Poseidon Submarine At Mandraki Harbor

Dive into Rhodes’ Waters with the Poseidon Submarine

Imagine gliding beneath the shimmering surface of the Aegean Sea, surrounded by colorful fish and historic ruins, without getting your hair wet. That’s exactly what a ride on the Poseidon Submarine offers. Starting from Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes, this 45-minute adventure costs around $17.29 per person, making it a surprisingly affordable way to see some of the island’s highlights from a totally unique perspective.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the air-conditioned cabin with giant panoramic windows offers a comfortable way to look underwater without any hassle. Second, the diver feeding the fishes right in front of your window adds a lively, almost surreal touch to the trip. Alternatively, we love how the boat’s route takes you past the Colossos of Rhodes’ former site, the Old Town walls, and Elli Beach—famous sights that gain a new charm when viewed from the water.

Of course, no experience is perfect. The main consideration? The 45-minute duration may feel a bit quick if you’re eager to explore more, but it’s enough to get a taste of Rhodes from the water. This tour works best for families, first-time visitors, or anyone interested in a relaxing, fun way to see the harbor and underwater life without the need to snorkel or scuba dive.

If you’re after a light, engaging activity that offers good value and memorable views, this submarine cruise is a solid choice. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy watching fish feedings or prefer a comfortable, guided experience over a more strenuous tour.

Key Points

• Affordable price point at just over $17 per person for a 45-minute cruise.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned cabin with 360° panoramic windows for underwater viewing.
• Ideal for families, first-timers, and those seeking a relaxed water experience.
• Unique opportunity to see Rhodes’ historic sites and underwater ecosystems simultaneously.
• Optional on-board drinks and souvenirs add to the fun, though they cost extra.
• Tour is well-loved for friendly guides and good value, with many reviews praising the diver feeding the fishes.

A Detailed Look at the Poseidon Submarine Experience

Starting Point: Mandraki Harbor’s Charm

The adventure begins at Pl. Eleftherias in Rhodes, right at Mandraki Harbor, a place bustling with boats, history, and lively cafes. The location itself paints a picture of Rhodes’ maritime character, and it’s easy to find thanks to nearby public transportation options. The meeting point is straightforward, with most travelers reporting a smooth check-in process.

The boat itself isn’t massive but feels just right for the group size—typically up to 50 travelers—offering a feeling of intimacy and shared wonder. Travelers are usually greeted with friendly staff who ensure everyone gets comfortably settled, especially important in a tour whose main appeal is the viewing experience below.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually See

The 45-minute cruise on the Poseidon Submarine is a carefully curated peek at Rhodes’ most iconic sights. The route includes:

• The site where the Colossos of Rhodes once loomed. While the giant statue no longer exists, the spot still hints at ancient grandeur.
• The walls of Old Rhodes, which outline the historic heart of the city, giving a sense of the island’s strategic importance through centuries.
• Mandraki Harbor, with its lively boats and bustling atmosphere.
• Elli Beach, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a contrasting view of serene sand and lively waters.
• The Tourist Harbor, bustling with activity and a hub for ferries and excursions.

The Underwater Experience: What Sets It Apart

Once you descend into the cabin, the magic begins. The large windows provide a 360° view of the underwater ecosystem, which is surprisingly vibrant and colorful. Expect to see schools of multi-colored fish swimming close to the windows—some reviews mention the diver entering the water to feed the fish, adding a lively touch as the fish gather and dart about.

The diver’s feeding show is a highlight for many, with travelers noting how the diver signals and invites viewers to watch the lively fish shoals. As Julia from a review put it, “Good fun seeing the fish shoals of underwater and the diver. Enjoyed the music,” highlighting that some onboard entertainment adds to the enjoyment.

Why We Love (and You Might Too) About This Tour

First, the value for money is impressive. For just over $17, you get a unique perspective on Rhodes that combines history and nature, plus the comfort of an air-conditioned cabin and a guided experience.

Second, the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the diver’s interaction earn praise from many travelers. We loved the way the diver made sure everyone could get a good shot of the fish and engaged with the crowd, adding a personal touch to the trip.

A possible drawback: the shorter duration of 45 minutes might leave some wanting more—especially if you’re eager to spend more time exploring or diving deeper into underwater ecosystems. Also, because the trip is weather-dependent, rough seas could lead to cancellations, though safety is clearly prioritized.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This submarine cruise suits families with children, thanks to its family-friendly nature and engaging underwater sights. It’s perfect for first-time visitors seeking a gentle, introductory experience of Rhodes’ waters and coastline. If you’re after an easy, fun, and highly visual activity that feels special but doesn’t require physical effort, this is a good pick.

Why This Experience is Worth Considering

Beyond the basic facts, what really makes the Poseidon Submarine stand out is how it offers an accessible way to explore the marine environment. For those who might not want to snorkel or scuba dive but still want an underwater adventure, this tour delivers.

The route past historic landmarks adds a cultural layer, making the experience both scenic and educational. Plus, the opportunity to feed the fish—something that consistently delights children and adults alike—is a memorable touch. It’s a relaxing activity that breaks up a busy sightseeing schedule and offers a different view of Rhodes.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, booked about 9 days ahead on average.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure smooth boarding.
• Bring your camera or smartphone—the underwater views and fish feeding are highly photogenic.
• Dress comfortably; the cabin is air-conditioned, but you may want a hat or sunglasses for the outdoor parts.
• If you like souvenirs, note that onboard merchandise is available for purchase, including photos and other keepsakes.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip, as poor sea conditions could lead to delays or cancellations, with full refunds if so.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing a quick but memorable glimpse of Rhodes’ waters and sights.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket guarantees skip-the-line access and the 45-minute cruise. Drinks, food, and souvenirs are available for purchase onboard, but not included in the price.

Is the submarine accessible for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The experience is suitable for families and those who prefer a comfortable, seated experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, making it suitable for children, especially with the diver feeding the fish.

What sights will I see from the submarine?
Expect views of the Colossos site, Old Town walls, Mandraki Harbor, Elli Beach, and the Tourist Harbor—both above and below the water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunglasses, and perhaps some snacks or drinks if you wish, as they’re available for purchase onboard.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations, but the company will offer a different date or a full refund if this occurs.

Final Thoughts

The Poseidon Submarine tour in Rhodes offers a relaxing yet engaging way to see the city from an unusual vantage point. The affordable price, combined with friendly staff and the chance to observe underwater life close-up, makes it a great value adventure for a broad range of travelers. It’s particularly well-suited for families, first-time visitors, and those wanting a calm, scenic activity that’s easy to fit into a busy day.

While it’s not an all-day excursion, the short duration is balanced by the quality of the experience—a captivating blend of history, scenery, and aquatic life that sticks with you. If you’re looking for a fun, hassle-free activity that offers great views and a bit of underwater magic, this submarine cruise is worth considering.

In essence, Rhodes’ Poseidon Submarine is a simple but charming way to see the city from the water and below, without the need to snorkel or dive. It’s a value-packed option that combines comfort, accessibility, and memorable sights—perfect for a quick family outing or first visit to the island.