Rhodes: Boat trip to Symi island with swimming at St. George

Exploring the Rhodes to Symi Boat Trip: A Practical and Picturesque Adventure

Taking a boat trip from Rhodes to Symi is a popular way to experience two beautiful Greek islands in one day. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an often-recommended excursion that balances scenic beauty, authentic local flavor, and good value. If you’re craving a mix of stunning landscapes, cultural exploration, and a refreshing swim, this cruise might just be your ideal day out.

What makes this trip stand out? First, you’ll get to visit two islands in one go, giving you a taste of Symi’s colorful charm and Rhodes’s lively harbor. Second, the swimming stop at St. George’s Bay is consistently praised for its emerald waters and impressive scenery. Third, the opportunity to sample local delicacies like Simiako Garidaki—baby shrimps cooked in olive oil—adds a tasty local twist.

However, one consideration to keep in mind is the duration of the boat journey, which can be quite long—around two hours each way. For travelers sensitive to lengthy boat rides, this might feel a bit tiring, especially if gliding over choppy waters is not your favorite thing. Still, many find the scenic views and the overall experience well worth the time.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a full-day adventure, appreciate picturesque scenery, and want to explore at a relaxed pace. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors eager to see two islands, or anyone looking to combine swimming, sightseeing, and local cuisine into one memorable day.

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Good To Know

• Visit two islands in one day: Rhodes and Symi, each offering unique charm.
• Enjoy a swimming stop at St. George’s Bay: Known for its clear, inviting waters.
• Great photo opportunities: The colorful buildings and scenic harbor of Symi are perfect for social media.
• Taste authentic Greek flavors: Including Simiako Garidaki, a local delicacy.
• Flexible options: With or without hotel transfer, plus free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for those who love scenic boat journeys combined with cultural exploration.

The Complete Experience: What to Expect

This cruise offers a full-day itinerary that balances travel, leisure, and sightseeing. Starting with a pickup or a meet-up at Gallias street at Mandraki Harbor, you’ll prepare for an 8.5-hour adventure filled with picturesque moments.

The Journey to Symi

The day begins with a 30-minute bus or coach ride, depending on your pickup location, taking you from your hotel or meeting point to the harbor. From there, you’ll board a spacious boat—reviewers mention that the vessel is quite large with ample seating upstairs and downstairs. The boat is described as “very spacious,” with options to sit in the shade or enjoy the open air on the deck, perfect for soaking in the views.

The ride to Symi typically takes around two hours, during which you’ll pass by scenic coastlines and crystal-clear waters. Reviewers note that transport is “quick and on-time,” setting a good tone for the day.

Swimming at St. George’s Bay

The first official stop is the famed St. George’s Bay. The reviewers universally praise this swimming spot for its emerald waters and stunning natural setting. One reviewer mentions that “the water was so clear you can see the bottom even though it was deep,” making it ideal for snorkeling and relaxing in the sun. The stop lasts around 45 minutes, enough time to jump into the water, explore the underwater scenery, or simply unwind on the boat.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Symi

After the swim, the boat navigates into Symi’s renowned natural harbor, where the sight of its colorful buildings and imposing churches immediately captures visitors’ attention. Symi is described as one of the most picturesque islands of the Dodecanese, with its small but lively Gialos harbor lined with cafes, seafood restaurants, and markets. This area is perfect for taking photos—reviewers recommend capturing the vibrant facades and the bustling harbor scene.

You’ll have approximately three hours of free time to explore Symi independently. Many guests choose to wander the narrow streets, shop for handcrafted jewelry or souvenirs, or indulge in local delicacies. Some reviewers highlight a discount at one restaurant, where they enjoyed the local shrimp, Simiako Garidaki. Others mention taking in scenic views from above the harbor, making the most of the beautiful surroundings.

What’s Included and What You Need to Know

The tour fee covers round-trip boat tickets and the swimming stop. Food and drinks are not included, but there’s usually a shop onboard for snacks and drinks if needed, and plenty of options in Symi itself. Travelers should bring essentials like sun protection, swimwear, and a camera.

