Rhodes Town: Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views

Imagine floating 2.5 meters beneath the sea, inside a comfortable, air-conditioned cabin, while the vibrant marine life dances just outside your windows. That’s exactly what you get with the Rhodes Town: Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views. Running around 45 minutes, this tour offers a surprisingly affordable peek into the underwater ecosystems of Rhodes, combined with sweeping views of the historic port, Old Town walls, and iconic landmarks like the Colossus of Rhodes’ former site.

What stands out most about this experience? For many, it’s the opportunity to see the underwater world without getting wet, plus the chance to watch a diver feed the fish right outside your window. The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable crew, the stunning scenery, and the value for money — all at just under $17 per person. But, as with any short experience, some might find the cabin a little tight or the water slightly cloudy at times. Still, this tour suits those after a quick, family-friendly activity that combines sightseeing, marine life, and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Affordable and family-friendly experience that offers underwater views and scenic harbor sights.
• Expert crew and diver feeding the fish, adding an engaging element to the trip.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned cabin with panoramic windows for unobstructed viewing.
• Short but sweet tour perfect for travelers with limited time or those seeking a quick water adventure.
• Great for all ages, especially for those interested in marine life or wanting a different perspective on Rhodes.
• Not ideal for water lovers hoping for a long, in-depth exploration — it’s a brief snapshot.

An Overview of the Rhodes Submarine Experience

Whether you’re a history buff, a family with kids, or just a curious traveler, this submarine cruise offers a unique way to see Rhodes from a different angle. The departure from Mandraki Harbor is straightforward, with the vessel staying above water at all times while its hull dips just 2.5 meters below the surface. This setup ensures a safe, stable, and surprisingly smooth ride, especially given the short duration.

The crew, including expert guides and a diver, makes a point to create an engaging, educational atmosphere. They provide an audio guide in English and German, which is particularly handy for understanding the sights and marine life you’re observing. The onboard bar adds a relaxed vibe, allowing you to sip a drink while soaking in the views, ideal for families or groups looking for a casual outing.

What to Expect from Your Tour

Starting Point & First Stops

Your journey begins at Pl. Eleftherias, a central spot easy to find, especially with the help of the clear instructions and location maps provided. The cruise then takes you around Rhodes Harbour, giving you a chance to see the port of Mandraki, the site where the legendary Colossus of Rhodes once stood, and the Elli Beach. These sights are visible from the water, offering a different perspective compared to walking through the busy streets.

Scenic Views & Underwater Highlights

The main attraction is the underwater window—a large panoramic glass that allows you to see the marine environment as if you were floating in the sea. One reviewer described it as “wonderful views of the old town from the sea,” emphasizing how the water and the scenery combine to create a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere.

The Fish Feeding Show

A diver, whose name isn’t widely publicized but who clearly enjoys his job, descends into the water to feed the fish. This is often highlighted as a favorite part of the tour. One reviewer mentioned, “the diver went down to feed the fish, loads of colorful fish came right up to the window,” making it an exciting, interactive moment that appeals to kids and adults alike. Several visitors noted that the diver even filmed underwater scenes and uploaded them to Facebook, adding a fun, modern twist.

Onboard Experience

The air-conditioned cabin ensures comfort, even in the summer heat, and the 360° panoramic windows provide a nearly unobstructed view in all directions. Some reviews mention that music was played during the cruise, which, while setting a relaxed mood, sometimes made it tricky to hear the commentary clearly. For those who prefer quiet or natural sounds, this might be a minor annoyance.

Deck Access & Relaxation

If you’re someone who loves fresh air and open views, leaving the cabin to walk on the deck is recommended. You can enjoy the ocean breeze and perhaps snap some photos of Rhodes from the water, which is especially beautiful near sunset. The boat stays above water, so there’s no worry about getting soaked or rough waves, making it suitable for kids and older travelers.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Mandraki Harbour — The journey kicks off in the heart of Rhodes, offering initial views of the port area and the Old Town walls. It’s a good chance to get your bearings and spot landmarks like the Fort of Saint Nicholas.

Stop 2: The Colossus of Rhodes Site & Old Town Walls — As the boat moves along, you see where the famous statue once stood and the impressive fortifications. These sights are especially photogenic from the water.

Stop 3: Elli Beach & Tourist Harbor — You get a glimpse of the lively beach scene and the busy harbor full of boats and yachts, a perfect spot for photos or just enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Stop 4: Marine Life & Underwater Observation — The highlight for many: the diver feeds the fish, and you see a burst of colorful marine life swimming just outside the windows. Reviewers consistently mention loads of fish and the beauty of the underwater eco-system.

Stop 5: Scenic Return & Reflection — As the cruise wraps up, you’re taken back to the starting point, giving you time to reflect on the quick but memorable experience.

The Value for Money

At around $16.94 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the engaging underwater views, the expertise of the crew, and the fun of watching the diver feed the fish. Tour reviews repeatedly mention that it’s a “great value for the price” and “a quick but enjoyable activity”—especially suitable if you’re looking for a short, low-cost activity that still provides a memorable experience.

Some reviews did note that the water can sometimes be a bit cloudy, which might slightly limit visibility, but overall, most guests feel that the quality of the experience outweighs these minor drawbacks.

Who Would Enjoy This Cruise?

This submarine experience is ideal for families, especially those with children who love marine life and novelty. It’s also perfect for couples seeking a relaxed, scenic activity or solo travelers wanting a quick, fun water adventure. If you’re short on time but want to see Rhodes from the water and enjoy some marine life, this tour hits the mark.

It’s not suited for travelers looking for an extended or in-depth underwater exploration, nor for those seeking a dive or snorkel experience. But for a light, fun, and scenic overview of Rhodes’ harbor and underwater environment, this cruise delivers.

Final Thoughts

The Rhodes Town submarine cruise offers a surprisingly rich experience for its modest price. You’ll get a comfortable, scenic ride that showcases both the historic port and the lively underwater ecosystem. The friendly, knowledgeable crew and the diver feeding the fish add a personal touch that many reviews praise.

If you’re after a family-friendly activity with good value, memorable views, and a touch of marine magic, this tour is worth considering. It’s also a great way to see Rhodes from a different perspective without the hassle of long boat rides or complex arrangements.

While it’s a short trip—and some water visibility issues may occur—the overall experience is engaging and fun, making it an excellent addition to your day in Rhodes.

FAQ

Is the submarine cruise suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly activity and well-loved by kids for the fish feeding and underwater views.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it ideal if you’re short on time but still want a memorable water experience.

Does the tour include diving or snorkeling?
No, it does not include diving or snorkeling. The diver feeds the fish from the water, but the vessel stays above sea level at all times.

Are there any additional costs?
Drinks are available for purchase onboard, but personal expenses, such as extra beverages or souvenirs, are not included.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all travelers.

What language is the audio guide in?
The audio guide is available in English and German, providing informative commentary during the cruise.

In all, this submarine cruise offers a practical, fun, and scenic way to experience Rhodes from the water. It’s best suited for those wanting a short, engaging activity that combines history, marine life, and beautiful views—all at a reasonable price.