Two swim stops can change your whole day. This Lindos cruise from Rhodes City mixes easy boat time with real water breaks at Anthony Quinn Bay and Tsambika, plus around 3 hours in Lindos to explore on your own pace.

I really like the comfort setup: an open sundeck with sunbeds, an air-conditioned area below, clean onboard toilets, and floats if you want a little extra confidence in the water. I also appreciate how the crew keeps the timing clear, including reminders before the boat stops so you can get ready fast.

One consideration: the schedule is tight, especially if you’re determined to climb up to the Acropolis of Lindos and also fit in photos, lunch, and beach time. You can do it, but you’ll want a simple plan so you’re not rushing at the end.

Key Highlights Worth Your Time

• Anthony Quinn Bay swim stop with a quick 30-minute window in clear water and rocky views
• Tsambika Beach (Blue Lagoon) swim on the way back to Rhodes for a final cool-down
• About 3 hours in Lindos village to shop, eat, and climb to the Acropolis
• Onboard comfort: sunbeds, shaded seating options, WiFi, air-con, and toilets
• Help in the water: floats are provided, and noodles/life-jacket support is available for those who want it
• Good value for $47 when you factor in cruise time + two paid-feeling sea stops (food is extra)

Mandraki Port to Your Boat Day: How the Logistics Actually Feel

This cruise is built for a simple day out from Rhodes—less driving, more sea time, and two planned swims that break up the day. You’ll start at Mandraki port, and you should arrive about 30 minutes early. Look for the DISCOVERY boat almost opposite the Nea Agora Building (bus stop: Roda).

If you chose a pickup option, you’ll meet a coach/mini van with the RIZOS CRUISES logo on the windscreen. The main thing to know is that drivers will wait only around 2 minutes after the scheduled pickup time. Traffic can add delay (up to about 15 minutes), so don’t hang back—get where you’re supposed to be.

Once you’re onboard, check where you want to spend your time. The top deck gets the best sun, but it can be breezy when the boat is moving. The air-conditioned area below is your reset button on hot sailing days.

This kind of trip works best when you travel light. You can leave bags safely on the boat while you head into Lindos, which makes your stop feel more relaxed and less schleppy.

First Sailing Stretch: Getting Oriented Before the Water Break

Before the first swim, you cruise along the island with a short sightseeing stretch. Think of this part as your warm-up: you get sea views, you settle into the boat’s rhythm, and you learn where you’ll be when it’s time to move.

From the start, pay attention to staff signals. The crew gives clear reminders before swim stops (around 20 minutes), which matters because boarding time is short and people want ready access to the water. If you’re carrying a towel or snorkeling gear, set up early rather than trying to do it at the last second.

Also, decide early whether you want to be on deck when the boat is moving. One common theme from passenger feedback is that the sunbeds on top can be windy, especially outside peak summer months. In October or at the start/end of the season, a light layer makes a big difference.

In other words, the first sailing stretch isn’t the main event—but it’s when you set yourself up for an easy, stress-free day.

Anthony Quinn Bay: 30 Minutes That Feel Like a Mini Vacation

The first water stop is at Anthony Quinn Bay, one of Rhodes’ most iconic spots. Your swim window is short—about 30 minutes—so treat it like a timed break rather than a long beach session.

What you’ll like here:

• Water clarity and that emerald look that makes snorkeling and floating feel worth it immediately
• Rocky scenery that gives you a sense of place the moment you step in
• The convenience of going from boat to water with minimal hassle

This is also where the boat setup becomes a real advantage. Floats are provided, and multiple passengers say support like noodles/life-jacket options is available for kids or less-confident swimmers. If you’re not a strong swimmer, this is the part of the day that can feel most welcoming because you can still enjoy the sea without forcing it.

My practical tip: come with your swimsuit already on if you don’t mind. You’ll spend less time changing and more time actually in the water. Then rinse (as best you can) and get back to the deck for the next leg.

Lindos Village on Your Terms: What 3 Hours Can (and Can’t) Do

Then you reach Lindos, and this is the true “choose your own adventure” part. You’ll have around 3 hours of free time, enough to see major sights and still grab lunch—if you move with a plan.

Lindos village is built for walking. You’ll get whitewashed alleys, views over the bay, and plenty of places to eat. You can also choose your pace:

• Do the Acropolis first, then wander the shops and seaside
• Or do the waterfront/tavernas first, then climb later when you’re ready for stairs

The draw is that you’re not stuck in a rigid tour rhythm. You can pause whenever you want—especially useful if you’re traveling with people who want different things (one person for photos, one for food, one for beach time).

A key reality check: Lindos can feel hot and the hill walk up to the Acropolis is steep. If someone in your group struggles with stairs or steep grades, make the climb optional and swap in more village time. Reviews also mention that getting turned around in Lindos can happen—so it’s smart to keep track of the main bay/starting area and return with enough time to be back for boarding.

The Acropolis of Lindos: Worth It, but Plan for Crowds and Fees

Yes, the Acropolis of Lindos is the headline. The views are the reward for the climb, and it’s the iconic part many people want a ticket to see.

Just know two practical details:

1. Acropolis fees are not included, so bring cash (or be ready to pay separately).
2. The site can be crowded because everyone tends to arrive around the same time window.

If you want the best balance, start your climb early within your Lindos time block, then come down before you get rushed. Give yourself buffer time for photos, shade breaks, and water.

