Rhodes: 6hr Swimming Cruise with Greek BBQ & Unlimited Drinks

Summary

Swim in Rhodes’ bays with Greek BBQ lunch, drinks, caves and sun

You’ll drift between three bays on this Rhodes swimming cruise — diving into bright water at Kallithea Springs, exploring caves in Afandou Bay, and floating lazily at Anthony Quinn Bay. There’s Greek BBQ for lunch, unlimited drinks (yes, really), plus sweet waffles before heading home. Expect laughter, salty skin, and a few surprises along the way.

What’s the experience like?

We slid away from Mandraki Harbour just after the morning rush, the city’s old windmills shrinking behind us as the Aphrodite Duchess found her pace. I picked a bean bag near the rail — soft, already warm from the sun — and tried to look casual about my excitement. Our guide, Nikos (who seemed to know everyone on board), pointed out Kallithea Springs first. The water there looked almost fake, so clear you could see pebbles shift when someone jumped in. I hesitated before plunging — it was colder than I’d guessed but kind of perfect once you got used to it. Salt clung to my skin, and I swear you could smell wild thyme drifting from the shore.

At Traganou Caves in Afandou Bay, Nikos handed out snorkels like he was dealing cards. The caves echoed with laughter and that hollow sound of water slapping stone. I tried to swim inside but chickened out halfway — it gets dark fast in there! Some braver folks made it all the way to that tiny beach at the back. Back on deck, someone started “Hot Dog Hour” (actual hot dogs, not a weird dance), and suddenly everyone was eating with wet hands and grinning like kids at a fair.

Anthony Quinn Bay was our last big stop — Nikos said it’s his favorite for good reason. We had a whole hour to float around or just watch sunlight flicker off the rocks. I floated on my back for ages; didn’t even realize how quiet I’d gotten until someone called me over for BBQ skewers and tzatziki. There’s something about eating bread with salty fingers that makes it taste better? On the way back, they passed around waffles (with Nutella if you wanted) and iced coffee while Rhodes came slowly into view again. Sunburned cheeks, sticky hands — honestly, I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 6-hour swimming cruise with meals

• Depart from Mandraki Harbour
• Cruise to Kallithea Springs
• Swim and snorkel at Kallithea Springs
• Cruise to Traganou Caves
• Swim inside Traganou Caves and beach
• Cruise to Anthony Quinn Bay
• Swim and snorkel at Anthony Quinn Bay
• Enjoy Hot Dog hour
• Have Greek BBQ meal
• Relax with unlimited drinks
• Enjoy Waffle Hour on return
• Return to Mandraki Harbour

Top questions

How long is the Rhodes swimming cruise?

The cruise lasts 6 hours from departure to return at Mandraki Harbour.

Which bays does this Rhodes cruise visit?

The tour stops at Kallithea Springs, Traganou Caves in Afandou Bay, and Anthony Quinn Bay.

Is food included on this Rhodes swimming cruise?

Yes, there’s a Greek BBQ meal with meat skewers, salad, tzatziki, bread plus Hot Dog Hour and Waffle Hour.

Are drinks included during the cruise?

Unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks and iced frappe are included throughout the day.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

How many people are on board?

The boat is licensed for 150 but limited to 75 passengers for comfort.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?

Yes; infants can ride in prams or strollers and all fitness levels are welcome.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes; all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Mandraki Harbour by boat crew, use of snorkeling gear at each bay stop including Kallithea Springs and Traganou Caves in Afandou Bay plus Anthony Quinn Bay; unlimited beers, wine and soft drinks; Hot Dog Hour mid-morning; a full Greek BBQ lunch with souvlakia skewers, salad and tzatziki; sweet donuts with coffee; Waffle Hour as you return; all guided by friendly local staff before docking back in Rhodes town.