Rhodes: Anthony Quinn, Ladiko and Caves All-Inclusive Cruise

Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko Bay, and the Traganou Caves make a fine short introduction to Rhodes by sea. You get three swim stops, clear water, and a comfortable sofa instead of a hard bench. The freshly made strawberry cocktails and open bar are a real treat, while the small passenger limit helps keep the boat from feeling packed.

I especially like the balance between swimming and simply relaxing on board, plus the chance to swim inside the Traganou Caves rather than only view them from the water. The main consideration is time: each stop lasts about 30 to 40 minutes, so you need to get in the water promptly. Some passengers also found the sunny areas hot, and one person felt the stops ended a few minutes early.

Key points at a glance

• Three famous swim stops: Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko Bay, and the Traganou Caves.
• A genuine small-group feel: Aphrodite is licensed for 45, but the operator limits bookings to 28.
• Fresh drinks made on board: Expect frozen fruit cocktails, beer, wine, water, and soft drinks.
• Useful water gear included: Snorkels and masks are supplied, with pool noodles available for less confident swimmers.
• Good local snacks: You get fruit salad and melekouni, a Rhodian honey and sesame bar.
• Short but well-used duration: The cruise lasts three hours, making it a smart choice for a half-day beach break.

A three-hour cruise built around swimming

This is not a sightseeing boat with a few minutes of water time tacked on. The whole outing is shaped around swimming, snorkeling, sun, music, drinks, and easy coastal views.

You board Aphrodite beside the small church at Faliraki port. The 36-foot catamaran has sofas rather than rows of fixed seats, so you can settle in between stops. The boat is licensed for 45 people, but the working limit is 28. That difference matters. It gives you more room around the bar, easier access to the swimming platform, and a better chance of finding a comfortable place to sit.

The crew usually keeps the mood light. Mike, Elena, James, Mike, George, and Thanasis are among the hosts and captains praised by name for being helpful and attentive. The exact crew can change, but the service style is clear: drinks are prepared while you relax, basic information is given at each bay, and staff help with equipment and boarding.

The three-hour length is one of the strongest points. You see several of Rhodes’ best-known bays without spending a full day at sea. At the same time, this is not a slow cruise with long scenic stops. The boat moves between locations, and the swimming periods are tightly planned.

Anthony Quinn Bay: the most photogenic first stop

Anthony Quinn Bay is usually the first swimming stop, with about 40 minutes in the water. The bay is known for its rocky edges, sheltered shape, and clear water that looks especially striking from the boat.

This is the place to take your first photos, but do not spend the entire stop holding your phone. The snorkeling gear is available, and the water is clear enough to see fish around the rocks. A short swim gives you a better sense of why this bay is one of Rhodes’ most popular coastal stops.

The timing works well as an opening stop. Forty minutes is long enough to swim, try the mask, and return to the boat for a drink. It is not enough for a leisurely beach session, especially if you need extra time to get comfortable in the water.

You may find the bay busier than the other stops, since it is well known and accessible from land. The boat gives you a different angle, though. You can look back at the rocky coastline from open water rather than simply arriving at the shore.

This is also a good place to ask for a pool noodle if you are not a strong swimmer. The crew has equipment for guests to use, and staff have helped people who were learning to swim. Still, you should be comfortable entering the sea from the boat, even with flotation support.

Traganou Caves: the most unusual swim

The Traganou Caves are in Afandou Bay and offer the most distinctive stop on the route. You do not just look at the caves from a distance. You can swim into one of them, which gives this half-hour stop a little more character than a standard open-water swim.

The cave entrance, rocky walls, and darker water inside create a clear change from the bright open bay. Bring your snorkel if you enjoy looking beneath the surface, but the main appeal here is moving through the cave itself.

The stop lasts about 30 minutes. That is enough to swim inside, look around, and get back on board, but it is not a full cave exploration outing. You should also listen closely to the crew’s instructions. Conditions at the cave entrance can vary, and you need to keep track of the boat’s departure time.

Afandou Bay also brings a more open coastal setting than Anthony Quinn Bay. The 200-meter-deep cliff mentioned as part of the route adds drama to the coastline, with the rock dropping toward the blue water. From the catamaran, you get the best view of the scale of the coast.

Ladiko Bay: clear water and an easy final swim

Ladiko Bay is the final swimming stop and lasts about 30 minutes. The crew points out the best place to snorkel, which is useful because a short stop leaves little time for trial and error.

The water is often calm and clear, making Ladiko a pleasant place to finish the swimming portion. If you have already tested the snorkel at Anthony Quinn Bay, you can concentrate on the rocky edges and look for fish. If you prefer a simple swim, there is enough time to cool off and enjoy the view without rushing too much.

A later stop can also feel more relaxed. You know how the boat works, you have your drink, and you can settle into the water quickly. On some departures, fruit or a traditional sweet is served around the swimming stops, including melekouni, a honey and sesame bar associated with Rhodes.

The only drawback is the same one found at the other bays: 30 minutes passes quickly. Some passengers felt the crew cut a few minutes from the advertised stop times. That may have been a timing issue on a particular departure, but I would plan on the full experience being brisk rather than leisurely.

The sofa, open bar, and snacks

The boat’s comfort is a major part of the value. Each couple can find a sofa, and the bow has been described as a pleasant shaded area. Shade is important in the strong Rhodes sun, especially when you are wet and sitting on deck between swims.

Not every seat stays shaded all day. If you are sensitive to heat, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a towel, then ask the crew about the most shaded seating when you board. The boat has both sun and shaded areas, but your comfort can depend on where you sit.

The open bar includes:

• Frozen fresh-fruit cocktails, including strawberry cocktails
• Beer
• Wine
• Water
• Soft drinks

The cocktail of the day is made on the spot from fresh fruit. Strawberry versions are a frequent favorite, and the crew can prepare a nonalcoholic version when needed. Do not treat the open bar as a reason to drink heavily before snorkeling. The sea is the main event, and staying clear-headed makes the swim safer and more enjoyable.

Snacks include a fruit platter or fruit salad and melekouni. This is not a full meal, so eat beforehand if you need lunch. The fruit is welcome after swimming, and the local honey and sesame bar adds a small Rhodian touch that feels more thoughtful than standard packaged snacks.

Music is part of the atmosphere too. The playlist has been described as upbeat without taking over the trip. If you want a quiet nature cruise, this may feel a little lively. If you want a relaxed holiday outing with drinks and music, it fits well.

What the $64 price means

At the stated price of $64 per person, this is good value if you plan to use the open bar, snacks, snorkeling equipment, and all three swim stops. A simple boat ride can cost less, but it may not include drinks, fresh fruit, a small passenger limit, or access to the caves.

The value is strongest for people who want a compact experience. You get Anthony Quinn Bay, Afandou Bay, Traganou Caves, and Ladiko Bay in three hours, rather than arranging separate transport to each coastal area.

One person reported paying €35 on the day instead of the higher app price. That may reflect a different rate, date, booking channel, or departure arrangement, so I would check the current direct price before booking. Do not assume the lower figure will always be available. Also add the transfer charge if you are not making your own way to Faliraki.

A return transfer from Rhodes Town, Ixia, cruise ships, Kremasti, and Kallithea costs €10 per person when arranged in advance. Kolymbia transfers cost €15 per person. The transfer must be organized the day before through WhatsApp, during office hours from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

If you are arriving by cruise ship, compare the €10 transfer with the cost and timing of a ship-organized shore excursion. This cruise has a relatively short duration, which helps when you need to return to the port, but you should still allow time for the transfer back.

Who will enjoy this cruise most

I would choose this for couples, friends, solo visitors, and families with older children who are happy around open water. The boat’s friendly setup makes it easy for solo passengers to chat, while the sofas give couples a comfortable place to sit together.

It also suits different swimming abilities. Strong swimmers can snorkel and explore the caves, while less confident swimmers can use pool noodles and ask the crew for help. You still need to be prepared for boat-based swimming rather than a gradual beach entry.

This is less suitable if you want a quiet, private sailing trip or a full beach day at one bay. It is also not the right pick if you dislike a schedule. The stops are short, and the boat must leave on time.

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, according to the activity details. If you require specific boarding assistance, contact the operator before arrival so the crew can explain the setup.

Practical tips for a better three hours

Arrive at the small church beside Faliraki port and look for Aphrodite. Bring a towel, sunglasses, and sunscreen. You will also want a swimsuit under your clothes, since the first stop comes soon after leaving port.

Ask about shaded seating as you board. The bow can be comfortable and shaded, but the sun moves, and some places on deck are exposed for much of the cruise.

Take the snorkeling gear early if you want a mask that fits well. The equipment is included, but the swimming time is limited. Getting organized before reaching the bay gives you more time in the water.

Keep your first drink modest until after your swim. Unlimited alcohol is included, but snorkeling and cave swimming are better when you are alert. The fresh fruit cocktails are also available without alcohol.

Finally, do not leave your towel and sunscreen buried in a bag under the sofa. You will want both between stops, especially after swimming in the open sun.

Should you book it?

I would book this cruise if you want to see several beautiful bays in one short outing and value comfort, friendly service, and drinks included in the price. The small-group limit, sofas, snorkeling gear, fruit, and fresh cocktails give it more than a basic sightseeing boat ride.

Go in with realistic expectations. You get three focused swim stops, not long stretches at each bay, and shade is not guaranteed for every seat. If that sounds fine, this is a practical and enjoyable way to sample Rhodes’ east coast without giving up an entire day.

FAQ

How long does the Rhodes catamaran cruise last?

The cruise lasts three hours, including the sailing time between Faliraki port, the three swimming stops, and the return to Faliraki.

Where does the cruise depart?

The boat Aphrodite departs beside the small church at Faliraki port, Faliraki 851 00, Greece.

Which bays and caves does the cruise visit?

The route includes Anthony Quinn Bay, Traganou Caves in Afandou Bay, and Ladiko Bay.

How long do you spend swimming at each stop?

Anthony Quinn Bay has about 40 minutes. Traganou Caves and Ladiko Bay each have about 30 minutes.

Are drinks included in the cruise price?

Yes. Unlimited fresh fruit cocktails, beer, wine, water, and soft drinks are included.

Is food included?

Fruit salad or a fruit platter and melekouni, a traditional Rhodian honey and sesame bar, are included. A full meal is not listed.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included. Pool noodles are also available on board, according to the activity details and cruise information.

Can I arrange a transfer from Rhodes Town or the cruise port?

Yes. A return transfer from Rhodes Town, Ixia, cruise ships, Kremasti, and Kallithea costs €10 per person. It must be arranged the day before through WhatsApp. Kolymbia transfers cost €15 per person.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. The reserve-now, pay-later option is also available.