Rhodes: Gulet Boat Cruise, Anthony Quinn Bay & Fun Island

Summary

Traditional wooden boat cruise in Rhodes with swimming stops and floating fun

You’ll feel Rhodes from the deck of a classic gulet boat: city views slipping by, emerald swims at Anthony Quinn Bay, laughter on Fun Island’s floating toys, and honest Greek food shared with new friends. Each stop feels different — some lively, some quiet — but all wrapped up in that easy island rhythm you’ll want to hold onto.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the creak of the wooden deck under my feet as we pushed off from Rhodes town — that and the captain’s laugh, which was louder than the engine. El Greco, this old Greek gulet boat, looked like something out of a storybook. Our guide, Maria, waved us over to point out the city walls sliding past. The salt air was sharp and there was a bit of sunburn smell already (not mine yet). I kept thinking how different everything looks from sea level — Rhodes’ colors are bolder somehow when you’re just above the water.

We drifted towards Anthony Quinn Bay after about an hour. The water there is this impossible green — not blue, not turquoise, just… green. People jumped in before Maria even finished her sentence about snorkeling gear being free to use. I hesitated (cold!) but she grinned and said “it wakes you up.” She wasn’t wrong; it felt like diving into mint. There was a moment underwater where all I could hear was my own breathing and then someone laughing above — it’s weirdly peaceful down there.

Lunch happened somewhere between swimming and sunbathing. Platters of tomatoes, feta, olives — nothing fancy but somehow better than any restaurant meal because you’re eating with wet hair and salty skin. Local wine too (I had two glasses; blame the sea air). Then we stopped at what they call Fun Island — honestly just a bunch of floating platforms tied together with canoes and SUPs scattered around. It sounds silly but lying back on an inflatable couch with your feet in the water while kids try to balance on paddleboards… I don’t know, it made me laugh more than I expected.

Kallithea Springs was our last stop. Maria told us about its history — Italian architects, old spa days — while we wandered past mosaics and columns that looked almost fake against all that blue sky. Someone took a photo of us in front of the arches; I still think about that light sometimes. The ride back was quieter. Maybe everyone was tired or just full of sun and lunch and stories for later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rhodes boat cruise and water activities

• View Rhodes town from sea
• Dive in Anthony Quinn Bay
• Stop at Fun Island for activities
• Snorkel, SUP, and canoe at Fun Island
• Visit and photograph Kallithea Springs

Top questions

How long does the Rhodes boat cruise last?

The cruise lasts about 6.5 hours from departure to return.

Is lunch included on the Rhodes gulet cruise?

Yes, a traditional Greek meal with local wine and fresh fruit is served onboard.

Are drinks provided during the cruise?

Unlimited soft drinks, water, and local wine are included throughout the day.

What stops are included on this Rhodes boat tour?

The main stops are Anthony Quinn Bay, Fun Island (floating platforms), and Kallithea Springs.

Can I use snorkeling equipment for free?

Yes, snorkeling gear is available for guests to use at no extra cost.

Is there WiFi onboard El Greco?

Yes, WiFi is available during your cruise on El Greco.

Are paddleboards or canoes available?

SUPs (stand-up paddleboards) and canoes are free to use at Fun Island stop.

Is this cruise suitable for children or infants?

Yes, children and infants are welcome; prams/strollers can be brought onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Rhodes town harbor onto El Greco’s wooden deck; unlimited soft drinks, water, local wine; free use of snorkeling gear plus SUPs and canoes at Fun Island; restroom access onboard; a traditional Greek lunch with fresh fruit platters; plus plenty of time for swimming at Anthony Quinn Bay and exploring Kallithea Springs before heading back in the late afternoon.