Rhodes Town: Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views

Trying to picture what’s beneath the surface of Rhodes’ waters? This submarine cruise promises a snapshot of the local marine life and an easy way to see the city’s iconic coastline without getting wet. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or flying solo, this activity offers a blend of scenic sightseeing and fun underwater encounters, all from the comfort of a climate-controlled cabin.

What makes this tour appealing? First, it’s very budget-friendly at just under $17, second, it offers unique underwater views through large panoramic windows, and third, the fish feeding spectacle, which often surprises visitors with its vibrancy and activity. A potential downside? The cruise is relatively short, clocking in at about 45 minutes, so it’s best suited as a quick, fun addition rather than a full-day adventure. This experience is perfect for those wanting a light, family-friendly activity that combines sightseeing and marine life in one calm, accessible package.

Good To Know

• Affordable and accessible: Offers excellent value at around $17 per person.
• Scenic views of Rhodes: See the Old Town, Mandraki Harbor, and Elli Beach from the water.
• Underwater spectacle: Large windows reveal lively fish, with the diver feeding them right before your eyes.
• Easy to fit into a day: The cruise lasts only 45 minutes, making it a great quick activity.
• Comfortable experience: Air-conditioned cabin ensures a pleasant environment, even on warm days.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, including children, with many reviews praising its fun and engaging nature.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Rhodes Submarine Cruise

The tour begins at Mandraki Harbor, the bustling heart of Rhodes, where you’ll find the Poseidon Submarine waiting to take you on this brief aquatic adventure. The boat departs from Pl. Eleftherias and makes a quick 10-minute cruise around the harbor. This first stretch is an enjoyable way to get a feel for the surrounding sights, including the iconic port where the legendary Colossus once stood, and the walls of the Old Town, which loom majestically above the water.

Next, you’ll glide past the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a highlight for history buffs, and continue around the scenic Old Town. Many reviewers mention how spectacular the views of Rhodes from the water are, especially when the boat approaches the city walls and the quaint fishing harbors. As one visitor noted, “Nice views of the port, and good views of a few types of fish”—a straightforward but telling comment about the tour’s primary charm.

The main event happens once the submarine reaches its designated underwater viewing point. The vessel’s hull is about 2.5 meters below the surface, with large windows offering a 360° panoramic view of the underwater ecology. Here, you’re likely to see the diver appear, feeding the multitude of colorful fish. Multiple reviews, including one describing a diver “going down to feed the fish,” highlight how this feeding show is often the highlight, providing fantastic photo opportunities and an up-close look at marine life that many might never see so closely.

The cabin’s air conditioning and large windows make the experience comfortable and unobstructed, even as you sit just below the water’s surface. For those who prefer fresh air and a broader view, there’s an outdoor deck where you can stand and breathe in the ocean breeze while still enjoying the sights. The boat remains above sea level at all times, making this accessible and safe for all.

After about 20 minutes underneath, the boat heads back to port, passing by Elli Beach and the Tourist Harbor, giving you one last glance at Rhodes’ lively waterfront. The trip wraps up back at Pl. Eleftherias, with many reviewers expressing satisfaction at how well-paced and relaxed the cruise is. One review even called it “a great little trip for the price,” emphasizing how it’s an ideal short activity that offers a lot of visual interest without requiring a big time investment.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point at Pl. Eleftherias

Most tours begin here, making it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing. The location is central and straightforward to find, with many guests praising the smooth booking process and clear instructions.

Mandraki Harbor (10-minute cruise)

This initial ride provides a gentle intro to Rhodes’ coastline. Expect views of the port and some of the city’s historic architecture. Reviewers mention that this part is “nice to see some sights, enjoy the sea wind,” and “a good way to start your day or break up sightseeing.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Past the Palace of the Grand Master (10-minute cruise)

This historic fortress looms over the water, and the view from the boat offers a unique perspective you don’t get from walking the streets. Many reviews highlight how scenic this part is, with some noting they enjoyed the chance to see the city from the water.

Rhodes Old Town (5-minute cruise)

A quick cruise past the Old Town walls offers a glimpse of the narrow streets and the fortress gates. It’s a good teaser for those planning to explore on foot later, giving a broader context for the city’s layout.

Marine Life Viewing & Underwater Experience (20 minutes)

This is the core of the tour. Expect large windows revealing schools of fish and other marine creatures. Reviewers love the diver feeding the fish, describing it as “loads of fish to see,” and “the diver videod us all underwater and uploaded it for free,” which adds a fun, personal touch.

Return to Pl. Eleftherias

After the underwater spectacle, the boat heads back to the starting point, passing Elli Beach—one of Rhodes’ most popular seaside spots. The entire experience then concludes with playback of the sights and the marine life seen during the trip.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Value for money is one of the most common praises in reviews. At just under $17, passengers get a scenic boat ride, underwater views, and a chance to see fish feeding, making it considerably affordable compared to other water-based activities in Rhodes.

The quality of the underwater views and the diver’s feeding show are often praised. One reviewer said, “the diver went down to feed the fish, loads of fish to see,” emphasizing how lively and colorful the underwater ecosystem can be. Many visitors appreciate the large windows that provide clear, unobstructed views, even through cloudy waters at times.

The crew and guides receive high marks for friendliness and professionalism. Multiple reviews mention how the staff, including the diver, are “nice and friendly,” and the audio guide (available in English and German) offers additional context, making the experience both fun and educational.

The tour’s pacing is often commended. At roughly 45 minutes, it’s a quick trip that’s easy to fit into a busy day of sightseeing. It appeals especially to travelers who want a light activity without too much commitment or physical exertion.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 45 minutes, ideal for a short break in your sightseeing schedule.
• Price: Just under $17 per person, which is excellent value considering the views and marine life.
• Availability: Check for specific starting times online—note that the 18:30 cruise does not include the diving show.
• Meeting Point: Mandraki port, opposite the Bank of Greece building—easy to find with clear instructions.
• Accessibility: The activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for various travelers.
• Extras: There’s an onboard bar where you can buy drinks, perfect to relax after the tour or during any free time.

Final Verdict: Who Will Love This?

This submarine cruise is best suited for travelers wanting a light, fun, and budget-friendly way to see Rhodes from the water. It’s particularly great for families, first-time visitors, or anyone curious about marine life without the hassle of snorkeling or diving. The short duration makes it perfect for those with tight schedules or looking for a quick break from walking around the city.

If you’re interested in a relaxed boat ride with scenic views and the chance to see colorful fish feedings up close, this tour delivers. It also offers a charming way to get a unique perspective on Rhodes’ historic harbor and coastline, providing memorable photo opportunities from the water.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth marine experience or longer sightseeing trip, you might find this cruise a bit too brief. Still, for the price and the quality of the underwater views, it’s a charming and worthwhile addition to any Rhodes itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for travelers of all ages. Kids especially enjoy the fish feeding show and the panoramic windows.

How long does the cruise last? The total experience is around 45 minutes, including the time cruising around the harbor and the underwater viewing.

Does the tour include a diving show? The 18:30 cruise does not include the diver feeding the fish, so check the time if this is something you’re particularly interested in.

Are there food and drinks onboard? Yes, there’s a bar where you can purchase drinks, but personal expenses are not included in the price.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users? According to the information, it is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for diverse travelers.

Can I book this activity on the day? It’s advisable to check availability in advance, but the activity can often be reserved online with flexible cancellation policies.

What are the main sights visible from the boat? Expect views of Rhodes Old Town, Mandraki Harbor, Elli Beach, and the city walls, providing a scenic overview of the city’s historic and seaside charm.

Is this a good value for the price? Absolutely. Travelers have consistently rated it highly for its affordability, friendly crew, and engaging underwater views.

To sum it up, the Rhodes Town: Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views strikes a great balance between fun, affordability, and scenic beauty. It offers a quick yet captivating glimpse into Rhodes’ coastal and marine environment, making it an appealing choice for all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly activity or a relaxing way to see the city from the water, this tour delivers on a memorable, engaging experience that won’t break the bank.

You can check if your dates are available here: