Rhodes Bay to Bay Swim Cruise-Greek Buffet w/wine included

The best part of this Rhodes cruise is simple: you spend a long, easy day moving between three very different swimming spots, with lunch and wine waiting on board. The route begins at Mandraki Port, passes the Medieval City walls and the old site of the Colossus, then heads to Kallithea Springs, Afandou Beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay.

I like the mix of comfortable shaded seating and open-air sun spots, plus the practical extras: snorkeling masks, floaters, pool noodles, showers, and a clean bathroom. The Greek buffet and included white and rosé wine add real value at $71.38. The main drawback is that the sightseeing commentary appears limited, so you may want to read up on the Colossus and Kallithea before boarding.

Key points to know before booking

• Three swim stops: Kallithea Springs, Afandou Beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay each offer a different setting.
• Mandraki departure: Meet at Romantika Dreams Rhodes Day Cruise in Mandraki Port for the 10:15 start.
• Lunch and drinks included: Expect a Greek buffet with vegetarian and gluten-free choices, white and rosé wine, bottled water, soda, and lemonade.
• Snorkeling gear supplied: Masks, snorkels, floaters, and pool noodles are available on board.
• Comfortable boat setup: Cushioned seats, shaded and sunny decks, two bar areas, and a shower make the six hours easier.
• Good value for cruise passengers: The meeting point is about a 15-minute walk from the cruise port, and hotel pickup is optional for an extra fee.

A relaxed start from Mandraki Port

The cruise begins at 10:15 from Mandraki Port, the old harbor at the heart of Rhodes. This is a particularly convenient departure point if you arrive by cruise ship. The boat is about a 15-minute walk from the port, according to the practical information supplied for the tour.

As you leave the harbor, look back toward the Medieval City walls, the Old Town, and the Castle. From the water, Rhodes gives you a different first impression. The fortifications form a strong line around the historic center, and the harbor provides a clear angle for photographs.

The route also passes the entrance to the ancient harbor, the place traditionally associated with the Colossus of Rhodes. The famous statue was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and showed the sun god Helios. The statue itself is long gone, so do not expect a surviving monument in the water. You are seeing the location connected with the story, not the Colossus standing in its original form.

This is one area where the trip could offer more spoken explanation. If you want the historical context, learn a little before you leave. The cruise gives you the view, but the details about the Colossus may pass quietly unless the crew points them out.

Kallithea Springs and the mystery of the red water

After about 45 minutes, the boat reaches Kallithea Springs. You have roughly one hour here for a swim and time to look around from the sea.

Kallithea is known for reddish water emerging from rock formations in the Gulf of Kallithea. Ancient visitors valued the springs for their supposed healing qualities. In the early twentieth century, Italian designers Pietro Lombardi and Armando Burnay helped shape the spring complex, while Alberto Mocci organized an international hydrological conference there.

You will not pay an admission charge to approach Kallithea from the sea. That makes this stop useful for anyone who wants a taste of the site without committing to a longer land visit. The setting combines rock, clear water, and distinctive architecture, giving the first swim stop more character than a standard beach call.

The one-hour stop is long enough for a proper swim, but it is not a full sightseeing visit to every part of the springs complex. Think of it as a refreshing introduction with a scenic backdrop. Bring footwear you can manage around rocks, as the stop is centered on access from the water rather than a long sandy shore.

Afandou Beach offers the longest open-water stop

Afandou comes later in the route, after about 45 minutes of cruising from Kallithea. You have approximately one hour and 15 minutes here, making it the longest stop of the day.

Afandou is known for its broad, roughly six-kilometer beach and clear water. The shore is pebbly rather than sandy, which matters if you prefer soft sand underfoot. The pebbles from this area were used in parts of Rhodes Old Town, and the inland settlement took its name from the Greek word afandou, meaning invisible. Residents moved away from the coast after repeated attacks, choosing a position behind the rocks where the settlement could not easily be seen from the sea.

From the boat, the appeal is the roomier coastal setting. You have time to swim, explore near the water, or simply remain on deck. The tour information also refers to caves in the area, though the exact access point can depend on sea conditions and the boat’s position.

After this stop, lunch is served back on board. That timing works well. You get the active part of the morning out of the way, then have food available when you return to the boat.

Anthony Quinn Bay is the snorkeling highlight

Anthony Quinn Bay is the most enclosed and dramatic of the three swimming areas. The small cove is surrounded by high rocks and has deep water close to shore. The boat reaches it about 15 minutes after leaving Afandou and stays for roughly one hour.

This is the place to use the complimentary masks and snorkels. The clear Mediterranean water supports plenty of small fish, and you can also use the supplied floaters and pool noodles if you prefer a gentler swim. Some people jump from the boat, while others simply climb down and float near the vessel.

The bay takes its name from Mexican actor Anthony Quinn, who came to Rhodes while filming The Guns of Navarone in the 1960s. He wanted to buy the bay, but the agreement was never completed and later legal action found it unenforceable. The local name remained as a nod to his connection with the area.

The cove is beautiful, but it can feel more enclosed and busier than Afandou. High rocks leave less open space, and the deep water may not suit anyone who wants to stand or wade. If you are not confident in deep water, use a life jacket or pool noodle and stay close to the boat.

Passing Ladiko Bay and Faliraki

The return route passes Ladiko Bay, located behind Anthony Quinn Bay. Its name comes from ladi, the Greek word for oil. Ladiko once served as a trading point for olive oil being loaded for Egypt and the Middle East. Local fishermen have found clay containers linked to old shipwrecks in the area.

Today, Ladiko is a popular stop for boat trips and water activities. From the sea, you see a picturesque cove surrounded by caves and rocky slopes. It is a short scenic passage rather than one of the scheduled swimming stops, so keep your camera ready while the boat moves past.

The final approach takes you past Faliraki, one of Rhodes’ best-known coastal towns. Faliraki is associated with long beaches, clear water, and nightlife. You do not stop there, but the view helps connect the quiet coves with one of the island’s livelier resort areas.

Greek buffet, wine, and the practical comforts

The food is one of the strongest parts of the value. Lunch is a Greek buffet with vegetarian and gluten-free choices. The supplied details do not give a full menu, but dishes described during the cruise include chicken, pasta, salads, and briam, a Greek-style vegetable dish. Some diners found the food delicious and local in style, while one found it basic. That is a fair way to set expectations: this is a generous boat lunch, not a restaurant tasting menu.

The vegetarian choices are useful, especially the briam, and gluten-free food is available. If you have a serious dietary restriction, confirm the details when booking rather than relying only on the general buffet description.

White and rosé wine are included throughout the cruise, along with bottled water, lemonade, and soft drinks. Beer is not listed as included. Cocktails and other bar purchases may be available at extra cost, but the supplied information specifically confirms the wine and nonalcoholic drinks.

The boat has cushioned seating, a shaded main deck, sunny areas, and two bar locations. That arrangement lets you switch between sunbathing and cool shelter. A shower is also provided, which is handy after swimming and before lunch. The bathroom has been praised for being clean and comfortable, an unglamorous detail that matters on a six-hour outing.

Music helps create a social, holiday mood, particularly on the return ride. This is not a quiet sailing trip. If you want calm water, reading time, and soft conversation, choose a shaded corner. If you like a friendly group atmosphere, music and the bar make the return more lively.

How much value do you get for $71.38?

At $71.38 per person, the price covers about six hours on the water, three swimming stops, snorkeling equipment, lunch, wine, water, soft drinks, and use of the boat’s seating and facilities. Add in the views from Mandraki and the Colossus site, and the package offers a lot for the money.

The value is especially strong if you plan to swim and snorkel. Buying drinks, lunch, and a separate boat trip could quickly cost more, and the cruise keeps the day simple. It is also useful for a mixed group. Strong swimmers can jump in and snorkel, while anyone who does not swim can stay on deck, enjoy the views, eat, and listen to music.

Hotel transfer is not included in the base price. You can arrange it for an extra charge, or make your own way to Mandraki Port. Public transportation is nearby, and most people can take part. The group can reach up to 100 people, though the boat has been described as having enough space to move around and find either sun or shade.

Who will enjoy this Rhodes boat trip?

I would choose this cruise if you want a low-effort sea day with several swim opportunities rather than a formal historical tour. Families can use the pool noodles and floaters, couples can settle into the shaded deck, and friends can make a full day of swimming, food, wine, and music.

It also works well for cruise ship passengers because of the walkable meeting point. The boat returns to the same location, so you do not need to arrange a separate return trip.

You may want another type of excursion if you dislike deep water, rocky entry points, or group boat trips. The sightseeing commentary is also not the main feature. You will see important places, but the trip is built around time at sea and in the water, not detailed guiding.

Bring swimwear, sun protection, and a towel. Pack footwear that feels secure around pebbles and rocks. If you want photographs of the Old Town walls and harbor, keep your phone ready as the boat leaves Mandraki.

Booking, cancellation, and weather notes

Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the 10:15 start time. Changes or cancellations made inside that period are not accepted for a refund.

The cruise depends on good weather. If poor conditions cause cancellation, you can choose another date or receive a full refund. That policy is worth remembering when planning a tight cruise-port schedule.

Should you book the Rhodes Bay to Bay Swim Cruise?

Book it if you want a full six hours of swimming, snorkeling, coastal views, Greek food, and included wine at a reasonable price. The three stops are usefully different: Kallithea brings history and unusual red water, Afandou offers a longer open-water break, and Anthony Quinn Bay provides the best setting for fish and snorkeling.

Skip it if you want a quiet, small-group sailing trip or detailed commentary at every historic site. For most people who see Rhodes as a chance to enjoy the sea, this is a strong-value outing with friendly service, comfortable seating, and enough variety to keep the day moving.

FAQ

Where does the Rhodes swim cruise depart?

It departs from Romantika Dreams Rhodes Day Cruise at Mandraki Port, Nea Agora, Rhodes 851 31, Greece.

What time does the cruise start?

The scheduled start time is 10:15 am.

How long does the cruise last?

The cruise lasts approximately six hours and returns to the original meeting point.

Which swimming spots does the cruise visit?

The scheduled stops are Kallithea Springs, Afandou Beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Masks and snorkels are provided, along with life jackets, floaters, and pool noodles.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A Greek buffet lunch is included, with vegetarian and gluten-free choices.

Are drinks included?

White and rosé wine, bottled water, soda, and lemonade are included. Beer is not listed as an included drink.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel transfer is optional and costs extra. The meeting point is near public transportation, and the boat is about a 15-minute walk from the cruise port.