Best Boat Trips from Rhodes: Cruises, Island Hops & Coastal Coves

Rhodes sits at the perfect crossroads of the Aegean for exploring by sea. This guide covers the best boat trips available, from full-day Symi cruises and Lindos sea excursions to catamaran sailings and snorkelling stops at stunning coastal bays.

A scenic coastal cove in Rhodes framed by rocky hills, with clear blue water, anchored boats, and distant mountains under a bright sky.

Rhodes is one of the best-positioned islands in Greece for boat trips. Within an hour by fast ferry you can reach the pastel-coloured harbour of Symi, and by sea you can access beaches and bays that are simply unreachable by road. Most trips depart from Mandraki Harbour in Rhodes Town, though some catamarans offer pickup points in Ixia and Faliraki. Peak season runs May to October, when daily departures are the norm. If you are planning a longer stay, the 7-day Rhodes itinerary includes a dedicated day at sea. Book ahead for July and August, when spaces on popular routes sell out days in advance.

💡 Local tip

Most boats depart Mandraki Harbour between 8:45am and 9:30am. Arrive 20 minutes early to claim a good deck spot. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and cash for port fees on Symi.

Island-Hopping Day Trips

Overhead view of the colorful neoclassical harbor and hillside houses of Symi Island, boats moored along the waterfront, under a cloudy sky. — Photo George Alex

The standout island trip from Rhodes is Symi, a small island with a dramatically photogenic neoclassical harbour that rivals anywhere in Greece. The trip is primarily a sightseeing and dining experience rather than a swimming one. For those wanting to combine island culture with beach stops, a Lindos boat excursion is an excellent alternative, pulling into Lindos by sea and giving you a choice of visiting the Acropolis or relaxing on the beach.

Colorful neoclassical mansions stacked along the hillside of Symi Island, overlooking the sparkling blue harbor with arid mountains in the background.

1. Cruise to Symi Island for Neoclassical Harbour Views

Rhodes to Symi takes about 50 minutes by high-speed catamaran. The approach into Gialos harbour, lined with ochre and terracotta townhouses, is breathtaking. Allow time to climb to the upper town and try fresh seafood before the return sailing.

1. Cruise to Symi Island for Neoclassical Harbour Views

Rhodes to Symi takes about 50 minutes by high-speed catamaran. The approach into Gialos harbour, lined with ochre and terracotta townhouses, is breathtaking. Allow time to climb to the upper town and try fresh seafood before the return sailing.

Colorful neoclassical mansions stacked along the hillside of Symi Island, overlooking the sparkling blue harbor with arid mountains in the background.

Ancient stone columns and partial ruins of the Acropolis of Lindos under a sunny, clear sky, with tourists exploring the historic site.

2. Sail to Lindos and Climb to the Clifftop Acropolis

Arriving at Lindos by boat is far more dramatic than the bus. You approach the 116m clifftop acropolis from the sea, then climb to the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia. Most excursions allow 3-4 hours ashore, enough for both the acropolis and the beach.

2. Sail to Lindos and Climb to the Clifftop Acropolis

Arriving at Lindos by boat is far more dramatic than the bus. You approach the 116m clifftop acropolis from the sea, then climb to the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia. Most excursions allow 3-4 hours ashore, enough for both the acropolis and the beach.

Ancient stone columns and partial ruins of the Acropolis of Lindos under a sunny, clear sky, with tourists exploring the historic site.

Lindos Beach (Megali Paralia) on Rhodes with crystal-clear turquoise water, sunbathers on sandy shore, and the Acropolis of Lindos above whitewashed houses.

3. Swim at Lindos Beach After Arriving by Sea

On the Lindos boat excursion, this sandy beach beneath the acropolis is your reward after exploring the village. The water is calm and clear, the setting is genuinely stunning, and you avoid the midday coach crowds that arrive overland from Rhodes Town.

3. Swim at Lindos Beach After Arriving by Sea

On the Lindos boat excursion, this sandy beach beneath the acropolis is your reward after exploring the village. The water is calm and clear, the setting is genuinely stunning, and you avoid the midday coach crowds that arrive overland from Rhodes Town.

Lindos Beach (Megali Paralia) on Rhodes with crystal-clear turquoise water, sunbathers on sandy shore, and the Acropolis of Lindos above whitewashed houses.

A stunning aerial view of Saint Paul's Bay in Lindos, Rhodes, showing the near-circular turquoise cove framed by rocky cliffs and the shimmering Aegean Sea beyond.

4. Drop Anchor in the Turquoise Circle of St Paul's Bay

Some Lindos boat trips include a swim stop in this near-circular bay just south of the main beach. The water is a remarkable shade of turquoise and the bay feels almost enclosed, making it one of the most sheltered and scenic swim stops on the eastern coast.

4. Drop Anchor in the Turquoise Circle of St Paul's Bay

Some Lindos boat trips include a swim stop in this near-circular bay just south of the main beach. The water is a remarkable shade of turquoise and the bay feels almost enclosed, making it one of the most sheltered and scenic swim stops on the eastern coast.

A stunning aerial view of Saint Paul's Bay in Lindos, Rhodes, showing the near-circular turquoise cove framed by rocky cliffs and the shimmering Aegean Sea beyond.

Coastal Bay Cruises and Snorkelling Trips

Aerial view of a scenic turquoise bay in Rhodes with anchored boats, surrounded by rocky cliffs and greenery. — Photo Pixabay

If island hopping is not your priority, Rhodes offers excellent coastal cruises that focus on swimming and snorkelling. These trips typically visit three or four bays along the northeastern coastline, with Anthony Quinn Bay and Kallithea among the most popular stops. Check the best beaches in Rhodes guide for context on what makes each cove worth visiting.

Aerial view of Anthony Quinn Bay showing turquoise water, anchored boats, rocky cliffs, and lush green trees along the coastline on a sunny day.

5. Snorkel the Rocky Coves of Anthony Quinn Bay

Named after the Hollywood actor who bought land here, this rocky cove has some of the best snorkelling on the island. The water is crystal-clear over submerged rocks, visibility is excellent, and the dramatic cliff scenery makes it a highlight of any coastal cruise itinerary.

5. Snorkel the Rocky Coves of Anthony Quinn Bay

Named after the Hollywood actor who bought land here, this rocky cove has some of the best snorkelling on the island. The water is crystal-clear over submerged rocks, visibility is excellent, and the dramatic cliff scenery makes it a highlight of any coastal cruise itinerary.

Aerial view of Anthony Quinn Bay showing turquoise water, anchored boats, rocky cliffs, and lush green trees along the coastline on a sunny day.

View through an arched Art Deco doorway with circular windows, looking out to the blue sea and shoreline at Kallithea Springs in Rhodes.

6. Stop at Kallithea's Art Deco Shoreline on a Coastal Cruise

Many bay-hopping boats dock briefly at Kallithea, letting passengers swim in the clear water beside the restored Italian spa complex. The domed pavilions and palm-lined terraces make this one of the most architecturally striking swim stops you will find anywhere in the Aegean.

6. Stop at Kallithea's Art Deco Shoreline on a Coastal Cruise

Many bay-hopping boats dock briefly at Kallithea, letting passengers swim in the clear water beside the restored Italian spa complex. The domed pavilions and palm-lined terraces make this one of the most architecturally striking swim stops you will find anywhere in the Aegean.

View through an arched Art Deco doorway with circular windows, looking out to the blue sea and shoreline at Kallithea Springs in Rhodes.

Tsambika Beach with golden sand, sun loungers, and people enjoying the clear turquoise water beneath dramatic hills on Rhodes’ east coast.

7. Pull Up to Tsambika's Golden Arc by Boat

Tsambika is one of Rhodes's finest beaches, a long sweep of golden sand backed by a striking headland. Arriving by boat lets you access it from the water before the midday crowds build. The shallows are ideal for families, and the bay is sheltered from the prevailing wind.

7. Pull Up to Tsambika's Golden Arc by Boat

Tsambika is one of Rhodes's finest beaches, a long sweep of golden sand backed by a striking headland. Arriving by boat lets you access it from the water before the midday crowds build. The shallows are ideal for families, and the bay is sheltered from the prevailing wind.

Tsambika Beach with golden sand, sun loungers, and people enjoying the clear turquoise water beneath dramatic hills on Rhodes’ east coast.

Aerial view of Pefkos Beach showing golden sand, turquoise sea, rocky cliffs, and scattered sunbathers under clear blue skies.

8. Swim at Pefkos on a South Coast Boat Excursion

Pefkos features on longer south coast boat trips as a relaxed alternative to busy Lindos. Pine trees fringe the beach, the water is clear, and the taverna scene is low-key. It is a good choice if you want a quieter stop without sacrificing beach quality.

8. Swim at Pefkos on a South Coast Boat Excursion

Pefkos features on longer south coast boat trips as a relaxed alternative to busy Lindos. Pine trees fringe the beach, the water is clear, and the taverna scene is low-key. It is a good choice if you want a quieter stop without sacrificing beach quality.

Aerial view of Pefkos Beach showing golden sand, turquoise sea, rocky cliffs, and scattered sunbathers under clear blue skies.

✨ Pro tip

On catamaran day trips with BBQ included, the onboard lunch usually happens between swim stops around 1pm. Bring a light snack for the morning sailing if you get hungry early.

Departure Points and Harbour Sights

Mandraki Harbour waterfront with two deer statues on columns and the historic St. Nicholas Fortress in the distance under a clear blue sky. — Photo George Alex

Understanding where your boat departs from saves time on the day. Virtually all day trips leave from Mandraki Harbour or the adjacent commercial port. Arriving early gives you time to explore the waterfront, which is genuinely attractive in the morning light. The Old Town walking tour pairs well with an early morning before boarding, as the medieval gates and windmills are just a short walk away.

Mandraki Harbour entrance with bronze deer statues on columns, St. Nicholas Fortress in the background, clear blue sky, and boats docked in the turquoise water.

9. Start Every Trip from the Iconic Mandraki Harbour

This is where almost every boat excursion departs. The harbour is flanked by three medieval windmills and the Fort of St Nicholas, with bronze deer statues marking the legendary site of the Colossus. Arrive 20 minutes early and walk the quay before boarding.

9. Start Every Trip from the Iconic Mandraki Harbour

This is where almost every boat excursion departs. The harbour is flanked by three medieval windmills and the Fort of St Nicholas, with bronze deer statues marking the legendary site of the Colossus. Arrive 20 minutes early and walk the quay before boarding.

Mandraki Harbour entrance with bronze deer statues on columns, St. Nicholas Fortress in the background, clear blue sky, and boats docked in the turquoise water.

Fort of St Nicholas at the tip of Mandraki Harbour breakwater, surrounded by blue sea and sky, with a clear view of its round bastion and lighthouse.

10. Photograph the Fort of St Nicholas as You Leave the Harbour

Every boat leaving Mandraki passes this circular 15th-century fortress. The lighthouse on top and the medieval stonework against the morning sky make for a strong opening shot of any boat trip. It looks best in the golden hour light just after departure on a clear day.

10. Photograph the Fort of St Nicholas as You Leave the Harbour

Every boat leaving Mandraki passes this circular 15th-century fortress. The lighthouse on top and the medieval stonework against the morning sky make for a strong opening shot of any boat trip. It looks best in the golden hour light just after departure on a clear day.

Fort of St Nicholas at the tip of Mandraki Harbour breakwater, surrounded by blue sea and sky, with a clear view of its round bastion and lighthouse.

A panoramic view of Rhodes Commercial Harbour with medieval stone walls, boats docked at the harbor, and the town of Rhodes in the background under clear blue skies.

11. Use the Commercial Harbour for Ferry-Based Excursions to Symi

The large commercial port beside the Old Town handles scheduled ferries to Symi, Kos, and other Dodecanese islands. Public ferry routes are a cheaper alternative to organised excursions, typically costing around half the price if you book direct with the ferry company.

11. Use the Commercial Harbour for Ferry-Based Excursions to Symi

The large commercial port beside the Old Town handles scheduled ferries to Symi, Kos, and other Dodecanese islands. Public ferry routes are a cheaper alternative to organised excursions, typically costing around half the price if you book direct with the ferry company.

A panoramic view of Rhodes Commercial Harbour with medieval stone walls, boats docked at the harbor, and the town of Rhodes in the background under clear blue skies.

View of Rhodes harbor with two columns topped by deer statues, medieval fortress, blue sea, and clear sky, symbolizing the historic site of the Colossus.

12. See the Legendary Colossus Site from the Water

Departing Mandraki by boat gives you the same sea-level perspective ancient sailors once had approaching Rhodes. The site where the Colossus once stood is marked at the harbour entrance, and seeing it from the deck as you leave adds genuine historical atmosphere to the start of any trip.

12. See the Legendary Colossus Site from the Water

Departing Mandraki by boat gives you the same sea-level perspective ancient sailors once had approaching Rhodes. The site where the Colossus once stood is marked at the harbour entrance, and seeing it from the deck as you leave adds genuine historical atmosphere to the start of any trip.

View of Rhodes harbor with two columns topped by deer statues, medieval fortress, blue sea, and clear sky, symbolizing the historic site of the Colossus.

What to Combine with Your Boat Trip

View of Lindos acropolis rising above whitewashed houses and green trees, a popular destination for boat trips from Rhodes. — Photo Pedro V Garrett

The best boat trips work even better when you know what to do once you arrive. On Symi, budget at least 90 minutes to climb from the port to the upper town. At Lindos, the acropolis queue builds quickly after 10am so head there first. For beach-focused trips, the Rhodes with kids guide has useful advice on which bay stops suit families best.

Close-up of Tsambika Monastery’s whitewashed stone walls with a church bell and cross against a cloudy sky on Rhodes.

13. Spot the Tsambika Monastery Hilltop from Your Boat

As your boat passes the Tsambika headland, look up to spot this small Byzantine monastery perched 300m above. Most excursions do not stop for the climb, but knowing it is there adds context to the landscape. Those with energy can visit independently by road on another day.

13. Spot the Tsambika Monastery Hilltop from Your Boat

As your boat passes the Tsambika headland, look up to spot this small Byzantine monastery perched 300m above. Most excursions do not stop for the climb, but knowing it is there adds context to the landscape. Those with energy can visit independently by road on another day.

Close-up of Tsambika Monastery’s whitewashed stone walls with a church bell and cross against a cloudy sky on Rhodes.

A black and white butterfly perched delicately on a green leafy branch with a blurred background of lush natural foliage and blue sky.

14. Pair a Morning Boat Trip with an Afternoon at the Valley of the Butterflies

Boat trips typically return to Mandraki by 4-5pm, leaving time for an inland excursion. The Valley of the Butterflies is a 45-minute drive and makes a perfect contrast to a day at sea: cool, shaded woodland trails with thousands of Jersey tiger moths visible in July and August.

14. Pair a Morning Boat Trip with an Afternoon at the Valley of the Butterflies

Boat trips typically return to Mandraki by 4-5pm, leaving time for an inland excursion. The Valley of the Butterflies is a 45-minute drive and makes a perfect contrast to a day at sea: cool, shaded woodland trails with thousands of Jersey tiger moths visible in July and August.

A black and white butterfly perched delicately on a green leafy branch with a blurred background of lush natural foliage and blue sky.

Concrete dam with flowing waterfall and turquoise water at Seven Springs, surrounded by lush greenery and sunlight in Rhodes’ inland oasis.

15. Visit Seven Springs on the Way Back from an East Coast Sea Trip

If your boat excursion follows the east coast toward Lindos or Tsambika, Seven Springs is a logical stop on the road back. The shaded lake, peacocks, and narrow tunnel walk through an aqueduct take about 1.5 hours and make a compelling inland finish to a sea-heavy day.

15. Visit Seven Springs on the Way Back from an East Coast Sea Trip

If your boat excursion follows the east coast toward Lindos or Tsambika, Seven Springs is a logical stop on the road back. The shaded lake, peacocks, and narrow tunnel walk through an aqueduct take about 1.5 hours and make a compelling inland finish to a sea-heavy day.

Concrete dam with flowing waterfall and turquoise water at Seven Springs, surrounded by lush greenery and sunlight in Rhodes’ inland oasis.

ℹ️ Good to know

Boat trips typically run May through October. July and August see daily departures on all major routes. In May, June, and September, frequency drops slightly and some smaller operators run only on specific days of the week.

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

Recent prices range from around €70 for a basic Symi day trip to €106 for premium catamaran sailings with BBQ and open bar. The Rhodes on a budget guide covers how to find the best-value excursions and which trips offer the most for the money. Always check what is included before booking: some Lindos trips charge separately for snacks and drinks, while all-inclusive catamarans cover meals and alcohol.

A sweeping aerial view of Elli Beach in Rhodes Town, showing turquoise water, beach umbrellas, a curving road, and the city buildings meeting the shoreline.

16. Warm Up with a Morning Swim at Elli Before Your Boat Departs

Elli Beach is a 5-minute walk from Mandraki Harbour and opens early. If your boat departs at 9am, arriving the night before or taking an early swim before boarding is a relaxed way to start the day. The calm northern water here is noticeably cooler than the south coast.

16. Warm Up with a Morning Swim at Elli Before Your Boat Departs

Elli Beach is a 5-minute walk from Mandraki Harbour and opens early. If your boat departs at 9am, arriving the night before or taking an early swim before boarding is a relaxed way to start the day. The calm northern water here is noticeably cooler than the south coast.

A sweeping aerial view of Elli Beach in Rhodes Town, showing turquoise water, beach umbrellas, a curving road, and the city buildings meeting the shoreline.

FAQ

What is the best boat trip from Rhodes?

The Symi Island day trip is the most popular and most rewarding, offering a dramatic neoclassical harbour town, excellent seafood, and a scenic 50-minute crossing each way. For a beach-focused experience, the coastal catamaran cruise to Anthony Quinn Bay, Kallithea, and Tsambika is the better choice.

How much do boat trips from Rhodes cost?

Prices typically range from around €70 for a standard Symi cruise to €106 for an all-inclusive catamaran with BBQ and open bar. Lindos sea excursions sit in between, roughly €50-€80 depending on what is included. Booking direct with ferry companies for public routes to Symi can cost significantly less.

Where do boat trips depart from in Rhodes?

Almost all organised excursions depart from Mandraki Harbour in Rhodes Town. Some catamaran operators offer additional pickup points in Ixia and Faliraki. The commercial port adjacent to the Old Town handles public ferries to Symi and other Dodecanese islands.

Do Rhodes boat trips run all year?

Most trips operate May through October only. July and August have the highest frequency, with daily departures on all major routes. In shoulder months (May, June, September), some operators run fewer days per week. Very few excursion boats run between November and April.

Is the Symi boat trip from Rhodes good for swimming?

Symi trips are primarily focused on sightseeing rather than swimming. The main harbour beaches are small and crowded. If swimming is your priority, choose a coastal bay cruise instead, which includes dedicated snorkelling stops at rocky coves like Anthony Quinn Bay where the water clarity is exceptional.