A boat day on Rhodes can be the easiest win. This cruise lines up three top swim-and-snorkel bays in about five hours, then feeds you with an included lunch and drinks. I love the mix of sun, sea, and comfort, especially the way the crew keeps the day moving without making it feel rushed.

You’ll get real time in the water at each stop, plus snorkeling equipment onboard so you can jump in with minimal fuss. One possible drawback: the swim windows are timed (about 50 minutes at each stop), so if you want long, slow beach hours, you’ll need to be ready for short bursts.

The staff—headed by host Theodore—run a tight, friendly ship. Just plan for getting on and off the boat via steps, and come early if you care about where you sit for the best views.

Key things I’d bet you’ll care about

• Three swim-and-snorkel stops that are spaced to keep the day fun and focused
• Unlimited drinks included (beer plus white and red wine, along with soft drinks and water)
• Snorkeling gear provided so you don’t have to pack flippers or extra kit
• Small-group feel with a maximum of 35 travelers
• Onboard comfort and basics like a restroom, shower, and WiFi
• The hosting style often led by Theodore and a crew that stays on top of needs

Rhodes Day Cruise route: 3 bays, 3 moods

This is built like a classic “see the coast, get in the water” day. You’re not doing big excursions from stop to stop; you’re mainly on the boat, then you drop anchor, swim, snorkel, and move on. The payoff is that you get turquoise scenery without the hassle of arranging separate beach visits.

The pacing is simple: roughly 50 minutes per swimming stop. That’s long enough to rinse off with saltwater, try snorkel time, and enjoy the beach vibe, but short enough that the boat always keeps the energy up. If you’re traveling with a mix of swimmers and non-swimmers, this works well because the non-swimmers still get scenery and drink runs, while swimmers get a real chance to use the gear.

You’ll also notice the practical side of the trip. Your stuff stays onboard while you’re in the water, and the boat has a shower and restroom, which makes the end of the day much easier than if you’re just hopping around on land.

Afandou Beach: lunch + the quietest swim session

Afandou Beach is the first anchor drop, giving you an easy start. You get about 50 minutes to swim and snorkel, with the bonus of a calmer, less-chaotic feel than busier spots. This is the part of the day where you can ease in—no pressure to rush your snorkeling, just get used to the water and enjoy the sun and sea air.

What makes this stop extra valuable is the lunch. You’ll have a buffet that leans local and vegetarian-friendly, and it comes with red or white wine. The menu is the kind of crowd-pleaser you can actually trust when you don’t want mystery food: Greek salad, tzatziki, olives, bread, plus mains like chicken, rice, pasta, and items like dolmadakia (stuffed grape leaves).

A small practical note: since this is stop one, you’re likely to feel hungrier early. If you’re the type who forgets to eat until you’re starving, this is a great time to let lunch catch you before the afternoon sun really cranks.

Anthony Quinn Bay: the postcard swim in the middle of the day

Then you’re heading to Anthony Quinn Bay, known for being one of Rhodes’s most impressive swimming areas. The transfer matters here: you’re doing this on the traditional wooden boat, so it feels like a proper day on the water rather than a quick shuttle.

Your time here is again about 50 minutes for swimming and snorkeling (snorkeling equipment is provided). This stop often hits a sweet spot because it’s long enough for you to settle into a routine—get your mask on, check out the shallows, then float or swim a bit further—without turning the day into one long waiting game.

If you’re looking for clear water and calm moments, this is a good target. Many guests call this their favorite stop, and it makes sense: it’s the kind of bay where the scenery stays front and center while you’re in the water, not hidden behind a crowded shoreline.

Kalithea Springs: last stop, clean water, easy finish

Kalithea Springs is the final swimming and snorkeling stop, with another 50-minute slot to make the most of the sea. By now you’ve usually found your rhythm—where you like to snorkel, how long you want to float, and when you want to just take it slow and soak up the views.

This is also a smart stop for photos because the light often stays good into the afternoon. You’ll want to leave a little room for that, because the day moves quickly once the boat gets back into its rhythm.

The big thing here is the “finish strong” feeling. You’re not ending with a dry, boring segment. You end with another clear-water swim chance, then you head back to the meeting point without needing to find your way across town or arrange transport again.

Food and drinks: what’s really included (and what to skip)

This is one of the strongest value points of the cruise. You’re not just getting a snack and a water bottle—you’re getting lunch plus snacks, with drinks topped up throughout the day.

Included drinks cover:

• Beer
• White and red wine
• Soft drinks (like cola-type drinks and citrus-flavored options)
• Bottled water, plus coffee/tea

On top of that, there are snacks such as fruit. In plain terms: you can eat and drink without budgeting your day drink-by-drink. That matters because a lot of “day cruise” pricing looks good until you add up what you’d normally buy on land.

What’s not included: cocktails are available for purchase separately, and flippers and towels aren’t included. If you already own a mask or fins, you can bring them, but the standard snorkeling setup is already provided—so you can travel light.

Onboard comfort: small touches that make the day easier

This cruise isn’t trying to be a luxury yacht, but it does get practical basics right. There’s a restroom on board, plus a shower, which you’ll really appreciate after swimming. WiFi is listed onboard too, so if you need to message home or check directions for the rest of your trip, you’re not totally cut off.

Seating is another underrated factor. The boat has space to sit comfortably, including areas where people tend to settle near the front for views. Since your time on board is the “in-between” of three swims, it pays to get a good spot so you’re not stuck where the sun or wind is annoying.

Also, there’s a maximum group size of 35 travelers. That’s big enough to feel social but small enough that the crew can keep an eye on everyone. The vibe stays friendly rather than chaotic.

Royal Sailing Rhodes meeting point: how to avoid the stressful part

The meeting point is Royal Sailing Rhodes, Pl. Eleftherias, Rodos 851 00, Greece, and the cruise departs at 10:00 am. The biggest advice here is simple: arrive early. People specifically recommend getting there at least 30 minutes before to grab better seats.

Why that matters: when you’re on a boat, your seat location affects everything—shade, sun, how easy it is to see the coastline during the transfer, and how comfortable you feel once you’re back from a swim.

Also pay attention to footwear. This is a boat day with steps to board and leave. If you prefer stable footing, wear shoes that handle wet decks and quick movement.

Is the $72.56 price a good deal?

For $72.56 per person, you’re paying for a bunch of “stuff” that usually costs extra on separate trips: the boat day itself, three included swim/snorkel stops, a lunch buffet, and unlimited drinks during the cruise.

If you were pricing this like a DIY day, you’d likely spend on:

• a guided boat or excursion
• entry/ticket costs for stops
• lunch near the marina
• drinks and snacks

Here, that bundle is the point. You’re paying for convenience and predictability. The all-in structure makes the day feel affordable because you don’t constantly decide whether it’s worth buying the next round of drinks or waiting until later.

One thing to keep your expectations grounded: because the stops are timed, you’re buying three good swim opportunities rather than one long beach day. If that trade-off suits you, the value is strong.

Who this cruise suits (and who might want a different plan)

This is a great fit if you want:

• A relaxed day at sea with clear, scenic swim stops
• Included food and drinks so you’re not tracking spending all day
• Snorkeling help without packing gear
• A smaller group and a crew that stays attentive

It may be less ideal if:

• you want long beach stays where you can spread out for hours
• you’re very sensitive to steps when boarding or getting back on the boat
• you need a totally quiet, slow day with no movement between stops

If you’re traveling with mixed interests—swimmers plus people who just want beautiful views—this format usually works because everyone gets something during every stop.

Should you book the Rhodes Day Cruise?

Yes, I’d book it if your ideal Rhodes day is simple: get out on the water, hit three swim spots, eat well, and drink what you want without doing math every hour. The biggest strengths are the combined snorkeling + included lunch + unlimited drinks, and the fact that the day stays well paced with a manageable group size.

Before you go, do two things that actually matter. First, arrive early for seat choices. Second, remember you’ll get about 50 minutes at each bay, so go in with a “swim, snorkel, enjoy, repeat” mindset.

If that sounds like your kind of day, this cruise is one of the most practical ways to enjoy Rhodes beyond the old town streets.

FAQ

What time does the Rhodes Day Cruise depart?

The start time is 10:00 am, and it returns to the same meeting point.

How long is the cruise?

The duration is about 5 hours 30 minutes.

What locations does the cruise visit for swimming?

There are three swim stops: Afandou Beach, Anthony Quinn Bay, and Kalithea Springs.

Is lunch included, and what kind of food is served?

Yes. Lunch is included on board and includes options such as chicken, rice, pasta, Greek salad, tzatziki, olives, and bread.

Are drinks included, and do they include alcohol?

Yes. Alcoholic beverages are included, including beer and white and red wine. Soft drinks, bottled water, and coffee and/or tea are also included.

What snorkeling gear is provided?

Snorkeling equipment is provided on board. Flippers are not included, and towels are not included.

Is free cancellation available, and what happens with bad weather?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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