Rhodes: Lindos Cruise with 2 Swim Stops

Sea, sun, and a famous hilltop view. This full-day cruise gives you a pleasant way to reach Lindos while adding two beautiful swimming stops along Rhodes’ east coast. I especially like the chance to visit the Acropolis of Lindos without joining a guided group, and I like having a clean, spacious boat with sunbeds, shade, toilets, an air-conditioned cabin, and a snack bar. The main compromise is time: three hours in Lindos is enough for the main sights, but you may wish for another half-hour.

The cruise costs about $47 per person and lasts eight to eight and a half hours. That is good value if you want Lindos, swimming, and a full day on the water in one outing. It is less appealing if you want a quiet, small-boat trip or a long, unhurried visit to Lindos.

Key points to know before booking

• Anthony Quinn Bay comes first: You get about 30 minutes to swim from the boat in clear emerald water framed by rocky slopes.
• Lindos gets three hours: That gives you time for the Acropolis, whitewashed lanes, lunch, shopping, or the beach, but you need to watch the return time.
• Tsambika is the final swim: The Blue Lagoon stop offers another 30-minute swim directly from the boat.
• Arrive early for a sunbed: The limited top-deck loungers are popular, especially in summer.
• The boat is well equipped: You have an open sundeck, shaded areas, an air-conditioned interior, toilets, floats, WiFi, and a bar selling drinks, snacks, sandwiches, coffee, cocktails, and ice cream.
• Bring a jacket outside peak summer: The top deck can feel chilly and windy while the boat is moving, even when the sea is warm.

Why this cruise works for a Lindos day trip

Lindos is one of Rhodes’ essential stops, but reaching it by road can mean a long, hot journey. This cruise turns the transfer into part of the day. You watch the east coast slide by, stretch out on the boat, stop for swims, and arrive in Lindos with enough time to see its main sights.

I like this setup because it avoids the usual problem with a simple boat transfer: several hours of travel with nothing to do. Here, the journey has a clear rhythm. You start with coastal views, stop at Anthony Quinn Bay, continue to Lindos, explore on your own, then finish with another swim at Tsambika.

This is not a guided history tour. Once you reach Lindos, the time is yours. You decide how much effort to give the Acropolis, where to eat, and how long to spend by the water. That freedom suits me, but you should know that you will need to plan your own three hours.

Finding the DISCOVERY boat at Mandraki Port

The main meeting point is Mandraki port in Rhodes City. Look for the DISCOVERY boat almost opposite the Nea Agora Building, near the Roda bus stop. Arrive about 30 minutes early, with the stated morning arrival window around 8:00 to 8:30.

This early start matters for two reasons. First, you want enough time to find the boat without rushing. Second, early arrival gives you a better chance of claiming a preferred seat, especially one of the open-air sunbeds.

Hotel pickup may be available depending on the option you choose. The transfer service uses a RIZOS CRUISES coach or minivan, identified by its logo on the windscreen. You are asked to wait at the pickup point 10 minutes before the scheduled time, since the driver may wait only two minutes after that time. Traffic can cause a delay of up to 15 minutes, so stay at the pickup point rather than assuming the vehicle has gone.

The cruise itself is operated by Rizos Cruises. English and Greek are spoken by the host or greeter, and the staff are known for clear instructions about swimming stops, Lindos departure time, and return transport.

The first 45 minutes along Rhodes’ east coast

Once the boat leaves Rhodes, the first part of the trip is a sightseeing cruise of roughly 45 minutes. This is a good time to settle in, order a coffee, and decide where you want to spend the day onboard.

The boat has several seating areas across different decks. You can choose the open sundeck for sun and views, find shade in another outdoor area, or use the air-conditioned interior if the heat becomes too much. The boat is described as spacious, clean, stable, and well maintained, with comfortable seats and toilets that are kept in good condition.

The top deck is the prize spot for sun worshippers, but it comes with two catches. The loungers are limited, and they can be taken early. Also, the deck is exposed, with no shade on those sunbeds, and wind can make it feel cool when the boat is underway. I would bring a light jacket in spring, autumn, and even late October.

If you are prone to seasickness, the boat’s size and stability may help, though no sea journey is completely predictable. The lower air-conditioned area gives you a calmer place to sit if you need a break from sun and wind.

A 30-minute swim at Anthony Quinn Bay

Anthony Quinn Bay is the first main stop, reached after the opening cruise. The boat anchors for around 30 minutes, giving you a chance to jump into clear, emerald-colored water surrounded by rugged rock.

This is a swim from the boat, not a visit to a beach. You will need to be comfortable using a ladder or jumping from the boat according to the crew’s instructions. Snorkeling gear is worth bringing if you have it, since the clear water and rocky setting are the main attraction.

The stop is short, but that is part of the plan. You have enough time for a refreshing swim without losing the larger purpose of the day, which is Lindos. The crew provides floats, including noodle floats for people who are less confident in the water. Life jackets are also available for children.

Expect the crew to give advance notice before the stop. Instructions about getting ready and returning to the boat are clear, and the boat is cleaned after swimming. You can leave larger belongings onboard, which is useful because carrying a beach bag into the water is never a clever idea.

Arriving in Lindos with three hours to plan

After about 70 minutes of further sightseeing cruise, the boat reaches Lindos. The total journey from Rhodes takes just under two hours, depending on conditions and the exact timing of the day.

You then have approximately three hours of free time. That is enough for a focused visit, but you need to keep an eye on the clock. The boat leaves on time, and you should not count on an extra wait if you are late returning.

A sensible plan is to head uphill first. Lindos is known for its whitewashed buildings, narrow lanes, and the Acropolis above the village. The climb is worth the effort for the views, but the route is steep in places and can feel very hot. Wear shoes with a firm grip, carry water, and take the heat seriously during the middle of the day.

The Acropolis entrance fee is not included in the cruise price. You will pay that separately if you choose to go inside. The site is the main reason many people visit Lindos, so I would make it your first stop rather than leaving it until the end.

You can then use the remaining time for the village, lunch, or the shore. Lindos has tavernas, shops, and places to stop for a drink. You might also prefer to spend part of the break on the sandy beach instead of racing around the Acropolis.

A few practical choices:

• Acropolis first: Best for cooler temperatures and a clear view of the main landmark.
• Village lanes and lunch: A good choice if you want a relaxed taste of Lindos rather than a strenuous climb.
• Beach time: Best for a slower afternoon, though it leaves less time for sightseeing.
• Acropolis and beach: Possible, but you will need to keep moving and know exactly where to return to the boat.

The village can feel crowded when many day trips arrive at the same time. The Acropolis may also be busy, since many people head there soon after arrival. Still, three hours is enough to see the main sights if you set priorities before leaving the boat.

One useful advantage is that you can leave a bag onboard while exploring. Take only what you need for the hill and village: water, sun protection, a phone, money, and perhaps a small camera.

Returning along the coast and the 50-minute cruise

The boat leaves Lindos after the three-hour break and begins the return journey. There is roughly 50 minutes of sightseeing cruise before the final swimming stop, so you have time to rest, buy something from the bar, and find a seat.

The return can feel longer than the outbound journey. The schedule includes a final swim and an hour of sightseeing cruise afterward, with the expected return to Rhodes Harbor around 17:30. Delays or sea conditions can affect the exact pace, so listen carefully to the crew’s instructions.

If you want a top-deck sunbed for the return, return to the boat early from Lindos. One useful tactic is to get back around 40 minutes before departure. The loungers are popular, and arriving at the original pickup time may mean they are already taken.

The Tsambika Blue Lagoon swim

Tsambika Beach, described here as the Blue Lagoon, is the final swimming stop. The boat pauses for around 30 minutes, allowing you to jump into turquoise water directly from the deck.

This stop is a welcome finish after a hot visit to Lindos. You can cool off, use one of the floats, and enjoy the open water before the final cruise to Rhodes. Music may play during the swim, giving the stop a more cheerful, holiday feel rather than a quiet nature outing.

Like Anthony Quinn Bay, this is not a long beach visit. You stay with the boat and swim from it. Bring swimwear under your clothes, keep your towel handy, and listen for the signal to return onboard.

The two swim stops are similar in format but useful at different points in the day. Anthony Quinn Bay breaks up the outward journey. Tsambika helps you recover from the heat and walking in Lindos.

Food, seating, and onboard comfort

You are not required to buy food or drinks, but the onboard bar makes the long day easier. It offers cold drinks, cocktails, coffee, snacks, ice cream, and sandwiches. A sandwich has been priced at around €3, and food and drinks are generally considered reasonable for a boat excursion.

Bring cash, as it is listed among the recommended items. You should also pack your own water and snacks if you prefer to control costs.

