About this tour
When Sarah from our team took this private cruise along Rhodes' eastern coast, we found it ticks the box for a laid-back full day on the water. The boat caps out at 14 passengers, so it never feels crowded, and the itinerary is straightforward: three swimming and snorkelling stops, a proper lunch, and cold drinks throughout. The pace is genuinely relaxed — there's no rushing between points, and you get proper time in the water at each spot. It's the kind of tour that works equally well if you're after a chill float or want to actually explore the underwater bits. The eastern side of the island has a gentler vibe than the busier western beaches, which suits the whole ethos of the day.
Highlights
- Maximum 14 guests keeps the boat intimate and unhurried
- Three separate swimming and snorkelling stops, not rushed
- Lunch and drinks included — beer, wine, water, seasonal fruit
- Snorkelling gear provided; no need to lug your own
- Eastern coast setting feels quieter than Rhodes' packed tourist zones
- Works well for families with small kids and varied fitness levels
- Six and a half hours gives you real time to settle in
What to expect
The day starts early, with your group boarding a private boat that feels spacious rather than cramped. The boat heads along the quieter eastern shoreline, stopping at three spots where the water's clear enough to see something worthwhile below the surface. At each stop, you've got time to swim, snorkel, or simply float about — there's no cattle-mustering between points. Midway through, lunch arrives: proper food rather than a token sandwich, plus cold drinks that taste better when you're actually hot and salt-crusted.
The rhythm is deliberately unhurried. You're not ticking off postcard moments; you're spending a day on water that happens to be beautiful. The crew handles the logistics, so you're free to drift, chat, or disappear underwater for as long as you're comfortable. The boat itself is set up for lounging, and the eastern coast doesn't draw the party-boat crowds you'd find elsewhere on the island.
Good to know
This works brilliantly if you want a proper swim and snorkel without the chaos of shore-based beach clubs. The included lunch and drinks are substantial enough that you're not hunting for extra food. Small children are genuinely catered for — high chairs and prams work fine. The boat's stable and straightforward, so even nervous swimmers or older travellers manage comfortably. You're paying per person, so the maths are clear: the listed price is for 10 people, meaning larger groups will cost more.
Six and a half hours is long enough that sunburn happens fast out there — bring proper SPF and reapply constantly. The water can be choppy on windy days, which matters if you're seasickness-prone. Swimming ability isn't a barrier, but snorkelling involves getting in the sea, so non-swimmers should flag that. Peak summer (July–August) means busier booking; shoulder seasons offer more peaceful days.
Bring a good sunscreen, a rash guard if you burn easily, and a towel. Snorkelling equipment is provided. Lunch and drinks (including alcohol) are included; water and soft drinks flow throughout. Group size maxes at 14. Nearest public transport is walkable. Prams, infant seats, and service animals all work fine.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.