Kolympia is a fantastic starting point if you’re looking to explore the surrounding Greek islands and coastlines. What sets it apart from other resorts is its proximity to both lively boat trips and peaceful swimming spots, making it a versatile base for travelers. We’re especially fond of the Rhodes All-Inclusive Day Cruise with BBQ & Unlimited Drinks for its lively atmosphere and the chance to snorkel in Anthony Quinn Bay. Plus, its reviews highlight the friendly crew, crystal-clear waters, and tasty food—all for a great price. If you want a quicker getaway, the Day Cruise to Lindos offers a perfect mix of exploring the charming village and swimming at stunning beaches. For those craving a high-speed adventure, the Speedboat to Symi Island guarantees a scenic ride and a chance to experience this picturesque island firsthand.
Before diving into the options, here’s a quick overview: from full-day cruises with multiple swimming stops to shorter trips focused on Lindos or Symi, there’s a tour to suit different interests and schedules. Each provides a unique way to enjoy the Aegean Sea and the area’s highlights—whether relaxing on deck, snorkeling, or exploring scenic villages. Now, let’s explore each in more detail.
1. Rhodes: All Inclusive Day Cruise with BBQ & Unlimited Drinks
At number one, this Rhodes All-Inclusive Day Cruise with BBQ & Unlimited Drinks offers a lively way to experience the island’s coastline. The Aphrodite Duchess sets sail for about 6 hours, providing a fun mix of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. What makes this trip stand out is the food and drink — a chef-made Greek BBQ, hot dog hour, and waffles on the return journey, plus an open bar with beer, wine, and soft drinks. It’s perfect for those who want a social day out with plenty of refreshments.
The cruise visits Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Bay, and Kallithea Springs — all spots with crystal-clear water to swim and snorkel in. Reviewers praise the friendly crew and good facilities, like the shower to rinse off saltwater. The itinerary includes stops for about an hour each, with enough time to enjoy the water without feeling rushed. The ship’s top deck offers plenty of space to sunbathe on bean bags, while shaded tables keep everyone comfortable.
This trip is ideal for travelers who want a lively, all-day experience with great food, drinks, and scenic swimming spots. It offers excellent value at $73 per person and has a 4.9/5 rating based on 1721 reviews. The only downside? It’s a full day, so it’s best suited for those ready for a lively social cruise.
Bottom Line: For a fun-filled, all-you-can-eat, all-you-can-drink day out on the water, this cruise hits the mark — especially if you love snorkeling and a lively atmosphere.
2. Kolymbia: Day Cruise to Lindos with 2 swimming stops
Next on our list is the Day Cruise to Lindos with 2 swimming stops, which offers a more relaxed, cultural experience. Departing directly from Kolymbia Harbour, the trip lasts about 6 hours and includes three hours of free time to explore the picturesque village of Lindos, with its narrow streets and ancient acropolis. The cruise also features two swimming stops at Tsambika Beach and Red Sand Beach, both renowned for their clear waters.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and beach relaxation. The ability to explore Lindos on your own makes it a flexible option. The boat departs conveniently from Kolymbia, and reviews commend the smooth operation and the well-organized schedule. The swim stops provide ample time to snorkel and relax in quiet, beautiful bays.
For those seeking a balance of culture and leisure without a hectic schedule, this tour offers excellent value at $41 per person. It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore Lindos at their own pace and enjoy two scenic swimming spots.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want to experience Lindos’s charm and enjoy relaxed swimming in two stunning beaches without a long day trip.
3. Kolymbia: High-Speed Boat to Symi Island & St George’s Bay
Number three is the High-Speed Boat to Symi Island & St George’s Bay, perfect for those looking for a faster, more exhilarating day. This 8-hour trip takes advantage of a speedy boat that zips across the sea, allowing plenty of time to explore Symi’s colorful harbor and architecture. The highlight is the stunning swim stop at St. George’s Bay, where the clear waters are ideal for a refreshing dip.
The trip is well-rated for its scenery, and the 3 hours allocated for exploring Symi gives enough time to wander or enjoy a local meal. During the day, you can try the famous Symi mini shrimps and local Ouzo, adding a taste of authentic regional flavor. The reviews highlight the smooth, scenic cruise and the unhurried way to experience Symi’s charm.
This tour works well for travelers who love a quick, high-energy adventure and want to see a less crowded, vibrant Greek island. The 4.9/5 ratings and glowing reviews confirm that the trip is both memorable and good value for the roughly $100–$120 price point.
Bottom Line: For those craving a fast-paced, scenic boat ride with plenty of time to explore a colorful island, this trip to Symi is a fantastic pick.
4. Kolymbia: All Inclusive Cruise to Stegna & Tsambika Beach
Fourth on our list is the All-Inclusive Cruise to Stegna & Tsambika Beach, which emphasizes relaxed swimming and soft drinks. This 3-hour cruise offers two beautiful bays — Tsambika Bay and Stegna Bay — perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. The host guides you to the best snorkeling spots, making it a good choice for underwater explorers.
Guests love the comfortable boat and the unlimited open bar, which includes beers, wine, and soft drinks. The cruise departs directly from Kolymbia Harbour, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby. The reviews mention how beautiful Lindos is and praise the crew’s friendliness. It’s a shorter trip, ideal for those with limited time but still wanting to escape to the water.
The price offers excellent value — with the added bonus of relaxing on a comfy boat while enjoying unlimited drinks. This trip suits travelers looking for a laid-back experience with swimming, snorkeling, and a chance to unwind.
Bottom Line: A short, relaxing cruise perfect for those who want to enjoy Rhodes’ best beaches with unlimited drinks, without a long day on the water.
5. Kolympia : Transfer & Cruise to Lindos with 3 Swimming Stops
Finally, the Transfer & Cruise to Lindos with 3 Swimming Stops offers a full 7-hour itinerary perfect for serious explorers. This trip features three swim stops at Navarone Bay, Agathi Beach, and Tsambika Beach, along with a 2.5-hour visit to Lindos.
The tour begins with a convenient pickup from over a dozen locations, including popular hotels and resorts. The boat then cruises to three swimming spots, each with its own character — from Navarone Bay’s rugged beauty to Agathi Beach’s sandy serenity. The time in Lindos is enough for sightseeing or a meal before returning.
The reviews highlight the smooth logistics and the variety of stops, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out. The trip is best for those who want maximum activity and sightseeing, with the option of relaxing in different settings.
For around a full day, this trip offers excellent value at a competitive price, especially considering all the stops and the included transfers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and exploring Lindos without rushing, with flexible pick-up options.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Kolympia, think about your priorities. If you love lively atmospheres with food and drinks, the Rhodes all-inclusive cruise fits the bill. For a more relaxed day exploring Lindos and the beaches, the Lindos cruise offers flexibility. For a quick, scenic trip with a splash of culture, the Symi high-speed boat delivers excitement and stunning scenery. If your focus is on swimming and snorkeling without fuss, the all-inclusive cruise to Stegna & Tsambika might be best. And if you want a comprehensive day with multiple stops and detailed sightseeing, the full-day Lindos transfer cruise has everything.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season. Consider the length of the trip, your activity level, and whether you prefer a lively social scene or a peaceful escape. Each of these options provides a different way to enjoy the beautiful waters around Kolympia.
In summary, whether you’re after an energetic day full of food and drinks, a cultural exploration of Lindos, or an adventure on the waters of Symi, there’s a tour for everyone. For a lively atmosphere and snorkel stops, the Rhodes Day Cruise is superb. If you want a balance of sightseeing and swimming, the Lindos cruise is perfect. For speed and excitement, the Symi trip wins. And for a relaxing day with unlimited drinks, the Stegna & Tsambika cruise is hard to beat. Whatever you choose, booking early will help ensure you get the best spot for your preferred experience.