Rhodes: Full Day East Coast Bay to Bay Boat Trip with Lunch

Rhodes: Full Day East Coast Bay to Bay Boat Trip with Lunch offers a well-rounded way to enjoy the island’s coastlines from the water. For around $68, you’ll spend about 8 to 9 hours cruising past four of Rhodes’ most famous bays, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and savoring traditional Greek fare. If you’re after a combination of scenery, relaxation, and authentic cuisine, this tour delivers plenty of value—and a few considerations to keep in mind.

What we love about this trip is how it balances active swimming with leisurely lounging. The stops at Anthony Quinn’s Bay and Tsambika Beach are highlights, thanks to their extraordinary clear waters and beautiful settings. Plus, the included buffet meal, featuring moussaka, fresh salads, and other Greek classics, ensures you’re well-fed after all those swims. The boat itself feels spacious with plenty of deck room and amenities, making it easy to relax and take in the views.

One possible drawback is the schedule’s reliance on boat timings and weather conditions. The tour involves multiple ferry rides between stops, which can be a bit hectic if you prefer a slower pace or less transit time. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy active days with lots of swimming, are comfortable on boats, and love trying local food in a scenic setting.

If your idea of a perfect day includes exploring the coast, enjoying authentic Greek dishes, and making memories with fellow travelers, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s especially ideal for those who want a full-day experience but don’t mind the boat-based adventure. Families with children, water lovers, and those keen to see Rhodes from the water will find this tour particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Beautiful Bays: Stops at Anthony Quinn’s Bay, Tsambika Beach, Afandou Cave, and Kallithea Bay showcase Rhodes’ best coastal scenery.
• Swimming & Relaxation: Expect ample opportunities to swim, snorkel, or sunbathe in crystal-clear waters.
• Authentic Greek Lunch: A generous buffet featuring traditional dishes like moussaka, pasta, and fresh salads.
• Comfortable Boat: Spacious with three decks, life jackets, pool noodles, and onboard amenities.
• Flexible Scheduling: Starts around 8:30 AM, with a full itinerary of swims, sightseeing, and lunch.
• Group & Family Friendly: Suitable for many ages, with some accommodations like life jackets for small children.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This Rhodes boat trip begins early with pickup from various locations such as Rhodes Town, Ialyssos, Ixia, and Kallithea. Expect a seamless transfer to Mandraki Port, where your adventure on the water truly starts. From the moment you board, you’ll notice the boat’s spacious decks—ideal for catching the sun or simply enjoying the panoramic views. With a capacity of 280 guests spread across three decks, there’s plenty of space to spread out, socialize, or find a quiet corner.

The journey kicks off with a scenic hour-long ferry ride from the port, setting the tone with views of Rhodes’ medieval town walls and rugged coastline. It’s a gentle introduction that lets you settle into the rhythm of the day.

Anthony Quinn’s Bay: Crystal-clear waters and rocky beauty

Your first swim stop is in Anthony Quinn’s Bay, famously associated with the actor who fell in love with Rhodes. The water here is renowned for its emerald hue and sheltered rocky beach. We loved the way the cliffs tower above the water, creating a dramatic backdrop for swimming and snorkeling. The marine life is lively, with fish, sea urchins, and coral formations just beneath the surface. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way Anthony Quinn’s Bay felt like a hidden paradise, perfect for a quick swim and photo ops.”

Tsambika Bay: Golden sands and a Greek feast

Next, the boat heads to Tsambika Bay, where you’ll spend about two hours on the 800-meter-long sandy beach. It’s ideal for lounging, soaking up the sun, or swimming over to the shoreline to explore. The water here is calm and inviting, perfect for families or less experienced swimmers. The highlight, however, is the buffet lunch aboard the boat, featuring dishes like moussaka, oven-baked potatoes, pasta, and fresh salads. Many guests appreciated the quality and variety, with one saying, “The buffet was delicious and really hit the spot after so much swimming.”

Afandou Cave: A hidden water cave adventure

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Afandou’s rocky beach and explore its famous cave from the water. This spot offers a bit of an adventure, with visitors able to see the cave from the boat or take a short swim over to it. The cave’s unique features add a fun element to the trip, especially for those interested in geology or underwater sights.

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Kallithea Bay: The final swim and restful conclusion

Your last stop is Kallithea Bay, a sheltered cove ideal for a final dip or some sunbathing. The bay’s calm waters make it perfect for a relaxing end to your day. Many reviewers note that this is a peaceful spot to unwind before heading back to Rhodes.

The Return and End of the Day

The boat departs Kallithea Bay around 4:30 PM, with a short ferry ride back to the port. The journey wraps up around 5 PM, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights or explore Rhodes’ Old Town afterward.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $68 per person, which includes transportation from select locations, a buffet lunch, and basic equipment like pool noodles and life jackets for children. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase, so you might want to bring some euros along. The overall value lies in the combination of stunning scenery, multiple swimming stops, and a hearty Greek meal—all in a single day.

The scheduled start around 8:30 AM allows for a full day of activities, and the flexibility of optional pickup makes it easy to plan around your accommodation. The boat has amenities like a snack bar, WCs, and plenty of decking space, making it comfortable even during a longer day on the water.

It’s worth noting that the trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or non-swimmers, due to the nature of swimming and boat movement. But for those comfortable on boats and eager to explore the coast, it offers a rewarding adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value scenic coastal views, authentic Greek food, and active water fun. Families with children will appreciate the safety equipment and shallow bays, while solo travelers and couples can enjoy the camaraderie on deck and the beautiful scenery. It’s particularly good if you want a full-day outing that combines sightseeing, swimming, and dining without the hassle of planning each part yourself.

If you prefer a very relaxed, secluded day with minimal transit, you might find this itinerary a bit busy, but for most, it strikes a good balance. The multiple stops allow for plenty of personal time in the water, and the included lunch removes the need to hunt for a restaurant mid-day.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The activity begins with pickup between 7:30 and 8:15 AM, depending on your hotel location. You will receive the exact pickup time from the tour provider.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about 8 to 9 hours, beginning early in the morning and returning around 5 PM.

Are there options for those with specific needs?
The tour provides pool noodles and life jackets for small children, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or non-swimmers.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat for sun protection. Since snacks and drinks are purchased on board, bringing some cash might be handy.

Is the buffet lunch included?
Yes, a generous Greek buffet is served on the boat, with dishes like moussaka, salads, pasta, and oven-baked potatoes. Beverages are not included but are available for purchase.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

To sum it up, this Rhodes east coast boat trip combines the best of coastal scenery, engaging swimming stops, and tasty Greek cuisine into a well-organized day out. It’s suitable for active travelers who enjoy water-based adventures, scenic cruising, and authentic local flavors. Expect stunning views, lively marine life, and plenty of opportunities to relax in beautiful bays, all at a reasonable price point. Whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, or solo explorer, this tour provides a memorable way to see Rhodes from a fresh perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: