Lindos: 3Hour Hippo Submarine with Swim Stop at Navarone Bay

Exploring Lindos by boat is a classic experience, but doing so aboard a semi-submarine adds a playful twist. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic outing that combines gentle adventure with impressive views of the coastline and underwater life.

What we love about this experience first is the chance to see the ancient coastline from a new perspective—just imagine gliding past landmarks like Kleovoulos Tomb and Lindos Beach, all while soaking in the warm Greek sun. Second, the underwater portholes provide a surprisingly good glimpse into marine life without getting your hair wet—great for those who prefer a laid-back vibe. Lastly, the swim stop at Navarone Bay offers a refreshing break in crystal-clear waters, perfect for cooling off after a leisurely cruise.

However, one thing to consider is that, according to some reviews, the crew might lack a bit of enthusiasm or energy, which could influence the overall vibe. Also, the tour is about three hours long, which is enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, but some might wish for a longer or more adventurous trip.

This tour best suits travelers who want a gentle, scenic outing with easy access to underwater views and a swim stop, especially if you’re interested in relaxing rather than high-adrenaline activities. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy calm boat rides and sightseeing from a different vantage point.

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Key Points

Stunning coastline views: You’ll sail past Lindos’ famous landmarks and the ancient Acropolis.
Underwater exploration: Large portholes give a surprising look at sea life in the clear waters below.
Swim stop at Navarone Bay: A highlight for cooling off in pristine waters.
Relaxed pace: The tour lasts three hours, offering a laid-back experience.
Includes a drink: One beverage or water is included, perfect for staying refreshed.
Wi-Fi and WC onboard: Added comforts on the vessel make the trip more enjoyable.

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What to Expect from the Tour

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Meeting Point and Start

You’ll meet your local guide at Vlicha Beach, where the yellow submarine awaits. The departure is punctual; it’s recommended to arrive a little early to find the boat and settle in. If you’re not able to make it on time, the local operator requests a call to reschedule, but note that the vessel cannot delay the departure once it’s ready.

The Cruise and Views

Once aboard, you’ll cruise along the coastline, enjoying spectacular views of Lindos and the surrounding coastline. The boat’s semi-submarine design means you’ll spend most of your time above water, soaking in the scenery, but you also get the chance to peek through underwater portholes to spot marine life and underwater formations.

Your guide will share stories about the area, including details about landmarks like St Paul’s Bay and Lions Head Cove, making the journey informative as well as scenic. The boat’s open design means plenty of opportunities to snap photos, especially of the ancient ruins perched above the sea.

Underwater Portholes

The large portholes below deck are a real highlight; they give you a clear view of the seabed and any passing fish, which can be surprisingly lively despite the calm surroundings. As one reviewer notes, “You can admire the sea life from one of the giant portholes below deck,” giving an authentic glimpse into the underwater world without the need for snorkel gear.

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The Swim Stop at Navarone Bay

The final destination is Navarone Bay, a shimmering cove with transparent waters that are ideal for swimming. Here, you can take a dip, relax, and enjoy the scenery—an ideal way to break up the cruise and cool down. The tour includes one drink or bottled water, so you’ll stay refreshed as you enjoy the calm waters.

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End of the Tour

The cruise concludes back at the starting point, giving you plenty of time to explore Lindos afterward or head back to your accommodation. The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

3-hour boat tour with live commentary in English and Greek
One drink or bottled water
Swim stop at Navarone Bay
Free Wi-Fi onboard, so you can share your photos instantly
WC onboard, ensuring comfort during the trip

Not Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (though optional transfers are available for select locations)
Snacks or additional beverages
Snorkelling gear (if you wish to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own)

Practical Details and Tips

Meeting Point

The tour departs from Saint Paul’s Bay, marked by the yellow submarine. It’s wise to arrive early, especially if you’ve booked transfers, to avoid missing the boat.

Transfers and Pickups

Transfers are limited and operate on a schedule: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from Lindos to Plimmiri, and Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from Vlicha to Kolymbia. If you opt for pickup, you’ll need to provide your hotel name, and your pickup time will be confirmed the day before.

What to Bring

Pack your swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. The boat has facilities, but bringing your essentials ensures you’re ready for both the scenic cruise and the swim stop.

Weather Considerations

This trip is weather-dependent; rough seas could lead to cancellations or rescheduling. Always check the forecast before heading out, and note that the tour can be affected by weather conditions.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One traveler described it as a “belle excursion” with friendly personnel, though mentioning the price might be a bit steep. Conversely, a less enthusiastic review pointed out that “crew were lacking enthusiasm,” and the trip felt somewhat dull, mostly going out and back along the same route. This highlights that experience can vary depending on the crew and weather during your trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This semi-submarine cruise offers a relaxing, scenic way to see Lindos and its coast without intense activity or long hours. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning views, a gentle boat ride, and the chance to peek underwater without getting wet, this is a solid choice. Families with kids, couples looking for a romantic outing, or solo travelers wanting a leisurely sightseeing experience will find it suits their pace.

However, if you’re after an adrenaline-filled adventure or more snorkeling options, this tour might not fulfill those needs. The crew’s enthusiasm and route might also affect your overall enjoyment, so managing expectations is wise.

All in all, this tour packs in beautiful scenery, a swim in Navarone Bay, and a fun, unique perspective of Lindos’ coastline—perfect for a laid-back day on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s ideal for families who enjoy calm boat rides and want to see the coastline and marine life from the comfort of the semi-submarine.

Does the tour include snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear is not included, so if you wish to snorkel, bring your own. The main activity is sightseeing from the portholes and swimming at Navarone Bay.

Can I get a transfer to the meeting point?
Yes, transfers are available but limited to specific locations on certain days. You’ll need to provide your hotel name if you choose this option.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including the swim stop and cruising time.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you get one drink or bottled water included in the tour price.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera. The boat is open, so comfortable clothes and sun protection are recommended.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, unfavorable weather conditions could lead to cancellation or rescheduling, so check the forecast beforehand.

Does the boat have facilities?
Yes, there’s a WC onboard and free Wi-Fi, adding convenience for travelers.

To sum it up, this Lindos semi-submarine tour offers a peaceful, visually stunning way to explore the coastline, with the bonus of underwater glimpses and a refreshing swim. It’s best suited for those who enjoy gentle sightseeing and want to relax while soaking in the natural beauty of Rhodes’ waters. While it may not be the most energetic adventure, its ease and scenic charm make it a worthwhile option for a laid-back day on the sea.