Four bays, one boat day.

This full-day Rhodes cruise is a simple, high-value way to see the East coast from the water and fit in several swimming breaks without arranging anything yourself. I like that the route takes you to Anthony Quinn Bay first, so you start with that clear, sheltered-water feel before the bigger beach stop. One thing to think about: this trip isn’t for everyone—it’s not suitable for non-swimmers (and it’s also not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women).

I also really like the pace: short ferry hops between stops, then time where it actually counts—especially at Tsambika. The onboard Greek buffet lunch makes the day feel complete instead of like you’re just “waiting to swim,” and it keeps the effort low while you’re out in the sun. The main drawback is timing: some stops are brief (like Afandou and the final Kallithea swim), so plan to enjoy quick water time rather than expecting long stretches on every beach.

Key points before you go

• East-coast route with four swimming moments, including one famous sandy beach stretch
• Anthony Quinn Bay first, with sheltered, fishy-feeling water and a rocky shoreline
• Tsambika Bay includes lunch, plus enough time for a proper swim and a golden-sand break
• Afandou Bay adds the cave factor, with views from the water at a rocky spot
• Kallithea Bay is the closing swim, letting you finish the day on calmer, sheltered water
• Drinks aren’t included, so bring cash/card if you expect to buy something on board

Mandraki Port to Open Water: Starting the Day Smoothly

You’ll start early at Mandraki Port (Elefterias Avenue). The meeting point is in front of the fountain outside the Church of the Annunciation (Evaggelismos), and you’re looking for a red Manos Going sign. The staff member will check your booking confirmation so you get boarding cards and a map—this is the moment to double-check you’re holding the right documents.

Plan to arrive by 8:30 AM since the tour runs on a tight schedule. The boat departs at 09:00, and pickup (if you booked it) is scheduled between 7:30 and 08:15 depending on where you’re staying around Ialyssos, Ixia, Rhodes Town, Kallithea, or Faliraki.

From there, it’s a straightforward flow: transfer to the port, board, and settle in. You’ll have a lot of “view time” right away, including panoramic looks at Rhodes Town from the sea before you even hit the swim stops. For me, that’s one of the best parts of these bay-hopping trips: you’re not stuck staring at a checklist—you’re out on the water watching the coastline slowly change.

The Boat Setup: Big Group, Simple Comfort

This cruise runs with a large boat (about 280 passengers across three decks), so it feels lively. The good news is you’re not fighting for space to put your bag down, and you’ll have practical onboard amenities including WC and a snack bar.

Lunch and most of your comfort needs are covered in the ticket, but the snack bar matters if you’re thirsty. The buffet is included, yet drinks and snacks aren’t included—you can buy them from the onboard snack bar.

Also note the family-friendly touch: pool noodles and life jackets for small children are included. If you’re traveling with kids, that’s a helpful detail that can save time and packing.

Anthony Quinn Bay: Emerald-Water First Swim

Your first actual stop is Anthony Quinn Bay, with about 30 minutes allocated for swimming. This is one of those places where the description hits close to what you’re looking for: clear, emerald-toned water and a sheltered rocky beach.

Why this stop works early in the day: you’re fresh, the water visibility is often at its best before the afternoon heat, and the coastline has that “quiet cove” vibe. The bay is known for rocky features and marine life, so you might spot things like fish, sea urchins, and coral formations—not in a guaranteed way, but it’s the kind of environment where you’re likely to see more than just smooth water.

A practical thought: with only 30 minutes, you’ll want to be ready when you step in. Bring your towel and sunscreen, and keep your swimwear on or easy to reach so you don’t lose minutes to changing in the sun.

The Tsambika Bay Break: 800-Metre Sand and Two Hours to Play

Next comes Tsambika Bay, and this is the longest swim block: about two hours. Unlike the rocky vibe of Anthony Quinn, Tsambika is about swimming over to an 800-meter long fine golden sand beach—which means it’s easier to relax, walk, and switch between swimming and drying off.

This longer stop changes the whole rhythm of the day. You’re not rushing in and out; you can pick your pace. If you like having time to do a proper dip, then lie down and reapply sunscreen without feeling rushed, Tsambika is the payoff.

One more detail that helps: since lunch also happens around this area, you don’t have to figure out food immediately after swimming. It’s a built-in reset.

Lunch on Board at Tsambika: Greek Buffet Without the Planning

Lunch is a buffet served onboard during the Tsambika portion. You’re looking at a Greek set menu that includes tzatziki, Greek salad, oven-baked potatoes, moussaka, pasta with red sauce, beans, beef steaks, and chicken.

To me, the value here is that it covers both tastes and energy needs. You can build a plate that leans light (salad + tzatziki) or go hearty for the long sun day (moussaka, meats, and potatoes). If you’re the type who gets hungry after swimming, this buffet timing makes a real difference.

A small caution: beverages aren’t included. If you want water beyond what you can handle, or you plan to buy something from the snack bar, you’ll want to budget for it.

Also, buffet style is simple, not fancy. That’s not a complaint—it’s practical when you’re out on a boat with a big group and you need food that doesn’t turn into a long wait.

