Lindos: 3Hour Hippo Submarine with Swim Stop at Navarone Bay

Planning a trip to Rhodes and wondering how to experience the stunning coastline without spending all day on the water? The Lindos: 3-Hour Hippo Submarine tour offers a relaxed way to see some of the most beautiful parts of the ancient shoreline, with the bonus of underwater views and a swim stop at Navarone Bay. It’s a quick, family-friendly outing that combines sightseeing, some underwater magic, and a splash in crystal-clear waters.

We like that this tour gives you a unique perspective of Lindos and its surroundings—thanks to the semi-submarine’s large underwater portholes, you get glimpses of marine life without donning snorkel gear. Plus, the stunning views of the coastline make it a visually pleasing experience. On the downside, some reviews note that the crew’s enthusiasm can vary, and the trip might feel somewhat short or repetitive if you’re expecting a full day at sea. Still, if you prefer a relaxed, comfortable cruise with casual scenery and a swim, this tour could be just right.

This experience suits travelers who want a comfortable, family-friendly activity with a mix of scenic views and underwater glimpses, especially if you’re pressed for time or traveling with children. It’s perfect for those who love to combine sightseeing with a chance to cool off in the sea. If you’re after a more energetic adventure or snorkeling gear, you might want to look elsewhere, but for a laid-back, scenic trip, this tour hits many marks.

Key Points

• Unique underwater experience: Large portholes allow for great views of marine life without getting wet.
• Beautiful coastline views: Sail past Lindos Beach, the Acropolis, and other historic sites.
• Swim stop at Navarone Bay: Perfect for a refreshing dip in clear waters.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund with a pay-later option.
• Includes a drink and free Wi-Fi: Adds comfort and convenience to your cruise.
• Limited snorkeling gear: If you want to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary and Experience

The journey begins at Vlicha Beach, where you’ll meet your local guide and hop aboard the semi-submarine—a vessel that looks like a small submarine but functions as a boat with large underwater viewing portholes. The vessel’s design offers a surprisingly smooth ride, making it suitable for families, seniors, or anyone who prefers to stay dry while still enjoying marine views.

Once underway, the guide shares stories about the coastline’s history and notable sights—like Kleovoulos Tomb, Lindos Beach, and the chapel at St. Paul’s Bay. This commentary adds context to the scenery, transforming the cruise into a bit of an educational journey. As you sail past the Lions Head Cove reef, look through the portholes and marvel at the sea life below—some travelers have mentioned that the underwater views are quite impressive, with the large portholes providing a broad vista of the seabed.

One highlight is the view of the ancient Acropolis rising above Lindos. It’s a stunning scene from the water, and many guests find this perspective more striking than from land. The cruise also passes Lindos Beach, popular for its beauty and historical significance, and the chapel at St. Paul’s Bay, where legend says St. Paul visited.

The final and most anticipated stop is at Navarone Bay, which is renowned for its clear waters and dramatic cliffs. Here, you have around 30-40 minutes to swim and relax. You might find the water just the right temperature to cool off after the cruise, and the scenery is truly picture-perfect—craggy rocks, blue waters, and lush surroundings. Several reviews remark on how pristine and inviting Navarone Bay is, making it a memorable part of the trip.

The Experience of the Semi-Submarine: Comfort and Observation

The semi-submarine’s large underwater portholes are its main selling point. We loved the way they allow for a constant view of the seabed and marine life, which is especially appealing if you don’t want the hassle of snorkeling or swimming. As you peer through the glass, you might spot fish, crabs, or even small octopuses, depending on the day’s conditions.

Guests have noted that the vessel includes live commentary in English and Greek, which enriches the journey with stories about the coastline and history. The onboard Wi-Fi and WC add a layer of comfort, making the 3-hour trip feel more relaxed. The inclusion of one drink or bottle of water offers a little refreshment to keep you comfortable under the sun.

Some reviews, however, mention that the crew’s enthusiasm can vary, and that the trip might seem repetitive or uneventful if expectations lean toward a more energetic or adventurous outing. One traveler described it as “dull,” feeling the trip mostly went back and forth along the coast rather than exploring further.

The Swim Stop at Navarone Bay: An Inviting Break

The swim stop is the highlight for many, offering a chance to cool off in the inviting waters of Navarone Bay. The bay’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for a quick dip or relaxing float. You’ll love the scenic setting—rugged cliffs framing the bay and a calm surface ideal for swimming.

Be aware that snorkeling gear isn’t included, so if you want to explore underwater more closely, you’ll need to bring your own. The tour’s duration allows for just enough time to enjoy the water and soak up the scenery before heading back to shore. Several reviews praise Navarone Bay as a stunning, picture-perfect spot that’s worth the trip.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts 3 hours, with starting times depending on the day. It’s a manageable length—long enough to see and enjoy without feeling exhausted. The meeting point at Vlicha Beach is easy to locate, marked by the distinctive yellow submarine. If you prefer, optional hotel pickup is available from specific locations, but you’ll need to specify your hotel and confirm pickup times.

Pricing is generally reasonable, especially considering it includes a live guide, Wi-Fi, a drink, and a swim stop—factors that add to the value. It’s important to note that snacks or snorkeling gear aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you want to extend your water activities.

The experience is weather-dependent; poor weather can lead to cancellations, so it’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible.

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Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers’ perspectives help paint a fuller picture. One traveler called the excursion “belle,” highlighting the personnel’s friendliness, although they felt the cost was a bit high for what was offered. Conversely, another was less enthusiastic, criticising the lack of enthusiasm from the crew and describing the trip as “dull,” especially since much of the time was spent going back and forth along the coast.

Despite mixed reviews, most agree that the views of Lindos’s coastline and Navarone Bay are truly beautiful and worth experiencing. Many guests appreciate the ease and comfort of the semi-submarine, especially compared to more physically demanding water activities.

This 3-hour semi-submarine tour is excellent for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic experience with a touch of underwater intrigue. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with family, prefer a comfortable boat ride over vigorous water sports, or simply want to enjoy stunning coastal views from the water without getting wet. The swim stop at Navarone Bay offers a refreshing break and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Rhodes.

However, if you’re after a more energetic or snorkeling-focused day, this might feel a little tame. Plus, those expecting a longer or more adventurous trip should be aware that the cruise mainly focuses on coastal sightseeing with brief underwater viewing.

All in all, this tour offers a pleasant, visually appealing way to see part of Rhodes’s coastline, especially if you love beautiful views and underwater glimpses without the fuss of snorkeling gear or strenuous activities. It’s a solid choice for a relaxed, scenic outing that balances comfort with memorable scenery.

FAQ Section

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly trip. The semi-submarine design keeps everyone dry, and the short duration makes it manageable for children.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear isn’t included, so if you want to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own. The main focus is on viewing through the portholes.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera. The boat includes free Wi-Fi and WC, but packing a waterproof case for your devices is always helpful.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is useful if the weather forecast looks unfavorable.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
At Vlicha Beach, at the dock marked by the yellow submarine. If you’re running late, you should inform the local operator to reschedule, as departures are fixed.

Is hotel pickup available?
Optional pickup is available from specific locations on certain days, mostly from Lindos or Vlicha, but you’ll need to confirm your hotel and schedule.

This tour offers a charming, easy way to see the coast of Rhodes from the water, with enough highlights to satisfy most travelers. It’s a gentle, scenic experience suited for those who enjoy relaxing days with beautiful views and a splash of marine life—without the need for a snorkeling mask.

You can check availability for your dates here: