Rhodes: Gulet Trip with Food, Drinks, SUP, Kayak & Swimming

When it comes to enjoying Rhodes from the water, this gulet cruise ticks a lot of boxes. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded experience packed with scenic stops, activities, and good food. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on deck, a chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or indulge in authentic Greek cuisine, this tour seems designed to satisfy many types of travelers.

What really makes this trip appealing is the variety of water-based activities—like kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling—that are all included, along with time for lounging under the sun. The delicious Greek lunch and unlimited soft drinks and wine ensure your energy stays up as you explore Rhodes’ famed coastline. The only potential downside? The tour can get busy, especially during peak season, which might mean finding the perfect sunbed isn’t always straightforward.

This cruise is best suited for those who love a mix of adventure and relaxation, enjoy spending time on the water, and appreciate good food with a relaxed vibe. Families, couples, and groups of friends will all find something to enjoy here, especially if you’re after a taste of Greek island life with a touch of fun activities and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Inclusive Water Activities: Kayaking, SUP, and snorkeling are free and easy to access, perfect for getting close to Rhodes’ underwater scenery.
• Tasty Greek Cuisine: A homemade-style Greek lunch with seasonal fruits and unlimited drinks offers great value, especially considering the variety of options.
• Multiple Scenic Stops: From Anthony Quinn Bay to Kallithea Springs, each stop features stunning views and opportunities for photos and swimming.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Spacious sun decks and floating platforms make it easy to unwind in the sun.
• Well-Reviewed Crew: Guides like Nikos and Stephanos get praise for their helpfulness and friendliness, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable.
• Potential Crowds: Some reviews suggest arriving early is wise to secure a good spot, as the boat can fill up quickly.

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Starting Point and Embarkation

Your day begins at El Greco Cruises, right opposite Eleftherias Square in the port of Mandraki. The traditional wooden gulet, called “El Greco,” offers a cozy yet spacious setting. The reviews highlight the importance of arriving early—ideally 35-45 minutes before departure—to grab a comfortable outdoor spot, especially if you want to soak in that sun and enjoy the breeze.

Itinerary and Stops

Sightseeing Cruise (1.5 hours)

The cruise kicks off with a scenic ride along Rhodes’ eastern coast. This initial stretch helps you get a feel for the island’s coastline, with some reviewers noting the boat’s traditional wooden design and ample space to relax or take photos. The guides are said to be engaging, sharing local insights that add a touch of personality to the journey.

Anthony Quinn Bay

The first major swimming stop is at Anthony Quinn Bay, a highlight for many. The water here is described as deep emerald, thanks to the lush greenery around, creating an ideal backdrop for a relaxed swim or snorkel. One reviewer mentioned it as “a real heaven on earth.” You’ll have about 40 minutes here to cool off and snap pictures of the striking scenery.

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Fun Island – Ladiko

Next is Fun Island-Ladiko, a private floating water area accessible only by the gulet. This stop is often cited as the best part of the trip. It’s packed with activities: kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and lounging on floating sofas. Guests appreciate how well the crew manages the flow of activities, ensuring no one is left bored. One enthusiast commented that the SUP and kayaking were real highlights, although they suggest asking for the fins to improve their paddleboarding experience.

Kallithea Springs

The last major swimming spot is at Kallithea Springs, famous for its architecture and thermal waters. This stop is about 30 minutes, providing enough time for a quick swim, a bit of sightseeing, and enjoying some local snacks. Reviewers love snapping photos of the iconic architecture and relaxing in the warm waters, which feel like a treat after some energetic water sports.

Food and Drinks

A standout feature of this tour is the Greek lunch served onboard. It’s described as homemade, with Greek salad, seasonal fruits, and generous portions. Several reviews point out the quality of the meal, calling it “amazing” and well worth the experience. The drinks are unlimited, with options including soft drinks and local wines, which guests find to be a real bargain considering the all-inclusive approach.

• Note: Beers, cocktails, and slushies are not included, so if you fancy a beer or mixed drink, you’ll need to buy them separately—reasonably priced, according to reviews.

Real Guest Insights:

One guest mentioned that the food was suitable for vegans and non-vegans, emphasizing the importance of informing staff about allergies or dietary preferences. The crew, especially guides like Nikos and Stephanos, are praised for being attentive and helpful, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal and water activities.

Final Stops and Return

The cruise wraps up with a final scenic cruise of about 45 minutes before returning to El Greco Cruises. While the last stretch is more relaxed, reviews suggest that the overall journey maintains a lively and friendly atmosphere, with music and conversation flowing naturally.

The complimentary water sports are a significant part of this trip’s appeal. Expect to find kayak and SUP gear readily available at Fun Island, with snorkeling gear also provided. Guests often rave about how these activities add a fun, interactive element to the day. Several reviews mention the crew’s helpfulness in showing caves or helping with equipment, making the experience accessible even for first-timers.

However, some reviewers note that the SUP fins are not always used by staff, so if you want a better paddleboarding experience, asking for fins might make a difference. With plenty of floating sofas and platforms, you can also just relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the scenery sustainably.

At around six hours, this tour offers a solid half-day of cruising, swimming, eating, and relaxing. Considering the included activities, delicious Greek lunch, and unlimited drinks, many reviewers feel it offers excellent value. Compared to other excursions, the price is justified by the quality of the guide service, well-planned stops, and the variety of water sports on offer.

Guests consistently highlight the generous portions of food and the friendly crew as key benefits, making it a good investment for those wanting a relaxed yet activity-packed day. Some mention arriving early to secure the best sunbeds, which can enhance the experience, especially during peak season when the boat fills up.

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to combine scenic beauty with fun water activities. It’s particularly suited for those who want to enjoy Rhodes’ coast and don’t mind a busy boat—so pack your patience for a more lively atmosphere. If good food, unlimited drinks, and a variety of water sports sound appealing, this experience is a top choice.

However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and those seeking a more secluded, less crowded experience might prefer smaller, private options. Also, if you’re a vegetarian or have specific dietary needs, informing the crew beforehand can enhance your meal.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a cruise on a traditional Greek gulet, Greek lunch, unlimited soft drinks and wine, several swimming stops, and access to kayaking, SUP, and snorkeling gear.

How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts approximately six hours, with specific starting times available depending on the day. It features multiple stops along Rhodes’ coast.

Is the food suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the meal is described as homemade Greek cuisine that is suitable for vegans and non-vegans, but it’s advisable to inform the staff of any allergies or dietary restrictions in advance.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Food and drinks are not allowed on board, so it’s best to enjoy the provided beverages.

Can I buy extra drinks or snacks?
Yes, beers, cocktails, and slushies are available for purchase at reasonable prices, but they are not included in the standard package.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention families enjoying the cruise, especially with the water sports and relaxing environment. However, check if your children are comfortable with boat rides and water activities.

This Rhodes gulet trip offers a blend of scenic sailing, exciting water sports, and delicious Greek cuisine, all within a friendly and lively atmosphere. The inclusion of free kayaking, SUP, and snorkeling allows you to indulge your adventurous side without extra cost, while the well-organized stops ensure you see some of Rhodes’ most beautiful spots.

The knowledgeable guides and the quality of the food make this a worthwhile experience, especially if you’re after a relaxed day with plenty of opportunities to cool off and soak up the sun. It’s ideal for those who love a mix of active fun and laid-back lounging, and for anyone looking to get the most out of Rhodes’ coastal beauty without breaking the bank.

While it can get busy, arriving early can improve your experience, making it easier to find a comfortable spot and fully enjoy the day. This cruise appears to offer great value for money, combining scenic sightseeing, water sports, and authentic Greek flavors—perfect for a memorable day by the sea in Rhodes.

Note: This review is based on a comprehensive look at available descriptions and reviews, ensuring you have all the practical details and honest insights needed to decide if this cruise is right for you.

You can check availability for your dates here: