Rhodes: Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Gourmet Buffet & Open Bar

Rhodes: Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Gourmet Buffet & Open Bar

This boat tour along the coast of Rhodes offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Greek hospitality. For roughly six hours, you’ll sail on a traditional Caique, crisscrossing some of the island’s most beautiful bays while enjoying delicious local food, unlimited drinks, and plenty of swimming opportunities. At just $93 per person, it’s a surprisingly good value considering the quality of the experience and the variety of highlights packed into the day.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the thoughtful setup of reserved seating, which means no chaos or fighting for spots — you get comfortable, relaxed, and ready to soak in the scenery. The gourmet buffet with fresh ingredients, including seafood, is a big plus, making it more of a culinary experience than just a boat ride. Plus, the open bar serves wine, beer, cocktails, ouzo, and non-alcoholic drinks, so you can sip your way through the day in style.

A possible consideration is that you’ll need to swim to shore at each stop, so packing waterproof shoes or flip-flops and being comfortable with swimming is advisable. Also, since the day includes several stops, some travelers might prefer a more leisurely pace or want to focus on just a couple of spots.

This tour is perfect for those who love a mix of beautiful scenery, good food, and lively company, especially if you enjoy a well-organized experience with friendly staff. It’s suitable for first-time visitors, couples, or groups who want to see Rhodes from a unique perspective without sacrificing comfort.

This experience made our article of 15 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Rhodes (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Comfortable, reserved seating ensures a relaxed experience without overcrowding.
• Stunning coastal views and visits to iconic bays like Kalithea and Anthony Quinn’s Bay.
• Gourmet Greek buffet with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options tailored for diverse diets.
• Unlimited drinks including wine, beer, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options available throughout the cruise.
• Multiple swimming stops that offer snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing opportunities.
• Knowledgeable crew providing friendly service and a lively atmosphere.
• Possible swimming to shore at each bay, so prepare accordingly.
• Flexible booking options with pay-later reservations and full refunds up to 24 hours before.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Rhodes Boat Tour Experience

If you’re visiting Rhodes and craving a day on the water that combines scenic beauty with authentic Greek hospitality, this Romantika Day Cruise fits the bill. With a departure at 10 am from Mandraki Old Port, you’ll start your journey sailing along the scenic East Coastlines, passing notable sites like St. Nicholas Fortress, the Medieval Old Town, the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, and Fontana Grande. These views from the water give a different perspective of the city’s architecture and history, making it a satisfying start even before reaching the bays.

The Day’s Itinerary: From Coastal Sightseeing to Beach Relaxation

The cruise’s first stop is Kalithea Bay, famous for its seaside monument that blends nature, history, and architecture. Staying here for about an hour, you can swim in the clear waters, snap photos of the monument, or just relax on the deck with music and drinks. Many reviews emphasize how peaceful and beautiful this spot is, with travelers describing it as a “magnificent seaside monument” and a place to really unwind.

After Kalithea, the boat moves further south past Faliraki and Afandou, where the crew offers snacks, wine, and aperitifs — a perfect way to soak in the landscape while enjoying a drink. At Afandou, you’ll find Caves of Traganou, a stretch of beach with rocky outcrops ideal for jumping into the water or exploring the caves. This stop typically offers time for swimming, walking on the beach, and exploring, which many guests find both fun and refreshing.

The Gourmet Buffet and Onboard Service

Around lunchtime, the crew sets up an onboard buffet, prepared with fresh Greek ingredients by Chef Diamantis. The food includes traditional recipes and signature dishes, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the quality and freshness of the food, with many saying it exceeded their expectations. As one guest put it, “the buffet was very tasty and balanced,” and another noted that the lunch was filling and well-prepared.

Throughout the day, unlimited drinks flow freely. Whether you prefer local wine from Rhodes wineries, cold beer, signature cocktails, or non-alcoholic beverages, the open bar caters to every taste. Guests often remark on the friendly, attentive staff who keep glasses topped up and serve snacks and drinks at each swim stop, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere.

The Anthony Quinn Bay and Final Swim

The last big stop is Anthony Quinn’s Bay, famed for its striking rock formations and turquoise waters, made famous during the filming of “Guns of Navarone.” The boat anchors nearby for about 20 minutes, giving everyone a chance to swim, relax on the deck, or just soak up the views. Many guests describe this as the highlight, citing the crystal-clear water and the opportunity to jump off the boat into the sea as unforgettable.

Here, you might find yourself dancing, singing, or even learning the Greek Zorba dance, thanks to the lively crew. The atmosphere is often described as festive, with some guests noting that music and camaraderie make it feel like a floating Greek party.

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Practical Considerations and Tips

Since the boat stays anchored in each bay, swimming to shore is part of the experience. Pack waterproof shoes if you want to walk on rocks or explore caves. Also, bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel — even on cloudy days, the sun can be intense.

The reserved seating means you don’t have to fight for space; many guests mention that they loved the comfy deck pillows on top, where you can sunbathe or take in the scenery. This setup contributes to the relaxed vibe praised in reviews, like Diana’s comment about the “uncomplicated and relaxed” atmosphere.

While the price includes everything from food and drinks to snorkeling gear, it does not include hotel transfers, which are optional and at an extra cost depending on where you stay. It’s worth arriving a little early to secure a good spot, especially if you want to be at the front for the best views.

Why Travelers Love It

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly and knowledgeable crew, who go out of their way to make the day enjoyable. Many comment that the food and drinks are of a surprisingly high standard, with some saying the lunch exceeded expectations. The scenic stops and opportunities for swimming are praised as well, with some saying it was “the most amazing day” of their trip.

The balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing makes this tour appealing to a wide range of travelers — from families and couples to groups of friends. The flexible schedule and focus on comfort make it a hassle-free way to experience Rhodes’ coastline, especially if you want to skip the busy beaches and explore from the water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who values a well-organized, comfortable experience with a good mix of activity and leisure, this cruise suits you. It’s perfect if you enjoy beautiful scenery, quality food, and lively company, and if you don’t mind swimming to shore during stops. Travelers seeking a relaxing yet adventure-packed day will find this tour a great way to see Rhodes from a different perspective while indulging in Greek hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the cost of the tour?
  The tour costs $93 per person, including food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and reserved seating.

• How long is the cruise?
  The total experience lasts about six hours, from departure at 10 am to return around 4 pm.

• Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
  No, snorkeling masks, pool noodles, and swim aids are provided free of charge.

• Are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available?
  Yes, the gourmet buffet includes options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten sensitivities.

• What should I bring?
  Pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

• Is hotel pickup included?
  No, the tour starts at Mandraki port, but optional transfers are available at extra cost.

• Can I cancel the booking?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• What’s the best way to secure a good spot?
  Arrive early — it’s recommended to get there ahead of the 10 am departure to claim a front deck or preferred seating.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Yes, especially for families who enjoy swimming and outdoor activities, but children should be comfortable with swimming to shore.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes boat tour offers a thoughtful mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and comfort. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate good service, delicious food, and the freedom to swim in crystal-clear waters. The reserved seating, friendly crew, and stunning stops make it a standout choice for a memorable day at sea.

If you’re looking to see Rhodes from a different angle without sacrificing comfort or authenticity, this cruise delivers. It’s an experience that combines the best of Greek hospitality, scenic exploration, and carefree fun — perfect for making your holiday truly special.

Enjoy your trip on the water, and don’t forget your sunscreen!

You can check availability for your dates here: