Rhodes: Lindos Cruise with 2 Swim Stops

Picture-perfect bays, then time to wander. This full-day Rhodes cruise mixes a classic stop for Lindos sights with two real swimming moments from the boat, plus onboard comfort. You get Anthony Quinn Bay first, then about 3 hours in Lindos, and finish with a final dip at Tsambika Beach.

I especially like the way the day is built for both people who want action and people who want to relax. The boat has open areas for sun and an air-conditioned spot to cool off, and the staff keep things moving so you are not stuck waiting around all day.

One drawback to plan for: that top-deck sunbed area can get windy with limited shade, so if you want a perfect tan, you will need to claim spots early and bring a light layer if the weather feels cool.

Key points to know before you go

• Two boat swim stops in iconic spots, Anthony Quinn Bay first, then Tsambika Blue Lagoon on the way back
• About 3 hours in Lindos, enough time to visit the Acropolis and still wander the whitewashed lanes
• Comfort you can actually use, open sunbeds plus an air-conditioned cabin and clean onboard toilets
• A snack-bar, not a meal deal, bar prices are described as reasonable and there are snacks available during the day
• Help for nervous swimmers, floats are provided, and kids and less confident swimmers get extra support like noodles
• Get there early for best seating, sunbeds on the top deck go quickly and the deck can be breezy

Rhodes to Lindos by Boat, the Itinerary That Feels Like a Day Off

This is one of those Rhodes outings where the schedule makes sense. You travel by boat along the island coast, you get meaningful time in Lindos, and you get two chances to cool off in water that looks like it belongs on a postcard.

The day starts around 8:00 to 8:30 at Mandraki port, and you return to Rhodes Harbor at about 17:30. Between those anchors, the cruise includes scenic sailing stretches, so you are not just sitting on land waiting for the next thing.

What makes this cruise work is the mix: land time for the Lindos highlights, plus water time when you want a break from walking. The swimming stops are also built for convenience because you go in straight from the boat, then you are back onboard without having to coordinate beaches, taxis, or changing plans.

If you are the type who likes to see something iconic but still wants control over your day, this is a great fit.

Mandraki Port Check-In, and Finding the Right Boat Fast

Start with sanity. Show up at least 30 minutes early at Mandraki port and look for the DISCOVERY boat, which is almost opposite the Nea Agora Building. If you are using public transport, the bus stop listed is Roda.

On travel days, timing at ports is everything. You will also want to be ready to move quickly once you find the boat, because early arrivals have an advantage: you can choose better seating, and sunbeds on the top deck can be claimed fast.

If you selected the optional transfer, you will use a pick-up point rather than walk out of your hotel room. The transfer wait time is short, drivers wait no longer than 2 minutes after the scheduled pickup time (and delays of up to 15 minutes can happen due to traffic or other issues). The bus is identified with the RIZOS CRUISES logo.

My practical tip: before you leave, screenshot the pickup time and pickup point details. It helps you move without stress, especially in Rhodes where streets and hotel entrances can be a bit confusing.

Anthony Quinn Bay Swim Stop, Emerald Water With a Built-In Break

The first swimming stop is Anthony Quinn Bay, and the goal here is simple: clear water, rocky scenery, and an easy dip. You get about 30 minutes to swim, float, and snorkel from the boat.

I like this stop because it is not just about swimming. It is also a viewpoint moment. The rocky coastline around the bay frames the water, and you get that “I am on vacation” feeling quickly.

This is also where the cruise sets you up for confidence. Floats are included, and you can find extra help for less confident swimmers like noodles. That means the swim stop is not only for experienced swimmers.

They also give heads-up timing. I like that the crew communicates when the boat will be stopping, including a reminder about 20 minutes ahead. That helps you get sunscreen, grab your towel, and be ready without panicking at the last second.

If you want to snorkel, bring your snorkeling gear. The tour lists it as something to pack, and it is the best use of your swim time.

Lindos Town and the Acropolis, Your 3-Hour Block to Do It Your Way

After the cruise heads toward Lindos (about 2 hours from departure), you get around 3 hours of free time in Lindos village. This is the core of the day on land, and it is the part most people care about most.

Here is what you can realistically do with 3 hours:

• Walk through the whitewashed lanes and browse shops at a relaxed pace
• Find food and a view near the harbor area
• Plan a climb to the Acropolis of Lindos for the landmark views

The Acropolis walk is worth it, but it is also not casual. The hill up can feel steep, and in warm weather you will feel it. If you are traveling with kids or anyone who tires easily, you can still enjoy Lindos without rushing all the way to the top, then come back down before you feel worn out.

A crowd note matters here. The top can get packed because lots of people aim for it at the same time. Your advantage is that you are not stuck in a guided group pace. You can start earlier or move slower based on your energy.

Also, keep your timing tight when it is almost time to return to the boat. Lindos has that “everything is uphill” feeling. If you drift too far, you can waste time getting back down. Then you end up scrambling, and the boat is scheduled to leave.

One more smart tip: use the boat to store your bag while you explore. You are not stuck carrying everything around the whole time, and that makes the Lindos walking more comfortable.

Tsambika Beach Blue Lagoon on the Return, the Final Cool-Down

On the return sailing, the cruise stops at Tsambika Beach, often described as the Blue Lagoon. Again, you get about 30 minutes in the water.