Reviews highlight that staff and guides are friendly and helpful, with some describing the service as “very helpful before and after booking.” The overall impression is that the crew keeps the mood lively and relaxed, making the long journey comfortable.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of It

• Arrive early at the meeting point—check-in starts at 09:15 am—to ensure smooth boarding.
• Bring warmer clothes, especially if you’re visiting in early May or late September, as some mention it being chilly due to wind.
• Don’t forget your sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—protection is key on open waters.
• If you want to maximize your time in Symi, consider an early breakfast or packing a light lunch to enjoy during your free hours.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the smooth organization. One reviewer pointed out that the boat was “very old but spacious,” and despite the length of the journey, the views and swimming made up for it. Others loved that the transfers to and from the accommodation were quick, making the overall experience hassle-free.

The swimming stop was consistently praised; one guest said, “the water was so clear you could see the bottom even though it was deep.” They also noted the wild setting of St. George’s Bay made for a memorable relaxing swim.

The time spent on Symi was described by many as “just right,” with three hours enough to explore, shop, and enjoy a meal. Guests enjoyed sampling local seafood and admired the colorful architecture, which makes Symi a perfect spot for photos.

Analyzing the Value and Overall Impression

For roughly the cost, this tour offers great value—covering transportation, a swimming stop, and free time in Symi. The opportunity to see two islands, enjoy a swim, and taste local cuisine makes it a well-rounded experience. While the boat ride can be lengthy, the scenery, relaxed pace, and friendly crew tend to make it worthwhile.

The tour is particularly appealing to first-time visitors, solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a straightforward day trip. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a luxury experience or those who dislike long boat rides.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re after a day packed with scenic landscapes, authentic Greek charm, and a splash of adventure—this cruise fits the bill. It’s perfect for those who want to combine a quick island hop, swimming, and cultural exploration without the fuss of planning independent ferries or transportation. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find something to enjoy here.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Rhodes to Symi offers a blend of beautiful scenery, cultural charm, and recreational fun. The swimming stop at St. George’s Bay is one of the highlights, providing a refreshing break in an otherwise busy day of sightseeing. Symi itself is a feast for the eyes, with its vibrant colors and relaxed atmosphere.

While the length of the journey might be a consideration for some, the reviews suggest that the memorable views, friendly staff, and delicious local flavors make it a worthwhile adventure. It’s a perfect way to tick two Greek islands off your list in one day, especially if you love a mix of leisure and exploration.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Not automatically, but you can book an option with hotel transfer or contact the provider to arrange pickup. If not included, you’ll need to meet at the designated location at Gallias street.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes are recommended for comfort and protection during the day.

How long is the boat journey?
The boat ride takes about two hours each way, so plan for a total of around four hours on the water, including scenic passing views.

Can I buy food and drinks on board?
Yes, there is a shop onboard selling snacks and drinks, but you may prefer to bring your own, especially if you want to save time or have specific preferences.

How much free time do I get in Symi?
Approximately three hours, which is enough for sightseeing, shopping, eating, or just relaxing in the harbor.

What is the swimming stop like?
The stop at St. George’s Bay is highly praised for its stunning beauty and clear waters. You’ll have about 45 minutes for swimming or snorkeling in one of the most beautiful bays around.

Is this trip suitable for children?
Most reviews don’t specify age restrictions, but given the long boat ride and swimming stops, it’s best suited for older children and teens comfortable with boat travel and water activities.

Final Words

This boat trip to Symi from Rhodes strikes a lovely balance between scenic beauty, culture, and leisure. It’s a fantastic way to see a classic Greek island, enjoy a peaceful swim, and indulge in local flavors—all in one relaxed day. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to the Dodecanese, this cruise offers a dependable, enjoyable experience that captures the essence of Greek island hopping.

You can check if your dates are available here: