Rhodes: Gulet Trip with Food, Drinks, SUP, Kayak & Swimming

Imagine cruising along the stunning eastern coast of Rhodes on a traditional wooden gulet, with the warm sun on your face and the Aegean Sea shimmering around you. That’s exactly what this day-long boat trip offers — a blend of scenic views, active water sports, and delicious Greek cuisine. Based on hundreds of reviews, this excursion manages to strike a great balance between fun, relaxation, and value, making it a popular choice for travelers wanting a taste of authentic island life.

What we love most about this experience is the variety it offers: freely accessible water activities like SUP and kayaking, the chance to dive into crystal-clear waters, and the unlimited wine and soft drinks as you soak up the sun. The stunning stops at Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko Bay, and Kallithea Springs add to the allure, each offering their own unique charm. However, some reviewers mention the crowding during peak times, so arriving early is recommended if you want the best sunbeds or personal space.

This tour suits those who enjoy an active day with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore, as well as travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic boat ride with good food and drinks. It’s ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends, especially if you appreciate a well-organized experience with knowledgeable guides. Keep in mind, it’s not suited for wheelchair users, and some may find the onboard food options less appealing depending on preferences.

Good To Know

• Authentic Greek Experience: Traditional wooden gulet with a friendly crew.
• Water Activities Galore: Free kayaking, SUP, snorkeling, and floating sofas.
• Beautiful Stops: Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko Bay, and Kallithea Springs.
• Great Food & Drinks: Homemade Greek lunch with unlimited wine and soft drinks.
• Flexible & Convenient: 6-hour tour, with multiple swim stops arranged for maximum enjoyment.
• Family Friendly & Fun: Suitable for most ages, with activities enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Setting Sail from Rhodes

The adventure kicks off at El Greco Cruises, right opposite Eleftherias Square in Mandraki port. The meeting point is straightforward — look for the charming, traditional wooden gulet, “El Greco”. We’ve seen from reviews that arriving about 30-45 minutes early is wise, especially if you want a prime sunbed spot. Some guests mention that arriving early improves your chances of snagging a better seat, as the boat can fill up quickly.

What’s on the Itinerary?

The day is carefully planned to maximize sightseeing, activity, and relaxation. The cruise begins with a scenic hour-and-a-half journey along the coast, giving you time to settle in, admire the views, and possibly capture some great photos of the rugged coastline.

The first swim stop is at Anthony Quinn Bay, famous for its deep emerald waters and lush surroundings. With about 40 minutes here, you’ll have plenty of time to jump in, snorkel, or just relax on the rocks. Reviewers rave about its beauty, noting that it’s “a real heaven on earth,” and a perfect spot for photos. Some mention that the water can be quite inviting, and snorkel gear is provided, but you might want to bring your own mask if you’re particular about fit or clarity.

Next, the boat cruises towards Ladiko Bay (Fun Island), a private floating water park accessible only by this gulet. Here, you get around two hours of free time to kayak, paddleboard, snorkel, or lounge on floating sofas. Reviewers often highlight that this stop is the highlight — “the SUP and kayaking were the best,” and “there was always something to do without feeling rushed.” The floating platforms and sofas are a nice touch, offering a relaxing spot to unwind with a drink in hand.

The final major stop is at Kallithea Springs, a scenic thermal spring complex blending natural beauty and architecture. You’ll have about 30 minutes for swimming, photos, and tasting some local snacks. The waters here are reputed for their healing properties, and many enjoy the chance to relax in the warm waters after the active fun at Ladiko.

The Food and Drink

One of the standout features of this trip is the homemade Greek lunch served onboard, which includes Greek salad, seasonal fruits, and other traditional dishes. Reviewers note that the food is generally plentiful and good quality — “big portions and very tasty,” as one guest put it. The unlimited soft drinks and local wine keep everyone refreshed throughout the day; some mention that the wine was a highlight, with one reviewer describing it as “really good quality.” Be aware that beers, cocktails, and slushies are not included, but they are available at additional cost.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Water Sports & Relaxation

The guided kayaking, SUP, and snorkeling gear are included, and many reviewers appreciate the helpful crew, such as Nikos and Stephanos, who are noted for their friendliness and attentiveness. A common tip from past guests is to ask for the fins — some guests mentioned that they didn’t automatically get them but found them useful for snorkeling.

The boat’s spacious sun deck is perfect for sunbathing, working on your tan, or just relaxing with a drink. The onboard music and friendly crew create a lively yet chilled atmosphere, making it suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends.

The Final Stop & Return

The last stop is at Kallithea Springs, where you can enjoy the warm waters and take some final photos before heading back to the port. The cruise wraps up after about 6 hours, returning to Mandraki with plenty of memories and photo opportunities.

Why This Tour Works

Great Value for Money

Multiple reviews emphasize the tour’s good value, noting that the included water activities, food, and drinks make the experience more than worth the price. For instance, guests appreciate the generous portions, the unlimited wine, and the variety of stops packed into just 6 hours.

Scenic Beauty & Water Fun

Travelers love the chance to swim in iconic spots like Anthony Quinn Bay and Kallithea Springs, often calling these stops “breathtaking” and “beautiful.” The availability of paddling and snorkeling gear adds a playful element that keeps the day lively and engaging.

Knowledgeable & Friendly Guides

Guests repeatedly praise the crew for their helpfulness and friendliness. Mentioned names like Nikos and Stephanos come up often, highlighting their attentiveness and willingness to help with gear or tips. These personal touches enhance the overall experience, making guests feel well looked after.

Well-Organized & Flexible

The itinerary’s structure, with its mix of sightseeing and activities, is carefully planned to maximize fun without feeling rushed. The stops are thoughtfully spaced out, allowing plenty of time to swim and relax. Arriving early is recommended, as the best sunbeds tend to go quickly during busy periods.

Limitations & Considerations

Some reviews note that the boat can be crowded, especially in peak season. Arriving early helps secure a good spot, and it’s worth noting that the food may not appeal to all dietary preferences. Also, the experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which is important for accessibility considerations.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy a mix of scenic sailing, water activities, and good local food, this trip will suit you well. It’s perfect for families, friends, or couples who want a fun day out with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. Beach lovers will appreciate the stops at Anthony Quinn Bay and Kallithea Springs, while active travelers will enjoy the SUP and kayaking options. It’s less ideal if you prefer a quiet or more secluded experience, or if mobility is an issue.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes cruise on a traditional Greek gulet, a homemade Greek lunch, unlimited wine and soft drinks, and water sports gear like kayaking, SUP, and snorkeling equipment.

How long does the trip last?
It’s approximately 6 hours from start to finish, with multiple swimming stops and sightseeing periods.

Where does the tour depart from?
It starts at El Greco Cruises, opposite Eleftherias Square in Mandraki port, Rhodes.

Is there a minimum age for water activities?
While not explicitly stated, most reviews mention activities being suitable for children and adults alike. Kids tend to enjoy the stops at Fun Island and the chance to paddle or snorkel.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional Greek lunch and unlimited soft drinks and wine. Beers and cocktails are available at additional cost.

Can I arrive early to get a better spot?
Yes, arriving 30-45 minutes early is recommended to secure a good sunbed or outdoor seating area.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, as the boat and stops require a certain level of mobility.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimwear, towel, sun hat, sunscreen, and possibly a camera. Food and drinks are not allowed to be brought onboard.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely — many reviews highlight how suitable it is for families, with activities that kids and adults can enjoy together.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes gulet trip offers a well-rounded mix of scenic sailing, water fun, and delicious local cuisine, all wrapped into a manageable 6-hour adventure. The friendly crew, beautiful stops, and included water sports make it a standout option for travelers wanting a lively yet relaxed day out. For those who enjoy exploring, swimming in gorgeous spots, and sampling Greek food and wine, this tour delivers in spades.

While it can get busy during peak times and isn’t designed for those needing extra accessibility, the overall experience is delightful and packed with value. It’s particularly well-suited for active families, groups of friends, or couples looking to enjoy Rhodes from the water with a dash of fun and flavor.

In essence, if you’re after a memorable, activity-filled day that captures the beauty of Rhodes and offers authentic Greek hospitality, this gulet cruise ticks all the boxes.

You can check if your dates are available here: