Rhodes Sunset Cruise – Swim and Dine with Live Music & Sunset
Imagine spending an evening aboard a traditional Greek boat, watching the sun dip into the Aegean Sea, with the smell of grilled food in the air and soft guitar music floating over the water. This is exactly what you’ll experience on the Rhodes Sunset Cruise with the boat “Romantika Dreams.” For about three hours, you’ll visit some of Rhodes’ most scenic spots — Kalithea Springs Bay for swimming, and the illuminated Old Town walls for a nighttime view — all while enjoying a Greek buffet, local wines, and live entertainment.
What draws many travelers to this cruise? First, the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kalithea Springs Bay, a lovely setting famous for its natural beauty and historical architecture. Second, the evening sunset over the sea, perfectly timed with the relaxing sounds of a live guitar band, making for a memorable and romantic scene. A third highlight is the overall value — for just over $50 per person, you get a generous dinner, drinks, swimming, and a scenic cruise in Rhodes’ iconic waters.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the cruise can be windy, especially in the evening, which might make some travelers wish they brought a jacket. Also, note that this experience doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to meet at the designated port. Still, if you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic, and authentic Greek evening, this cruise hits the right notes for most.
This tour is especially suited for those who love a blend of nature, culture, and good music, plus travelers eager for a laid-back yet lively experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just wanting a memorable way to end a day in Rhodes, this sunset cruise offers a taste of Greek hospitality at its best.
Key Points
- Stunning Views: The cruise offers spectacular sunset vistas over the Aegean Sea, perfectly complemented by live guitar music.
- Authentic Experience: Enjoy Greek dishes, local wines, and friendly staff that make you feel genuinely welcomed.
- Swim & Snorkel: Kalithea Springs Bay provides a beautiful spot for swimming, with snorkeling gear and floats included.
- Evening Atmosphere: The illuminated Old Town walls and harbor views make the night cruise especially romantic and photogenic.
- Great Value: For around $56, you get swimming, dinner, drinks, and live music in a relaxed setting.
- Weather Considerations: It operates in all weather conditions, but wind might be noticeable, so dress comfortably.
The Experience in Detail
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Booking and Arrival
Booking the Rhodes Sunset Cruise is straightforward, with most guests reserving about three weeks in advance — a sign of its popularity. The tour operates from the Nea Agora port, at the Mandraki Port, near the medieval fortress of Saint Nicholas. You’ll need to arrive at the meeting point with your mobile ticket, as there’s no hotel pickup included. The boat, “Romantika Dreams,” is a traditional vessel that feels cozy yet spacious enough for about a hundred people, fostering a friendly, social atmosphere.
Itinerary Breakdown
The Old Port of Rhodes – The cruise begins here, giving you a chance to see the medieval fortress and the spot where the Colossus once stood. It’s a good photo op and sets the tone for a journey blending history and scenic beauty.
Kalithea Springs Bay – The first major stop, about 45 minutes from the start, is at this famous spot. Not only is it known for its natural beauty and historic architecture, but it’s also a perfect swimming location. The crew anchors the boat here for 30 minutes, giving you ample time to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat’s sun loungers and comfortable incliners. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the clear water and the chance to cool off after a hot day.
The Sunset – After the swim, the boat departs for a scenic cruise in open water, heading toward a prime position to see the sun set into the sea. The timing is perfect: you’ll be in a calm, unobstructed spot, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink. The view from the boat is stunning, especially with the Old Town lit up as a backdrop.
Dinner & Live Music – As the sun sinks, a Greek buffet is served. Expect a variety of traditional dishes, including vegetarian salads and spicy tzatziki, as seen in positive reviews. The included white and rosé wines are well-received, and the optional happy hour bar offers beer, Aperol, and signature cocktails made with local spirits like Masticha and Ouzo. The live band then kicks in, starting softly and turning more upbeat as the night progresses. Reviewers consistently praise the talented guitar player and the spontaneous singing sessions that bring everyone together.
Night Cruise & Old Town Views – On the way back, the boat cruises along Rhodes’ harbor walls, passing the illuminated medieval Old Town, Mandraki, and Akantzia ports. The night views are particularly beautiful, with the reflections shimmering on the water. Multiple reviews mention how special it feels to see Rhodes at night from the water — a view that many don’t get to experience otherwise.
What Travelers Love About This Tour
From detailed reviews, it’s clear that the live music truly makes this experience stand out. One guest said the guitarist’s performance “made everybody want to sing,” turning the cruise into a friendly, communal party. The swimming stop at Kalithea is another highlight, described as “beautiful” with clear water, floats, and snorkeling gear provided, giving you a true escape into nature.
The dinner buffet consistently earns praise for its variety and quality, with many reviewers mentioning the delicious Greek dishes and generous portions. Plus, the included wines and the availability of drinks at happy hour prices add to the relaxed, festive vibe.
The scenic sunset is another favorite, with many describing it as “brilliant,” “amazing,” and “unforgettable.” Even if weather conditions aren’t perfect, the cruise’s atmosphere and live music tend to elevate the experience, according to reviews.
Considerations and Practical Tips
While most travelers have a fantastic time, a few points are worth noting. The cruise operates in all weather conditions, so if it’s windy or cloudy, the sunset might be less vibrant. Packing a light jacket or sweater is advisable, especially since it can get breezy at sea in the evening.
Since hotel pickup isn’t included, plan to meet at the port on time. The cruise length is about 3 hours, so it’s a manageable evening activity — not too long, but enough to relax and enjoy without feeling rushed. The group size maxes out at 100 travelers, ensuring a lively, social atmosphere but still allowing for some personal space.
Planning evening activities? Here are other after-dark options we've examined in Rhodes
- Private Sunset Sailing Trip from Rhodes City
- Lindos by Night Trip from Rhodes Town, Ixia, Ialyssos, and Faliraki
- Faliraki Sunset Cruise with Unlimited Aperol Spritz, Beer & Wine
- Sunset Cruise with a Swimming Stop at Kalithea Bay
- Faliraki: Evening RIB Cruise with Champagne and Sunset Views
- Private daily Cruise or Sunset for Swimming Max 11 persons
Who This Tour Is Best For
This cruise suits travelers who appreciate scenic views, good food, and a lively atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples seeking romance, friends wanting a fun evening, or solo travelers looking to mingle. If you love music, authentic Greek dishes, and stunning sunsets, this is a memorable way to end a day in Rhodes.
It’s also well-suited for those who want a relaxed, all-in-one experience — swimming, dining, and sightseeing, all in one trip. While it’s not a full-day tour, the combination of natural beauty and cultural touches makes it feel like a genuine slice of Greek life.
FAQ
- What is the cost of this cruise? It’s approximately $56.17 per person, offering a good balance of value and experience.
- Does the tour include hotel transfers? No, you’ll need to meet at Nea Agora, Mandraki Port. No pickup or drop-off service is provided.
- Is this tour suitable for children? The reviews suggest most travelers can participate, but since it involves swimming and being on a boat, children should be comfortable with those activities.
- How long does the entire experience last? About 3 hours, from start to finish, including swimming, dining, and the sunset viewing.
- What should I wear? Dress comfortably for warm weather, but bring a jacket or sweater for the evening wind.
- Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the departure, so you can plan with confidence.
- Are drinks included? White and rosé wines are included, and drinks are available at happy hour prices. The bar offers beer, Aperol, and signature cocktails.
- What is the quality of the food? The buffet includes Greek dishes, with many reviews praising the variety and tastiness, including vegetarian options.
- Is there snorkeling equipment available? Yes, snorkeling gear is provided along with floats, making the swim at Kalithea more enjoyable.
To sum it up, the Rhodes Sunset Cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic Greek experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural touches, and lively entertainment. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxing yet engaging evening, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, good food, and memorable music. If you value a friendly atmosphere, beautiful views, and a taste of Greek hospitality, this cruise is a solid choice — especially if you’re looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
More Evening Experiences in Rhodes
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Rhodes
- Private Coast to Coast Sailing Trip from Rhodes City
- Rhodes: Sunset Cruise with Live Music, Wine & Greek Buffet
- Rhodes: Pleasure Cruise for Swimming and Snorkeling
- Boat Rentals without Licence from Faliraki Rhodes
- Shared Day Cruise from Rhodes City to Afantou via Kallithea and Anthony Quin
- Rhodes Town: Scenic Cruise to Lindos with Swim Stops
More Tour Reviews in Rhodes
- Private Tour: Best of Rhodes in one day (Full Island Tour)
- Private Coast to Coast Sailing Trip from Rhodes City
- Rhodes: Sunset Cruise with Live Music, Wine & Greek Buffet
- Winery Tour, Tasting and cooking with the Winemaker in Rhodes
- Private Parasailing at Rhodes Elli Beach
- Land Rover Safari in Rhodes North Route
More Rhodes experiences we've covered
- Rhodes: Sunset Cruise with Live Music, Wine & Greek Buffet
- Winery Tour, Tasting and cooking with the Winemaker in Rhodes
- Private Parasailing at Rhodes Elli Beach
- Land Rover Safari in Rhodes North Route
- Rhodes: Pleasure Cruise for Swimming and Snorkeling
- The Best of Rhodes – Private Beach Excursion
- Rhodes Self Drive 4×4 Safari Adventure – North pick ups
- PRIVATE RHODES TOUR + Lunch Stop & WINE/OLIVE OIL Tasting
- Small Group Hiking from Salakos to Profitis Ilias
- Boat Rentals without Licence from Faliraki Rhodes
- Private Wine Tasting Under the Guidance of a Sommelier in Rhodes
- Shared Day Cruise from Rhodes City to Afantou via Kallithea and Anthony Quin