Two decks, one Lindos view. This 3-hour semi-submarine cruise is a fun way to see the coastline without staying hot on a small boat.

I especially like two things here: the views of the ancient shoreline as you sail past Lindos landmarks, and the chance to peek at sea life from the underwater portholes below deck. The final swim stop at Navarone Bay is the kind of break your body notices right away.

One caution: not everyone loves the underwater window experience, and the swim time can feel short if you want a long, snorkel-style session. If you’re hoping for extended time out on the water, set your expectations for a tight, scenic itinerary.

Key Things I Think Are Worth Booking For

• Ancient coastline sightlines from the water, with landmarks along the way
• Underwater portholes to spot sea life without suiting up
• Navarone Bay swimming in clear water that feels like a reset button
• Live onboard commentary so the scenery comes with stories
• A drink or bottled water plus free Wi‑Fi and a WC on board

Why a Semi-Sub in Lindos Works (Even If You’re Not a Hardcore Sailor)

This isn’t a full-day boat slog. It’s a focused, 3-hour outing that gives you two “modes” in one ride: time topside for coastal views and time below deck for the underwater look. That mix matters. In Lindos, the land can feel steep and sun-heavy, so having a boat that does the hard part for you is a real advantage.

You’ll also get narration while you move. That’s what turns “pretty coastline” into “oh, that’s what that place is.” The route covers key points around Lindos and out toward the reef areas, so you’re not just sitting there watching waves.

And honestly, the semi-sub feel is part of the charm. It’s different from a standard speedboat. You’re riding in comfort, then dropping down for big portholes like it’s a floating aquarium (without the walk-through museum vibe).

Boarding at Saint Paul’s Bay: Find the Yellow Sub and Show Up Ready

You meet at the dock of Saint Paul’s Bay. Look for the yellow submarine so you can get organized fast and avoid that last-minute scramble. If you’re late, the boat can’t wait—so if something goes sideways, you’ll need to contact the local partner to try to reschedule.

This matters because the whole plan is built around timing: sightseeing on the way out, a reef/sea-life stop along the route, then the swim at Navarone Bay. If you miss the departure window, you can lose a big chunk of the tour you paid for.

If you’re using optional pickup, the schedule depends on the day and region:

• On Monday/Wednesday/Friday, transfers run from Lindos to the Plimmiri region
• On Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday, transfers run from Vlycha to the Kolymbia region

Your operator confirms final pickup details at least a day before. If you’re staying in the Lindos/Vlicha area, I’d still plan to arrive with a little buffer so you’re not rushing in flip-flops.

The 3-Hour Route: Tombs, Chapels, and Acropolis Views From the Sea

Once you’re onboard, you’ll head out along the Aegean coast with a guide sharing stories about what you’re passing. The route is built around recognizable Lindos landmarks, so you can connect what you see with the town’s dramatic setting.

Here’s what to watch for along the way:

• Kleovoulos’ Tomb: You’ll sail past it as part of the coastline narrative, giving context to the ancient presence along the shore.
• Lindos Beach: A key visual stop where you can look back toward town and see how the bay sits in the landscape.
• St Paul’s Bay chapel area: You’ll pass by as you move along the coast, which helps explain why this side of the peninsula is so tied to the area’s history.
• A view of the ancient Acropolis: The route brings you around a corner where you can look up for an impressive sightline of the Acropolis above Lindos.

The point isn’t just getting a few photos. It’s the angle. From the sea, the coastline looks less like a postcard and more like a connected system—hills, bays, and cliffs all working together. If you only view Lindos from the streets, you miss that bigger map.

Also, if you’re short on time, this is a practical way to cover a lot of “where am I?” moments without hiring separate transportation for each viewpoint.

Underwater Portholes and Sea Life: Fun, But Don’t Expect Perfect Visibility Every Time

The standout “wow” feature is the underwater deck with large portholes. From below deck, you can see out toward the seabed and look for sea life while the ship is cruising near the reef area.

You’ll specifically pass a reef near Lion’s Head Cove, where you’ll get your chance to spot what’s living around that habitat. It’s a clever setup: you’re not relying on snorkeling skills, and you’re not needing to time your own water entry.

That said, here’s the reality check. Some passengers don’t find the windows as clear as they expect, and the experience can depend on conditions and how the vessel is positioned. If you’re someone who wants flawless underwater viewing, keep that in mind.

My advice: look at the portholes as a bonus experience, not as a replacement for snorkeling gear. You might get great sightings—or you might get “interesting shapes and movement.” Either way, it’s a good change from plain sightseeing.

Navarone Bay Swim Stop: The Part That Makes the Ticket Feel Real

After the sightseeing stretch, you end at Navarone Bay for your swim stop. This is the part most people will remember, and for good reason: you’re getting into crystal-clear water in a setting that feels open and scenic rather than crowded.

The timing is limited, so treat it like a quick reset:

• Get in, cool down, take a few calm minutes to enjoy the water
• Take a towel and gear-friendly camera photos while you can
• If you’re planning to float and linger, you may feel a bit rushed

If you’re a strong swimmer and you were hoping for a long swim session, you might wish the stop ran longer. But if what you want is a refreshing break paired with views, it’s a nice payoff at the end of the cruise.

One more practical note: bring your swimwear and towel so you can go from dock to water without friction.

What’s Included On Board (And Why That Matters in the Real World)

This tour is built to reduce decision-making once you’re there. You don’t have to think through a checklist of extras.

Included:

• 3-hour boat tour with live commentary
• 1 drink or bottle of water
• Swim stop in Navarone Bay
• Free Wi‑Fi onboard
• WC onboard

That WC detail sounds basic until you’re on vacation, sun up, water near, and then you realize how much you appreciate having it. The onboard drink/water also takes the edge off the heat while you’re waiting for the swim part.

Not included:

• Snacks
• Snorkelling gear

So if you’re the type who likes to snack between activities, plan that out yourself. And if you want to swim with proper gear, you’ll need to bring it or arrange it separately—since it isn’t provided for you here.

Price and Value for $44.04: What You’re Really Paying For

At about $44.04 per person, this is not a bargain cruise, but it also isn’t trying to be. You’re paying for a specific mix: coastal sightseeing, guided storytelling, the semi-sub underwater viewing, plus a dedicated swim stop.

For value, ask yourself this:

• Do you want water views without renting a boat?
• Are you curious about the underwater portholes but not determined to snorkel for hours?
• Will you use the included drink/water and appreciate the convenience?

If yes, it can feel fair. If you’re only there for long underwater time or wide-open swimming, you may find you wanted more minutes than the schedule allows. A couple of downside experiences tend to center on visibility through the windows and the short swim window—so it’s wise to align your goals with what this tour is actually designed to do.

In other words: think of this as a scenic excursion with a swim finish, not a full water adventure day.

Who This Cruise Suits Best (And Who Should Think Twice)

This is a great fit if you:

• Want an easy way to see Lindos from the sea
• Like guided narration so the ancient landmarks make more sense
• Prefer a light, low-effort water activity
• Enjoy the idea of porthole viewing even if you’re not snorkeling

It may be less ideal if you:

• Are very sensitive to visibility (you want crystal-clear views through windows for the whole underwater segment)
• Come expecting a long swim session that turns into a beach day
• Want an ultra-extended route (this is a compact itinerary with a go-out-and-return feel)

Also, consider the weather. The trip is subject to favorable conditions, so on days with rough seas, you may want backup plans.

Practical Tips: What to Bring and How to Enjoy It More

Bring:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Camera

Even if you think you’re “just going for a quick dip,” sunscreen and a towel save you from the post-swim scramble. You’ll also want your camera ready—coastline angles off the water can be especially photogenic around the Acropolis sightline.

If you’re using pickup, write down your hotel’s full name as requested. Then double-check the day and region match. That way you don’t end up trying to solve a transport puzzle while you’re already in vacation mode.

Finally, arrive with time to spare. The vessel doesn’t delay departures, and the whole rhythm depends on everyone being onboard when it’s time.

Should You Book the Hippo Submarine 3-Hour Trip?

If your priority is seeing Lindos from the water, getting underwater porthole views, and ending with a Navarone Bay swim, then I think booking makes sense. The layout of the experience is practical, the included extras help, and the scenery plus commentary combo gives you more than just “ride and hope.”

I’d only hesitate if your main goal is a long swim or you’re expecting the underwater windows to be perfectly clear for a long time. In that case, you might be happier with a snorkel-focused plan instead of a semi-sub cruise.

FAQ

How long is the Lindos semi-submarine cruise?

The tour lasts 3 hours.

Where do I meet for the cruise?

Meet your local guide at the dock of Saint Paul’s Bay. Look for the yellow submarine.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup is optional, and it’s limited to specific locations and days of the week. On Monday/Wednesday/Friday transfers are available from Lindos to the Plimmiri region, and on Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday transfers are available from Vlycha to Kolymbia. You’ll be asked for your hotel’s full name if you choose pickup.

What’s included in the price?

You get a 3-hour boat tour with live commentary, a drink or bottled water, the swim stop in Navarone Bay, free Wi‑Fi onboard, and a WC onboard.

Do I need to bring snorkelling gear?

Snorkelling gear is not included, so you should plan to bring your own if you want it.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

Rhodes Faliraki Water Park Admission TicketRhodes: High Speed Boat Trip to LindosRhodes: Explore the New and Medieval city on a Segway – 3 hoursRhodes Day Cruise (with lunch & unlimited drinks) 5,5 Hours