Two swims a boat day, done right. This El Greco gulet outing takes you along Rhodes eastern coast with time at Anthony Quinn Bay and the famous water-play spots offshore. You also get a proper chill-deck setup, so the day isn’t just “sit and look.”

I especially like the included unlimited wine and soft drinks paired with a traditional Greek lunch onboard. It keeps the day feeling easy—no hunting for food between stops, and you can spend more time cooling off in the water.

The main thing to watch is the seating. If you arrive late, you might lose the best outdoor sunbeds and end up in the shade with less space.

Key highlights at a glance

• Anthony Quinn Bay swim stop: a timed break in crystal green water for swimming and snorkeling
• Fun Island Ladiko watersports: SUP and kayaking plus floating sofa-style relaxation
• Kallithea Springs final stop: another swim window paired with a photo moment at the thermal area
• Greek lunch + fruit + morning treats: traditional food served onboard with snacks during the day
• Unlimited wine and soft drinks: drinks are part of the ticket, while beers and cocktails cost extra
• Deck comfort: bean bags, sunbeds, and shade options (but grab the good spots early)

Mandraki start: finding El Greco and getting set for a long day on the water

Your day starts in Mandraki port, right opposite Eleftherias Square, looking for the traditional wooden gulet called El GreCo Fun Cruises. It’s one of those places where arriving a bit early actually matters, because you’ll want time to settle in before everyone boards.

I like tours that don’t rush you at the dock. This one gives you a proper start, then settles into a rhythm: sail, swim, food, sail, swim, relax—repeat. Plan to bring your essentials up front: swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a sun hat.

The six-hour rhythm: how this gulet day stays relaxing instead of chaotic

This is a cruise that feels structured without feeling strict. You’ll cruise for chunks of time, then get timed opportunities to get in the water and use the included gear.

Expect stops often enough that you’re not stuck baking for hours. The itinerary is built around three main swim windows, with shorter sightseeing sail-bys between them, so you keep moving through the coast and still feel like the day has breathing room.

Also, the gulet setup helps. People report comfy bean bags and sunbeds on the top deck, plus shaded areas if the sun is too much. On a hot Rhodes day, that balance is the difference between a fun outing and a sweaty slog.

Anthony Quinn Bay: emerald water, snorkeling, and a real photo moment

The trip kicks off with a first sightseeing cruise before you reach the Anthony Quinn Bay stop. This is the moment most people remember: photo stop first, then a timed stretch for swimming and snorkeling.

What makes this stop work is the combination of time and conditions. You get enough minutes to actually swim and rinse off, not just dip your toes. And because this bay is known for its striking water color, you’ll want your phone ready even before you’re in the water.

Practical tip: when you’re snorkeling, keep an eye on your footing when you get back in. The water is clear, but boats and ladders can still get slippery, especially when people are climbing in waves.

Ladiko Bay and Fun Island: the included watersports zone

After another short sailing segment, you reach Ladiko Bay, also described as the Fun Island area. This is the longest stop on the water, and it’s where the day turns into active play.

Here, you get the included kayaking and SUP time along with swimming and snorkeling. You also get floating sofa-style platforms that make it easy to take a break without feeling like you’re giving up your spot on the fun.

Two small details are worth noting if you want the best experience:

• If you do SUP and something feels off, ask the crew about the fin/setup. One review noted you may need to request the fin.
• If you want shade while you’re doing watersports, plan your order—do your activity first, then grab a spot.

This stop is also where you can relax without guilt. You’re not constantly shuffling between activities; you can float, snack, and regroup, then jump back in. That’s why people call it chill, not just sporty.

Kallithea Thermal Springs: architecture + one last swim before heading back

The final notable water stop is Kallithea Thermal Springs. You’ll get a photo stop first, then swimming and snorkeling again, plus local snacks during this segment.

This portion matters because it’s your last chance to recharge in the sea before returning. It also gives the day a slightly different feel: you get water time, but you also see the kind of dramatic architecture and built setting that makes Kallithea memorable beyond the beach.

If you’re planning your photos, do them early. Once the group is in swim mode, getting a clear shot becomes harder. Then, when you’re ready, you can turn off the camera and just enjoy the water.

Food and drinks onboard: what’s really included, what costs extra

Food is one of the strongest reasons people book this tour, and it’s not just because it’s there. The lunch is traditional Greek and is described as suitable for vegans and non-vegans, plus you’ll have fruit and morning treats during the day.

People report that portions are generous and the meals are served in a way that keeps the day flowing. One nice touch mentioned in feedback: the morning treat can include pastries like feta bites, even if you weren’t expecting breakfast.

Unlimited drinks

The ticket includes unlimited soft drinks and unlimited wine, and you’ll also have water available. That’s a big value lever here. You’re not limited to one drink or forced into buying beverages between swims.

What’s not included: beers, slushies, and cocktails. So if you’re a beer person and you love mixed drinks, budget extra. If wine and sodas are your thing, you’re likely set.

If you have food needs

The tour notes that lunch works for vegans too, but it also asks you to inform them about allergies, intolerances, or health issues in advance. I’d do that early and keep it simple: what you cannot eat, what you can eat, and whether you need strict avoidance.

Comfort, shade, and safety: the small things that make the big difference

This trip runs like a well-oiled summer operation. Crew members are described as friendly and attentive, and you’ll see them moving around to check on people, especially during transitions between swim windows and deck time.

Comfort is mostly about where you sit. Reviews repeatedly point out that bean bags and sunbeds are popular, and arriving early helps you snag a better outdoor spot. If you board late, you might end up mostly inside or in a shaded seating area with fewer views.

You’ll also appreciate having platforms and floating areas during Ladiko. They make it easier for non-swimmers to still enjoy the sea without constantly climbing in and out.

Safety-wise, the included gear is handled by staff, and people note that the crew focuses on safety. During watersports, pay attention to instructions first. Then relax and go at your pace.

One more practical point: sunscreen. Even in short swim windows, you can burn fast. If you’re the type who forgets, this is your reminder.

Price and value: why $104 can feel like a bargain here

At $104 per person for about six hours, the value comes from stacking experiences that would normally cost separate money.

You’re paying for:

• a traditional gulet cruise along Rhodes eastern coast
• three swim-focused stops with timed access in the water
• included snorkeling gear plus SUP and kayaking
• a traditional Greek lunch, fruit, morning treats, and snack moments
• unlimited soft drinks and wine

If you priced those activities individually—boat day, entry into a watersports setup, gear rental, and a meal—this starts to look like the kind of deal that only works because everything is packaged together.

The extra costs are also clear. Beers, slushies, and cocktails cost extra, so decide ahead of time what your drinking style is. For most people who are happy with wine/soda, you’re likely to stay within budget.

Who this trip suits best (and who should think twice)

This is a great match for people who want a boat day that’s active but not exhausting. You get multiple chances to swim, snorkeling time, and watersports that are included—not “rent it yourself and hope you figure it out.”

It’s also a good fit for mixed groups: couples, friend groups, and even families where not everyone wants to be doing hard activities all day. The deck setup and floating platforms let you choose between sun, shade, and water play.

The main limits:

• Not suitable for wheelchair users
• If you hate crowds or dislike noisy, busy group energy, you might find peak-season days feel packed

Also, if you’re very picky about food every single day, you’ll want to communicate needs ahead of time. The lunch is generally well received, but dietary preferences can require you to ask.

Should you book the El Greco gulet trip?

I’d book it if you want an easy Rhodes day that mixes sea time, included watersports, and proper food on a traditional boat. The best case is when you arrive early, grab a comfy spot on deck, and treat it like a floating day: swim, snack, play on the water, repeat.

Skip it or choose another option if:

• you need wheelchair access
• you’re only into beer or cocktails and hate adding extras
• you want lots of quiet, private downtime without a busy group vibe

For the right kind of traveler—sun-and-sea lovers who also like a Greek meal onboard—this one is a strong yes.

FAQ

How long is the Rhodes gulet trip with food, drinks, SUP, kayak, and swimming?

The experience lasts 6 hours.

What’s included in the price?

You get a traditional gulet cruise, traditional Greek lunch, unlimited wine and soft drinks, snorkeling gear, kayaking and SUP access, plus float platforms and bean bags/sundeck areas. You also get timed swimming stops at Anthony Quinn Bay, Fun Island (Ladiko), and Kallithea Springs, along with morning treats, seasonal fresh fruit, and local snacks.

Where do the swim stops happen, and how much time do you get?

You get a 40-minute swimming and snorkeling stop at Anthony Quinn Bay. You also get 2 hours at Fun Island (Ladiko) for swimming, snorkeling, and watersports. The Kallithea Thermal Springs stop includes about 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling, with a photo moment and local snacks.

Are beers included with the unlimited drinks?

No. Unlimited wine and soft drinks are included, but beers are not included. Slushies and cocktails are also not included.

Is the lunch vegan-friendly?

Lunch is described as suitable for both vegans and non-vegans. If you have allergies or intolerances, you should inform the provider in advance.

What should I bring, and what can’t I bring onboard?

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Food and drinks are not allowed onboard.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?

No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.