Afandou Beach and the Cave: Rocky Water Views

After lunch, you head toward Afandou Beach for another short swimming stop—about 30 minutes. This one is especially interesting if you like exploring with your eyes from the water rather than walking around a beach.

The highlight here is the outstanding cave you can explore directly from the water. That cave-style geography tends to create a different kind of swimming experience: you’re not just floating along sand, you’re approaching rocky edges where the water shape creates interest.

Because the stop is brief, don’t treat this as a “slow adventure.” It’s more like: swim, check out the cave area, take photos if you can do it safely, then enjoy the rest of your time without turning it into a mission. If you’re not confident in rocky entry points, stay where the water feels calm and easy first.

Kallithea Bay Finale: One Last Swim Before Rhodes Town

Your last stop is Kallithea Bay, with about 20 minutes of swimming. This is the shortest of the swim blocks, so it’s best thought of as a final splash and sun-bathe chance while the boat heads back.

Kallithea is described as sheltered, which usually means it feels more protected and comfortable than more open-swell areas. That sheltered setup is ideal for the last swim when you might be a bit tired, sun-warmed, and ready to relax.

At around 17:00, you return to Rhodes with your group and head back toward the meeting area.

Price and Value: What You’re Really Paying For

At $68 per person for an 8–9 hour outing, you’re paying for a full package: transportation to the port area, boat time, multiple swim stops, and a Greek buffet lunch. You’re also paying for convenience. Instead of booking separate boat rides or trying to get between bays yourself, this one schedule strings together the best-known East-coast moments.

For value, the key question is how many swim breaks you want in one day. If you like the idea of Anthony Quinn for a quick clear-water swim plus Tsambika as the main beach block, and then a couple of shorter “bonus” bays, this works well.

If you want only one long beach day with no ferry hops and no timing pressure, you might find that the shorter stops feel like they’re interrupting your ideal pace. In that case, consider whether you’d be happier with a simpler, single-location beach plan.

Who This Boat Trip Fits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This trip fits travelers who want a group-organized boat day with real swim time and a decent meal, and who don’t mind short stop durations.

You’ll likely enjoy it if you:

• want to see Rhodes’ East coast from the sea
• like swimming in more than one type of water (rocky bay + sandy beach + cave area)
• value included lunch so you’re not hunting for food mid-day

You should probably skip it if:

• you’re a non-swimmer (it’s not suitable)
• you’re traveling with mobility constraints since it’s not suitable for wheelchair users
• you’re pregnant (not suitable)

What to Bring (So the Day Feels Easy)

The essentials are clear, and you’ll thank yourself for packing them:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen

Because you’re on the water for most of the day, sun protection matters even on a breezy morning. Also think about keeping your towel and sunscreen easy to reach between stops so you can act fast when you pull up to a swim area.

A Practical Rhythm for Enjoying Every Stop

Here’s how I’d handle the day to get the most out of it without stressing:

• Start calm at Anthony Quinn Bay: get in quickly, then decide if you want to stay longer within your 30-minute window.
• Treat Tsambika as your main beach “session”: do your longest swim first, then settle into sand time, and don’t skip lunch because it resets your energy.
• At Afandou and Kallithea, go in with a mission mindset: safety first, short explore time (especially around the cave), then relax.

The tour is built around time blocks, so your mindset helps. You’re not buying a “hang out all day at one beach” experience—you’re buying variety with structure.

Should You Book the Rhodes East Coast Bay to Bay Boat Trip?

Book it if you want a full-day Rhodes experience that mixes scenic sea views, four swimming stops, and an included Greek buffet lunch—all for one price and one plan. It’s especially attractive if you’re short on time and want to hit the East coast highlights without juggling transport.

Skip it if you’re hoping for a single, long beach day or if you’re uncomfortable in water that involves rocky swimming areas and possible cave exploration. Also, if you’re traveling with mobility needs, the trip isn’t suitable based on the stated constraints.

If you fit the target group—comfortable swimmer, ready for a day on the boat, and happy with short-to-medium swim windows—this is a strong, straightforward way to spend your time on Rhodes.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the boat trip?

You meet at Mandraki Port (Elefterias Avenue), in front of the fountain outside the Church of the Annunciation (Evaggelismos). Look for a red Manos Going sign.

What time does the tour depart?

The boat has a 09:00 departure from the port.

How long is the experience?

The trip runs about 8 to 9 hours (starting times vary, so check availability).

Is lunch included?

Yes. Buffet lunch is included, served during the Tsambika portion of the trip.

Are drinks included with lunch?

No. The buffet is included, but beverages and drinks are not included and can be purchased from the snack bar onboard.

Are there swimming stops during the day? Which bays?

Yes. You get swimming time at Anthony Quinn Bay, Tsambika Bay (beach), Afandou Beach, and Kallithea Bay.

Do I get pickup from my hotel?

Pickup is available from areas including Ialyssos, Ixia, Rhodes Town, Kallithea, and Faliraki. Pickup is scheduled between 7:30 AM and 08:15 AM, depending on your accommodation.

What should I bring for the trip?

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?

No. It is not suitable for non-swimmers.

Does the boat provide any flotation help for kids?

Yes. Pool noodles and life jackets for small children are included.

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