Rhodes Dolphin Watching and Snorkelling Cruise with Marine Biologist

Kamiros Skala harbour

Kamiros Skala is a small fishing harbour on the west coast of Rhodes, about 50 kilometres south-west of Rhodes Town. It is the departure point for the local ferry to the island of Halki, and a handful of fish tavernas line its quay. The setting is green and quiet, with pine-covered hills behind and a view across the water to the small islets offshore.

With the default option, our transfer collects you from your hotel in Ialysos, Ixia, Faliraki, Rhodes Town, Afantou or Kolymbia up to two hours before the 10:00 departure. If you are staying in Lindos, Pefkos or Kiotari, pickup is possible only by prior arrangement, so contact us before booking. Another option lets you drive yourself to Kamiros Skala and meet the boat at the harbour.

Makri islet and the dolphins

Makri is a small rocky islet a short distance off the west coast, and the waters around it are one of the best areas in Rhodes to look for wild bottlenose dolphins. The boat cruises slowly around the islet while everyone scans the surface for fins and the guide reads the signs, such as diving birds or a splash on the horizon. Sightings are frequent, with a high chance on most days, but dolphins are wild animals and cannot be guaranteed.

The boat keeps a respectful distance and never chases the animals, following responsible watching practice. On the way back to Kamiros Skala the boat passes Makri again for a second chance. Is dolphin watching in Rhodes worth it? For families and nature lovers who want something calmer and more meaningful than a party boat, it is one of the best mornings on the island.

Learning with a marine biologist

What makes this cruise different is the guide. Your marine biologist explains how bottlenose dolphins live, hunt and communicate, why they come close to this stretch of coast and how to tell individuals apart. You also learn how the fish farms in the area work, how they attract wild fish and dolphins, and what their effect is on the local ecosystem.

The talk is relaxed and adapted to the group, so children can ask questions while adults go deeper into the science. Commentary is in English and Greek. Many guests say they leave with a new way of looking at the Aegean, understanding the sea life they see rather than only taking photos.

Snorkelling at Stroggyli islet

Stroggyli is a small round islet near Makri inside a protected area, known for its clear water and rich marine life. The boat anchors in a sheltered spot and the guides lead a snorkelling session in the water, so no experience is needed. Masks, snorkels and fins are provided, and the guides point out sea urchins, starfish, wrasse, bream and the meadows of seagrass that shelter young fish.

During the swim the crew takes underwater photos that you receive after the trip. Guests who prefer not to swim can stay on board and watch from above. The best time to snorkel here is from June to September, when the water is warmest; in late spring and October the sea is cooler but often clearer.

The west coast of Rhodes

The drive to Kamiros Skala crosses the quieter side of Rhodes, far from the big resorts. Just north of the harbour lie the ruins of ancient Kamiros, an ancient city with streets, houses and a temple terrace on a hillside above the sea. To the south, the medieval castle of Kritinia stands on a hill with sweeping views over the coast and the islets.

The west coast faces the open sea and the summer north-west wind, so it can be breezier than the east, especially in the afternoon in July and August. That is one reason the cruise sails in the morning, when the water is usually calmer. The captain makes the final decision on the route each day according to the conditions.