The Yellow Submarine Hippo in Rhodes Morning Trip

If you’re looking for a way to see Rhodes’ stunning coastlines without the hassle of getting wet or spending hours on a boat, the Yellow Submarine Hippo morning cruise offers a surprisingly charming solution. This 3-hour tour combines above-water sightseeing with an immersive underwater experience through large viewing windows—no snorkel required. It’s a family-friendly adventure that provides a fresh perspective on the Lindos coast, with enough comforts and quirks to appeal to a wide range of travelers.

What we love about this experience are its ease of access and comfort. The semi-submarine design means you don’t have to be a swimmer to enjoy the underwater beauty—and you stay cool thanks to air conditioning and WiFi. It’s also a good value, offering a full three hours of sightseeing for around $66 per person, which includes a drink and free WiFi onboard. The possible downside? The tour’s schedule and weather dependency may limit spontaneity, so planning ahead is wise. This cruise suits families, couples, or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic tour of Lindos’ coast without the physical exertion of snorkeling or swimming.

Key Points

• Comfortable semi-submarine experience allows underwater viewing without getting wet.
• Family-friendly and accessible, suitable for children and older travelers alike.
• Three-hour duration strikes a balance between sightseeing and relaxation.
• Includes a free beverage and WiFi, making it a practical choice for modern travelers.
• Weather-sensitive—cancellation or rescheduling may occur during poor weather.
• Good value compared to longer or more complex water-based tours.

What’s the Tour All About?

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive look at the Lindos coastline from two perspectives: above water and beneath the surface. Starting from Saint Paul’s Bay—arguably the most famous church on the island, often hosting over 300 weddings a year—you’ll board the semi-submarine known affectionately as the Hippo. The vessel is painted bright yellow, making it hard to miss, and it promises a fun, safe environment for all ages.

The tour lasts roughly three hours, with a flexible itinerary that makes the most of your time on the water without feeling rushed. A key feature is the large viewing windows beneath the waterline, offering a clear, sheltered view of local reefs and marine life. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed, informative, and Instagram-friendly—think plenty of photo opportunities both above and below the water.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Saint Paul’s Bay Dock

Your adventure begins right at the dock outside Saint Paul’s Bay, where the boat departs at around 9:30 am. This area is not only scenic but steeped in local charm—it’s the most celebrated church on the island, attracting more than 300 weddings annually. As you board, you’ll note the friendly staff and the straightforward process, which keeps things stress-free.

Stop 2: Lindos

The first real highlight is a cruise along the coast to the historic Lindos. From the deck, you’ll get a sweeping view of the iconic white-washed buildings of Lindos, perched atop rugged cliffs. The boat gets close enough to appreciate the town’s charm and architecture, providing perfect photo opportunities. One reviewer mentioned, “The boat goes at a very steady speed along the coast of Lindos so you can take in the scenery,” which makes this part of the trip both relaxing and picturesque.

Stop 3: Lindos Beach & Lions Head Cove

The next stop is Lindos Beach, where the boat gets close enough for a close-up of the reef at Lions Head Cove. The underwater viewing windows come into their own here, giving you a front-row seat to marine life and the reef formations. It’s worth noting that being seated inside the underwater deck is recommended for the best views, so arrive early if possible. One traveler noted, “You better get a good seat inside the underwater deck for the next stop,” emphasizing the importance of positioning for optimal viewing.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour covers all the essentials: a three-hour boat ride, one free beverage or bottle of water, and free WiFi onboard. For many, the WiFi is a bonus, allowing you to share your photos and stay connected. Restroom facilities are available as well, which adds to the comfort.

What’s not included are snacks or snorkeling gear, so if you wish to extend your aquatic adventure beyond the underwater windows, you’ll need to bring your own or plan to purchase locally. The tour is designed for sightseeing rather than active snorkeling, making it appealing for those who prefer to observe rather than dive in.

The Experience and Atmosphere

The friendly staff and smooth operation make this a very pleasant outing. Travelers have praised the crew for their warmth and professionalism, with some noting that “the hosts are very nice and friendly.” The steady pace along the coast allows for excellent photo opportunities, whether you’re capturing Lindos’ architecture or the vibrant marine life beneath.

The air-conditioned cabin provides a comfortable environment when you’re below the surface, which is particularly welcomed in the warmer months. The ability to stay connected via WiFi adds a modern touch—ideal if you want to upload your underwater photos or keep in touch during your trip.

The Authenticity and Value

While not an all-day adventure, this tour offers excellent value for what it is—a short, scenic, and accessible way to see Rhodes’ coast. At $66.21 per person, including a drink and WiFi, it’s an affordable option compared to longer or more strenuous excursions. The reviews echo this sentiment, with one stating, “Very friendly staff on board,” and another highlighting the great picture opportunities.

The cancellation policy is straightforward: due to weather dependency, bad weather may lead to rescheduling or refund. This makes it prudent to plan your trip during stable weather conditions.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour is perfect for families with young children, as no swimming or snorkel gear is necessary. It’s equally suited for couples looking for a relaxed way to enjoy the coastline or solo travelers wanting a quick, scenic escape. If you appreciate comfortable amenities and great photo ops, this tour ticks those boxes. However, adventurous travelers seeking prolonged snorkeling or diving might find it somewhat limiting.

The Yellow Submarine Hippo morning cruise delivers a fun, laid-back way to explore Rhodes’ iconic Lindos coast. It balances comfort with authentic scenic views, making it a solid choice for those who want a memorable experience without the hassle of strenuous activity. The large underwater viewing windows are a real highlight, providing a unique glimpse into the local marine environment without getting wet.

The friendly crew, good value, and impressive views make this tour a dependable pick that suits most travelers, especially families, curious sightseers, or those with limited mobility. While it’s weather-dependent and doesn’t include snorkeling, it compensates with convenience and comfort, ensuring you experience the coast’s beauty from a cozy, protected perspective.

If you want a hassle-free, scenic overview of Lindos and the sea life beneath, this tour could become one of your highlights in Rhodes.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery, underwater views, and comfortable onboard amenities.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Saint Paul’s Bay dock and returns there at the end of the trip.

What time does the tour depart?
The tour starts at 9:30 am, which is ideal for a morning activity—less crowded and cooler.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the 3-hour boat tour, one free beverage or water, WiFi, and access to the WC onboard.

Are snacks or snorkeling gear provided?
No, snacks and snorkeling gear are not included, so bring your own if you plan to extend your underwater experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather is bad?
Since the experience is weather-dependent, it may be canceled or rescheduled during poor weather conditions, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, and many reviews mention traveling with young kids who enjoyed the steady pace and clear views.

Do I need to book in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, as the tour can fill quickly.

To sum it up, the Rhodes Yellow Submarine Hippo morning trip offers a charming blend of scenic coastline, marine observation, and onboard comfort. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a memorable, hassle-free slice of Rhodes’ maritime beauty—perfectly suited for families, curious travelers, and anyone looking to see the coast from a new angle without the fuss.