Best Boat Tours in Rhodes 2026 — Full Local Cruise Guide

This guide is part of my boat experience collection, helping you choose the best cruise routes, swim tours, and sailing trips around the island. If you want to compare routes, trip styles, and top-rated options in one place, explore my full Best Boat Trips in Rhodes guide.

⭐ Best Boat Tours and Cruises in Rhodes

If you want to experience Rhodes beyond the beaches, the best boat tours in Rhodes take you into turquoise bays, hidden coves, sea caves, nearby islands, and sunset routes that capture the island’s beauty from the water. Whether you enjoy relaxing swim cruises, adventure-style speedboat trips, romantic sunset sails, or day trips to Symi and other islands, Rhodes offers something for every traveller.

As a Rhodes local, I’ve taken many of these cruises with friends and family. What I’ve learned is that not all boat tours are equal — some offer genuinely beautiful stops with clear water and quiet coves, while others focus more on convenience or bigger-group fun. This guide highlights the tours and routes that actually deliver breathtaking scenery and memorable moments.

If you're building your holiday plan, pair this article with the Rhodes Travel Guide 2026 and the Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary, which include boat days for swimmers and families.

👉 Boat trips are only one part of what makes a Rhodes holiday unforgettable. If you want to explore everything from island cruises and cultural tours to unique local activities, you can browse my complete Best Experiences in Rhodes guide.

⭐ Who I Am & Why I Wrote This Guide

Hey traveller — I’m Looneytravels, your Rhodes local buddy. I spend a lot of time exploring the coastline and taking swim trips along the east and south coasts. Over time I’ve learned which cruises consistently find the clearest water, which boats stop at quieter bays, and how to avoid the crowded routes.

I wrote this guide to the best boat tours in Rhodes to help you choose the right experience for your style — whether that’s relaxing, adventurous, romantic, or a mix of all three. This is an honest breakdown of what’s actually worth your time and money.

⭐ Best Boat Tours and Cruises in Rhodes (Local 2026 Guide)

Let’s dive into the most rewarding cruises along Rhodes coastline and beyond.

⭐ Best Half-Day Boat Tours in Rhodes

These are perfect if you want to swim, snorkel, and explore without committing to a full-day trip.

My Recommendations:

All Inclusive Boat trip with snorkelling

Beach Cruise with Swimming

All Inclusive Day Cruise

Sunset Cruise

High-Speed Boat to Symi

Private Yacht

⭐ 1. Anthony Quinn Bay + Ladiko + Traganou Caves (Classic Swim Cruise)

Why it's one of the best boat tours in Rhodes:
You visit three of the clearest-water bays on the island in one trip.

Highlights:

• emerald water at Anthony Quinn

• snorkelling at Ladiko

• caves at Traganou Beach

• great for families and couples

Best time:
Morning departures for calm water and good light.

Local tip:
If you want more space, choose a smaller boat (under 40 people).

⭐ 2. East Coast Chill Cruise (Tsambika + Stegna + Agia Agathi)

A relaxing route along Rhodes bright turquoise coastline. This cruise is ideal for swimmers who prefer sandy bays and long shallows. Boats can be found at Faliraki Harbour & Lindos Harbour

Stops usually include:
✔ Tsambika Beach
✔ Stegna
✔ Agia Agathi Beach

Local tip:
Each bay has different colour tones — Tsambika is gold-turquoise, Agia Agathi is bright aqua, Stegna is deep glassy blue.

⭐ 3. Faliraki Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

A short, fun cruise ideal for children and families.
Clear view of the seabed + fish feeding stops.

Boat tickets can be found at Faliraki Harbour and nearby Hotel Receptions

⭐ 4. Kallithea Springs Coastal Cruise

Combines swimming, rock pools, and beautiful coastal architecture.

Perfect for:
Travellers who want a relaxing ambient cruise without long journeys.

⭐ Best Full-Day Boat Tours in Rhodes

Perfect for travellers who want a longer adventure.

Many travellers tell me their favourite Rhodes memories come from experiences like swimming in hidden bays, exploring historic villages, or sailing along the coastline. If you're looking for ideas beyond boat trips, my curated Best Experiences in Rhodes guide helps you plan unforgettable days around the island.

⭐ 5. Symi Island Day Cruise (Harbour + Bay Stop)

Why it’s a top choice:
You get a full island experience: the pastel harbour + a turquoise swimming bay.

Many boats stop at Nanou or Agios Georgios Dysalonas — two of the most beautiful bays in the region.

Local tip:
Choose a boat that stops for swimming, not only a quick monastery visit.

Best Option:

High-Speed Boat to Symi

If you enjoy structured sightseeing with local guides, historic storytelling, and easy transport between landmarks, you might also enjoy the experiences listed in my Best Guided Tours in Rhodes guide.

⭐ 6. Lindos Full-Day Cruise

Ideal for travellers who want to combine sightseeing + swimming.

Typical itinerary:
✔ 2–3 swim stops on the way
✔ 3–4 hours free time in Lindos
✔ return along scenic coastline

Best for:
Photographers, swimmers, and anyone who loves Lindos whitewashed look.

⭐ 7. Southern Rhodes Explorer Cruise

A more adventurous route, sometimes stopping at:

• Red Sand Beach (Kokkini Ammos)

• Kiotari coastline

• Hidden coves beyond Lardos

Great for travellers staying in the south.

⭐ 8. West Coast & Monolithos by Boat (Weather Dependent)

The west coast is wilder and more exposed to wind, so these tours happen on calm days only.

Why go:
Dramatic cliffs, deep-blue water, and unique views of Monolithos Castle from the sea.

⭐ Best Adventure & Speedboat Tours in Rhodes

For travellers who want something more dynamic.

⭐ 9. Speedboat Tour to Anthony Quinn & Ladiko

Fast, exciting, and perfect for short attention spans.
Small groups make this ideal for couples or families.

Local tip:
You reach calm water before the big boats arrive.

⭐ 10. Blue Cave Speedboat Trip

Explore sea caves near the east coast with bright blue underwater reflections.

Good for:
Snorkellers and adventure lovers.

⭐ 11. Private Rib Boat Tour (Custom Route)

More expensive, but perfect if you want:

• quiet, private bays

• custom swimming stops

• drone photography

• romantic atmosphere

Great choice for honeymooners.

⭐ Best Sunset Cruises in Rhodes

Sunset from the water is one of the most memorable experiences on the island.

Best option:

Sunset Cruise

⭐ 12. Rhodes Town Sunset Cruise

Depart from Mandraki Harbour and sail past the medieval walls and windmills.

What you see:
✔ Old Town walls
✔ Lighthouse
✔ Deer statues
✔ Golden sunset over the Aegean

Local tip:
Choose the quieter boats — the view is better without loud music.

⭐ 13. Lindos Sunset Sail

Romantic, atmospheric, and beautiful.
The acropolis becomes golden as the sun lowers.

Ideal for:
Couples, photographers, solo travellers who love peaceful colours.

⭐ 14. South Coast Sunset Chill Cruise

Depart from Kiotari or Lardos for a calm, slow sunset sail along long empty beaches.

⭐ Best Boat Tours for Snorkelling in Rhodes

These tours focus on water clarity and underwater visibility.

All Inclusive Boat trip with snorkelling

⭐ 15. Anthony Quinn Snorkel Excursion

Expect:

• rock formations

• fish schools

• ultra-clear visibility

Ideal for all ages.

⭐ 16. Stegna Snorkel Trip

The rocky corners south of Stegna offer surprisingly good snorkelling.

Local tip:
Morning light makes the water brightest.

⭐ 17. Prasonisi Snorkelling (Mediterranean Side)

Clear and calm conditions create excellent visibility.

Better on low-wind days.

⭐ Boat Tours Ideal for Families

Not all cruises are kid-friendly — these ones are.

If you're specifically looking for the most scenic swim cruises, sunset sails, and island-hopping routes, I break down the highest-rated options inside my full Best Boat Trips in Rhodes guide, including which trips suit families, couples, and adventure travellers best.

⭐ 18. Glass-Bottom Boat (Faliraki)

Short, safe, fun.

⭐ 19. East Coast Swim Cruise

Calm water, sandy bays, and gentle waves.

⭐ 20. Small Group Boats with Shade

Look for vessels with comfortable seating and flexible stops.

Many visitors build entire holiday days around sea excursions. To combine boat tours with sightseeing, hidden beaches, and local highlights, you can use my complete Best Experiences in Rhodes guide to plan your daily itinerary easily.

⭐ Tips for Choosing the Best Boat Tours in Rhodes

✔ Morning cruises = calmer water
✔ Book sunset tours early (they sell out fast)
✔ Avoid west coast routes on windy days
✔ Bring snorkel gear — rentals are low quality
✔ Choose smaller boats for quieter experiences
✔ Wear water shoes for rocky entries
✔ For island trips, bring cash for taverns

For getting to ports, use the Rhodes Transport Guide – Best Ways to Travel in Rhodes.

⭐ Where to Stay for Easy Access to Boat Tours

⭐ Rhodes Town

Best base for Symi, Lindos cruises, and sunset sails.

⭐ Faliraki / Kallithea

Ideal for east-coast swimming cruises.

⭐ Lindos / Pefkos

Perfect for local boat tours and romantic sunset routes.

Browse recommended areas in Where to Stay in Rhodes – Guide to All Best Areas & Resorts and the top picks inside Best Hotels in Rhodes.

⭐ Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Tours and Cruises in Rhodes

❓ What types of boat tours are available in Rhodes?

Rhodes offers a wide variety of boat tours — from half-day swim cruises to full-day island excursions, sunset sails, and adventure or speedboat trips. Options often include swimming stops in scenic bays like Anthony Quinn and Tsambika, day trips to Symi Island, and cruises that combine sightseeing with relaxed swim time.

If you’re still deciding which sea excursions suit your travel style best, you can compare all sailing routes, cruise types, and local highlights inside my Best Boat Trips in Rhodes guide.

❓ Is the Symi Island day trip worth it from Rhodes?

Yes — a Symi Island day trip by boat is one of the most popular excursions on the island. Typically around 1–1 hour 15 minutes by fast boat, you’ll enjoy time exploring the pastel-coloured harbour, often combined with swim stops such as St. George’s Bay, plus free time to wander Symi village.

👉 Best Option:
High-Speed Boat to Symi

For visitors planning multiple activities, Symi is also featured inside my curated Best Experiences in Rhodes guide, which helps you balance island trips, sightseeing, and beach days.

❓ What should I expect on a Lindos boat cruise?

Lindos boat tours usually include a scenic cruise along the east coast with swim stops at iconic bays such as Anthony Quinn Bay and Tsambika Beach, followed by several hours to explore Lindos village, beaches, and the acropolis.

Many travellers combine Lindos with other top excursions, which is why it’s also included in my full Best Experiences in Rhodes planning guide.

❓ Are boat tours in Rhodes suitable for families?

Absolutely — many tours are very family-friendly, especially glass-bottom boat trips, east-coast swim cruises, and shorter half-day outings with calm water and safe swimming spots. Look for tours offering shaded seating and flexible swim stops if travelling with children.

Families often combine boat days with other activities like waterparks, cultural tours, and village visits, which you can easily plan using my Best Experiences in Rhodes guide.

❓ Do boat tours include swimming and snorkelling?

Yes — most coastal and swim cruise tours include multiple stops for swimming and snorkelling in calm, clear water. Popular stops include Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko Bay, Kallithea Springs, and Traganou Caves depending on the route.

👉 Best Option:
All Inclusive Boat Trip with Snorkelling

You’ll find additional swim-focused tours and water experiences inside my Best Boat Trips in Rhodes comparison guide.

❓ When is the best time of day for a boat trip in Rhodes?

Morning departures usually offer the calmest sea conditions and best lighting for photos, especially along the east coast. Sunset cruises, meanwhile, are perfect for relaxed evenings and scenic coastal views.

If sunset sailing and scenic experiences are a priority, I also recommend browsing the broader options listed in my Best Experiences in Rhodes guide.

❓ Are sunset cruises popular in Rhodes?

Yes — sunset cruises departing from Rhodes Town and Lindos are extremely popular for golden-hour views, calmer evening seas, and relaxed atmospheres. These trips are especially popular with couples and travellers looking for memorable scenic moments rather than active swimming stops.

Several sunset sailing options are also included in my curated Best Boat Trips in Rhodes guide.

❓ Can you book private boat tours in Rhodes?

Yes — private rib boats and yacht charters allow you to customise routes, visit quieter coves, and create personalised sailing experiences. They’re especially popular for honeymooners, photographers, and small group celebrations.

Private charter options are compared alongside group cruises inside my full Best Boat Trips in Rhodes guide.

❓ How long are full-day boat cruises?

Full-day cruises — especially those visiting destinations like Symi or Lindos — usually last between 6 and 9 hours. These trips often include sightseeing, beach stops, swimming, and time ashore for meals or exploring villages.

Many travellers plan these longer excursions alongside other must-do activities, which you can easily organise using my Best Experiences in Rhodes guide.

❓ Are there boat tours that combine swimming and island visits?

Yes — several popular cruises combine swim stops at bays such as Anthony Quinn or Tsambika with island visits like Symi or Lindos, giving travellers a balanced mix of relaxation and sightseeing in one trip.

To compare which mixed-experience tours deliver the best value, see my full Best Boat Trips in Rhodes guide.

⭐ Final Thoughts

The best boat tours in Rhodes offer unforgettable coastal colours, crystal-clear water, dramatic landscapes, and peaceful swimming spots. Whether you’re sailing to Symi, exploring caves near Traganou, snorkelling at Anthony Quinn Bay, or watching sunset from the sea near Rhodes Town, seeing the island from the water is one of the most memorable parts of any visit.

Boat trips are only one part of what makes a Rhodes holiday special. If you want a complete breakdown of tours, excursions, and must-do activities chosen from local knowledge, explore my full Best Experiences in Rhodes guide before finalising your itinerary.

To plan these tours into your trip smoothly, you can:

👉 Build daily plans using my Rhodes Travel Guide 2026
👉 Follow ready-made routes inside the Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary
👉 Choose port-friendly accommodation from Best Hotels in Rhodes

Take your time exploring the coastline — Rhodes truly shines when experienced from the water.