Three swim breaks in one smooth day.

This 5.5-hour east-coast cruise from Rhodes strings together Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Springs with swimming, snorkeling, and a Greek lunch onboard on a traditional wooden boat. It’s the kind of day that keeps things simple: you show up, get your sea legs, and let the water do the talking.

I love the pacing. Each stop gets enough time to actually get in the water, not just pose and move on. I also like that lunch is a proper onboard buffet with vegetarian options plus fruits, and your included drinks keep the day feeling easy. One consideration: shade is limited, so if sunburn is your weakness, you’ll want to plan for it early.

Key takeaways before you go

• Three serious water stops with snorkeling gear provided for the swim times
• Unlimited drinks included with lunch and throughout the cruise (wine, beer, soft drinks, plus fruit)
• Onboard Greek buffet with vegetarian dishes, not just a snack
• Small-group feel for a cruise day, often around 18 people, so it doesn’t feel packed
• Theo (Theo/Theodore) as a standout host when the guide is available, with an energetic, hands-on vibe

Rhodes cruise in plain terms: what this day feels like

This isn’t a “look at the coastline from the bus” day. It’s a water-focused outing with a traditional wooden boat, calm route choices, and multiple chances to jump in. The best part is how the day is built around short goals: arrive, swim/snorkel, eat, repeat.

You’ll depart from the Mandraki area in the morning and spend the bulk of the cruise moving along the east coast of Rhodes, dropping anchor where the water looks good and staying long enough to make it worth the effort of changing into swimwear.

And yes, there’s a guide in English. People also mention Theo/Theodore by name in a positive way, which usually means you’re not left guessing what’s happening next.

Timing and route: Mandraki to Anthony Quinn, Afandou, and Kallithea

Here’s the rhythm you can expect for this 5.5-hour trip:

• Boat time on the water: You’ll have sailing stretches between stops (including short transition times).
• Anthony Quinn Bay: About 50 minutes for photos, visiting, and a swim/snorkel session.
• Afandou Beach: About 110 minutes—the long break where you can swim, snorkel, relax, and even try kayaking.
• Kallithea Springs: About 50 minutes for swimming in the clear water.

The timing matters because it keeps you from feeling rushed at the first bay and bored at the last one. You’ll also get lunch at the right moment—after the first swim, before the final water stop.

Anthony Quinn Bay: emerald water, snorkeling gear, and time to breathe

Anthony Quinn Bay is the headline stop for a reason. The water is described as emerald and the surrounding vegetation looks lush from the boat, so even if you just want to hang out on deck, it’s scenic.

What you’ll actually do with your time:

• A photo stop / sightseeing moment as you arrive.
• About 50 minutes where you can swim and snorkel with provided equipment.

This is also where the snorkeling can feel most worthwhile, since the stop is built for it instead of being an afterthought. If you want to feel confident in the water, this is the best place to start your day with your gear on and a calm entry. The boat also provides floats in practice (mentioned in recent experiences), which helps if you’re not the strongest swimmer.

Practical tip: if the boat has open deck space, stake your spot early. Even a “relaxing” bay turns into a rush to get in the water when everyone else does.

Afandou Beach: the longest swim break, plus kayaking options

Afandou Beach is where the day turns into a real break. You’re there for about 110 minutes, which is long enough to settle in instead of doing quick jumps.

You can expect:

• Swimming and snorkeling again with gear provided.
• Some people choose to kayak during the time here.
• A photo stop / free time plus extra downtime to just float and relax.

This stop also pairs nicely with lunch later, because you’ll go from “active water time” to “food time” without feeling like you missed the main meal. It’s also the stop where many people seem happiest just sitting in the sun with a drink in hand, watching the water.

One small drawback to watch: the longer you’re stationary, the more you’ll miss shade. Plan to use sunscreen well, and consider where you’ll park yourself on deck.

Kallithea Springs: ladder access to clear blue water

Kallithea Springs is the final swimming stop, and it has a different vibe than the beaches. You’re looking at a long stretch of clear blue water with rocks and ladders that lead down into the sea.

You get about 50 minutes here for:

• Swimming and snorkeling with provided gear
• Free time and another chance to enjoy the views from the water

The ladder entry is a big deal for comfort. It makes getting in and out easier than searching for the perfect spot. If you’ve never snorkeled before, this can be a practical last stop because you already know what to do by then.

Practical tip: if you’re planning to snorkel in multiple bays, keep track of where you feel most comfortable. You don’t need to race your own skill level—just pick the moment when the water seems calm and your brain feels relaxed.

Lunch on board: Greek buffet with vegetarian choices and included drinks

Lunch is a major part of why this cruise feels good value. You’re not trapped waiting for food while the boat sits there; lunch happens after the first swim and before the last.

What’s included:

• Lunch buffet with vegetarian options
• Fruits
• Wine, beers, and soft drinks
• You can also find shower onboard facilities, which makes the whole day feel more comfortable when you’re done with the water.

The buffet format matters on a sea day. It keeps lines short and gives you options if you’re hungry in waves (sun + salt water can mess with timing). People also describe the lunch as better than expected for a boat trip, which matches the idea that they take the food seriously.

Drinks note: cocktails are mentioned as available for purchase separately, but your standard price already includes a steady flow of wine/beer/soft drinks.

If you like an organized day with food handled for you, this is the sweet spot. It’s not fancy dining, but it’s built for a fun day at sea.

Drinks and the Theo factor: service that keeps the day moving

The onboard crew experience is a big theme. People mention friendly, attentive staff, and several call out Theo/Theodore specifically as an exceptional host.

What that usually means for your day:

• You’re not stuck chasing someone for drinks or asking what happens next.
• The atmosphere stays relaxed, not chaotic.
• Even in choppy conditions, crew attention can make you feel taken care of.

One more small detail that adds up: there’s reportedly music on board that’s easy listening and not overpowering. That matters if you want to enjoy conversation and still hear what the guide is saying.

And if you’re someone who gets sea-sick easily: one recent experience mentions staff checking in and helping when the day felt choppy. You’ll still want to be smart—stay hydrated, eat early, and take it easy—but the crew seems ready to respond.

Where to sit on the boat (and why it matters)

A traditional wooden boat looks great on photos, but comfort is what counts. A common tip from recent experiences: try to get seats toward the front (often called the best view), and aim for the top deck area if you want direct sun and sightlines.

Also keep in mind:

• The boat can be sold out, so arrive early and claim your spot.
• If you’re prone to sunburn, look for any partial shade you can find, because deck coverage can be limited.

If you’re traveling as a couple, the small-group feel (often around 18 people) can make the day feel more like a private outing than a mass tour.

Price and value: is $70 a good deal?

At about $70 per person for a 5.5-hour cruise, the value comes from what’s included, not just the boat ride.

You’re paying for:

• Three swim stops (including snorkeling gear)
• A Greek lunch buffet with vegetarian options
• Fruits
• Wine, beer, and soft drinks included
• Shower onboard plus basic safety items like a first aid kit
• Free WiFi onboard (not everyone uses it, but it’s a nice perk)

When a cruise includes both food and drinks, the math changes fast. Without those extras, you’d normally spend a lot separately on a day by the water. Here, the “extras” are baked into the price.

The main tradeoff is what you provide:

• You’ll still need to bring swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Towels aren’t included.
• Cocktails aren’t included unless you buy them.

For most people, the included drinks and lunch make this feel like an all-in-one beach day that doesn’t require planning a route, renting equipment, or coordinating multiple taxis.

Who should book this cruise from Rhodes

This tour fits best if you want a relaxed day with real water time and minimal decisions.

It’s a great match for:

• Couples who want a scenic day without a lot of moving around
• Families and groups who like structured stops and included food
• Anyone who wants snorkeling without carrying their own gear
• People who prefer a smaller, more intimate vibe over big crowded catamaran energy

It might feel less ideal if:

• You want guaranteed shade and lots of lounging under cover
• You’re allergic to the idea of swimming and snorkel time as the core activity

Should you book it?

I’d book this cruise if your Rhodes plan includes a “do nothing but swim” day and you’d rather spend your time in the water than researching beaches. The included snorkeling setup, the three-stop structure, and the lunch + drinks combo are what make the $70 price feel fair.

Before you go, do two practical things:

• Bring a towel and sunscreen, even if you think you can improvise.
• Arrive a little early at the meeting point near Evangelismos Church, opposite Starbucks, by the Royal Sailing Rhodes desk, so you get your preferred spot.

If you’re the kind of traveler who gets annoyed by disorganized days, this one tends to run on schedule with attentive hosts, especially when Theo/Theodore is involved. If you want one solid day on the water near Rhodes Town, this is an easy yes.

FAQ

How long is the Rhodes cruise?

The experience runs for about 5.5 hours.

Where do I meet the group?

Meet next to Evangelismos Church, opposite Starbucks, at the Royal Sailing Rhodes desk.

What stops does the cruise include?

The cruise includes Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Springs.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is a buffet served onboard and includes vegetarian options, plus fruits.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Lunch comes with wine, beers, and soft drinks included in the standard price. Cocktails are available for purchase separately.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Do I need to bring a towel?

Yes. Towels are not included, so bring one.

What should I pack for the day?

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

Is there WiFi onboard and is the guide in English?

Free WiFi is available onboard, and the live tour guide speaks English.