Rhodes: Swim & Relax Cruise with Buffet & Unlimited Drinks

Imagine spending a sunny day floating along Rhodes’ picturesque east coast, with the sea breeze in your hair, a cold drink in your hand, and a playlist of lively Greek tunes setting the mood. That’s exactly what this 5-hour cruise promises—combining laid-back beach hopping with a touch of party vibe, all aboard a sleek, multi-level boat called the Dolce Vita.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, the stunning swim stops at Anthony Quinn Bay and Kallithea Springs, the unlimited drinks, and the laid-back DJ-curated music. Plus, the traditional Greek buffet adds a satisfying touch, making it a value-packed day out.

However, a few travelers noted that swim stops might be shorter than hoped, and the buffet can run out of food if you’re late to the buffet table. Still, these are minor when compared to the overall fun and picturesque scenery. This trip is ideal for those looking for a relaxing, social day on the water—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a taste of local flavor with some beachside fun.

Good To Know

• Comfortable multi-level boat with a boho vibe and plenty of seating options
• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Anthony Quinn Bay and Kallithea Springs
• Unlimited drinks including wine, beer, and soft drinks, with access to snorkeling gear
• Chilled DJ music creates a relaxed, party-like atmosphere
• Well-organized transfers from selected Rhodes hotels, ensuring hassle-free start and end
• Good value for money considering the included meals, drinks, and multiple stops

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Rhodes Swim & Relax Cruise

This five-hour cruise along Rhodes’ east coast offers an engaging blend of sightseeing, swimming, relaxing, and dancing. It’s run by Mediterranean Sea Excursions, a reputable operator with a consistently high rating of 4.5 from hundreds of reviews. The emphasis on comfort, fun, and authentic local flavor makes it a popular choice for travelers seeking a balanced mix of leisure and adventure.

The boarding point at Mandraki Harbour is accessible via a pre-arranged transfer, scheduled based on your hotel location, which makes the start of the day quite smooth. The boat itself—called Dolce Vita—is designed to promote a laid-back, lounge-club vibe with its stylish boho décor, ample shaded and sunlit seating, and a DJ spinning tunes that set a relaxed but lively tone.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Departure and First Sightseeing Cruise (11:00 AM)

At 10:30 AM, guests are picked up from over 66 hotel locations, including major resorts like Rhodes Bay Hotel & SPA, Sheraton Rhodes Resort, and La Marquise Luxury Resort. Once onboard, the cruise departs around 11:00 AM, with a scenic 75-minute sightseeing cruise along the coast.

During this initial stretch, you’ll enjoy views of Rhodes Old Town, sandy beaches, and secluded coves. From the reviews, it’s clear many travelers loved this part. Frederik from Germany highlighted how the boat was not too crowded, allowing for peaceful lounging and socializing, with good music and friendly staff contributing to the relaxing atmosphere.

Traganou Beach and Caves (30-minute stop)

Next, the boat stops at Traganou Beach and its caves for a quick 30-minute swim. This spot is perfect for a refreshing dip or just snapping photos of the geological formations. Reviewers like Marie from the UK appreciated the serene vibe here, though some noted that the wind sometimes affected swim conditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Anthony Quinn Bay – The Main Attraction (1 hour 15 minutes)

The highlight of the day is the stop at Anthony Quinn Bay, known for its incredible scenery and clear waters. This is the longest swim break, giving plenty of time to snorkel and explore underwater life—if you’re lucky, you might spot some fish, as some reviews hoped for. Multiple guests, including Ashley from the UK, praised this stop as “beautiful” and “an excellent swimming spot.”

The crew provides snorkeling gear, so don’t forget your waterproof camera. Some travelers comment on the beach’s rocky landscape, so water shoes might be handy.

Kallithea Springs (30-minute stop)

The last swim stop is at Kallithea Springs, famous since ancient times for its healing waters. Today, it’s a gorgeous spot to relax, take photos, and swim in the mineral-rich waters. Reviewers like Muriel from the UK enjoyed this peaceful pause, with plenty of shade on deck and comfy seating options.

Final Stop and Return (45 minutes)

The cruise concludes at Kallithea Springs Bay, where you can either relax on deck, soak up the sun, or take one last swim. The mood here is tranquil, with many guests noting how this spot offers a gentle end to the day. Return to Mandraki Harbour around 4:00 PM, where transportation awaits to get you back to your hotel.

The Boat: Dolce Vita

The multi-level boat with its bohemian decor and lounge vibe was a hit among reviewers. It offers both shaded and sunlit areas, with comfortable seating including beanbags and benches, ideal for lounging. The upstairs deck is popular for its panoramic views and more lively atmosphere, although some guests wished for more space upstairs.

Music is a crucial part of the experience, with a local DJ providing a chilled, house-style playlist that many find adds to the relaxing, party-like vibe. The staff, praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, keep the drinks flowing—beer, wine, and soft drinks are unlimited, which reviewers like Chloe and Marley found to be great value.

Food and Drinks

The Greek buffet is described as delicious and plentiful. Typical offerings include salads, pasta, and options for vegetarians, like Marie from the UK appreciated. Some noted that the buffet could run out if you arrive late, but overall, the quality was high and well-received. The unlimited drinks include draft beer, wine, and soft drinks, making it easy to stay refreshed. Long drinks and cocktails aren’t included, but many guests still found the available options satisfying.

Practical Aspects: What You Need to Know

Transfers and Timing

Transfers are arranged from over 66 pick-up points, with detailed info sent via email 24 hours beforehand. You’ll receive a WhatsApp or email around 9:00 PM confirming your exact pick-up time and location, so arriving on time is crucial. The company emphasizes punctuality and advises against calling regarding pickup times.

What to Bring

Pack a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a camera. The boat’s deck can get hot, so sun protection is key. Water shoes are recommended for rocky areas at stops like Anthony Quinn Bay.

Accessibility and Age Limitations

The experience is wheelchair accessible, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness. The reviews suggest it’s best suited for adults or older teens, as the atmosphere is more relaxed and party-oriented.

Duration and Cost

For $77 per person, this cruise offers excellent value considering the inclusive buffet, unlimited drinks, scenic stops, and onboard entertainment. The 5-hour duration allows enough time to explore multiple spots without feeling rushed.

What Reviewers Love Most

Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and well-organized transfers as making the experience smooth from start to finish. The stunning scenery, particularly at Anthony Quinn Bay, left many with lasting memories. The music playlist and unlimited drinks created a lively, yet relaxed ambiance, perfect for socializing and soaking up the sun.

Many also appreciated the quality of food and drinks, with some mentioning the buffet exceeded expectations and the beverages kept coming. The boat’s modern design and comfortable seating areas were also major highlights.

A Few Noted Drawbacks

A handful of reviewers pointed out that swim stops could be longer, and the buffet sometimes ran out of food if not early. Some wished for more upper deck space, especially in high season. Weather can affect swim conditions at certain stops, so it’s worth considering the weather forecast before booking.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for those seeking a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and listen to good music. It’s especially suited for couples and friends who enjoy a social atmosphere, good value, and scenic vistas. If you love a bit of party ambiance combined with authentic Greek scenery, this trip hits the mark.

However, if you’re after a quiet, academic, or purely cultural experience, this might feel more like a fun beach day than a deep dive into Rhodes’ history. Also, anyone prone to seasickness or with mobility issues should consider the boat’s layout and the nature of the stops.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, transfers are provided from over 66 locations in Rhodes. You’ll receive detailed pickup info via email or WhatsApp 24 hours before your cruise.

How long are the swim stops?
The longest stop is at Anthony Quinn Bay, lasting 75 minutes, giving plenty of time to swim and snorkel. Other stops are 30 minutes each.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited draft beer, wine, and soft drinks are included in the price. Long drinks and cocktails are not part of the package.

Can I bring a snorkel or swimming gear?
Snorkeling equipment is available onboard for free, and guests are encouraged to bring their own if preferred.

Is the buffet suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the buffet offers vegetarian options like salads and pasta. Reviewers appreciated having vegetarian choices available.

What should I wear?
Swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, and a towel are recommended. The boat has shaded and sunlit areas, but sun protection is essential.

Final Thoughts

The Rhodes Swim & Relax Cruise with Buffet & Unlimited Drinks offers a well-rounded day of scenic views, fun swimming spots, and lively atmosphere. Its combination of comfort, good value, and authentic Greek vibes makes it a top choice for travelers wanting a little of everything—beach, music, and good food—in a relaxed setting.

This experience best suits those who enjoy socializing and want a hassle-free way to see multiple beautiful spots along Rhodes’ coast without sacrificing comfort. It’s a memorable way to soak up the sun, enjoy local flavors, and dance to great tunes—all in one laid-back package.

Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic day, friends wanting fun in the sun, or a solo traveler eager for a social scene, this cruise can deliver a delightful slice of summer on the Greek islands.

You can check if your dates are available here: