Rhodes: Scenic Cruise to Symi Island & St George Bay

If you’re considering a day trip from Rhodes that combines scenic beauty, a touch of history, and the chance to soak up some authentic Greek atmosphere, this cruise to Symi Island might just be what you’re after. It’s a popular option for travelers who want a relaxed, visually stunning getaway without straying too far from Rhodes.

What really caught our eye about this tour are the breathtaking views at St George Bay and the charm of Symi’s colorful houses. Plus, the opportunity to explore local museums and taste the legendary Symi shrimp makes this experience feel well-rounded. That said, it’s worth mentioning that the overall duration—about 8.5 hours—means it’s a full day, so be prepared for a bit of a boat schedule.

One thing to keep in mind: while the trip offers a lot of flexibility for exploring Symi at your own pace, it’s not a deep-dive into the island’s history or culture. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic escape with some sightseeing, this could be perfect. It tends to suit those who enjoy leisurely cruises, scenic photo stops, and a taste of island life without too many complex itineraries.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery at St George Bay and Symi’s colorful architecture
• Includes visits to museums like the Naval Museum and Archaeological Museum
• Opportunity to see the Knights Castle ruins for panoramic views
• Taste local specialties, especially the famous Symi shrimp
• Flexible free time on Symi for shopping, wandering, or relaxing
• Round-trip cruise with comfortable catamaran transport

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour starts at Rhodes Mandraki Port, a lively spot with a good mix of cafes, shops, and boats. The vessel you’ll be on is the Symi II catamaran, which looks modern enough and promises a comfortable ride. The cruise itself is about 105 minutes to reach the first stop at St George Bay—a perfect introduction to the trip. You’ll see the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters that make this part of Greece so photogenic.

The brief photo stop at St George Bay is just enough time to snap some pictures of the stunning landscape. You’ll want to keep your camera handy because the scenery here is genuinely picture-worthy. From here, it’s a quick 15-minute sail to Symi’s harbor, where you’ll have about 3.67 hours to explore.

Symi Island: The Main Event

Once on Symi, you’re free to wander at your own pace. The town’s neoclassical houses painted in pastel hues line narrow streets that feel like stepping into a postcard. Many travelers appreciate the scenic views along the way, especially from vantage points near the harbor or atop the Knights Castle ruins.

The Museums are worth a visit if you’re interested in the local history. The Naval Museum showcases Greece’s maritime past, while the Archaeological and Folklore Museum offers a glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage. Climbing up to the Knights Castle provides panoramic views over Gialos, Symi’s main port, making it a highlight for photographers and sightseers alike.

Food and Local Flavors

A big part of the charm on Symi is the chance to indulge in authentic local cuisine. The standout dish is undoubtedly the Symi Shrimp, often served at waterfront tavernas. Travelers frequently mention how delicious and fresh this specialty is—it’s a must-try if you’re a seafood lover. Other local bites are available, but the shrimp really steals the spotlight.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hop on a taxi boat to visit a secluded beach for a quick swim or just relax with a drink on the waterfront. Several reviews mention how relaxing it is to unwind at a quiet spot after walking around the lively town.

Returning to Rhodes

After your exploration, you’ll reunite with the boat for the 115-minute sail back to Rhodes. The return journey is a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in the views once more. Many travelers say the boat ride itself is smooth and comfortable, making it an enjoyable way to end a full day.

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Practical Details and Tips

This tour runs approximately 8.5 hours in total, including the boat rides, sightseeing, and free time on Symi. The starting point is Rhodes Mandraki Port—an easy spot to find with the coordinates provided. The boat is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus if you have mobility considerations.

The cost is generally reasonable, especially considering the transportation, museum visits, and free time included. As always, check the current prices and what’s included, but this tour offers good value given the variety of experiences packed into the day.

Bring your passport or ID card, as you’ll be crossing between islands, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews mention the stunning scenery as the greatest highlight—”The views at St George Bay are absolutely jaw-dropping,” one noted. Others appreciate the free time on Symi, which allows for spontaneous exploring or just relaxing by the water. Some reviews point out that the Museums and Castle ruins add a nice cultural touch, though a few mention that the tours don’t go very deep into history.

A couple of travelers found the timing a bit tight, especially if they wanted longer on Symi, but most agree it’s a well-organized day trip that balances sightseeing with relaxation. The boat’s comfort and the scenic stops are consistently praised, making it clear that this trip is about enjoying the views and the laid-back island atmosphere.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This cruise to Symi Island and St George Bay is best suited for those who love stunning coastal scenery, want a relaxed way to explore an iconic Greek island, and enjoy a bit of sightseeing without overloading the day. It’s ideal if you’re looking for amazing photo opportunities and want to sample local flavors—particularly the famous Symi shrimp.

While the trip doesn’t go very deep into Symi’s history or culture, it offers a good balance of scenic beauty, casual exploration, and comfort. It’s a solid choice if you prefer a well-organized day that combines cruise comfort with free time to soak up the charm of Symi at your own pace.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy boat rides and picturesque towns, this will likely be a memorable highlight of your Greek vacation. Just remember, it’s a full day, so pack light, bring sunscreen, and get ready for some seriously beautiful views.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip from Rhodes to Symi?
The initial sail to St George Bay takes about 105 minutes, so expect roughly two hours for the first leg of the journey.

What is the duration of free time on Symi?
You’ll have around 3.67 hours on the island to explore, shop, or relax at your own pace.

Is the boat comfortable and accessible?
Yes, the Symi II catamaran is described as comfortable, and the experience provider states it is wheelchair accessible.

What are the main highlights on Symi?
The main attractions are the colorful houses, panoramic views from the Knights Castle ruins, local museums, and the chance to taste Symi shrimp.

Can I visit the museums?
Yes, you can visit both the Naval Museum and the Archaeological and Folklore Museum during your free time.

Is there an option for swimming or beaches?
You can take a taxi boat to a secluded beach for a swim if you wish, though this is optional.

What should I bring?
Make sure to carry your passport or ID card, wear comfortable shoes, and pack sunscreen and water.

How is the overall value of this tour?
Considering the transportation, multiple stops, museum entries, and free time, it offers a good mix of sightseeing and relaxation for the price.

Would I recommend this tour?
If scenic views, relaxed exploration, and local cuisine appeal to you, this cruise is worth considering. It’s especially suitable if you want a leisurely day without complex schedules.

This cruise offers a genuinely lovely way to see Symi, blending natural beauty, cultural sights, and laid-back island charm. For those seeking a day of picturesque vistas and light sightseeing, it’s a wonderful choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: