Sailing Catamaran day cruise – Rhodes with lunch & drinks

Rhodes Sailing Catamaran Day Cruise with Lunch & Drinks: An Authentic Escape on the Water

Cruising along the coast of Rhodes on a private catamaran offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Greek scenery. For around $1,799.84 per group, you get a six-hour journey tailored to your preferences, with a maximum of 12 guests—meaning plenty of space, privacy, and flexibility. Led by a knowledgeable local skipper, you’ll visit iconic spots like Kallithea Springs Bay, Afandou Beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay, with plenty of time for swimming, lounging, and savoring delicious Greek food and drinks.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the flexibility to skip the crowds and set your own pace, and the chance to anchor in quiet bays away from the tourist hustle. Plus, the included lunch, featuring local mezedes (small dishes) paired with wine and beer, makes this outing both enjoyable and value-packed.

But be aware that transfers to and from your hotel aren’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. This cruise suits travelers who love intimate, customized experiences—especially families or groups who want to explore at their own speed and enjoy the calming beauty of Rhodes from the sea.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience offers freedom from large tour groups.
• Anchoring in quiet bays provides perfect swimming and relaxing spots.
• Includes Greek lunch and drinks, making it a convenient all-in-one day outing.
• Skipper with local insights enhances the experience with insider tips.
• Ideal for families and small groups seeking a relaxed, private day on the water.
• Weather-dependent, so good weather maximizes your enjoyment.

Exploring Rhodes by Catamaran: An Authentic and Flexible Day at Sea

Rhodes has a wealth of history and stunning landscapes, but sometimes the best way to really appreciate its beauty is from the water. This private sailing catamaran cruise offers a welcome escape from crowded land-based tours, giving you a chance to enjoy the coastline on your own terms. With a price of about $1,799.84 for up to 12 people, it’s an investment in a personalized, relaxed day that’s perfect for families, friends, or small groups wanting a more intimate experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the customized itinerary means you can skip the set schedule of traditional group tours. Instead, your skipper (who’s a local with insider tips) takes you to the spots you want to see, with plenty of time for dipping into calm bays or lounging on deck. Second, the inclusive food and drinks—delicious Greek mezedes, wines, beers, and soft drinks—turns this into a full-day feast on the water, no need to worry about finding a restaurant.

A possible drawback to consider: since transfers are not included, you’ll want to plan your transportation to the meeting point in Rhodes. Also, the tour is weather-dependent; poor weather might cause cancellations or rescheduling, but the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates. This cruise is best suited for travelers who are comfortable arranging their own transfers and who enjoy a flexible, private setting over a rigid, group experience.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows you to choose how long you linger at each stop.
• Swimming in quiet bays offers peaceful, scenic spots away from crowds.
• All-day drinks and Greek cuisine add to the relaxing, indulgent vibe.
• Local skipper’s insights help you discover hidden gems around Rhodes.
• Ideal for small groups or families wanting a relaxed, personalized adventure.
• Weather considerations are important; good weather means a better experience.

A Deep Dive into the Day’s Itinerary and Highlights

Kallithea Springs Bay — A Refreshing First Stop

Your day begins around 9:30 am at the meeting point in Rhodes. The first stop, Kallithea Springs, is famous for its beautiful bay and historic thermal springs. While entry isn’t included, the boat cruises past this scenic spot, offering a chance for a quick cool dip in the clear waters. The review from Luka highlights how this is a perfect refreshing dip to start the day—an excellent way to wake up and get into vacation mode. For many, the scenery around Kallithea is a visual feast, with lush greenery contrasting against the rugged coastline.

Afandou Beach — Swim and Discover Caves

Next, you’ll cruise toward Afandou Beach, where the boat drops anchor near the Afandou Caves. Here, you’ll enjoy a roughly one-hour swim stop. This is a quiet, less crowded spot—ideal for those wanting to escape the tourist trail. Luka mentions that there’s “enough time to chill,” which suggests a relaxed pace. While admission tickets aren’t included, the ability to drop anchor in these secluded waters means you can swim as long as you like in peaceful surroundings, with plenty of space for your group.

Anthony Quinn Bay — The Iconic Photo Spot

The famous Anthony Quinn Bay is next, known for its crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs. The boat will anchor here for about 40 minutes, giving everyone time for a swim and some memorable photos. Katherine describes it as “great,” especially with lots of room for her family, including children, to relax and enjoy the scenery. This spot is perfect for a dip in calm, inviting waters and taking in the dramatic coastline that has made this bay a favorite among visitors.

The All-Inclusive Experience: Food and Drinks on Board

One of the tour’s strongest points is the Greek lunch provided on the boat, paired with wine and beer during the meal. Soft drinks and water are available all day. This means you can sip your wine as you relax on deck or enjoy a cold beer after a swim. The mezedes—small dishes typical of Greek cuisine—offer a taste of local flavors in a casual setting, making the experience not just about sightseeing but also about savoring authentic Greek hospitality.

According to Luka, “the food and drinks were also nice,” which highlights the quality and value of this included meal. The all-day drinks service is a thoughtful touch, ensuring you stay hydrated and refreshed without needing extra stops or purchases.

Insider Tips from the Skipper

Your local skipper isn’t just there to steer the boat—they provide insider tips on the best swimming spots, quiet bays, and local points of interest. This personalized touch can elevate your experience, helping you discover hidden corners of Rhodes that larger groups or guided tours might miss.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

Duration and Group Size

With a six-hour window, this cruise offers ample time for swimming, lounging, and enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed. The group size of up to 12 ensures a personalized experience, balancing intimacy with enough company for lively conversation.

Cost and Value

While $1,799.84 might seem steep at first glance, when you factor in the private setting, included meals and drinks, and the customizable itinerary, it provides a significant value. Instead of paying for a large group tour with fixed stops, you’re paying for private time on the water tailored to your preferences.

Accessibility and Weather

Since transfers are not included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Rhodes’ meeting point. This is a minor inconvenience for some but worth considering if you’re staying outside the city center. The tour’s success is weather-dependent; clear, calm days will maximize your enjoyment, while poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, though full refunds are offered.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a private, relaxed day away from crowds. It’s excellent for families with children, small groups of friends, or couples wanting a special day on the water. If you appreciate authentic local experiences, like enjoying a Greek meal in a scenic setting, this trip hits the mark. It’s less suited for those who prefer organized large-group tours or are fussy about weather.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who want a personalized, comfortable, and scenic way to explore Rhodes, this sailing catamaran cruise offers a wonderful balance of adventure and relaxation. The chance to swim in tranquil bays, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, and benefit from local insights makes it a compelling choice.

While the price might seem high, the exclusive nature, customizable stops, and all-inclusive drinks and food provide a real sense of value. This experience is especially suited for those wanting to escape the crowds, savor the coastline at their own pace, and indulge in a luxurious yet authentic day on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the reviews mention families with children, and the relaxed pace and spacious boat make it suitable for kids. Just keep in mind that swimming stops depend on the weather, and parental supervision is needed.

Are drinks served all day?
Yes, soft drinks and water are available throughout the day, and during lunch, beer and wine are served.

What is the group size?
Up to 12 people, allowing for a private, intimate experience with plenty of room for everyone.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date.

Do I need to arrange transportation to the meeting point?
Yes, transfers are not included, so you’ll need to plan your own way to Rhodes’ starting location.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a towel for swimming. The boat provides soft drinks and water, but you might want personal snacks or extra sun protection.

How long are the stops?
Each stop varies between 35 and 60 minutes, enough time for swimming, relaxing, or exploring the surroundings.

This private sailing cruise offers a genuine taste of Rhodes’ coastline, unhurried and tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re after scenic swims, good food, or just a peaceful day on the water, it’s a memorable way to experience this beautiful island.