Small boat, big sea views. On Makarounas Fishing Trip from Rhodes Town, I love the traditional fishing boat feel and the way Angelo and the captain coach you through fishing for real. I also love finishing with freshly caught BBQ fish and Greek sides while you watch Rhodes slide by on the water.

One thing to consider: the sea is real, so sea sickness can hit on a 5-hour outing, and the swim or snorkel stop may feel chilly in cooler months. If you’re unlucky with the catch, you’ll still have a fun day, but don’t treat it like a guarantee of fish for everyone.

Key highlights worth planning around

• Small-group boat time on a 10.5-meter vessel that holds up to 12 people
• Hands-on fishing help from Angelo, including untangling the line when it goes wrong
• Fresh BBQ lunch at sea with Greek salad, garlic bread, and drinks
• Swim stop plus snorkeling in a secluded cove with equipment provided
• Chance to learn what you caught and get the crew’s practical advice on bait and fishing spots

Rhodes Town, but from the water: why this trip feels different

This is one of those Rhodes experiences where you swap walking heat for ocean air fast. You’re not stuck staring at a screen or following a rigid script. Instead, you’re out on the sea on a traditional fishing boat, with a crew that actually does the work.

What makes it special is the balance: you get the action of fishing, then you get the payoff of a cooked meal, and then you get the chill part—swimming and snorkeling—without it feeling like three separate tours. The boat itself is part of the charm: it’s a 10.5-meter traditional vessel and built for a small group, so you don’t feel lost in the crowd.

Getting on board at Mandraki Harbor (and settling in fast)

You meet at Mandraki Harbor, at church Evangelismos, kiosk 2, with Makarounas. That’s a good start because Mandraki is easy to orient around. From there, you’ll step into a setup that’s simple: seats for the group, space to reel and cast, and enough crew attention that a beginner isn’t left to figure it out alone.

One small detail that matters on a 5-hour boat day: there’s an on-board toilet. When you’re out on the water, little comforts reduce stress.

In many cases, the trip begins with a slow loop around the harbor area before the fishing starts—an easy way to get your bearings and enjoy Rhodes Town from the water. If you’re prone to motion, those first minutes are useful. You can watch how the boat rides before you commit to being hands-on with your rod.

Fishing coaching you can actually use (even if you’ve never fished)

Here’s where Angelo earns his keep. He’s the kind of guide who explains without making you feel silly, and he’ll help when lines tangle or technique goes sideways. One review even joked that he’s a professional tangled-line doctor—and honestly, that’s the right energy for a first-timer.

The crew helps you with the basics you’d otherwise guess at:

• putting the bait on the hook correctly
• holding the rod so you can feel what’s happening
• reeling in so you don’t lose your catch

You’re also not stuck doing only one method. You’ll have guidance for two fishing approaches, so if one feels awkward, you can switch and try again.

And if you do catch something, the learning keeps going. The crew takes time to show the fish and talk about them—what they are and whether they’re edible. That turns the day from purely entertainment into something more satisfying: you go home with new skills and a story you can tell.

The BBQ lunch at sea: fresh fish, Greek sides, and drinks

After the fishing, the crew fires up the on-board grill and lunch becomes the main event. This is not a sad snack. You’re looking at a fresh fish meal prepared while you’re still out on the water, which means you’re eating with salt air and sea views in the background.

The plate is built around what the crew serves right there: freshly cooked fish, plus Greek salad and garlic bread, with drinks included. If you’re not a fish person (or you have preferences), you should know that there are options. Several outings include a choice like chicken instead of fish, and in at least one case a veggie option was offered for requests and intolerances.

A practical tip: if you catch fish but you don’t feel up to eating everything right away, you may be able to take some food with you. One account describes food being wrapped for later when someone couldn’t eat the fish during the trip. So don’t assume you’re stuck with whatever’s served hot and immediate.

Swim stop and snorkeling in a secluded cove: the best part of “just relax”

After lunch and fishing, the focus shifts to the water fun. The second half of the trip is dedicated to a swim stop and snorkeling in a secluded cove. The crew provides snorkeling gear, and you’re given what you need to get in comfortably—masks and life jackets are part of the standard setup.

This is also the point where you’ll appreciate why the boat is small. Snorkeling time feels personal. You’re not herded like cargo. You get enough space to put on gear, find your rhythm, and explore without feeling rushed.

What you might see depends on the conditions and the spot, but there’s enough marine life that people are surprised by what they find close to the surface. Reviews describe colorful fish and sea creatures in the area, plus the kind of underwater detail that makes you want to pause and look longer.

One realistic consideration: the water can feel cold. On at least one trip, a guest skipped the swim because the sea temperature felt chilly. If that’s you, treat the snorkeling stop like a choose-your-own-adventure moment. You can dip in, swim a bit, then stay closer to the boat until you’re comfortable.

Also, if you get motion sickness, the swim portion can help you feel better. One review mentioned that trying a swim helped someone re-balance after feeling sea sick. If you’re prone to it, bring sea sickness tablets just in case. It’s a small thing that can make the day enjoyable instead of miserable.

Timing and pace: a 5-hour day that stays fun

Five hours sounds short because it is. That’s a plus. You’re not spending your whole day commuting between sights or waiting around in heat.

The pace usually follows a clear rhythm:

1) get on board and get briefed

2) fish at a couple of spots with coaching

3) break and eat while the crew cooks

4) snorkel and swim in a cove

Because it’s a 5-hour experience, it’s a smart fit for travelers who want something active but not exhausting. You’ll feel like you did a “real activity,” then you’ll still have energy for dinner back in Rhodes Town.

Price and value: what $76 buys you (and what it doesn’t)

At about $76 per person for 5 hours, the value comes from how many things are bundled together. You’re paying for a traditional boat outing plus:

• fishing gear
• assistance and instruction from the crew
• an all-inclusive food setup (the fish meal, Greek sides, and drinks)
• snorkeling equipment for the swim/snorkel segment

Many sea excursions charge separately for food, guide time, and activities. Here, it’s packed into one price, and the small-group size helps you actually benefit from the crew attention.

Is it perfect value for everyone? Not necessarily. If your top priority is guaranteed snorkeling time or a long, leisurely beach-style stop, you might find the pace a little active. But if you want a balanced day with fishing coaching + cooked lunch + underwater time, it’s hard to argue with what you get for the money.

One extra plus: the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and lets you reserve now and pay later. That means you can keep your plans flexible if weather looks iffy.

Who should book this (and who might want a different day)

This is a great match if you:

• want something hands-on and outdoorsy without needing prior skills
• enjoy boats and clear water
• like your activities wrapped with a proper meal
• are traveling with kids or a mixed group where someone wants action and someone wants relaxation

It also works well for food-focused travelers. The lunch isn’t an afterthought. It’s the reward.

If you should consider alternatives:

• If you strongly dislike being on open water, the swim and boat movement might not be a good match.
• If you need a quiet, zero-effort day, you may prefer a slower sightseeing cruise.

Little touches that make the day feel personal

It’s not just the fishing. The crew runs the trip with a playful, supportive tone. Angelo keeps things light, with stories and encouragement that keep a first-time angler from feeling awkward.

There are also small souvenir moments. One review describes a cute idea where fish pictures were used to make a magnet, along with a shell souvenir. Even if you don’t get that exact item on your day, it shows the crew treats the trip like more than a transaction.

Should you book Makarounas Fishing Trip from Rhodes Town?

If you want a morning or midday that feels genuinely local—boats, fishing technique, fresh BBQ, then snorkeling in a sheltered cove—this is an easy yes. The price stacks up because the day includes instruction, food, and water activities instead of charging you for each one separately.

I’d book it if you’re the kind of traveler who likes doing something with your hands and then enjoying the results. Bring motion sickness protection if you need it, wear sunscreen, and pack a towel. Then get ready for a short, fun day on the Mediterranean that’s more than a photo stop.

FAQ

Where does the fishing trip meet?

You meet at Mandraki harbor, at church Evangelismos, kiosk 2 Makarounas.

How long is the Rhodes Town fishing boat trip?

The tour lasts 5 hours.

What does the price include?

The tour includes fresh fish meal and all-inclusive food and drinks, plus fishing gear.

Do I get help if I’ve never fished before?

Yes. The crew provides assistance and guidance for both kids and adults, including help with bait, holding the rod, and reeling.

Is snorkeling included, and what equipment do I get?

Yes. The second half includes a snorkeling stop in a secluded cove, and the crew provides the snorkeling equipment.

Do we stop for swimming?

Yes. There is a swim stop as part of the second half of the trip.

What languages are spoken during the trip?

The driver speaks Greek and English.

Is there an option other than fish for lunch?

The BBQ can include choices such as chicken, and there may be a veggie option based on requests.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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