A day at sea beats beach-jockeying every time. This Rhodes east coast bay-to-bay boat trip strings together several of the island’s best swimming spots, with a real Greek buffet lunch built in. I like the pacing (short hops between bays, plus one longer beach stretch) and the fact that you get both rocky swims and sandy time. One heads-up: the day is a group schedule and it is not for non-swimmers, so plan your swim comfort before you book.

You’ll meet at Mandraki Port early, then head out around the medieval-town coastline and keep stopping for short swims, ferry rides, and sun time. With a 4.6 rating from 35 reviews, this is the kind of tour where the main payoff is practical: time in the water, not museum time.

Key Things to Know Before You Go

• Bay-hopping route on a Rhodes east-coast loop with multiple ferry legs, so you see the coast from the sea.
• Anthony Quinn Bay gives you a first, emerald-water swim stop with wildlife-rich rocky shallows.
• Tsambika Bay is your big moment: about 2 hours, including access to the 800-meter golden-sand beach and lunch.
• Afandou is cave time, with you exploring the cave area from the water rather than doing a land walk.
• On-board food is included, drinks are not—you get a Greek buffet, but you’ll buy sodas/other drinks separately.
• Large group, big boat (about 280 people across 3 decks), so expect a lively day with plenty of sunbathers.

Morning Setup at Mandraki Port: Where to Meet and How the Day Starts

The experience begins at Mandraki Port in Rhodes Town (Elefterias Avenue), right by the fountain outside the Church of the Annunciation (Evaggelismos). A Manos Going staff member waits for you there with a red sign and logo, and they’ll hand out what you need once you show your booking confirmation.

Try to arrive by 8:30 AM so you can get your boarding cards and a map without rushing. The actual departure is scheduled for 09:00 from the port, so getting there early is the easiest way to keep the morning calm.

Pickup is optional but available from several areas (Ialyssos, Ixia, Rhodes Town, Kallithea, and Faliraki). If you’re using pickup, your pickup window is scheduled between 7:30 AM and 08:15 AM, depending on where you’re staying, so you’ll get a precise time from the provider.

From Port to the First Swim: Ferry Time and Coastline Views

Once you’re aboard, you’ll spend about 1 hour on the ferry as you work your way along the coast. This is the part of the day where you’re mostly sitting back, taking in the big-picture views, and letting the sea air wake you up.

You’ll also get your first real taste of Rhodes Town from the water—useful if you plan to explore on land later. If you like photos, this is the window to shoot before the day turns into swim logistics.

Then the schedule shifts into the rhythm that defines the whole trip: short transit, then short swim, then sun time.

Anthony Quinn Bay: A Quick 30-Minute Swim in Emerald Water

Your first named swim stop is Anthony Quinn Bay, with about 30 minutes in the water. This is known for crystal-clear emerald waters and a sheltered rocky beach—exactly the kind of place where you can do a short swim without it turning into an all-day slog.

The water here is described as rich with marine life, including fish and sea urchins, plus coral formations. Even with a limited swim window, it’s the kind of stop where you can spend your time looking down (and not just floating).

Practical tip: since the stop is short, keep your towel and essentials easy to reach. You’ll want to be sunscreen-ready and in your swimsuit before boarding if you can.

Tsambika Bay Beach Time: The 2-Hour Swim Window Plus Lunch

If there’s one stop that matters most, it’s Tsambika Bay. You’ll get about 2 hours here, and you can swim and also spend time near the 800-meter-long fine golden sand beach.

This is where the day shifts from rocky, wildlife-focused swimming to something more beach-friendly. If you want the classic sun-and-swim combo—sand underfoot, easy lounging, and calmer swimming areas—this is the moment to do it.

Lunch on the boat

After swimming, you’ll eat a buffet lunch aboard the boat. The included menu is straightforward Greek comfort food, including:

• tzatziki and Greek salad
• oven-baked potatoes
• moussaka
• pasta with red sauce
• beans
• beef steaks and chicken

What I like about lunch here is that it’s part of the day flow. You don’t have to find a restaurant, and you don’t have to lose another chunk of daylight.

Do note: beverages aren’t included. There’s a snack bar on board, so you can buy drinks separately if you want something cold while you’re eating.

Afandou Caves: Rocky Beach Stop with a Cave You Explore From the Water

After Tsambika, you’ll take another ferry ride (about 30 minutes) and then arrive at Afandou. This stop is described as a rocky beach and bay with time to explore the outstanding cave directly from the water.

You’ll have about 30 minutes here, which means you should be ready to move quickly. If you’re hoping for a long, slow exploration, the time window won’t do that—but it’s enough to experience the cave approach and get the view from the water level.

