Rhodes: Boat trip to Lindos with Swimming Stops

Rhodes: Boat Trip to Lindos with Swimming Stops — A Complete, Honest Review

When considering a day out in Rhodes, a boat trip to Lindos with swimming stops offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, historical exploration, and relaxed beach time. For $62 per person, you’ll spend about 8.5 hours on the water, enjoying a comfortable cruise along Rhodes’ east coast, with the chance to explore Lindos village, its Ancient Acropolis, and two of the island’s most breathtaking bays—Anthony Quinn’s and Tsambika.

What immediately appeals is how this trip balances sightseeing with leisure. First, you get a scenic boat cruise that showcases Rhodes’ stunning coastline and iconic bays. Second, the free time in Lindos allows you to wander through winding alleyways, soak up the atmosphere, or simply relax on the golden beaches.

One of the tour’s strengths is its well-organized itinerary, which ensures you make the most of every stop without feeling rushed. The friendly guides and efficient crew help make the day seamless and enjoyable. However, a potential consideration is that the lunch and drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for meals during your free time in Lindos or bring snacks for the boat.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of scenic boat rides, cultural sights, and beach relaxation. It’s especially appealing if you want a cost-effective way to see Lindos and its surroundings without renting a boat or organizing your own transport. If you enjoy authentic villages, scenic swimming, and a relaxed pace, this trip is likely to fit well with your travel style.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic cruise showcasing Rhodes’ east coast and iconic bays.
• Time in Lindos to explore the Acropolis and charming village streets.
• Swimming and snorkeling stops at Anthony Quinn’s Bay and Tsambika Bay.
• Flexible options for transfer and meals, with emphasis on self-guided exploration.
• Friendly staff and well-organized itinerary making for a smooth day.
• Value for money compared to private tours or self-organized trips.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Pickup Options

Most travelers will head to the meeting point at Gallias Street, next to the Benetton shop at Mandraki Harbor, arriving between 08:10 and 08:20 am for check-in. If you prefer hotel pickup, you can book an option that includes it, but if not, the starting location is straightforward and easy to find. This early start means you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful morning on the water.

The 30-Minute Coach Ride

The journey begins with a short bus transfer that takes you from your hotel or the pickup point to the harbor. This is a good moment to get some last-minute info from your guide or simply relax and anticipate the day ahead.

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The Boat Cruise — 2 Hours of Scenic Views

Once aboard, the scenic cruise begins, lasting about two hours. The boat is described as comfortable, with plenty of seating both inside and outside, so you can choose to sit in the sun or shade. The route along the east coast offers beautiful vistas of the rugged shoreline, beaches, and bays.

This segment offers an excellent opportunity to take photos, enjoy the sea breeze, and get a sense of Rhodes from the water. Several reviews mention the friendly staff and efficient service, making this part of the trip smooth and enjoyable.

Exploration of Lindos — 3 Hours

The highlight for many is the free time in Lindos, which allows about three hours to explore at your own pace. You might opt to visit the Ancient Acropolis, perched high above the village, offering stunning views and a glimpse of history. Entry costs approximately €20, slightly more than the €10 advised on the boat, so keep that in mind.

Wandering through Lindos’ narrow cobbled streets, lined with whitewashed houses, local shops, and cozy cafes, you can soak up the village’s authentic charm. Many travelers enjoy lunch at a rooftop restaurant, where they can savor local dishes while enjoying views of the bay below. The free time also allows for shopping or simply relaxing on the golden beaches—ideal for a quick swim or sunbathe.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Anthony Quinn’s and Tsambika Bays — 1 Hour

The return journey includes two swimming stops at the famous Anthony Quinn’s Bay and Tsambika Bay. These spots are praised for their crystal-clear water and spectacular scenery. Anthony Quinn’s Bay, named after the actor who loved the area, is especially popular with travelers for its secluded atmosphere.

The reviews mention that snorkeling here is fun, even if the marine life isn’t abundant, the clear water makes for a delightful swim. Expect calm, inviting waters perfect for cooling off after a busy morning exploring Lindos.

End of the Day and Drop-Off

The tour concludes with a drop-off at several locations, including Afantou, Theologos, Kolympia, or the original pick-up point. This flexibility helps travelers plan their evening without extra transfers.

Practical Considerations and Tips

What to bring: Pack comfortable shoes for wandering Lindos, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat. If you plan to snorkel, bring your gear or rent it locally. A change of clothes is advisable for after swimming or if you get splashed during the boat ride.

Food & drinks: Since meals aren’t included, enjoy your free time in Lindos for lunch. The village offers options from quick gyros to full sit-down meals with local flavors. Onboard, you can purchase drinks, which are said to be reasonably priced.

Timing: The early start helps avoid the heat and crowds, but it also means you’ll need to wake up a bit earlier. The tour duration makes it a full, yet manageable day, especially if you appreciate cruising and sightseeing.

Group size: While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a comfortable experience with friendly staff. The boat likely accommodates a moderate-sized group, making it lively but not overcrowded.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the friendly, helpful guides and crew, which makes a big difference in enjoying the day. Amanda noted that “transfers to and from the boat were great with a friendly driver”, emphasizing the smooth logistics. She also appreciated the scenery and the ease of swimming stops, which let her relax without hassle.

Isadora called the trip “very lovely”, and mentioned “two swim stops” and friendly staff, underscoring how relaxed and enjoyable the experience is. Olivia appreciated the comfortable boat and great views, and found Lindos “lovely”, though she mentioned that snorkeling might not reveal many fish but still offers “nice clear water.”

These reviews reinforce that the trip is well-organized, scenic, and perfect for those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and authentic village exploration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day with a balance of cultural sights and beach relaxation. It’s perfect if you want a cost-effective, well-organized way to visit Lindos without the hassle of self-organizing transport.

It suits those who value authentic village charm, beautiful bays for swimming, and a friendly atmosphere on the water. If you enjoy guided experiences with free time to explore, this tour offers plenty of flexibility.

However, if you prefer luxury amenities or gourmet meals, or want to avoid early mornings, you might consider other options. But for most, this tour hits a sweet spot of value, beauty, and convenience.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
You can choose an option that includes hotel pickup, but otherwise, you’ll need to meet at the Gallias Street office at Mandraki Harbor.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for Lindos, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sunhat, and snorkeling gear if you have it.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks aren’t included, but you’ll have free time in Lindos to enjoy lunch. Drinks onboard are available for purchase.

How long is the free time in Lindos?
You’ll have about three hours to explore Lindos, which is enough to visit the Acropolis, stroll the streets, or relax on the beach.

Can I snorkel at the bays?
Yes, snorkeling is included during the stops at Anthony Quinn’s and Tsambika Bays. The water is clear and calm, though marine life might be limited.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat features plenty of seating and offers both shaded and open-air options, making it comfortable for the entire day.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

Who is this tour best for?
It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with a mix of history, beach time, and beautiful views—great for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace.

Final Thoughts

A boat trip from Rhodes to Lindos with swimming stops offers a well-rounded day filled with stunning scenery, cultural sights, and relaxing beaches. The mix of a scenic cruise, free exploration of a picturesque village, and refreshing dips in crystal waters make it a strong choice for many travelers.

The value for money is evident, especially considering the included swimming stops and the scenic journey along Rhodes’ coast. The trip’s flexible options and friendly staff add to its appeal, making it accessible and enjoyable for a broad range of visitors.

If you’re after an authentic experience that combines nature, history, and local charm, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate casual exploration and outdoor activities, and want to leave with beautiful memories of Rhodes’ coast and Lindos’ history.

Enjoy your trip to Rhodes—whether you’re soaking up history in Lindos or swimming in the emerald bays, this boat tour promises a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: