Rhodes: High-Speed Boat to Symi Island & Saint George’s Bay

Planning a day around Rhodes that combines quick travel, stunning scenery, and authentic island charm? This high-speed boat tour to Symi offers all that and more. We’ve looked into what makes this trip a popular choice for travelers, from its well-organized itinerary to the heartfelt reviews from past adventurers.

What we appreciate most? The swift boat ride for extra time to explore, the crystal-clear swim stop at Saint George’s Bay, and the chance to wander Symi’s colorful, postcard-perfect streets. However, some may find the 3-hour stop in Symi a little tight if they want to soak up every corner of the village, and the limited swim time can be a bit short for those eager to lounge longer in the water.

This tour fits travelers who love scenic speedboat rides, spontaneous swims, and exploring charming Greek towns without breaking the bank. It’s particularly suitable for those seeking a full-day adventure that balances travel, relaxation, and sightseeing.

Good To Know

• Fast and efficient: The high-speed boat saves time, giving you more hours to enjoy Symi.
• Authentic exploration: Three hours in Symi means enough time to wander, shop, and enjoy local food.
• Unforgettable swim stop: Saint George’s Bay offers stunning, calm waters perfect for a quick dip.
• Value for money: At $70, it includes transportation, free time, and a swim stop.
• Professional crew: Known for friendly staff, clear communication, and helpful service.
• Flexible options: Different departure times mean choosing whether you want a swim or a quick photo stop.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Speed and Convenience

Starting from Mandraki Harbor, the high-speed boat makes the trip fast—roughly an hour to reach Symi. Past travelers mention how the vessel’s speed not only shortens the travel time but also adds a fun, adrenaline-filled edge to the day. The boat’s modern design and comfortable seating make the ride enjoyable, and many reviews highlight the onboard atmosphere, with some crew members adding lively commentary and music, which helps set a relaxed tone.

Symi: The Jewel of the Dodecanese

When we arrive in Symi, what strikes us immediately are the neoclassical pastel-colored buildings, the vibrant fishing harbor, and the charming streets that seem to spill down the hillside. Reviews frequently praise how breathtaking the town looks—almost like a movie set—making it an ideal spot for photos.

With around 3 hours on the island, you’ll have ample time to:

• Wander the narrow lanes and stumble upon tiny shops and cafes
• Sample local dishes, especially the famous Symi mini shrimps, which reviewers love
• Climb to viewpoints or visit the iconic churches with colorful domes

Multiple reviewers remark that this amount of time is just right for a relaxed exploration without feeling rushed. For instance, one traveler noted, “3 hours in Symi was more than enough to explore, shop, and even grab a quick lunch.”

The Swim at Saint George’s Bay

Midway through the day, the boat departs for Saint George’s Bay, a highlight according to many reviews. The water here is frequently described as “crystal clear,” “unbelievably blue,” and “the perfect temperature for a swim.” The bay boasts calm waters ideal for a quick dip and relaxing on floating pool noodles, as some reviewers mention.

Travelers who went swimming appreciated the swim stop of about 30 minutes—a balance between enough time to cool off and not overstaying. One reviewer found it “phenomenal,” adding that the setting was “gorgeous,” perfect for a refreshing break after a hot morning.

A noteworthy detail is that for the 15:15 departure, there’s no swim stop, only a quick photo break. If swimming is a priority, choosing an earlier departure is advised, and arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot on the boat, especially since some reviews mention seating is limited, and the upstairs area can fill quickly.

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The Return: Scenic Coastal Views & Sunset

The cruise back to Rhodes is an opportunity to enjoy the coastline and perhaps snap a few more photos. Depending on the departure time, you might catch a gorgeous sunset—one reviewer raved that the sunset views on the way back are “absolutely stunning.” This makes the late afternoon trip a particularly memorable choice for those wanting a quieter, less crowded experience.

What’s Included & What’s Not

At $70, the tour provides transportation aboard a high-speed vessel, free time in Symi, and the swimming stop in Saint George’s Bay. This represents solid value considering you get a quick, comfortable ride, plus enough time to explore the island and cool off in crystal waters.

However, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or buy local food on Symi. Hotel transfers are also not part of the package, though some reviews mention that pickup options are available, which simplifies planning.

Additional Practical Details

• Duration: The trip lasts between 6 to 9 hours, depending on the departure time and the specific itinerary.
• Departure times: The typical options include 9:00, 11:00, and 15:15. The earlier departures include the swim stop; the later one skips it but offers a less busy, cooler atmosphere and a chance to enjoy the sunset.
• Parking: Arriving by car? Find parking early at Mandraki Harbor, as spaces fill up quickly.
• Language support: Guides speak English, German, Greek, French, and Italian, making the experience accessible to international travelers.

Authentic Experiences & Tips

Many past travelers note that the crew is friendly, knowledgeable, and often lively, which enhances the trip. Some mention the crew’s helpfulness in handing out fleece jackets for the return journey, especially after swimming or if the wind picks up. The boat’s comfort level is generally praised, but arriving early ensures you get the best seat—preferably upstairs for the views, but be prepared to get wet if you’re on the top deck during the ride.

Food on Symi is another highlight—reviewers rave about fresh seafood, fried shrimps, and traditional tavernas. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the chance to try local specialties at your own expense during your free time.

What Travelers Say

• “The swim stop at Saint Georges Bay was stunning, with crystal clear water.”
• “Symi’s colorful town and friendly shops made the three hours fly by.”
• “The crew was friendly and added fun to the journey with music and comments.”
• “Arrive early for the best seats and to avoid missing out on the upstairs area.”

The Sum Up

This high-speed boat trip to Symi and Saint George’s Bay offers a fantastic balance of quick travel, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek island charm. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time, enjoy a refreshing swim, and explore a picturesque town without paying a premium. The well-organized nature, friendly crew, and stunning scenery make it a solid choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

While the swim stop duration could be longer for the truly sun-loving, the overall value and memorable moments make this tour stand out. Whether you’re after scenic photos, a quick island escape, or a relaxing dip in crystal waters, this trip hits the mark.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the trip includes a high-speed boat cruise from Mandraki Harbor to Symi and back.

How long is the free time in Symi?
You get approximately 3 hours to explore the island, enough for a quick stroll, shopping, or lunch.

Can I swim in Saint George’s Bay?
Absolutely. The swim stop lasts around 30 minutes and is often praised for its stunning clarity and calm waters.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and possibly a hat or sunscreen. Arriving early helps secure a good seat, especially upstairs.

Are there different departure times?
Yes, typical options include 9:00, 11:00, and 15:15. The earlier trips include the swim stop; the later one offers a sunset experience.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are at your own expense. Symi has plenty of tavernas and eateries to choose from.

In all, this tour offers a memorable day out on the water, combining scenic travel, authentic island exploration, and a refreshing swim—perfect for making the most of your time in Rhodes.

You can check if your dates are available here: