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Updated: August 20, 2025
If you’re heading to Rhodes, you really shouldn’t miss taking a boat trip to explore the island and beyond. There are options for everyone: from laid-back cruises where you can swim in crystal-clear waters, to visits to nearby Greek islands, or even a quick trip to Turkey for some shopping.
In this guide, I’ll share the best boat trips in Rhodes so you can pick the ones that fit your plans. Everything here comes from my own experience living on the island for more than two years.
If you don't have time to read the whole article, this boat trip from Rhodes to Symi is the most spectacular one and also my personal favorite. But if you’d rather stay around the island, this catamaran cruise to Rhodes’ best beaches is a super chill and unforgettable option.
Boat Trips in Rhodes
1. Symi Island
Symi feels like a fairytale island—you’ll be hooked the moment you see the port of Gialos. The town is full of colorful neoclassical houses, all perfectly lined up, a legacy from when the Italians controlled the Dodecanese.
Gialos is perfect for a slow stroll, soaking in the atmosphere. Make sure to try the local specialty: Symi shrimp—tiny little shrimps you eat whole, and they’re delicious.
Most trips to Symi also include a stop at Panormitis Monastery, a postcard-worthy spot in a peaceful bay on the other side of the island.
One of the best things about Symi is how close it is. The trip from Rhodes takes just 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the boat.
✔️ How to visit Symi?
- Tour: The easiest and most affordable option is to join this day trip from Rhodes. You’ll have enough time to explore and enjoy a refreshing swim. It also includes a stop at Panormitis. You also have this option where the extra stop is at a bay for swimming. Either way, you won’t have to worry about all the logistics of getting to Symi and moving around.
- Ferry: if you prefer to go on your own, there are several ferries daily in high season. If you take one in the morning and return in the afternoon, you’ll have plenty of time to see the island. Even though Symi is small and quiet, it’s also worth staying overnight. You can check ferry schedules, prices and book on this website.
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2. Anthony Quinn Bay
Anthony Quinn Bay is famous for its beauty. Actor Anthony Quinn fell in love with it while filming The Guns of Navarone, and that’s how it got its name.
The bay is surrounded by rocky hills, making it even more picturesque, and the water is a stunning emerald green—perfect for snorkeling. Honestly, I think it’s one of the most beautiful beaches of Rhodes.
The catch? In high season, the beach itself gets packed since it’s so small. If you’d rather skip the crowds, hopping on a boat tour is the way to go—you can enjoy the bay without even stepping on the sand.
The best part is that these tours usually stop at several gorgeous coves. If you’re looking for a relaxed day out at Rhodes’ top beaches, this is your best bet.
I recommend this catamaran cruise in Rhodes—it’s the one I picked when I had friends visiting, and it was amazing. It included stops at Ladiko and Kalithea, two stunning spots on the island, plus a tasty buffet lunch with drinks. The boat isn’t huge either, with a max of around 20 passengers, so it feels way more personal than the big tour boats.
3. Lindos
Lindos is one of the island’s true gems, and getting there by boat makes it even more magical. From the sea, you’ll spot the whitewashed village crowned by the Acropolis—it’s the kind of view that makes you stop to admire it.
A visit to Lindos is pretty much a must, since it’s one of the best things to do on the island of Rhodes.
This boat trip to Lindos is really complete, giving you free time to wander the narrow streets of Lindos and hike up to the Acropolis. If you’re going in summer, be ready for a hot uphill climb under the blazing sun—don’t forget your water bottle!
It also includes swimming and snorkeling stops at Anthony Quinn Bay and Tsambika, one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the island.
All in all, it’s a tour that mixes culture, relaxation, and the sea—a three-in-one experience that never fails.
4. Marmaris, Türkiye
Did you know you can reach Turkey from Rhodes in just about an hour by boat? That’s right—you can visit Marmaris, a lively mix of bazaars, spices, and a completely different vibe from Greece.
The ferry drops you off right at the port, and from there you can explore the market, stroll the old town, or walk along the seafront. Just don’t forget your passport, since there’s a border check.
Many people go to Marmaris mainly for shopping at the bazaar, which is packed with imitation bags, shoes, and designer clothes. Prices are lower than in Rhodes (which is already expensive by Greek standards), and you’ll get plenty of chances to practice your bargaining skills.
If you decide to stay overnight, the area has nice beaches, and Marmaris is also a good base for exploring more of the Turkish coast or even visiting Pamukkale, which isn’t too far away.
✔️ How to visit Marmaris?
The only way to visit Marmaris from Rhodes is by ferry. You can book a round-trip ticket on this website or book each ferry trip on this website.
You’ll also need to add the port taxes. It’s €20 if you go and return the same day, and €30 if you come back on another day. You pay directly at the port before boarding, either by card or cash.
👍 Friendly Tip: The ferry company offers a free bus to Marmaris center. Skip it! The bus stops at a viewpoint (which is nice) but then takes you to a jewelry store under the pretext of showing you their work—it’s just a sales pitch, and they keep you there for about an hour. On top of that, the shop is on the opposite side of the city, while the old town is just a 15-minute walk from the port. You’ll waste more time waiting for the bus to fill up than walking straight to the bazaar. I fell for it! 😅
⭐ Related articles: What to do in Marmaris; What to see in Pamukkale and How to get from Rhodes to Marmaris.
5. Dolphins and Marine Life
This was one of my favorite activities in Rhodes, and if you love marine life, you’ll love it too. Boats leave from Kamiros Skala port with one goal: spotting dolphins in the wild.
It’s not guaranteed they’ll leap out of the water like in the movies (though sometimes they do), but seeing them swim alongside the boat is unforgettable. What makes it even better is the crew—they share tons of knowledge about marine life and know exactly where to look. Sometimes you can even spot turtles and, if you’re lucky, a monk seal.
The trip also includes several stops for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and you don’t need to worry about a thing; they provide snorkel kit along with drinks and snacks. You can book the boat trip on this website, a unique and highly recommended way to experience the wilder side of the Aegean.
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6. Kastelorizo Island
Out of all the excursions, this one is the most peaceful and unique. Kastelorizo is a tiny island near the Turkish coast and a true hidden gem.
The first thing you’ll see is its port, lined with pastel-colored houses that look a lot like Symi. It’s a place with no rush, perfect to disconnect and enjoy an authentic vibe.
One of the highlights is the Blue Cave, a sea grotto that lights up in amazing shades of blue when the sunlight shines in. It’s similar to the famous Blue Grotto in Capri, but bigger and completely under the radar.
In the village, you can explore the old market, climb up to the castle for great views of the town and bay, and check out the Lycian tomb. Life here moves slowly: strolling around, eating fresh fish at a seaside taverna while spotting sea turtles, and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
If you’re looking for a romantic plan or just a different, relaxing day, this excursion is perfect. You can also hop over to Kas in Turkey, just 7 minutes away by fast ferry.
👍 My two cents: Bring cash. Cards are accepted on the island, but most places add a steep surcharge (up to 33%). Internet connection is usually bad, and sometimes card payments don’t go through. There’s only one ATM on the island, right at the port, but when I went it was empty. They weren’t restocking it until 3 pm—almost the time I had to leave.
✔️ How to visit Kastelorizo?
The only way to visit Kastelorizo from Rhodes is by ferry—there are no tours. Still, you can do it as a day trip if you go on a Tuesday with the fast ferries. That’s the only day when, if you take the morning ferry and return in the afternoon, you’ll have enough time to explore the island.
For me, one day felt short and I would have loved to stay longer. Still, I managed to visit the Blue Cave, wander around town, have lunch, and go for a swim. A perfect day on a beautiful island, but if you have more time, it’s definitely worth staying overnight.
You can check ferry schedules, prices and book your tickets in advance here. Once you select your trips and click to see the final price, a discount is applied—sometimes up to 50%.
7. Sunset Cruise
One of the most popular boat trips on the island is the sunset cruise. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a romantic plan or just want to end the day in a special way.
The cruise takes you to Kallithea, a stunning spot where the sun setting over the Aegean is a show you won’t forget.
The atmosphere onboard couldn’t be better—it includes a buffet dinner with delicious Greek food, local wine, and live music that makes it all the more magical. A relaxing cruise, good food, and drinks as the sunset sets in. Plus, if you'd like, you can take a dip.
It’s one of those plans that truly make you feel like you’re on vacation, and the price is great for everything it includes. I recommend booking in advance on this website, since it usually sells out in high season.
8. Poseidon Ship
If you’re visiting Rhodes with kids, they’ll love the Poseidon ride. This boat has an air-conditioned glass-bottom section where you can watch the underwater world without getting wet.
The trip goes around the Mandraki area and Elli Beach, where you’ll see schools of fish swimming right on the other side of the glass. It’s a budget-friendly excursion made for families, which is why it’s one of the most popular boat trips from Rhodes Town. You can book it online here.
🏝 If you’d rather not worry about a thing, I recommend this all-inclusive trip that with transfers, a 4-star hotel stay with breakfast, and 3 guided boat day trips. 💲 The best part is the price—it’s really affordable. You can check availability, the cost, and book it on this website.
Map
Practical Tips
- Book in advance during high season—boats fill up quickly.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and water—the sun is really strong.
- Bring a swimsuit and a towel; almost every boat trip includes swim stops.
- If you get seasick, it’s best to take some pills beforehand.
- • Also, don’t forget water shoes like these—your feet will thank you. Honestly, they’re one of the top things to pack for the Greek islands in summer so you can enjoy any beach without feeling like you’re walking on eggshells.
Rent a boat in Rhodes
If you’d rather go at your own pace, you can rent a boat in Rhodes. There are options with or without a skipper, depending on your experience (keep in mind that without a license you can only rent small boats up to 5 meters long).
The advantage is that you decide how long to stay in each bay, discover hidden spots, and jump in the water whenever you want. Just don’t forget to check the fuel, bring some snacks, and look at the weather forecast.
A boat trip from Rhodes is one of those experiences that make your trip unforgettable. To rent a boat, I recommend this website, where you’ll find well-kept boats, professional skippers, and fair prices.
⭐ Related article: 6 Best Places to Rent a Boat in Greece
✅ Friendly Tip: Don’t forget to get travel insurance for your next adventure. I recommend Heymondo,—it’s super comprehensive, and with that link, you’ll get 5% off.
Final Thoughts
These are the best boat trips in Rhodes to see beautiful places, relax, and discover marine life. There’s something for everyone, and it’ll definitely make your vacation even more special.
In this guide to Greece, you’ll find all my articles, based on my personal experience living in the country.
If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘
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Hi, I’m Andrea, creator and author of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I write about Southeast Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe. I’m a full-time traveler, passionate about good food, and always looking for new adventures.