Lindos by boat feels like the easy way to do Greece. You get the best payoff early: Lindos first, then cooling swim stops on the way back to Rhodes. It runs a few days a week (Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat), with an English-speaking setup and onboard restroom.

I really like how this day is built around time that matters: you get about 3 hours free in Lindos, plus two chances to swim and snorkel afterward. I also like the practical touch that many departures include hotel pickup, and the transfer driver I saw mentioned by name was George.

The main drawback to watch is the “hot + steep” combo in Lindos. The walk up toward the Acropolis can be tough in strong sun, and the boat can get crowded on peak days.

Key Things to Know Before You Go

• Lindos first, boat later: You arrive around ~11:00 and leave around ~14:00, so you can actually see the town.
• Two 30-minute water breaks: Tsambika Bay and Anthony Quinn Bay are each about 30 minutes.
• Bring your own goggles and sunscreen: It’s a swim-and-snorkel day, and gear may not be on hand.
• Top-deck sun and views: Some of the best spots are on the upper level when the boat is full.
• Plan for heat and hills in Lindos: Comfortable shoes matter more than you think.

Why This Lindos Boat Trip Works So Well From Rhodes

This isn’t a short hop across the water. It’s a full “day out” that balances land time with ocean time, and that’s the key reason it scores so high.

You leave Rhodes Harbor at 08:40 (on Tue/Wed/Thu/Sat), then you arrive in Lindos around ~11:00. After roughly 3 hours to explore (and return by 13:45), the boat departs Lindos around ~14:00. Then you cool down on the return with swimming and snorkeling stops at Tsambika Bay and Anthony Quinn Bay, before getting back around ~17:30.

That pacing is what makes the trip feel fair. Most of the day isn’t stuck watching scenery through a window. You’re in Lindos when it’s still lively, and you get your water time before the day ends.

From Rhodes Harbor to Lindos: The 08:40 Start and the “Get There Early” Advantage

The schedule is clear: departures run only on specific days, and they’re timed for that mid-morning arrival into Lindos. You board at the harbor, then the boat ride gets you there by around 11.

Where it can get tricky is timing around pickup and port lines. This trip includes pickup options, but they vary by where your hotel is. One person shared that their driver picked them up at 07:45, earlier than the general start time shown online. So I’d treat this as an early day, not a casual one.

If you’re going without pickup, or if pickup drops you close to the meeting area, aim to arrive early at the dock area. The boat can fill up, and early arrival often means easier access to better seating—especially on top deck where you want to be for views.

Three Hours in Lindos: Harbor Energy, Acropolis Sweat, and Lunch Options

Once the boat arrives in Lindos Harbor (around ~11:00), you get about 3 hours free. The boat doesn’t leave until ~14:00, but you must be back aboard by 13:45. That built-in deadline shapes how you should plan your walk.

What you can realistically do in that window

In three hours, you can usually:

• wander down by the harbor for shops and food
• walk up toward the Acropolis area for the big views
• grab lunch and then work your way back to the dock in time

Lindos is scenic from every angle, but the route from the waterfront to the Acropolis area is steep. On a very hot day, that climb can feel like a full workout.

The “hot walk” reality (and how to handle it)

Bring sensible footwear. Sandals can be a bad choice when stairs and cobblestones are doing their thing. If you’re sensitive to heat, plan breaks. People often spend time looking at the views first, then decide how much of the Acropolis climb they want to tackle.

There’s also the matter of Acropolis entry. The trip doesn’t include Acropolis admission, and at least one visitor cited about €12 per entry and noted you can pay by card. If you buy timed entry online, leave yourself a cushion—because the day is still running on boat timing and the crew’s schedule.

Lunch: not included, but easy to find

Lunch isn’t part of the tour package. You get free time in Lindos, and you’ll find places to eat along the way. On the boat itself later, there’s a bar where you can buy snacks and drinks.

If you want a drink with harbor views, one spot mentioned in feedback was Rainbird, which is the kind of place you use as a “reset button” after the walk back down.

Tsambika Bay Swim Stop: Short, Sweet, and Great for Cooling Off

On the return from Lindos, you stop at Tsambika Beach for about 30 minutes of swimming and snorkeling. Admission is listed as free for these stops, so you’re not paying extra just to get in the water.

Thirty minutes sounds short until you’re actually sweating in Rhodes sun. This stop works best as:

• a quick swim
• a snorkel try if you brought goggles
• a chance to splash your way back to feeling human

What to bring for Tsambika

I’d show up ready. Bring goggles and sunscreen. One review specifically called out that goggles matter. If you don’t have your own snorkeling gear, don’t assume it’s provided. At least one visitor reported no snorkeling gear onboard, though there may be chances to buy gear if stock is available.

Also bring a way to keep essentials handy—your phone, camera, or cash. The boat day is busy, and the water breaks come quickly.

Anthony Quinn Bay: The Best Water Stop on This Route

The last swim stop is Anthony Quinn Bay. It’s famous as a movie location (it was used as a natural setting for The Guns of Navarone), but the real reason you’ll care is what’s under the surface.

You get another 30-minute water session here, and the seabed can be spectacular. The snorkeling focus is real: colorful fish, corals and seaweed are specifically part of what you’re likely to see when conditions are good.

One strong piece of feedback singled out Anthony Quinn Bay as the standout, describing warm, clear water and stunning cliffs as a backdrop.

What to expect from the snorkeling vibe

This isn’t a “gear-heavy, deep-water expedition.” It’s more like: put your face in, look around, and be happy you picked this day. You’ll get enough time to see things without feeling rushed beyond comfort.

If you’re new to snorkeling, start slow. Get used to the water, then look around. If you’re experienced, focus on scanning the calmer areas where fish activity tends to show.

Boat Comfort, Seating, and What to Expect When It’s Busy

This tour caps at 180 travelers, and that can translate into a boat that feels full, depending on the day. Some feedback pointed out limited seating and chairs taking up space. So yes, you should expect “crowded boat day” at peak times.

That said, the boat experience has some wins:

• You can find spots to relax, including sunbeds on the top deck.
• There’s a bar and snacks/drinks on board later in the day.
• There’s a restroom onboard, which you’ll appreciate because the day is long.

My practical comfort checklist

• Arrive early when possible to improve your chance at better seating.
• Bring sunscreen even if it’s cloudy early. It heats up fast.
• Pack a light layer for later if you get sunburnt and then feel cooler on the ride back.
• Consider a hat and sunglasses. Your face and eyes will thank you.

About onboard music

One visitor mentioned music on the boat all day being annoying. That’s subjective, but if you’re sensitive to sound, plan around it—bring a small pair of earplugs.

Price and Value: What $60.46 Gets You in Real Terms

At $60.46 per person, the value is mostly about what’s included and what’s avoided.

You’re paying for:

• boat transport between Rhodes, Lindos, and the swim stops
• a skipper
• swimming/snorkeling stops on the way back
• a restroom onboard
• and (often) pickup, depending on the hotel pickup variation you select

You are not paying for:

• lunch
• Acropolis entry (not included)
• and any snack/drink purchases on board

What makes this feel like good value is that your day includes both land time and meaningful water time. A lot of island tours either overdo transport or overdo town walking with little payoff. This one gives you a clean balance: Lindos is the anchor, and the bays are the cool-down.

If your goal is primarily to see Lindos and get a couple swim breaks, the cost lines up well with what you’re actually using during the day.

Who This Trip Suits Best (and Who Might Want Another Plan)

This boat trip is a strong fit if you want:

• a low-effort way to get to Lindos
• time to explore the town and Acropolis area
• swimming/snorkeling stops without booking separate activities
• a day that feels social but not stressful

It may be less ideal if you:

• struggle with steep walking in hot conditions
• need guaranteed low crowds on the boat (it can get full)
• plan rigid timed ticket schedules without buffer time

If your fitness level is fine but heat hits you hard, you can still go—just treat footwear and pacing as non-negotiable.

Quick Booking Tips That Keep the Day Smooth

Before you book, I’d plan around these details:

• Wear water-ready shoes or at least shoes that handle both cobblestones and heat.
• Bring goggles and sunscreen. Don’t count on gear being provided.
• If you’re buying Acropolis tickets online, give yourself extra time and don’t schedule the moment you step off the boat.
• Expect pickup times to be earlier for some hotels, and arrive early if you’re meeting at the port.

Also note: this is offered in English, with a maximum group size of 180. That helps you feel oriented even when schedules move fast.

Should You Book This Boat Trip to Lindos With Tsambika and Anthony Quinn Stops?

I’d book it if your ideal Rhodes day includes Lindos exploration plus two real swim breaks. The itinerary is structured in a way that respects your time: you’re in Lindos for long enough to enjoy it, then you get water time when you’re ready for it.

Skip it (or consider an alternative) if you hate crowds on boats or you know you can’t handle steep climbs in heavy sun. In those cases, the Lindos portion can feel like hard work for the time you get.

If you fall in the middle—curious, flexible, and willing to pack for heat and water—this is one of the better ways to see the Lindos coast without turning your day into logistics.

FAQ

What days does the boat depart from Rhodes?

The boat departs from Rhodes Harbor at 08:40 on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

How long is the trip and when do you return to Rhodes?

The tour lasts about 7 hours 30 minutes (approx.), with return to the harbor around ~17:30.

How much free time do I get in Lindos?

You get about 3 hours free in Lindos. You should be back at the boat by 13:45, and the boat leaves Lindos around ~14:00.

Where do the swim and snorkeling stops happen on the way back?

On the return trip, you stop at Tsambika Bay for about 30 minutes, then at Anthony Quinn Bay for about 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling.

Is pickup from my hotel included?

Pickup is offered, but it depends on which pickup variation you choose. Check the options for your hotel, and put your hotel name in the special requirements field so they can contact you with the pickup time.

Where is the meeting point in Rhodes?

The meeting point is Half Price Tours, Gallias 6, Rodos 851 00, Greece. The activity also ends back at this meeting point.

Is lunch included in the price?

No. Lunch isn’t included. You’ll have free time in Lindos for lunch, and there’s a bar on the boat where you can purchase snacks and drinks.

What happens if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience starts, the amount you paid won’t be refunded.