but the company emphasizes that they aren’t responsible for what marine creatures you might see or miss.

Return to Mandraki Port

After your time at Kallithea, you’ll start heading back to Rhodes Town. The return trip offers more scenic views, with the boat softly rocking and music playing onboard, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The total duration is about six hours, with the sailing segment taking up roughly three hours.

Practical Details & Tips

• Price & Value: At around $31, this cruise offers decent value, especially considering the three swim and snorkel stops. The price includes snorkeling gear and noodles, which are great for floating and relaxing in the water.
• What’s Included: The experience features a boat cruise, experienced crew, music onboard, and free time for swimming and snorkeling.
• What’s Not Included: No hotel pickup or drop-off, snacks, drinks, or lunch are provided, so think ahead about bringing your own refreshments.
• Timing & Duration: Check availability for your preferred starting times. The tour lasts about six hours, so plan for a full day out.
• Meeting Point: Look for the Alexander Statue in Mandraki Harbor to find the Alkmini boat.
• What to Bring: Pack swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a hat. No bikes allowed onboard, and punctuality is key.
• Language: Tours are conducted in English and Greek, with guides who are known to be polite and attentive, though not overly talkative.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The mixed reviews provide useful insights. Several travelers noted the slow sailing — about three hours each way — which could feel lengthy for some. But others appreciated the peaceful pace and beautiful scenery.

One reviewer from the UK said, “Very good price,” highlighting affordability as a major plus. Meanwhile, a German traveler called it a “very nice boat tour,” praising the crew’s politeness and attentiveness, even accommodating delayed arrivals with a flexible rebooking option.

On the downside, some felt it was “a bit boring,” mainly because there’s no guide sharing stories or local insights, which might appeal to travelers who love educational commentary. Others found the lack of shady spots and minimal communication somewhat disappointing.

This tour seems to favor relaxation over education, making it more suitable for water lovers and those wanting a peaceful day rather than a packed sightseeing adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, budget-friendly way to explore Rhodes’ coastline, this cruise fits the bill. It’s ideal for swimmers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and sunbathers who want to spend quality time in beautiful waters without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a slow, scenic sail with minimal guided commentary.

Not recommended for travelers seeking a fast-paced or highly informative experience, or those with mobility issues, as the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the pace might be too slow for some.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This boat cruise offers a simple yet charming way to enjoy Rhodes’ stunning beaches and coastline. The price point makes it accessible, and the three swim stops provide plenty of water fun. The authentic Greek boat, combined with panoramic views and marine life, creates a memorable day in the sun.

While it may lack detailed commentary and can be slow for those eager to maximize sightseeing, it compensates with beautiful scenery, relaxed vibes, and good value. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize beach time, snorkeling, and scenic sailing over guided storytelling.

If you’re after a tranquil, scenic escape with ample opportunities to cool off and take photos, this cruise deserves a spot on your Rhodes itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, the tour starts at Mandraki Port, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long is the sailing between stops?
Approximately three hours of sailing each way, meaning the trip is quite relaxed and slow-paced.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear and noodles are provided, making it easy to enjoy the water without extra expense.

Can I swim at all three stops?
Yes, each stop offers time for swimming and snorkeling, about an hour per location.

Is there a guide sharing information about the sights?
Minimal. The crew is polite but doesn’t provide detailed commentary, so don’t expect a guided cultural tour.

Is this experience suitable for children or families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable in the water and don’t mind a relaxed boat trip, this could be enjoyable for families.

To sum it up, this cruise is a wonderful choice for laid-back travelers who want to soak up Rhodes’ beauty without a packed schedule. Its affordability, stunning coastal scenery, and ample swimming time make it a worthwhile outing — just keep in mind the slow pace and limited guided commentary. Whether you’re a snorkeler, sunbather, or simply a lover of scenic boat rides, this tour offers a genuine taste of Rhodes’ coastal charm.