Luxury Boat Trip to Symi Island with Swimming at St. George

If you’re dreaming of a day soaking up Greek island beauty without the hassle of planning logistics, this luxury boat trip to Symi might just be your perfect escape. From what we’ve seen, it offers a relaxed, scenic way to experience one of the Dodecanese’s most stunning islands, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and soaking in the views.

What really stands out are the crystal-clear waters at St. George’s Bay—a highlight for anyone who loves a good swim—and the chance to explore Symi’s charming, old-world streets at your own pace. On the flip side, the timing of the return trip has been noted as a bit chaotic by some, so being comfortable with a flexible schedule might be worth considering.

This tour seems well-suited for travelers craving a laid-back, scenic day with a touch of luxury—whether you’re into photography, local cuisine, or just relaxing by the water. It’s a solid choice if you want a balance of comfort, natural beauty, and a taste of authentic Greek island life.

Key Points

• Comfortable, luxury boat experience with optional shade or sun seating
• Ideal for swimming at the beautiful St. George’s Bay
• Approximately 3 hours to explore Symi at your leisure
• Includes local dishes, like Simiako Garidaki baby shrimps cooked in olive oil
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation
• Good value for the price, especially considering the included transfers and time on the island

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Luxury Boat Trip to Symi

If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the lookout for a way to make island visits feel relaxed and special. This luxury boat tour to Symi ticks those boxes with its combination of scenic sailing, comfortable seating, and a taste of local flavor. It’s not just a quick trip; it’s an experience that balances sightseeing, leisure, and cultural bites.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

You’ll start your day by meeting at Gallias Street next to the Benetton shop at Mandraki Harbor, with check-in opening around 9:15-9:40 am. If you’ve booked the transfer option, your hotel pickup is included, which can take a lot of the stress out of getting there. Otherwise, it’s straightforward to find the departure point, right in Rhodes’ main harbor area. Keep in mind, if you’re going solo, arriving early to secure your spot and get your boarding pass is recommended.

Once aboard, the boat sets sail for Symi, about an hour and a half to two hours away. The first major stop is St. George’s Bay, a truly scenic spot accessible only by boat. Here, you’re dropped into a natural paradise with turquoise waters perfect for swimming. The boat anchors for about 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to float around, take photos, or just lounge on the deck.

After this refreshing pause, the boat resumes its voyage around mid-morning, heading toward the main harbor of Symi. The sight of the colorful, clock-towered town coming into view is nothing short of stunning. You’ll have around three hours to explore at your own pace—wander the narrow streets, snap photos of the pastel-colored houses, or enjoy a local meal. The trip also includes a recommended dish, Symi shrimp, which is said to be a local specialty.

The Experience of Being on a Luxury Boat

Traveling on a luxury vessel is a definite highlight. The boat offers comfortable seating options, with the choice of sun or shade, so you can tailor your comfort level. You might find yourself sipping coffee from the onboard bar or simply basking in the gentle sea breeze while taking in the views. The overall ambiance is relaxed, making it easier to unwind than on a typical tour bus.

The Return Journey and Timing Nuances

Departure from Symi is scheduled for around 4:30 pm, arriving back in Rhodes by about 6 pm. However, some reviews mention that the return service can feel a bit chaotic, especially if schedules aren’t perfectly synchronized. One traveler noted the timing was “a little bit chaotic,” but ultimately, everything worked out fine. It’s worth bearing in mind that the timing might not be perfect, so if you’re on a tight schedule, plan accordingly.

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The Benefits of Booking with Half Price Tours

This experience is priced at $78 per person, which in our opinion offers good value, especially considering the included round-trip boat tickets and optional hotel transfers. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund also makes it less risky for spontaneous plans. Booking now allows you to reserve your spot and pay later, giving you some peace of mind.

The Local Flavors and Cultural Touches

One of the real treats of this tour is the chance to sample local cuisine, like Simiako Garidaki, baby shrimps cooked in olive oil—a simple but delicious dish that gives you a taste of the island’s culinary heritage. You can enjoy this at your leisure during your time on Symi, adding a flavorful touch to your trip.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

While specific group sizes aren’t mentioned, the experience feels intimate enough to enjoy the scenery and local sights without feeling overwhelmed. The reviews suggest that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, helping to make the day enjoyable and informative.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour really suits travelers who want a comfortable, scenic day with plenty of downtime to explore at their own pace. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy swimming in beautiful waters, photographing picturesque towns, or sampling local food. If you prefer a more structured or fast-paced tour, this might feel a bit laid-back for your taste.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This luxury boat trip to Symi offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic sailing, swimming, and exploring a truly charming Greek island. The boat’s comfort and the flexible schedule make it accessible for most travelers looking to enjoy Symi without the stress of planning every detail.

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning views, relaxed exploration, and local flavors, you’ll likely find this tour to be a memorable part of your Greek holiday. The inclusion of free cancellation and pay later options also make it a flexible choice, especially if your plans are still evolving.

That said, if you’re sensitive to timing issues or prefer highly guided, structured tours, you might want to consider the reviews about the chaotic return schedule. But overall, the experience seems to deliver on its promise of a beautiful, restful day on the water with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Symi.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you’ve selected the transfer option, hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Otherwise, you’ll need to meet at the specified harbor location.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and some cash for on-land purchases. Pack light but be prepared for sun exposure.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is about 8 hours, with the main sailing time being roughly 2 hours each way and around 3 hours on Symi for exploring.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your schedule is uncertain.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly specified, the experience’s relaxed pace and swimming opportunities suggest it could work for families with older children comfortable around boat trips and water.

What is the value for the price?
Considering the included boat tickets, optional transfers, and the chance to explore Symi at your leisure, this trip offers good value, especially for a scenic, relaxing day out.

If you’re craving a laid-back yet scenic way to enjoy Symi, this trip seems to hit the right notes. It’s a gentle, beautiful way to experience island life while enjoying some luxury and downtime along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: