Planning a day out on the water around Rhodes? If you’re curious about exploring Symi Island and its beautiful surroundings, this full-day boat trip offers a pretty solid way to do it. We’ve looked into this experience and want to share what you can expect, highlighting the good and the not-so-great, so you can decide if it fits your travel style.
One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is the scenic cruise itself—cruising along the coastline with views of Rhodes’ windmills, medieval walls, and the aquamarine Aegean Sea is something special. The second is the combination of charming town exploration with a peaceful monastery visit, blending lively streets with moments of calm at Panormitis Monastery. However, the trip can be a bit long, and depending on your seasickness tolerance, the ferry ride might be challenging.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat journeys, love exploring picturesque towns, and want a full-day experience that combines sightseeing with some downtime. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with cultural touches, this could be a good fit. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal if you’re seasick easily or prefer private, more personalized experiences.
Key Points
- Scenic coastline cruise with iconic sights like Rhodes windmills and medieval walls
- Amphitheatrically built Symi with colorful houses reflecting in crystal waters
- 3 hours in Symi for exploring, shopping, or just soaking up local charm
- Visit to Panormitis Monastery offers peace and beautiful seaside views
- Full-day duration includes boat rides, free time, and sightseeing
- Accessible for wheelchairs, but consider the ferry ride if prone to seasickness
An Honest Look at the Full Day Experience
When we think about a day trip from Rhodes that combines sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural stops, this trip checks a lot of boxes. Starting at the Rhodes Tourist Port, you’ll check in at the SeaDreams kiosk, show your voucher, and then step aboard a boat that will be your home for the next several hours. The boat itself offers options—relax on the sundeck for the best views or stay cool inside in the air-conditioned area. Either way, you’ll get a good perspective on the coastline and its sights.
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The Cruise from Rhodes
As the boat departs, you’ll immediately notice the impressive scenery. The views of Rhodes’ windmills, the Saint Nicholas Fortress, and the old town’s medieval walls make for a memorable backdrop. Traveling along the coastline, you’ll also see the famous clocktower and minarets of the old city, thrilling for history buffs or anyone who loves a good photo opportunity.
The boat ride lasts about an hour, and reviews mention that this is a comfortable, relaxed part of the day. Some travelers have noted it’s a good chance to take in the fresh sea air and maybe snap some photos of Rhodes’ charming harbor scenes. If seasickness is a concern, be aware that this ferry ride might not be ideal—it’s about an hour across open water, which can be choppy at times.
Symi Island: The Town and Its Charm
Arriving in Symi, you’ll quickly see why this island is a favorite for many. The town unfolds in a terraced fashion, with colorful neoclassical houses tumbling down the hillside to meet the water. It’s a real picture-perfect spot, and many visitors love wandering the narrow streets, exploring shops, or grabbing a bite in one of the local tavernas.
You get about three hours of free time, which is enough to soak in the atmosphere, do some shopping, or take a leisurely walk along the waterfront. Several reviews praise Symi’s beauty, describing it as a “fantastic photo spot” and noting how “colorful houses reflecting in the water create an amazing scene.” Some mention the lively food market and regional foods, so if you’re a foodie, this is a nice bonus.
The Monastery at Panormitis
After your time in Symi, you’ll head to the tranquil bay of Panormitis. Here, you’ll visit the Archangel Michael Monastery, which is a peaceful retreat with a seaside setting. The monastery is a major draw—its quiet ambiance and scenic location make it a highlight for many travelers. Expect about one hour on this stop, giving you enough time to explore and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Many reviews mention the tranquility of this place and the beautiful backdrop of the sea, making it a perfect moment of calm after the lively town part of your day. The monastery’s architecture and scenic setting give it a special charm, and some visitors find the atmosphere to be quite spiritual and restful.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Return Journey and Additional Tips
After the monastery, you’ll return to Rhodes by boat, passing more scenic sights along the coast. The return trip also lasts around an hour, providing time to relax or chat with fellow travelers.
A few practical tips: bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially if you plan to spend time on the deck. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring Symi, and a camera is essential for capturing those stunning views. If seasickness has ever been an issue for you, consider taking precautions before boarding, as the ferry ride can be rough at times.
What We Think Overall
This tour offers a genuine chance to experience the best of Symi’s picturesque charm and the serenity of Panormitis Monastery without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The boat journey itself is enjoyable, especially if you love being on the water and taking in scenic vistas. The amount of free time in Symi is decent, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
That said, it’s a full day, and some may find the boat rides a bit tiring, especially if prone to seasickness. The experience is quite popular, and reviews suggest it’s well-organized, with friendly staff. The price seems fair considering the length and inclusions, but always consider whether you’re comfortable with the travel times and the open water segments.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
Travelers who love scenic boat rides and want a taste of Symi’s colorful town and peaceful monastery will find this trip rewarding. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a full-day adventure that balances sightseeing with downtime. Not the best choice if seasickness is a concern or if you prefer private or more specialized experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
The tour involves a ferry ride that lasts about an hour each way, which can be uncomfortable if you’re seasick. If seasickness has been an issue for you, consider taking precautions or possibly exploring other options.
How much time do I have in Symi?
You’ll have around three hours to explore the town, shop, or enjoy a meal. This gives you enough flexibility to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. Also, bring water to stay hydrated, especially on warm days.
Can I stay on the boat the whole time?
Yes, you can relax on the boat’s sundeck or inside in the air-conditioned area during the cruise segments. It’s up to you whether to enjoy the scenery from outside or stay cool indoors.
Is there any historical or cultural significance during the stops?
Yes, the Panormitis Monastery is a peaceful seaside religious site, known for its architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
How organized is the tour?
Reviews suggest the experience is well-run, with a clear meeting point, check-in process, and friendly staff. The departure and return are straightforward.
Is it family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the trip’s relaxed pace and scenic stops can appeal to families with older children who enjoy boat rides and exploring towns.
What is the overall value of this tour?
Considering the duration, sightseeing, and included stops, the price offers a good balance of value for those looking for a comprehensive day trip with scenic and cultural highlights.
Rhodes: Symi Island, Panormitis, Full Day Boat Trip
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a day that combines beautiful scenery, charming towns, and a peaceful monastery, this full-day boat trip from Rhodes ticks all those boxes. It’s a chance to see Symi in a relaxed setting, enjoy panoramic sea views, and step into a tranquil world at Panormitis. The trip works well for travelers who appreciate a steady pace and enjoy being on the water, offering a well-rounded taste of the Dodecanese islands.
However, keep in mind the long day and the ferry rides if you’re sensitive to sea conditions or prefer shorter excursions. The experience provides a wonderful snapshot of Symi’s beauty and is especially suited for those who love scenic travel and cultural exploration in one package.
Whether you’re snapping photos of colorful houses or savoring the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery, this trip offers many memorable moments. Just pack your essentials, be ready for a full day, and enjoy the stunning views this part of Greece has to offer.
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