Hippo Classic Ride With Swim

Explore Rhodes’ Lindos Coast from the Hippo Semi-Submarine

The Hippo Classic Ride With Swim offers a memorable way to see the stunning Lindos coastline in Rhodes, Greece. Priced at $33.72 per person, this 2-hour cruise provides a perfect mix of scenic views, underwater exploration, and a relaxing swim stop. The tour is highly recommended, with 99% of participants suggesting it for others, and boasts a perfect rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 137 reviews.

This activity is ideal for families, friends, or couples looking for a short, engaging adventure. The semi-submarine features a comfortable, air-conditioned cabin with large viewing windows, making it suitable for all ages. The tour departs at 2:00 pm from Hippo SubLindos, with most bookings made about a week in advance, and includes a free mobile ticket for easy access.

Key Points

• Affordable family-friendly cruise that combines scenic views and underwater exploration
• Includes a swimming stop at Navarone Bay for snorkeling or relaxing in the water
• Comfortable semi-submarine with large windows and air conditioning for optimal viewing
• Short duration of 2 hours, perfect for fitting into a busy day
• Highly rated, with consistent praise for views, value, and staff friendliness
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

Departure and Meeting Point in Lindos

This tour starts at Hippo SubLindos, located at 851 06, Rhodes, Greece. The meeting point is straightforward, close to public transportation options. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple. Travelers should arrive prepared for the 2:00 pm departure and note that the tour is limited to a maximum of 35 participants to ensure a comfortable experience.

The Semi-Submarine: A Unique Underwater Viewing Experience

The Hippo semi-submarine is a distinctive feature of this tour. It’s a brand new vessel equipped with a spacious, air-conditioned cabin that boasts large viewing windows. This setup allows both above-water and underwater sightseeing, appealing to those who want close-up views of marine life without getting wet.

Passengers enjoy the panoramic views from above deck, but the real highlight is the undersea cabin where vibrant fish and marine formations are on full display. This setup offers an accessible way to observe underwater scenery in comfort, making it suitable for children and those with mobility considerations.

Exploring the Stops: Lindos and Navarone Bay

The tour includes a stop in Navarone Bay, famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. Here, passengers have 30 minutes to swim or snorkel in the turquoise waters, which many find to be a highlight of the experience. The bay’s waters are warm and inviting, and the clear visibility makes it ideal for underwater photography.

Before reaching Navarone Bay, the tour briefly stops at the Acropolis of Lindos for about 10 minutes. During this time, visitors can feed fish and take in views of the historic site. While this stop is short, it offers a chance for some quick photos and an appreciation of Lindos’ ancient architecture.

The Scenic Underwater Journey and Views

As the semi-submarine glides through beautiful fish-filled waters, it offers remarkable views of the seabed through the wide portholes. Passengers marvel at the huge rocks and vibrant marine life, providing a close-up look at the natural beauty beneath the surface.

Above water, the views of the Lindos coast and the Acropolis are equally impressive. The tour is lauded for its ability to combine marine exploration with breathtaking land vistas, creating a well-rounded sightseeing experience.

The Swimming and Snorkeling Experience at Navarone Bay

The 30-minute stop at Navarone Bay stands out as the tour’s main active element. Visitors can swim or snorkel in the warm, clear waters, which many reviews describe as “beautiful” and “gorgeous”. Snorkelers can explore the seabed and observe underwater life up close, while others relax and soak up the sun.

It’s a relaxed opportunity to enjoy the water, and many appreciate that the tour includes a drink on deck, adding to the leisurely vibe. The water activity is suitable for all skill levels, but a basic comfort in the water is recommended.

The Crew and Customer Service

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, noting that the skipper and crew are polite, cheerful, and attentive. They are eager to ensure everyone is comfortable and has a good time, whether by explaining the sights or assisting with swimming.

The customer service aspect is a standout, with reviews describing the trip as “amazing” and “well worth the money”. The staff’s attentiveness makes the experience smooth and enjoyable, especially during the feeding fish activity and swimming stop.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The tour is short and manageable, making it suitable for most travelers, including families with children. However, there is a notable physical consideration: getting to and from the boat can involve a mountainside walk in hot weather, which may be challenging. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the walk if traveling in the heat.

The activity is weather-dependent; if poor weather occurs, the tour may be canceled, but a full refund is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility adds reassurance for booking.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Options

While this tour offers a compact, engaging experience, it is quite distinct from longer trips or those without the underwater cabin feature. Its value for money, at just $33.72, makes it an affordable way to explore Lindos’ coast without a full-day commitment.

The combination of scenic coastal views, underwater panoramas, and swimming sets it apart from other excursions like water parks or full-day cruises. It’s most suitable for those seeking a relaxing, family-friendly activity with a touch of adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Hippo Classic Ride With Swim

This tour delivers on its promise of scenic views and underwater exploration within a short, enjoyable two-hour window. Its brand new semi-submarine offers a comfortable and accessible way to see and experience the underwater world of Rhodes’ Lindos coast.

The included swimming stop at Navarone Bay is a major plus, providing a chance to cool off and enjoy the warm Greek waters. The friendly staff and high ratings reflect a well-organized, customer-focused experience.

This activity is perfect for families, first-time visitors to Rhodes, or anyone wanting a light, scenic outing that combines sightseeing with water fun. The main limitations are the short duration and the walk to the meeting point in warm weather, but overall, it offers excellent value and a memorable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for children as it’s family-friendly.

How long is the swimming stop?
The stop at Navarone Bay lasts 30 minutes, providing ample time for swimming or snorkeling.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the 2-hour cruise, use of the semi-submarine’s underwater cabin, and one drink on deck.

Is the tour accessible for everyone?
The semi-submarine has a comfortable, air-conditioned cabin with large windows, making it accessible for many, but the walk to the meeting point may be challenging for some.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and perhaps water shoes for the walk to the boat.

Are there any safety restrictions?
Service animals are allowed, and safety instructions are provided by the crew.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather may lead to cancellation, with full refunds or rescheduling options available.