One good way to see Lindos is to leave the beach behind. This small-group sailing trip brings you close to the coast with swim stops at places like Red Sand and St. Paul’s Bay, plus time to actually sail—not just watch from a boat. The vibe is personal, and the captain (Georgios) shares what he knows as you go.

I really like two things here: the chance to participate in the sailing, including steering when conditions allow, and the way the day feels paced around water time. You’ll get a Greek-style lunch onboard with fruit, and drinks are included (Prosecco, beer, wine, soda/pop, and water depending on your option).

One thing to keep in mind: the exact route and swim timing are weather dependent, and some parts are wind-driven rather than engine-driven. If you’re the type who hates schedule changes, pick a backup day in your plan.

Key things I’d prioritize before you go

• Real sailing with the sails up: You use the mainsail and gib, not just an engine cruise.
• Georgios runs the show: He’s the English-speaking skipper who explains what’s happening and invites participation.
• Multiple snorkel-and-swim stops: From Red Sand to caves and bays around Lindos.
• Lunch plus drinks onboard: Greek lunch, fruit, and included beverages keep the day from feeling like “just a boat ride.”
• Small group size: Up to 13 passengers, typically closer to 10.
• Comfortable yacht setup: Cushions like a bed, a swim deck at the back, and snorkel gear provided.

Getting Onboard at the Big Jetty Near Pallas Beach

Your day starts at the big jetty near Pallas beach, which is handy because you’re already in the Lindos area instead of doing a long transfer. The meeting point is straightforward, and once you’re aboard, the boat feels set up for spending time on the water—not just passing through.

The yacht is described as spacious with cushions that feel more like “bed-like” seating than hard deck chairs. Out back, you’ve got a large swim deck, which matters because the best part of these trips is getting in and staying in.

Tip: come ready to step onto the boat and go—your instructions include arriving sand free. That one request keeps the deck cleaner for everyone and saves you from shuffling sand around all day.

A Real Sail Around Lindos: Sails, Steering, and the Captain’s Role

This is a sailing-focused trip. You’ll sail using a mainsail and gib, with the skipper handling the safety and boat control while you learn how sail trim changes the ride.

What makes it feel special is that it’s not only “sail past famous spots.” The captain shares sailing insight as you go, and many people are given the chance to steer the yacht, especially on the return leg when conditions are workable. If you’ve never touched the helm before, this is one of the more approachable ways to try it—because you’re not doing it alone.

Also note the engine rules. Some departures are set up as sailing-only (no engine while sailing), and the engine is used when anchoring, when the boat needs help finding the right wind, or if there isn’t enough wind to make acceptable progress. That’s a key detail: the day is built around wind, not just convenience.

And yes, a lot of the calm “we’re gliding” feeling comes from sailing quietly with sails up. One of the nicest moments people talk about is how peaceful it feels traveling this way.

Red Sand and Agathi Caves: Your First Snorkel Stops

Most morning-style routes follow a similar rhythm: departure from Lindos, then a swim/snorkel stop fairly soon. The first stop on the common route is Red Sand, a name that instantly tells you you’re in for something different visually. You get around 40 minutes in the water there, which is a good length—enough to snorkel a bit, float, and actually enjoy the beach-to-boat experience.

Next comes Agathi for another swim and snorkel stop. This is where the day starts turning into “cove hopping,” not just one beach swim. People specifically mention that the swim stops feel varied—from small, quieter spots to places with more structured “cave” scenery.

Snorkel gear is included, along with noodle-type floats. If you’re new to snorkeling, those floats can make you feel more relaxed in the water while you look around. If your goal is to swim steadily and explore, the provided gear makes it easy to focus on the water rather than packing your own.

Practical note: the boat asks you to follow the skipper’s instructions at all times, and rules like no littering and keeping areas clear (especially around the aft during mooring) are there for a reason. It’s not fussy—just how everyone shares the space safely.

Lindos Bay Swim Time: Views Plus a Midday Reset

After the morning stops, you’ll reach Lindos Bay for another swim/snorkel window. This stop gives you a chance to slow down and enjoy the contrast between open sailing and hanging out on a swim deck when you’re not in the water.

Timing-wise, this often sits later in the sequence, which means you’ve usually already worked up some appetite. That’s when the lunch break lands.

Lunch is Greek-style—salad, a main dish described as part of a traditional Greek lunch spread, and fruit afterwards. You’ll also see that fruit is served onboard as part of the day’s flow. Because you’re eating onboard, you’re not losing time to a restaurant detour, and it keeps the pacing smooth. It also helps that the boat setting is relaxed—you’re not rushing between transfers.

One detail that matters for comfort: you’re expected to keep pathways clear and help keep the boat tidy. It’s the kind of small coordination that makes a shared day feel pleasant rather than chaotic.

More Caves and Bays: Stegna, Haraki, Navarone, and St. Paul’s Bay

Depending on which departure you choose and what the wind is doing, you might add more stops around the Lindos coastline. Many people end up talking about cave scenery and the fun of swimming where the coastline forms natural “rooms” and corridors underwater.

On some routes, you’ll visit Stegna caves and then continue to additional caves near Lindos, with more snorkel time built in. On other routes, the day expands to include Haraki and even options that go toward Blue Lagoon territory.

If your schedule lines you up for the late-afternoon style departures, you may see Navarone Bay and then St. Paul’s Bay. St. Paul’s Bay is especially worth aiming for if your priorities are classic Lindos views plus a strong swim spot. The way the day is structured—sailing between bays, then anchoring and swimming—means you experience the coastline from both angles: from the deck and from the water.

One honest consideration: because swim stops are planned based on conditions, you might not hit every single named location on every date. The captain adjusts the day, and that’s part of sailing reality.

Prosecco, Beer, Wine, and Soda: How the Drinks Fit the Day

This trip includes drinks, which is a big part of the “vacation feeling.” You’ll have Prosecco, beer, wine, and soda/pop along with bottled water. The supply is described as complimentary as per your option: limited to 4 drinks per person or unlimited depending on what you booked.

Why I think this is good value: you’re buying a full half-day or longer with a skipper, fuel/insurance included, lunch included, and snorkel gear included. When drinks are part of the package, you don’t get that awkward “count your sip” moment that happens on some other trips.

One small practical note from the onboard conduct rules: keep things tidy and follow instructions, especially when mooring and moving on deck. Drinks are part of the fun, but the day stays safe because the skipper runs the flow.

Also, there’s a waterproof camera included. That’s the kind of add-on that can be genuinely useful if you plan to capture swim time without worrying about your phone.

Snorkel Gear, Floats, and the Comfort of the Swim Deck

Your snorkeling equipment is included, as is a noodle-type float option. That combination helps both beginners and experienced swimmers: you can snorkel with gear if you’re confident, or use floats to relax and float while you watch fish and rock formations.

The boat’s back swim deck is a real advantage. You’re not scrambling around fragile steps or climbing back onto an awkward platform. You can dangle legs, get comfortable, and then go into the water when you’re ready.

Because the boat has rules about where to place things and to return snorkel gear properly, bring the right mindset: cooperate, don’t leave kit loose on the deck, and return it to the basket when you’re finished. It keeps the day smooth and makes it easier for one-crew operations.

And yes, this is a good trip if you want the water experience but don’t want the hassle of hauling everything from home.

Time at the Helm: What It Means to Captain a Sailing Yacht

One of the most repeated themes from people who enjoyed this trip is the chance to steer. Even if you only do it briefly, it changes how you see the coastline—because you’re paying attention to wind and sail position, not just enjoying the view.

The captain (Georgios) is described as friendly and practical, and he’ll share what’s happening rather than treating sailing like a black box. On calmer moments—especially while moving along the return direction—he may invite you to take the helm and help steer back toward Lindos.

It’s worth saying: you’re still along for the ride under a skipper’s control. This isn’t a “rent a boat and figure it out” experience. It’s more like a guided sailing lesson with enough participation to make it memorable.

If you want a purely relaxed day without steering, that’s possible too. People mention that the day can be as chill as you want—sails up, drinks in hand, and you can watch the coastline go by.

Price and Value: Why This Often Beats a Larger, Faster Boat

At $76 per person, this trip is priced like a mid-range activity, but it punches above its weight because so many costs are folded in. You’re not just paying for transport. The package includes:

• skipper
• lunch (Greek lunch, salad, fruits)
• drinks (Prosecco/beer/wine/soda/water depending on option)
• snorkeling equipment and noodle floats
• waterproof camera
• insurance and fuel

For me, the best value signal is how little you have to pay extra once you’re onboard. The only add-ons mentioned are stand-up paddle boards (30€/day) and seascooters (70€/battery cycle), plus fishing rods (30€/day). Most people won’t need those, but it’s nice they exist as options.

Also, the small-group setup—up to 13, often around 10—helps you feel less herded. On larger boats, snorkel stops can feel rushed. Here, the structure is designed around swim windows and sailing segments.

So if you’re trying to choose between “cheap and crowded” versus “slower and personal,” this tends to land in the sweet spot.

Who This Trip Fits Best (and Who Might Want Another Option)

This is a strong match if you want:

• a sailing day that includes snorkeling and multiple swim stops
• a small group rather than a big crowd
• a lunch-and-drinks cruise that doesn’t feel like you’re grazing snacks
• a chance to steer when conditions allow

It may not be a match if you need accessibility support. The trip is not suitable for wheelchair users, and it’s not recommended for people over 80.

Also, this is a sea day. You’ll want to be comfortable with onboard rules and basic safety behavior—like no jumping in the sea while the boat is in motion with the engine on, and keeping the boat tidy.

If you’re prone to strong discomfort on boats, you should think carefully before choosing a sailing-focused day. The data doesn’t spell out motion sickness support, so plan based on your own comfort level.

Quick Tips to Make Your Day Easier

Bring a towel. That’s the only explicit “bring” item listed, but it’s the smart one for obvious reasons.

Follow the conduct rules without fighting them. Arriving sand free helps the boat stay cleaner. Keep pathways open, keep the aft area unobstructed during mooring, and use the head bin for waste as instructed.

When you’re snorkeling, return the snorkel gear and floats to the basket instead of leaving them loose on the swimming platform. It’s a small habit that makes a difference—especially on a smaller crew setup.

Finally, keep expectations flexible on which exact bays and caves you hit. Weather decides the detailed order, and the skipper adjusts swim stops to ensure the day works.

Should You Book Gin Tonic Lindos Sailing?

I’d book this if you want Lindos by sea with actual sailing, not just a boat ride. The combination of small-group sailing, frequent snorkel stops, and included lunch/drinks makes it feel like a full day you don’t have to micromanage.

I’d skip it (or at least compare carefully) if your main goal is a strict, never-changing timetable, because the route can shift with conditions. It’s also not a fit for wheelchair users or people over 80.

If you’re on the fence, here’s the deciding question: do you want the water time and the chance to steer? If yes, this is one of the more rewarding ways to experience Lindos’ coastline.

FAQ

Where do we meet for the sailing trip?

You meet at the big jetty near Pallas beach in Lindos.

How many people are on the boat?

The group is up to 13 passengers, and it’s typically limited to around 10.

What’s included with the price?

Included are a Greek lunch (salad and fruits), complimentary drinks (Prosecco, beer, wine, soda/pop, and bottled water depending on your option), snorkel gear, noodle-type floats, a waterproof camera, plus insurance and fuel.

Can I steer the yacht?

Yes. The sailing experience includes time where you can steer and participate in sailing tasks when conditions allow, with the skipper guiding you.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel. You’ll also want to arrive sand free so the boat stays clean.

Is cancellation refundable?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.