Small-boat fishing, big Rhodes memories. On the Makarounas trip, Angelo and the captain guide you through first casts, then serve a solid BBQ onboard.

I especially like the Kalithea Caves swim stop, where you can swim and snorkel in clear water. Just know the fishing can be hit or miss, and the boat may run late on some days, so keep a time buffer if you’re tied to a cruise schedule.

Key highlights to look for

• Angelo and the captain help you get set up so even first-timers can fish with confidence
• A small max group of 12 keeps the vibe relaxed and hands-on
• Kalithea Springs caves + rocky beaches give you a real swim-and-snorkel break
• Onboard BBQ lunch (including grilled fish) plus free soft drinks, beer, and wine
• Practical onboard comfort like a toilet with no sink, so bring wipes
• Meeting point is on the waterfront (not always where maps send you)

What You’re Really Buying: Rhodes Fishing Plus a Cave Swim Break

This is a half-day outing built around two main moods: low-key time on the sea and a break for swimming near the Kalithea Springs caves. The fishing portion is meant to be active, but it’s not a hard-core tournament. You get help getting lines in order, baiting up, and making your first real attempts.

For me, the big value is the way the day stays varied. You’re not just sitting on a boat hoping for fish. You fish for a few hours, then you get a proper water stop where you can cool off and snorkel near the rocky cave area.

Also, it’s a small group (up to 12). That matters. You’re more likely to get direct attention when you’re learning something simple but finicky, like handling a line without tangles.

3 Hours of Fishing Around Rhodes: How the Crew Keeps It Fun

You’ll spend about three hours fishing in the waters off Rhodes. This is set up for both newcomers and experienced anglers.

If you’re new, the crew works with you on basics like baiting the hook and handling the reel and line. The point is not just catching fish. It’s learning enough to enjoy the act of fishing, even when the sea decides to be moody.

If you already fish, you still get a guided vibe, but you’re free to jump into the action quickly. The boat is small enough that the attention feels personal, and that helps when you’re trying different spots and methods.

One honest note: fishing results aren’t guaranteed. Even on a great day, you may get a few bites or none. The best way to enjoy this part is to think of it as a guided fishing experience first, and a catch-your-lunch situation second. When you’re okay with that, the day stays enjoyable.

The Kalithea Springs Cave Stop: The Best Reason to Bring Swimwear

After fishing, you shift gears to the Kalithea Springs area for swimming and snorkeling. This stop runs about an hour, and it’s the highlight for many people because it feels like a real beach escape rather than a quick splash.

The setting is rocky and cave-adjacent, with swimming in pristine-looking water. You get a chance to snorkel around the cave area, which is where the water changes from just scenic to genuinely interesting under the surface.

Here’s what I’d plan for:

• Arrive ready to get wet. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes if you can.
• Bring a towel or something you can dry off with fast.
• If you have your own snorkel mask, bring it. A comfortable fit makes a short snorkel stop way more worthwhile.

This hour is also a nice reset if the fishing part is slow. Even if the fish aren’t cooperating, the water stop gives you something satisfying you can’t buy at a dock.

BBQ Lunch On Board: Why the Meal Matters More Than You’d Expect

The onboard BBQ lunch is not an afterthought on this trip. It’s one of the reasons people rave about the experience, and I can see why. When the day is half sea time and half cave time, a real hot meal helps the whole outing feel complete.

You’ll eat while on board, with grilled food served up after the fishing. Many people mention grilled fish, Greek salad, fresh fruit, and a well-prepared BBQ style lunch. There are also soft drinks available, and you can often enjoy beer and wine on board.

If you’re picky about food, it helps to know the meal can be tailored. One guest noted grilled fish with gluten-free bread, which suggests they’re willing to work with needs when possible.

What this means for you: even if you don’t land a lot of fish, you’re still getting a satisfying lunch that feels local and freshly cooked, not just packaged snacks.

Boat and Crew Reality Check: Not Luxury, Still a Good Time

Let’s be straightforward: the boat is described as kind of old or not luxury. If you’re expecting a sleek, modern vessel with spa-level bathrooms, this isn’t that.

But the trade-off is the experience feels friendly and family-style. The crew keeps things moving, helps with line issues, and makes sure you’re included in what’s happening on the water.

One practical detail: there’s a toilet on board, but there’s no sink. Bring wipes. That’s the kind of small thing that saves your mood mid-trip, especially if you’re out in swimwear and then back on board.

For bathrooms, you might also find a more private setup downstairs, which is a relief on a boat day.

Meeting Point in Rhodes: Don’t Trust the Map Blindly

The tour starts and ends at the meeting point at 25is Martiou 2, Rodos 851 00, Greece. You’ll return back to that same place.

Also, be a little careful with navigation. One thing I’d tell you to do: confirm you’re at the waterfront dock area, because Google Maps may send you to the wrong spot. When you arrive early, take five minutes to orient yourself by looking for the water access and the activity there.

Since confirmation is received at booking and the tour runs in English, you should have the basics lined up. Still, show up a bit early so you’re not rushing when the boat is boarding.

Timing and Cruise-Schedule Safety: Keep a Buffer

The trip runs about 5 hours total. The fishing portion is about 3 hours, and the swimming/cave stop is about 1 hour, with time in between for travel and getting set up.

Here’s the important part for cruise passengers: a small delay can happen if the earlier group runs late. On at least one day, the captain wouldn’t shorten the outing to make a specific ship time. That’s a risk you should treat seriously.

My advice: if you’re trying to connect to a cruise departure, don’t schedule this as your only plan. Build buffer time into your day. If your itinerary is tight, you may want a different tour option that’s known for strict timing.

Price and Value: Is $78.60 Worth It?

At $78.60 per person for about five hours, this can be a strong value if you want the full package: guided fishing, a real cave-area swim/snorkel break, and a hot BBQ lunch with drinks.

The price feels more justified when:

• You want hands-on coaching for fishing basics.
• You want that swimming stop near Kalithea Springs instead of just boating around.
• You’ll actually enjoy the onboard meal (grilled fish, salads, fresh fruit type of lunch).
• You like small-group experiences with up to 12 people, so you’re not stuck in a crowd.

It may feel less worth it if:

• Your main goal is guaranteed fishing success. Fish are not guaranteed.
• You’re extremely sensitive to timing because you have a ship to catch.
• You’re expecting modern luxury on the boat.

Think of this as a day you buy for the experience mix, not only for how many fish end up on your line.

Who This Trip Fits Best

This is a great match for people who want a relaxed, hands-on day at sea without needing fishing experience. Beginners can learn, and experienced anglers can still fish actively.

It also works well for families with kids in the lower teen range, because the crew tends to help with bait and line management. That turns fishing from a frustrating activity into more of a shared adventure. If you’re traveling with mixed ages, this layout helps everyone find something to enjoy.

If you’re a solo traveler, you’ll likely appreciate the small group and the crew interaction. If you’re a couple, it’s a fun way to do Rhodes that’s more active than a pure sightseeing day.

Should You Book the Makarounas Fishing Boat Trip?

I’d book it if you want a small-group Rhodes outing where the day includes three things that actually change your mood: fishing time, a cave swim/snorkel stop, and a proper BBQ lunch onboard. The small size and the hands-on help from Angelo and the captain make it feel welcoming for first-timers.

Skip it if your schedule is razor-thin or you need strict timing for a departure. Also skip it if your idea of fun depends entirely on catching fish. This trip is much better when you’re happy to enjoy the water, learn the process, swim in the caves area, and eat well on board.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the Makarounas Fishing Boat Trip?

The tour meets at 25is Martiou 2, Rodos 851 00, Greece, and it ends back at the same meeting point.

How long is the trip, and how much time is spent fishing vs swimming?

The total duration is about 5 hours. You’ll spend about 3 hours fishing, then about 1 hour swimming and snorkeling at the Kalithea Springs caves area.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes. The experience is offered in English.

What group size should I expect?

The tour has a maximum of 12 travelers.

Is food or drink included?

Yes. There is BBQ on board, and free soft drinks are available. Beer and wine are also available on board.

What restroom situation should I plan for?

There is a toilet on board, but there is no sink, so it’s smart to bring wipes.

What happens if weather is poor?

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