This stop works for a simple reason. By the time you reach Tsambika, you have done the Lindos heat, the walking, and the sightseeing. A final swim gives you a reset, plus a last round of those postcard colors.

The approach is the same as Anthony Quinn Bay: you go in from the boat and then you are free to enjoy the water and the sun until it is time to head back to Rhodes.

One detail I appreciate: the crew stays on top of the routine. During swimming stops, they keep the boat tidy and handle the flow of people back onboard, so the whole thing feels safe and organized.

If you are traveling with kids, this is also a good moment because buoyancy options like floats and noodles are part of the setup.

Boat Comfort, Sunbeds, and the Onboard Bar That Keeps the Day Easy

The boat setup is one of the biggest reasons this cruise gets strong marks. You have open sun areas with sunbeds, and you also have a proper air-conditioned space when the sun is doing its job.

The sunbeds are comfortable, but the top deck is where the “read this in advance” comes in. Several people note the top deck can be windy, and shade is limited. That means if you are sensitive to cool breezes while sailing, plan for a light layer.

The boat also has clean facilities. Onboard toilets are included, and the rest of the boat is described as well maintained and clean. After swim stops, the crew keeps things handled quickly, so you are not stepping into chaos when you return from the water.

Then there is the bar. You can buy cold drinks, coffee, cocktails, snacks, and ice cream. Food and drink are not included, but pricing is repeatedly described as reasonable. Some reviews even mention small items like sandwiches around 3€, which helps you avoid the “how much is this going to cost” shock.

One thing to remember: the boat can feel lively and busy at peak times. You can still find relaxing corners by using different decks, and the air-conditioned area is a lifesaver if you want to chill for a bit before Lindos.

Price and Value, Is This Worth It for Your Style of Travel?

At about $47 per person for a full day, this cruise is positioned as good value if you like mixing sightseeing with rest breaks. You are paying for transportation by boat, two swim stops at standout locations, and a meaningful block of free time in Lindos.

You are not paying for a guided tour of every step. Instead, you get the “best hits” structure:

• icon swim stops that are hard to replicate on your own without planning
• a reasonable amount of time in Lindos for the highlights
• onboard comfort that helps you handle the heat

What can make it feel less perfect is simple math. Some people wish Lindos was longer. If you are the type who takes lots of photos, likes shopping, and wants slow wandering, you might feel 3 hours is tight. If that sounds like you, build in a plan before you go, like deciding whether you are doing the Acropolis right away or later in your time block.

The Acropolis is also not fully covered in the sense that Acropolis fees are not included. You should expect to pay entry separately if you go up.

Still, for most couples, families, and first-timers, the day is a strong deal because you get two different water experiences and one major cultural stop, all without needing to coordinate multiple transit steps.

Who This Lindos Cruise Suits Best, and How to Prepare

This cruise suits you if:

• You want two swim stops and you want them built into the schedule
• You want to see Lindos but prefer free time over a rigid guided walking pace
• You like a comfortable boat with sun and shade options
• You are traveling with kids, because float support like noodles is mentioned as available

It might not be your best match if you dislike boats, or if you need a lot of time to linger in one place. The day is packed with “enough time,” not “all day” time.

Preparation is mostly about comfort and timing:

• Pack sunglasses, a sun hat, and swimwear
• Bring a towel
• Bring cash since the bar and food are not included
• Bring snorkeling gear if you want to make the most of the swim moments
• For early and late season, or if you run cold, bring a light jacket

Also, aim to get on board early if you care about the top deck sunbeds. Seating choices matter here. A breezy sunbed beats a shaded seat you did not claim, and you will feel that difference once you start sailing.

Should You Book This Rhodes Lindos Cruise With Two Swim Stops?

Book it if you want a straightforward, high-value day with real water time and a proper chunk of Lindos village. The two swim stops are the headline, but what makes it work is the whole package: boat comfort, clean facilities, and a crew that keeps communication clear about stopping and getting ready.

Skip it or think twice if 3 hours in Lindos feels too short for your pace, or if you know you will struggle with the steep walk toward the Acropolis. In those cases, you might prefer a slower, land-based plan where you control timing even more.

Overall, if you are visiting Rhodes and you want Lindos plus swimming without the stress of transfers and beach logistics, this cruise is a solid choice.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the Lindos cruise?

You meet at Mandraki port. Arrive 30 minutes earlier and look for the DISCOVERY boat, almost opposite the Nea Agora Building. The bus stop is Roda.

Does the price include hotel pickup and drop-off?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included in the base activity price. Transfers can be optional, with instructions to wait at the pickup point shortly before pickup time, using a bus with the RIZOS CRUISES logo.

How long is the cruise and when do you return to Rhodes?

The experience runs about 8 to 8.5 hours. The return to Rhodes Harbor is approximately 17:30.

How much free time do you get in Lindos?

You get about 3 hours of free time in Lindos village.

Where are the swim stops during the day?

There are two swimming stops: Anthony Quinn Bay and Tsambika Beach (Blue Lagoon). Each swim stop is about 30 minutes.

Are sunbeds and onboard facilities included?

Yes. The cruise includes an open sundeck with sunbeds plus toilets onboard and an air-conditioned area. Floats are also included.

Is the Acropolis of Lindos fee included?

No. Acropolis fees are not included, so you should expect to pay entry separately if you visit.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, cash, and snorkeling gear.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

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

Is WiFi available onboard?

Yes. WiFi is available onboard.