Rhodes: Sunset Cruise to Symi Island with 3 Hours Free Time

Rhodes: Sunset Cruise to Symi Island with 3 Hours Free Time — A Detailed Review

If you’re visiting Rhodes and craving a taste of the Dodecanese’s stunning islands, a sunset cruise to Symi might just be the highlight of your trip. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the way it combines scenic views, authentic exploration, and a relaxed late-afternoon schedule makes it incredibly appealing.

What I love about this experience is how it offers less crowded, more peaceful sightseeing in the late afternoon, giving you a different vibe than the busier morning boat trips. The three hours free time on Symi means you won’t feel rushed, and the chance to enjoy a beautiful sunset on the return journey adds a magical touch. The inclusion of local tastes like Symi mini shrimps and Ouzo adds a flavorful local experience. However, a possible consideration is that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for meals or snacks while on the island.

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day with stunning views, authentic town exploration, and a touch of Greek sunset magic. It’s perfect if you prefer a more intimate, less crowded experience and enjoy watching the day wind down over the sea.

Good To Know

• Late afternoon departure offers a quieter, cooler experience with fewer crowds
• Three hours of free time gives ample opportunity to explore Symi at your own pace
• Sunset sailing back creates a memorable, picture-perfect end to the day
• Authentic tastes like Symi mini shrimps and local Ouzo add flavor to your visit
• Fast boat transfer maximizes your time on the island while minimizing travel fatigue
• Excellent reviews highlight value, scenic beauty, and friendly service

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sunset Cruise to Symi Island

The Journey Begins: High-Speed Boat from Rhodes

The experience starts at Mandraki Harbor, where you’ll meet your vessel, the Aphrodite Princess. The tour is operated by Rhodes Sea Lines, known for their reliable service and friendly staff. You’ll want to arrive a bit early to secure the best seats — many reviewers recommend sitting on the lower tier’s back row to enjoy unobstructed sunset views and less wind.

The boat ride itself is quite swift, taking you through the blue waters of the Dodecanese at a good clip. The high-speed nature of the boat means you spend less time en route and more time exploring Symi, which many travelers appreciate. Expect splashes of seawater, which reviewers advise wearing waterproof clothing or swimwear — a detail the staff are prepared for, often providing raincoats and even bomber jackets for wind protection.

Experiencing Symi’s Charm: 3 Hours on the Island

Disembarking at Symi feels like stepping into a postcard. The town’s colorful, pastel neoclassical buildings, fishing harbor, and vibrant church domes create a picture-perfect scene. Reviewers describe Symi as quaint and very beautiful, offering a peaceful contrast to busier tourist spots nearby.

During your three hours, you can wander the narrow streets, browse local shops, or stop for a leisurely meal at one of the many traditional tavernas. You’ll be free to explore at your own pace, which is a major plus. Many mention that the timing is more than enough — “about 2 hours 45 minutes in Symi,” as one reviewer noted, is plenty to see the highlights and enjoy a snack or cold drink.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the steep stairs and hilly terrain might pose a challenge, but the views from higher vantage points are worth it. Some travelers mention that the later afternoon timing keeps the town less crowded and much more relaxed, making it an ideal time to visit.

Authentic Flavors and Local Delights

One of the surprises on this trip is the opportunity to try local specialties, particularly Symi mini shrimps and Ouzo. While food isn’t included in the tour price, many reviewers say the island’s small tavernas offer delicious, reasonably priced Greek fare. It’s a perfect chance to indulge in authentic flavors without the daytime rush.

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The Return Journey: Sunset and Scenic Views

As the boat departs Symi, the real magic begins. The return trip is often highlighted for its breathtaking sunset views, with many guests noting how the captain will stop to allow guests to take photos. The landscape lighting and changing colors of the sky make this a truly memorable moment.

Travelers have described the experience as “perfect,” especially with the peaceful, less crowded atmosphere of the late afternoon. One reviewer even said, “The sunset on the way back was perfect,” emphasizing how well this tour balances sightseeing and relaxation.

Practical Tips from Reviewers

• Seating choice matters. Many recommend sitting on the ground tier at the back for the sunset views and less wind.
• Bring waterproof clothing or swimwear to handle seawater splashes.
• Allocate some extra budget for meals since food and drinks aren’t included.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to get the best seats and settle in comfortably.
• Dress comfortably for walking and exploring, especially if you plan to climb some stairs.

The Value of the Experience

When you weigh the tour’s cost — approximately 5 hours of boat travel, 3 hours on Symi, and the sunset cruise — it offers excellent value. The quick transfer ensures you maximize your time on the island, and the scenic journey with views of the coastline and sunset is a major highlight.

While food isn’t included, the flexible free time allows you to try local tavernas, often at reasonable prices. The friendly staff and well-organized schedule mean you can relax and enjoy the day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Reviewers consistently emphasize the value for money, citing the combination of stunning scenery, peaceful exploration, and enjoyable sunset as the best parts of the trip.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day trip without missing out on the beauty of Symi. It’s ideal for those who prefer late-afternoon sightseeing, enjoy beautiful sunsets, or want to avoid the busier morning trips. It’s also good for visitors wanting to experience local flavors and authentic Greek town life at a comfortable pace.

If you’re after a more active or guided experience with included meals, this may not be the best fit. But if you enjoy independent exploration in a stunning setting, this cruise offers a perfect slice of Greek island life with a memorable sunset finale.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including the boat ride, 3 hours on Symi, and the return cruise with sunset.

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to dine at a local taverna in Symi.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to check with the provider beforehand for specific needs.

What should I wear for the trip?
Comfortable clothing is recommended, and waterproof gear or swimwear is advised due to seawater splashes. Bring sun protection and a hat if it’s sunny.

Can I get a full refund if I cancel?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes late-afternoon departures better?
They tend to be less crowded and cooler, plus you get to enjoy the sunset on the return journey, adding a special touch.

Is the trip good for families?
Yes, the relaxed pace and scenic views make it suitable for families, especially those wanting a peaceful day out.

Final Thoughts

This sunset cruise to Symi from Rhodes offers a beautifully balanced mix of scenic sailing, authentic island exploration, and a spectacular sunset finale. The speedy transfer maximizes your time on the island, and the free 3-hour window allows for relaxed sightseeing without feeling hurried. The chance to try local treats and enjoy peaceful streets in the late afternoon makes this tour stand out from typical day trips.

Perfect for travelers who want to blend scenic beauty with authentic local charm, this trip delivers excellent value for its price. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate quieter, less crowded experiences and love ending their days with a breathtaking sunset over the sea.

If you’re after a memorable, laid-back adventure with a slice of Greek island magic, this cruise is well worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: