Rhodes in a Day: Snorkeling, Champagne Sailing, and a Grandmaster Moment

Rhodes: Snorkeling, Medieval Walls & a Grandmaster Mission 🏰

This stop was extra special for me. Rhodes is one of the last fully preserved medieval cities in Europe—and I had a very specific mission: get a photo in front of the Grand Master's Palace. Why? Because I'm a SourceCon Grandmaster, y’all. That’s a real recruiting award, and this fortress-looking backdrop felt like the ultimate badge moment. 💪🏽👑

But let me back up—because our whole day in Rhodes was a vibe.

Morning: Sailing, Snorkeling & Champagne

We booked a Viator sail & snorkel tour for the morning, and it was the perfect call. After about a 15–20 minute walk from our ship along the marina, we boarded a sleek catamaran and were greeted with champagne and music right away. Honestly? 10/10 start.

Book this exact excursion: https://www.viator.com/tours/Rhodes/Romantika-All-inclusive-Day-Cruise/d4272-63761P1?pid=P00011640&uid=U00231212&mcid=58086&currency=USD

There were about 40 people onboard, including a fun group from Australia we hit it off with immediately. We sailed for about five hours and hit three amazing swim spots:

🏊‍♀️ Kallithea Springs: Will and I swam 200 yards out to snorkel inside a cave—check my YouTube for the video, it was so cool and eerie in the best way.

🪨 Pebble Rock Beach: This was a short stop, but I made sure to snag a couple of smooth stones for our travel shell wall back home (check the beach at the 2:40 mark in the video below!). The reason it was quick? The onboard crew was busy prepping our lunch; and wow, did they deliver. We returned to a full buffet spread featuring pasta, local Greek bites, and the real MVP: fresh mussels. Pro tip: Don’t be the last one back on the boat like we were… the mussels go fast, and they’re absolutely worth it.

🍻 Anthony Quinn Bay: This bay is famous for a reason; it was absolutely stunning. The water was crystal clear with visibility well over 100 feet, making it the clearest we saw all trip. It honestly felt like a Texas lake party… but set in the middle of the Aegean Sea. 😂 No coral here, just massive boulders beneath the surface and a surprise lionfish sighting. While sea life was minimal, the atmosphere more than made up for it. We floated, laughed, and yes; our captain tossed cold beers into the water for anyone who wanted one. Zero notes. Perfect stop.

Afternoon: Medieval Magic & a Photo for the Ages

Back on land, we set out on foot through the Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s dripping with character. No cars, just winding cobblestone streets, archways, weathered shutters, and the occasional stray cat looking like it runs the place. 🐾

This place felt like walking into a fantasy novel.

And then, my moment, the Grand Master's Palace. Built in the 14th century by the Knights of St. John, this fortress is massive and moody and powerful. Will snapped the pic of me in front of it, and I’ll admit, I felt like a knight. 😎

Rhodes gave me one of the best mixes of beachy fun and historical soul on this whole cruise.

Travel Tips: What I’d Tell a Friend

• Book your snorkel tour early. Viator has several options but they can sell out quick.

• Wear good shoes for Old Town; those cobblestones are no joke. Avoid Flip-Flops.

• Bring a dry bag and change of clothes. You’ll go from sea to city in a blink.

• Ask your guide or driver where to eat. The best spots are never on the main drag.

• And don’t forget that photo op! Whether you’re a Grandmaster or not—it’s a flex.

Is Rhodes Worth a Cruise Stop?

Yes, yes, and yes. It’s easy to navigate, rich in history, and gorgeous from land or sea. You can snorkel in the morning, grab souvlaki for lunch, and be standing in a centuries-old fortress by sunset.

Whether you’re exploring Rhodes by cruise or doing a land-based Greece itinerary, this island delivers.

Ready to Explore the Greek Isles?

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🧭 FAQ: Visiting Rhodes on a Cruise

Is Rhodes a good stop on a cruise itinerary?

Absolutely. Rhodes is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe and offers a mix of history, architecture, beaches, and vibrant culture; all walkable from the cruise port.

Can you snorkel in Rhodes, Greece?

Yes! We did a half-day sail and snorkel tour that stopped at Kallithea Springs and Anthony Quinn Bay. The water was crystal-clear, and we swam into caves; definitely a highlight of our Mediterranean cruise.

What’s the Grandmaster’s Palace in Rhodes?

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is a 14th-century fortress located at the end of the Street of the Knights in Old Town. It’s one of the most iconic medieval landmarks in Greece; and made for a pretty epic photo-op, especially if you’re a SourceCon Grandmaster like me 😉.

Can I book a trip to Rhodes on its own (not as part of a cruise)?

Yes! Rhodes is a fantastic standalone destination. With its airport (RHO) offering flights from Athens and other major European cities, it’s easy to fly in and start your island adventure here. You can spend a few days exploring the medieval Old Town, local beaches, and nearby villages before island-hopping to places like Symi, Crete, or even Santorini via ferry or domestic flights. It’s a perfect anchor point for a Greek island itinerary with history, scenery, and ease.