Tsambika Beach (Blue Lagoon): The Final Swim Stop Adds the Reset

On the return trip, you get a second swim stop at Tsambika Beach, often described as the Blue Lagoon. This is your chance to cool down after time in Lindos.

Like Anthony Quinn Bay, your swim window is about 30 minutes. You’ll go straight in from the boat into turquoise water, then get back onboard when it’s time to leave. That short, timed rhythm is actually part of why this works well. You’re not stuck waiting for hours—your day stays active.

What makes Tsambika satisfying:

• It offers a different feel from Anthony Quinn Bay, so the day doesn’t feel repetitive
• The timing helps you “reset” before returning to Rhodes
• The boat motion on the way back often brings a sea breeze, which passengers find especially pleasant after the heat

If you’re the type who forgets sunscreen, this is your second chance. Reapply before you go in, and keep your towel where you can grab it quickly afterward.

Onboard Comfort: Sunbeds, Air-Conditioning, Toilets, and a Real Bar

The boat experience is a big part of the value here. You get an open sundeck with sunbeds, plus seating areas inside or shaded sections so you’re not stuck in one spot all day.

A few comfort details that matter:

• Toilets onboard are available and reported as clean by many people
• There’s an air-conditioned area, which is a lifesaver when Lindos is blazing hot
• WiFi onboard is included, useful if you want to save photos or plan your next move in Rhodes

The top deck is popular. Multiple passengers suggest getting there early if you want the best sunbeds. Sunbeds can be limited, and with wind during the boat ride, a light jacket helps a lot.

And then there’s the bar. You can buy drinks and snacks, including coffee and ice cream. Food and drinks are not included in the tour price, but onboard pricing is often described as reasonable. One specific point worth knowing: sandwiches can be priced low (example given around €3), which helps if you’re hungry and want something quick without leaving the boat.

You’re also not forced to pack every time you explore Lindos. You can leave your bags onboard while you’re in town, which keeps your hands free for the walk and browsing.

Price and Value: Why $47 Works (and What Adds Cost)

At about $47 per person for an 8–8.5 hour outing, this cruise is priced like a value play—especially because it includes:

• the cruise experience
• two swim stops (Anthony Quinn Bay + Tsambika)
• open sundeck with sunbeds
• floats for water support
• toilets onboard, plus an air-conditioned area
• WiFi and insurance

What’s not included:

• hotel pickup and drop-off (unless you selected that option)
• food and drinks (you can buy them onboard)
• acropolis fees
• towels

So the “math” works best if you’re comfortable paying small extras:

• lunch or snacks for the Lindos break
• the Acropolis ticket if you climb
• drinks on the boat if you want them

If you’re trying to travel with a tight budget, you can still keep costs controlled. Bring your own water/snacks for Lindos if you prefer (the exact allowance isn’t specified, so follow any crew rules), and treat onboard bar purchases as optional.

Who Should Book This Lindos Cruise (and Who Should Think Twice)

This is a strong fit for:

• Couples and friends who want Lindos plus two swim stops without spending a full day organizing boat logistics
• Families with kids, because float support and timing cues reduce stress
• Swimmers who want quick, scenic water time rather than a long beach slog
• People who like structured timing but still want freedom once you’re in Lindos

You might think twice if:

• You need more than 3 hours in Lindos. If Lindos is your top priority, that time can feel short—especially if you want beach lounging plus a slow Acropolis visit.
• You want a fully guided, museum-style itinerary. This is more “see the icons at your pace” than “deep guided commentary.”

Packing Tips That Make the Day Way Easier

This is one of those trips where a good packing list saves time and annoyance.

Bring:

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Snorkeling gear (if you have it)
• Cash (handy for the Acropolis fee and any purchases)

And because the boat and decks can get breezy:

• In the beginning and end of season, bring a light jacket
• Even in warmer months, top-deck wind while moving can make it feel cooler than you expect

One more small strategy: arrive early enough to get your preferred seating/sunbed spot. Then you can relax instead of spending the morning hunting for shade.

Should You Book the Rhodes Lindos Cruise with 2 Swim Stops?

I think you should book if you want a day that blends iconic sights with real sea time. Two swim stops—at Anthony Quinn Bay and Tsambika Blue Lagoon—are the kind of add-on that turns a simple transfer into something you’ll remember. Add about 3 hours in Lindos, and you get both: the view-and-walk Lindos experience and the option to cool off without planning anything.

Skip it or look for something else if you’re the type who wants a long, unhurried day in Lindos village. With a set schedule, you’ll be making choices—especially around the steep climb to the Acropolis of Lindos and how long you want to linger at the bay.

If you’re flexible, pack a light jacket, and go in with a simple plan (Acropolis or beach first), this cruise is a solid value for Rhodes.

FAQ

How long is the Lindos cruise with 2 swim stops?

The trip lasts about 8 to 8.5 hours.

Where do the two swim stops take place?

You’ll swim at Anthony Quinn Bay and then later at Tsambika Beach (Blue Lagoon).

How much free time do you get in Lindos?

You get approximately 3 hours free time in Lindos village.

Are Acropolis of Lindos entrance fees included?

No. Acropolis fees are not included.

Where is the meeting point in Rhodes?

Meet at Mandraki port. Arrive about 30 minutes early and look for the DISCOVERY boat near the Nea Agora Building (bus stop: Roda).

Is food and drinks included on the boat?

No. Food and drinks are not included, but you can buy drinks and snacks onboard.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, cash, and snorkeling gear. A light jacket can help in the beginning and end of season.