Rhodes Sunset Cruise: Live Music, Open Bar & Gourmet Buffet

Summary

Sunset cruise Rhodes old town views live music open bar dinner

You’ll board a traditional kaiki boat in Rhodes for an evening cruise along the coast, with time to swim at Kallithea Springs before settling in for a gourmet buffet and cocktails from the open bar. Live music sets the mood as you watch medieval city walls glow at sunset—a mix of laughter, local flavors, and those little moments you don’t see coming.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sea air to feel so different at sunset. We’d just left Mandraki Harbour—our guide, Nikos, pointed out where the Colossus used to stand (I tried picturing it but mostly just saw bobbing yachts). The boat itself was this wooden kaiki, creaky in a comforting way. Someone nearby was laughing in Greek—no idea what about—and the smell of grilled vegetables drifted over from the kitchen. I’m not usually one for group tours, but this sunset cruise in Rhodes felt more like being invited to someone’s family party than anything else.

The swim stop at Kallithea Springs was short but honestly perfect. The water was colder than I thought; my friend dared me to jump first and I did—sort of shrieked when I hit the surface. There were pool noodles for anyone who wanted them (I caved after five minutes). The cliffs around us caught that weird gold light you only get here. Afterward, we dried off on bean bags while the crew set up dinner—local wine poured into mismatched glasses and plates full of things I couldn’t pronounce (the chef smiled when I asked for seconds of that eggplant dish).

As we cruised back toward Rhodes Town, live music started up—just two musicians, nothing flashy, but it fit. At some point I stopped talking and just watched the city walls go by, all lit up against the dark water. It’s hard to explain why that view sticks with me more than any photo. Maybe because everyone on deck went quiet for a minute too—like we all felt it together. So yeah, if you’re thinking about a day trip or sunset cruise from Rhodes with food and music, this is probably the one I’d pick again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset cruise with swimming and dinner

• Depart from Mandraki Harbour
• Cruise along Rhodes East Coast
• Pass by Colossus of Rhodes site
• Admire medieval old town walls
• Pass Acadia port and Kolona port
• Anchor at Kallithea Springs for swimming
• Enjoy gourmet buffet and open bar
• Listen to live music while cruising back
• Return to Mandraki Harbour at night

Top questions

How long does the Rhodes sunset cruise last?

The cruise lasts around 2 hours and 45 minutes including stops.

Is there swimming during the sunset cruise?

Yes, there’s a 30-minute swim stop at Kallithea Springs with snorkeling gear provided.

Are drinks included on this Rhodes sunset tour?

Yes, an open bar offers cocktails, wine, beer, soft drinks and water throughout the cruise.

Is dinner served on board?

Yes, a freshly prepared Greek gourmet buffet is included with vegan and gluten-free options available.

Does the tour include live music?

Yes, there’s live music performed by a band during the return journey to Mandraki Port.

Where does the sunset cruise depart from?

The boat departs from Mandraki Harbour in Rhodes Town.

Are children or infants allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.

Is reserved seating available on board?

Yes, guests have reserved seating on comfortable bean bags and sun benches.

What’s included

Your evening includes use of snorkeling equipment and pool noodles for swimming at Kallithea Springs; an open bar serving cocktails, wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks; a freshly prepared Greek gourmet buffet with vegan and gluten-free choices; live music during your return to Mandraki Port; plus reserved seating so you can relax comfortably throughout the cruise.