Because you’re dealing with cave-like areas and rocky edges, it’s worth paying attention to where you’re entering the water and how footing looks. This is one of those stops where being comfortable in the water matters more than you might think.

Kallithea Bay: Final 20-Minute Swim and Sunbathing Before Return

Your last named stop is Kallithea Bay. You’ll have about 20 minutes for a final swim or to relax and sunbathe on the boat.

This short stop is a good way to end the day without dragging it out too long. After that, the schedule returns you to Rhodes around 17:00.

The practical value here: you get one last hit of Mediterranean water and then you’re back before the evening gets too demanding. If you like dinner plans afterward, this timing keeps you flexible.

Price and Value: What $68 Really Covers on a Full-Day Sea Day

At $68 per person, the value mostly comes from what’s bundled: transport, boat time, multiple swim stops, and a full Greek buffet lunch. You’re not just paying for views—you’re buying a structured day that hands you time in several bays without planning ferries or coordinating stops yourself.

The price also makes sense when you factor in the day length—8 to 9 hours in total—and the fact that you’re doing multiple locations along the east coast. If you tried to DIY this, you’d likely spend more on separate transport and still lose time to logistics.

One thing to keep in mind for budgeting: drinks and snacks beyond lunch aren’t included. Since there’s a snack bar on board, it’s easy to grab water or soda, but you should expect extra spending.

On-Board Reality Check: Size, Comfort, and What Included Actually Means

This boat seats about 280 passengers across 3 decks. That’s big enough for a lively group atmosphere, but not so big you feel lost. You’ll also have access to basic onboard facilities, including WC.

Because it’s a full group format, you’ll want to be flexible about how quickly people move during swim transitions. The day is built around stops with defined time windows, so the best strategy is to stay ready rather than waiting for the perfect moment.

Included basics for families

If you’re traveling with small kids, pool noodles and life jackets are included. If you’re a grown swimmer, you’ll still likely appreciate the fact that life vests aren’t something you have to hunt for yourself.

What to bring (so you’re not stuck)

The essentials are simple and should be non-negotiable:

• swimwear
• towel
• sunscreen

If you hate sand in your bag, keep a small waterproof pouch handy. The Tsambika beach stop is the one most likely to make things messy.

Who This Trip Fits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This tour is best for you if you want a full-day sea plan with organized stops and you’re comfortable swimming in the Mediterranean. You’ll get a mix of rocky-bay swims and a longer beach window, so it works for different swim styles.

It’s a tougher match if any of these apply:

• Non-swimmers: not suitable.
• Pregnant women: not suitable.
• Wheelchair users: not suitable.

If you’re traveling as a couple, a friend group, or solo, the itinerary is simple enough to enjoy without needing a private guide. If you want a more tailored version, private group options are available.

Should You Book This East Coast Bay-to-Bay Boat Trip?

I’d book it if you’re spending your Rhodes time on the active side—more water, fewer missed connections, and a built-in lunch. The mix of Anthony Quinn Bay, Tsambika’s 2-hour beach window, Afandou caves, and Kallithea’s final swim gives you variety without you having to plan it.

Skip it if you want a slow, flexible beach day, or if you’re not comfortable swimming for short stints at rocky stops. Also, if you’re the kind of traveler who forgets sunscreen until the last minute, this day will punish you—bring it and apply early.

If your goal is to get the east coast’s signature bays in one shot, this is a solid use of a full day.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point?

You’ll meet at Mandraki Port (Elefterias Avenue) in front of the fountain outside the Church of the Annunciation (Evaggelismos). Look for a red sign with the Manos Going logo.

What time should I arrive?

You can arrive at 8:30 AM. The boat departs from the port at 09:00.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A buffet lunch is included on the boat, served during the Tsambika Bay portion of the day.

Are drinks included with lunch?

No. Drinks aren’t included, but you can buy beverages from the snack bar on board.

How long is the trip?

The duration is 8 to 9 hours. Starting times can vary, so check availability for the exact schedule.

Do I get pickup from my hotel?

Pickup is available from several areas including Ialyssos, Ixia, Rhodes Town, Kallithea, and Faliraki. Pickup is scheduled between 7:30 AM and 08:15 AM, depending on where you’re staying.

What are the swim stops and how much time do you get?

You’ll have: Anthony Quinn Bay (30 min), Tsambika Bay/Beach (2 hours), Afandou Beach (30 min), and Kallithea Bay (20 min).

Does the tour include time to explore Afandou caves?

Yes. At Afandou Beach, you’ll have time to explore the cave directly from the water during the stop.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers or wheelchair users?

No. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers, and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. It’s also listed as not suitable for pregnant women.