Rhodes:Day Cruise to Symi & Panormitis Monastery

Traveling in Greece often means chasing after mythic ruins, stunning coastlines, and charming islands. This Rhodes day cruise to Symi and Panormitis Monastery offers a taste of all three, wrapped into an 8-hour trip that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural discovery. While it’s not the most luxurious or lengthy excursion, it’s a practical way to see two unique spots without the hassle of planning multiple transfers.

From the moment you step aboard the comfortable catamaran, you’ll appreciate the spacious outdoor decks perfect for soaking up the Aegean sun and panoramic sea views. The route is straightforward, with three hours on Symi and a visit to the famous Panormitis Monastery—a highlight for those interested in Greek spirituality and architecture.

A few reviews mention the boat’s crowding and the somewhat rushed nature of the visit, but overall, the experience offers great value for travelers looking for a stress-free day trip. This tour suits those who enjoy scenic cruising, want a taste of Greek island life, and are happy with a moderately paced itinerary. If you’re after a more in-depth exploration, it might feel a bit quick, but for many, it hits the right balance.

Good To Know

• Scenic sailing on a comfortable catamaran with outdoor and indoor spaces
• Free time on Symi to shop, dine, and explore at your own pace
• Visit to Panormitis Monastery, a celebrated pilgrimage spot with an ornate church
• Daily departures make planning easy, with no need to coordinate logistics
• Cost-effective at around $47 per person, offering a good balance of value and experience
• Crowded boat and limited time at each stop may be considerations for travelers seeking more depth

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Setting sail from Rhodes

Your adventure begins at Rhodes Tourist Port, where you’ll look for the boat labeled SYMI II and exchange your voucher for a boarding pass at the Seadreams kiosk. The departure is typically smooth, with most reviews noting the trip went on schedule and was well-organized. The catamaran itself is designed with sightseeing in mind, featuring abundant outdoor space, which means you can spread out or gather with fellow travelers to chat and enjoy the breathtaking views.

On the cruise, you’ll appreciate the scenic vistas of Rhodes’ medieval walls, the fortress of Saint Nicholas, and the picturesque Old Town skyline. This initial stretch offers a fantastic chance to snap photos and enjoy the tranquil sea while the crew manages the navigation.

Symi: The postcard-perfect island

Arriving at Symi’s famous harbor is like stepping into a postcard. The bay is lined with colorful neoclassical mansions, many painted in vibrant shades, rising above the water. This is where the three hours of free time truly shine.

Based on guest reviews, most people love wandering the narrow streets, browsing local shops, or grabbing a fresh seafood lunch at a waterside taverna. Some reviewers pointed out that most of the time is spent on the boat, with about 2 hours en route to Symi, and an hour between the port and the monastery. One traveler mentioned, “It took 2 hours to Symi and then 1 hour between Symi port and the Monastery,” so be prepared for a fairly quick visit if you want to make the most of your free time.

Panormitis Monastery: A spiritual highlight

Next, the boat heads toward the famous Panormitis Monastery in a peaceful bay. The ornate 18th-century church and the revered icon of Archangel Michael are worth seeing, especially if you’re interested in religious sites or Greek craftsmanship. Most reviewers agree that the visit lasts about an hour, which is enough to admire the architecture and take photos.

Some comments suggest that more time at the monastery would be preferable, as one traveler recommended shortening Symi’s exploration to spend longer there. Nevertheless, the visit provides a meaningful glimpse into Greece’s spiritual life and architecture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Returning to Rhodes

The return trip is around 110 minutes, giving you another opportunity to enjoy the sea views or relax in the air-conditioned lounge if you prefer a break from the sun. The trip concludes at Rhodes Tourist Port, typically on time, although one review noted that the bus transfer back to the hotel was delayed, leading to extra costs and inconvenience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes round-trip boat transportation, your free time on Symi, and a visit to Panormitis Monastery. These elements are the core of the experience and offer good value considering the price of $47 per person.

However, personal expenses like food, drinks (beyond what’s available onboard), and entrance fees to additional attractions are not included. Travelers should budget for meals or souvenirs and be aware that the monastery’s entrance fee isn’t covered by the tour.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Bring your passport or ID for check-in and any potential verification.
• Wear comfortable shoes—the streets of Symi are narrow and often cobbled.
• Sun protection is essential: pack sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen.
• Capture the moment with your camera—the views are stunning.
• Keep an eye on the schedule, especially at Symi, to maximize your free time.
• If you’re sensitive to crowds, arrive early or consider how busy the boat might be.

Authentic Insights from Guest Reviews

Guest feedback offers some practical pointers. One reviewer noted that most of the time on the boat is spent traveling rather than exploring, which could be a consideration if you prefer longer land visits. Another mentioned that the crew was very friendly and helpful, making the trip more enjoyable despite some crowding.

A common theme was the delicious local food and tapas on board, which many appreciated, adding a tasty element to the journey. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized structure also received praise, making the experience accessible even for first-time visitors.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a straightforward, scenic day trip without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings. It’s perfect for those who enjoy cruising with plenty of outdoor space and are happy with a moderate pace—not a deep-dive into each destination, but enough to get a feel of Symi and the monastery.

If you prefer luxury experiences or more in-depth exploration, this might not satisfy your craving for more time or exclusivity. Nonetheless, for many, the blend of scenery, culture, and relaxed cruising hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

This Rhodes day cruise to Symi and Panormitis Monastery offers a cost-effective way to see two iconic spots with minimal planning. The comfortable catamaran, along with free time on Symi and a visit to the famous monastery, creates a well-rounded day that balances sightseeing and relaxation.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking a luxury experience or lengthy exploration, it is ideal for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Greek island life with beautiful views and cultural highlights. The friendly crew and smooth organization make it a reliable choice, though be prepared for some crowds and limited time at each stop.

Overall, if you’re after a practical, scenic, and affordable day out from Rhodes, this cruise will deliver just that, with enough charm and comfort to leave you satisfied.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip from Rhodes to Symi?
The journey to Symi takes approximately 2 hours, providing plenty of opportunity to enjoy the sea views and relax on the boat.

How much free time do I get on Symi?
You’ll have around three hours to explore the island, shop, dine, or simply take photos of the colorful harbor.

Is the visit to Panormitis Monastery long enough?
Most travelers find the one-hour visit sufficient to see the church and icon, but some wish for more time to explore in depth.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and a camera. Sunscreen is recommended, especially during summer months.

Is the boat crowded?
Guest reviews mention that the boat can be fairly crowded, so arriving early might help secure a more comfortable spot on the deck.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can purchase drinks and snacks onboard, and many opt to bring their own water or small refreshments.

In the end, this tour provides a practical, scenic, and culturally enriching day for those eager to experience the charm of Symi and the serenity of Panormitis, all without breaking the bank.

You can check if your dates are available here: