Rhodes: Day Trip to Symi Island by Fast Boat

Traveling from Rhodes to Symi by boat is a popular choice for those looking to experience a slice of the Dodecanese without spending days on the water. This particular tour, offered by Half Price Tours, promises a fast, comfortable ride with plenty of time to discover Symi’s charm. We’ve gathered plenty of genuine feedback and details to help you decide if this is the right outing for your Greek holiday.

What we really appreciate about this trip is its combination of speed and leisure. The journey itself is quick—just around 1 hour 15 minutes—so you get more time to enjoy Symi’s vibrant streets and beautiful scenery. Plus, the relatively affordable price point of just under $50 per person makes it accessible for many travelers. However, it’s worth noting that the trip is a long day, with a total duration of 7 to 10 hours, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full day of exploration without too much downtime.

A small caveat is that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring some cash for snacks or meals on the island. Plus, the ride can be over 2 hours each way, which might be tiring for some, especially if sea sickness is a concern. Still, for those eager to see Symi efficiently and at a good price, this tour hits many of the right notes.

In summary, this day trip is ideal if you’re looking for a well-organized, worry-free way to visit Symi with enough free time to soak in the sights. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the area, the combination of quick transit, scenic views, and local flavor makes it a trip worth considering.

Key Points

• Quick and efficient transportation to Symi, maximizing your sightseeing time.
• Ample free time in Symi allows for exploring, shopping, and sampling local cuisine.
• Comfortable boat ride with options for seating and facilities on board.
• Affordable price point offers good value considering the length and inclusions.
• Pre-arranged transfers and check-in simplify the logistics of your day.
• Authentic local experience with food suggestions like Simiako Garidaki, a specialty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Trip Experience

Taking this day trip means leaving behind Rhodes’ busy harbor for a scenic boat ride that’s as much a part of the adventure as Symi itself. The journey begins with easy check-in at Gallias street, next to the Mandraki Harbor, or hotel pickup if you’ve booked that option. From there, it’s about 30 minutes on a bus or coach to the port, followed by a 75-minute ride on a high-speed boat that’s designed for comfort and efficiency.

The boat is described as spacious, with options to sit inside with air conditioning or outside on the deck where you can soak up the sun and take in the views. Multiple reviews mention the quality of the vessel and the helpful staff on board, which makes a difference for a smooth, relaxing ride.

The Symi Experience

Once you arrive in Symi, the charm of this colorful, picture-perfect island immediately becomes apparent. The main port, Gialos, buzzes with activity—cozy cafes, seafood tavernas, and stalls selling handmade jewelry and gifts. Many reviews highlight how stunning the scenery is, with some travelers noting countless excellent opportunities for photos.

You’ll have approximately 4 hours of free time, which is enough to stroll through the streets, browse shops, and maybe climb uphill to see Symi’s famous castle. One reviewer loved that the tour organizers were flexible enough to accommodate an extra hour for a swim at St George’s Bay, at no additional cost—a nice touch for those wanting a little more adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers round-trip boat tickets and transfers, making this a hassle-free outing. The main expense you’ll cover separately is food and drinks, so plan to bring cash for snacks or a meal on the island. The reviews mention the presence of a bar on the boat, where you can buy drinks and snacks, which helps pass the time comfortably.

The Journey Back

Returning to Rhodes is equally straightforward, with the boat ride offering a serene way to unwind after a busy day exploring Symi. Many travelers appreciated the smooth, well-organized logistics, with some mentioning the journey back was just as comfortable as the ride over.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Start & Check-in:
Depending on your selected option, you’ll meet at Gallias street 6, near the Mandraki Harbor, or enjoy hotel pickup if booked. Check-in begins early, around 09:15-09:40 am, to ensure smooth boarding.

Bus/Coach Transfer:
A 30-minute ride takes you from your hotel or designated pick-up point to the port. This stage helps break up the trip and often involves friendly guides providing local insights.

Speedboat Ride:
The highlight of the trip—about 75 minutes on a high-speed vessel that’s praised for its comfort and efficiency. The boat is modern, with options to sit indoors or outside, and many reviews mention the relaxing atmosphere and excellent customer service.

Symi Free Time:
Once docked in Symi, you get from 4 hours of exploring at your own pace. You can wander through colorful streets, visit shops, or relax at a cafe. Some travelers choose to climb to the castle or indulge in local delicacies like Simiako Garidaki, baby shrimps cooked in olive oil, which many agree is a must-try.

Return Trip:
The journey back mirrors the trip over, with the same comfortable vessel. Many travelers find the ride soothing, especially after a busy day. The return often ends with the group being dropped off at their original meeting points or hotel.

The Authentic Charm of Symi

From the moment you step onto Symi’s streets, you’ll notice how vibrant and inviting the town is. The architecture features pastel-colored houses stacked on steep slopes, with majestic churches dotting the landscape. The harbor area, Gialos, is lively with cafes, bars, and shops. Many reviews highlight how well-organized the visit is, giving you just enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

One reviewer raved, “Symi is a beautiful place, really worth visiting!” and others appreciated the variety of food, shops, and scenic spots for photos. The local shops sell handmade jewelry, clothing, and gifts—perfect souvenirs for those with a keen eye for unique finds.

Food and Shopping

While food isn’t included in the ticket price, many travelers mention the delicious local specialties. The standout is Simiako Garidaki, baby shrimps cooked simply in olive oil, which you’ll find at local tavernas. Symi’s shops offer handmade jewelry and textiles, making it a great place to pick up authentic Greek crafts.

The Long Ride & How to Enjoy It

Some reviews note the boat ride takes over 2 hours each way, but most agree it’s a relaxing experience. Bringing a book, sunblock, or just enjoying the scenery makes the time pass quickly. The boat also has a bar and toilets, which adds to the comfort.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring cash: Food, drinks, and shopping items mostly require cash—be prepared.
• Pack light but smart: Sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, and a camera are essentials.
• Sea sickness: If you’re prone, consider taking precautions for the boat ride, which can be over 2 hours.
• Arrive early for check-in: To avoid last-minute stress, get there by 09:15 am if you’re not using hotel pickup.
• Flexible timing: The tour offers options like including an extra hour for swimming, so communicate your preferences ahead of time.
• Enjoy the ride: The boat’s facilities and friendly staff help make the journey pleasant, so relax and take in the views.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is a solid choice for travelers who want a no-fuss, well-organized day out of Rhodes. It’s perfect if you value speed and efficiency—getting to Symi fast, with enough time to explore at your own pace. It suits those who appreciate scenic boat rides and want to indulge in local food and shopping, without worrying about transportation logistics.

It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy balancing sightseeing with relaxation—the boat ride is comfortable, and the free time allows you to soak in the island’s charm without feeling overwhelmed. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer more structured, guided tours, this might not be the best fit.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride to Symi?
The boat ride is approximately 75 minutes each way, providing a quick yet scenic journey across the water.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. You’ll want to bring cash for snacks, meals, and shopping on Symi.

What is the duration of free time in Symi?
You’ll have about 4 hours in Symi, which is enough to explore, shop, and enjoy local delicacies.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, if you select that option, your hotel will be included in the pickup and drop-off service. Otherwise, you should check in at Gallias street 6 before departure.

Can I swim at St George’s Bay?
Some travelers have the option to include an hour for swimming at St George’s Bay. The tour organizers are accommodating if you request that in advance.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses, cash, and comfortable shoes. If you’re prone to sea sickness, consider medication or remedies.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the smooth boat ride and ample free time make it manageable for older children and teenagers. Always check your child’s comfort with boat rides and long days out.

To sum it up, this Rhodes to Symi day trip by fast boat offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to see more of the beautiful Dodecanese without fuss. Its combination of quick transit, comfortable boat ride, and generous free time in Symi makes it a practical pick for travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace, sampling local flavors, and snapping plenty of photos. If you’re after a balance of efficiency and authenticity, this tour is worth considering—and many past travelers seem to agree it’s well worth the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: