Rhodes: Swim Cruise with Cocktails & Gourmet Buffet

Summary

Swim stops, sea air and Greek flavors on Rhodes coast

You’ll board a classic wooden boat at Mandraki Harbour for a Rhodes day cruise with three swim stops—including Kallithea Springs and Anthony Quinn Bay—plus cocktails from an open bar and a fresh Greek buffet lunch onboard. With snorkeling equipment included and plenty of space to stretch out or chat with locals, you’ll end up feeling relaxed in ways you didn’t expect.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical about the “exclusive” part of this Rhodes swim cruise — but right away, it felt different. We boarded at Mandraki Harbour (those deer statues really do look like they’re guarding the place) and our guide, Yiannis, greeted us by name. There were maybe twenty of us, not a crowd. The boat itself had that old wooden smell — sun-warmed planks and a hint of salt — and bean bags scattered everywhere. Someone handed me a coffee before we even left port. I didn’t expect that.

We sailed past the medieval city walls and Yiannis pointed out where the Colossus supposedly stood (“No one’s found his toes yet,” he joked). The first swim stop was Kallithea Springs. The water was cold in that way that makes your skin tingle for a minute before you give in and float. A couple from Athens showed me how to spot the reddish rocks near the shore — apparently healing minerals? I’m not sure if I felt “cleansed,” but I did feel awake. Back on board, music played quietly while people dried off or just stared at the coastline. It was one of those mornings where time moves differently.

Afandou Beach came next — pebbles underfoot, cool even in the sun, and caves you could swim into if you weren’t afraid of little fish darting past your ankles (I’m still not convinced none of them bite). Lunch appeared almost magically: salads with feta that tasted sharper than what I get back home, something lemony with chickpeas, grilled vegetables. They had vegan stuff too; Maria across from me piled her plate high. Oh, and cocktails started flowing — I tried something pink with ouzo and regretted it slightly but hey, when in Greece.

The last stop was Anthony Quinn Bay. Steep rocks all around, deep green water below. Snorkeling gear was free to use — I floated above schools of tiny silver fish while someone’s kid shrieked every time he spotted one (honestly relatable). On deck later, Yiannis told us how Anthony Quinn tried to buy this bay after filming here but never managed it; now locals just call it his anyway. Sunlight bounced off the waves as we headed back toward Mandraki Harbour. There’s this moment after swimming all day when your skin feels tight from salt and sun and you’re just… content? I still think about that view over my shoulder as Rhodes drifted by.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rhodes swim cruise with swim stops

• Depart from Mandraki Harbour
• Cruise past Medieval old town of Rhodes
• Pass by Colossus of Rhodes site
• Stop at Kallithea Springs for swim
• Pass by Faliraki Beach
• Stop at Afandou Beach for exploration
• Enjoy lunch buffet on board
• Pass by Ladikos Bay
• Stop at Anthony Quinn Bay for snorkeling
• Return to Mandraki Harbour

Top questions

How many swim stops are included on this Rhodes day cruise?

The tour includes three swim stops: Kallithea Springs Bay, Afandou Beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay.

Is lunch provided during the Rhodes swim cruise?

Yes, a freshly prepared Greek gourmet buffet is served onboard during the cruise.

Are drinks included on this cruise?

Yes, there is an open cocktail bar with wine, beer, signature cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, sodas, water, aperitifs, and snacks included.

Does this tour include snorkeling equipment?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for guests to use during swim stops.

Where does the Rhodes day cruise start and end?

The cruise starts and ends at Mandraki Harbour in Rhodes town.

Are there vegan or gluten-free options for lunch?

Yes, vegan and gluten-free choices are available on the buffet menu.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes; infants can ride in prams or strollers or sit on an adult’s lap.

How crowded is the boat during this exclusive swim cruise?

The number of guests is restricted for comfort; seating is allocated on bean bags and sun benches so it doesn’t feel crowded.

What’s included

Your day includes boarding at Mandraki Harbour with limited guest numbers for comfort; three swim stops at Kallithea Springs Bay, Afandou Beach and Anthony Quinn Bay; use of snorkeling equipment plus pool noodles and floaters; all non-alcoholic drinks as well as wines, beer and signature cocktails from an open bar; Greek gourmet buffet lunch with vegan and gluten-free options; comfortable seating throughout—before returning to port in the afternoon.