The boat’s practical facilities are one of its strongest points. You get:

• Open sundeck with sunbeds
• Shaded seating areas
• Air-conditioned interior
• Clean onboard toilets
• Floats
• WiFi
• Insurance

The sunbeds are limited, so do not treat them as guaranteed seating. There is regular seating elsewhere on the boat, and the vessel is large enough to provide room even when busy. Still, in high season the experience can feel crowded, especially around the most desirable outdoor spots.

For families, the combination of stable seating, toilets, snacks, floats, and clear instructions is useful. Children can enjoy the swim stops without the day becoming a bare-bones boat ride. Parents should still bring towels, sunscreen, hats, and any preferred flotation equipment.

What the $47 price really buys you

At about $47 per person, this is strong value for a full day. The price covers the cruise, both swimming stops, three hours in Lindos, use of the boat facilities, floats, WiFi, and insurance. It also replaces the cost and effort of arranging separate transport to Lindos and a separate swimming outing.

You will still pay extra for food, drinks, towels, and the Acropolis. Hotel transfers are not included unless you select an option that offers pickup. These extras do not spoil the value, but they affect your final budget.

I see the best value for people who want variety. In one day, you get a scenic coastal journey, two swims, an important Rhodes sight, and time for lunch or the beach. If your only aim is to explore the Acropolis in detail, a road trip or longer independent visit may suit you better.

The price also reflects a larger shared boat, not a private charter. That keeps costs down but means you will share the decks, swim areas, bar, and seating with other passengers.

Small drawbacks to plan around

The main limitation is the three-hour Lindos stop. Many people find it sufficient, especially if they go straight to the Acropolis, but it can feel tight if you want the Acropolis, shopping, lunch, beach time, and a relaxed stroll.

The boat ride can also feel long, particularly on the way to Lindos. The onboard café, views, and seating make it easier, but bring a book, headphones, or something else to occupy you.

Top-deck sunbeds are another point to manage. They are comfortable and highly desirable, yet there are not enough for everyone. Arrive early, or accept that you may use ordinary seats and move around later.

Finally, the schedule depends on the sea and operating conditions. A departure has previously been moved because of bad weather and low demand, so keep some flexibility at the beginning or end of your Rhodes stay if possible. The stated free cancellation period is up to 24 hours before departure, and reserve-now, pay-later booking is available.

Who should book this Lindos cruise?

I would choose this trip if you want an easy, active day that mixes sightseeing and swimming. It suits couples, families, and anyone who prefers independent exploring to following a guide with a flag.

It is especially good for:

• First-time visitors who want to see Lindos and swim in famous bays
• Families who value toilets, shade, snacks, and flotation aids
• People who want a lower-cost alternative to private boating
• Swimmers who enjoy jumping from a boat into clear water
• Visitors staying in Rhodes City or nearby resort areas with optional pickup

I would hesitate if you dislike long boat rides, need a quiet small-group setting, or want several hours at the Acropolis. The hill in Lindos may also be tiring in strong heat, so plan your route sensibly.

FAQ

How long does the Rhodes to Lindos cruise last?

The cruise lasts approximately eight to eight and a half hours. Return to Rhodes Harbor is expected at about 17:30.

How much free time do I get in Lindos?

You get approximately three hours of free time in Lindos. You can visit the Acropolis, walk through the village, eat at a taverna, shop, or spend time at the beach.

Are the swimming stops from the boat or from a beach?

Both swimming stops are made from the boat. You can enter the water at Anthony Quinn Bay and Tsambika Beach, also called the Blue Lagoon.

How long are the swimming stops?

The stop at Anthony Quinn Bay lasts about 30 minutes. The Tsambika swimming stop also lasts about 30 minutes.

Is the Acropolis of Lindos entrance fee included?

No. The Acropolis entrance fee is not included in the cruise price.

Is hotel pickup available?

Pickup is optional and depends on the selected booking option. Transfer vehicles use the RIZOS CRUISES logo on the windscreen.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, a sun hat, cash, and snorkeling gear. A light jacket is useful at the beginning and end of the season, especially on the windy top deck.

Should you book it?

Yes, if you want to combine Lindos with two memorable swims without arranging separate transport. The clean boat, friendly crew, useful onboard bar, flotation aids, and good value make this a well-rounded day out.

Book it with a plan: arrive early for the best seating, visit the Acropolis first, keep track of the departure time, and pack a jacket even if the forecast looks warm. If you can accept a shared boat and a brisk three hours in Lindos, the Rhodes to Lindos cruise offers a lot for the price.