Rhodes: Traditional Fishing Trip & Fresh BBQ Lunch at Sea

Summary

Fishing with locals on Rhodes, grilling fresh catch at sea, swimming off quiet shores

You’ll board Skevos’ traditional fishing boat in Rhodes, learn hands-on fishing tricks from two generations of local fishermen, then grill your own catch for lunch right at sea — all with plenty of time to swim or just soak up the island light. Expect laughter, real stories, and food that tastes like it belongs here.

What’s the experience like?

I still see that first moment — Skevos waving from his old wooden boat, paint chipped just enough to feel real. The harbor was waking up, a bit of diesel in the air and coffee somewhere nearby. We climbed aboard, and Michalis (Skevos’ dad) handed me a rod with a wink like he already knew I’d tangle the line. He was right, by the way.

The Mediterranean out here off Rhodes is this impossible blue — not just postcard stuff but actually shifting every time you look up. We cruised past Kallithea Springs (I think? I lost track after Santa Marina), trolling for tuna and mahi mahi while Skevos explained why he prefers Shimano reels over Penn (“Ask my father,” he laughed). When something finally tugged on my line, I panicked and nearly dropped the rod. Michalis steadied my hands without saying much — just this little nod.

After an hour or so we switched to ground fishing. There’s something about sitting with strangers on a boat, sun warming your back, everyone quietly watching their lines. No one spoke for ages except for the slap of water and someone’s ringtone going off (awkward). Later we anchored near a sandy cove — swimming felt like pressing pause on everything else. Lunch happened right there: our own fish grilled with olive oil and sea salt, plus seabream and sea bass Skevos brought along “just in case.” Greek salad tasted sharper than usual — maybe it’s the oregano from Rhodes or just being hungry from the sea air.

I tried to say thank you in Greek; Li laughed at my accent and so did Michalis. I still think about that view from the deck, bread warm in my hand, salt drying on my skin. If you’re looking for a fishing trip in Rhodes that feels honest and kind of messy in all the good ways… well, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Fishing trip and sea activities in Rhodes

• Depart from Rhodes center
• Head to Kallithea Springs or beach
• Enjoy trolling with professional gear
• Target predator fish species
• Continue with two hours ground fishing
• Anchor for swimming and snorkeling
• Prepare and enjoy onboard lunch

Top questions

Is fishing gear provided on this Rhodes fishing trip?

Yes, all professional fishing equipment is included onboard.

What kind of fish can you catch during the trip?

You might catch small tuna, mahi mahi, amberjack, barracuda or great trevally.

Is lunch included on the boat?

Yes, lunch includes your own catch (if any), plus grilled seabream or sea bass with Greek salad and bread.

Can you swim or snorkel during the tour?

Yes, there’s time for swimming or snorkeling when anchored; equipment is provided.

Are drinks included on this day trip?

Soda, bottled water and alcoholic beverages are included onboard.

How many people fit on the boat?

The traditional wooden boat has space for 10 guests to fish comfortably.

Where does the tour start from in Rhodes?

The journey starts from central Rhodes harbor area; exact location depends on weather conditions.

Is this private or shared?

This is a shared group trip with up to 10 guests plus crew.

What’s included

Your day includes all professional fishing gear (Shimano, Daiwa and more), use of snorkeling equipment if you want to swim off the boat near Rhodes’ beaches, bottled water and soft drinks as well as local wine or beer onboard. Lunch is freshly grilled fish (including your own catch if luck’s on your side), Greek salad topped with Rhodian oregano and crusty wood-oven bread — all prepared by Skevos’ family while you relax at sea.