Rhodes: Transfer & Cruise to Symi by Night

Travelers looking for a memorable way to see Symi after sunset might find this evening cruise a charming choice. While I haven’t taken it personally, reading through detailed reviews and descriptions, this experience seems tailored for those who love scenic views, a touch of romance, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a five-hour journey that combines comfortable transportation, a beautiful boat ride, and plenty of free time to explore Symi’s magical harbor as night falls.

What really catches the eye are two key aspects: the stunning illuminated harbor of Symi—especially at night—and the luxurious, eco-friendly boat that prioritizes accessibility. These features make the trip stand out, especially if you’re after a relaxed evening soaking up the island’s charm. The only thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s timing means you’ll spend just a few hours on the ground, so it’s best suited for those who want a scenic overview rather than a deep dive into Symi’s day-to-day life.

This cruise works best for travelers who enjoy a blend of comfort and scenic beauty, and who are comfortable with a scheduled, group experience. If you’re into romantic sunset views, beautiful architecture, and dinner by the sea, you’ll probably love it. However, those hoping for a longer or more detailed exploration of Symi might find it a bit brief. Overall, it’s a solid option if you want a taste of the island after dark, especially with the convenience of hotel transfers included.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transfer & Eco-Friendly Boat: Enjoy hassle-free pickups and a modern vessel with accessible features.
• Stunning Night Views: Symi’s harbor lights up beautifully, offering postcard-worthy scenery.
• Flexible Free Time: About 3 hours on the island allows for exploration, shopping, and dining at your own pace.
• Authentic Symi Atmosphere: Experience the island’s relaxed, romantic vibe away from daytime crowds.
• Ideal for Relaxed Travelers: Perfect if you want a scenic, peaceful evening cruise without a packed schedule.
• Limited Ground Time: The free exploration is brief, so plan your dinner and walking accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

When we think about evening cruises, the charm lies in the soft glow of sunset and the gentle sway of the boat. This tour seems to excel at providing a romantic and relaxed atmosphere, especially with the way Symi’s harbor transforms after dark. The boat, named Doll, is described as new, luxurious, and eco-friendly, which is a bonus. Travelers appreciate that it’s equipped with accessible facilities, making it inclusive for a wider range of guests.

The round-trip transfer from your hotel to Mandraki Harbour is a real convenience. Most reviews emphasize how smooth and stress-free this part of the experience is—no worries about arranging transport or missing the boat. The boat departs around 5:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy a drink from the onboard bar as you sail. The golden hour views as you leave Rhodes are often described as beautiful, setting a peaceful tone for the evening.

What the Cruise Feels Like

Once at Symi, travelers are greeted with a dramatic view of the harbor, with its colorful neoclassical mansions illuminated against the night sky. This is what makes the cruise special—seeing Symi’s architecture glow softly, creating a postcard scene. You’ll have roughly three hours to explore Yialos, the main waterfront area, where you can browse shops, stroll along the promenade, or sit at a seaside tavern.

One of the highlights is dining by the water. Many reviews mention enjoying dinner at a local taverna, often trying local specialties like Symi shrimp. The relaxed pace of the evening allows you to soak in the atmosphere—clinking glasses, gentle sea breeze, and the shimmering harbor lights. It’s easy to see why the island is considered romantic and inviting after sunset.

Considerations for Your Visit

While the experience is generally well-liked, a few travelers point out that the free time on Symi is limited — about three hours. This means if you’re eager to do shopping or sightseeing, you’ll need to be efficient. The cruise is more about viewing and experiencing the harbor at night rather than exploring the entire island.

Plus, the return journey begins later in the evening, with arrivals back in Rhodes around 10:30 PM, which can feel late if you prefer early nights. But for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic evening with minimal fuss, this timing works well.

The Value Factor

Pricing isn’t explicitly detailed here, but considering the included hotel transfers, the luxurious boat ride, and free time in Symi, it offers good value for a scenic excursion. The experience seems designed to give you a peaceful, beautiful overview of Symi at night, rather than a comprehensive tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start with hotel pickup: You can choose from over 70 pickup points, which is handy for most travelers staying around Rhodes.
• Bus transfer to Mandraki Harbour: Around 50 minutes, giving you a chance to relax before the boat ride.
• Boat cruise from Rhodes to Symi**: Approximately 75 minutes, during which you might enjoy a drink or simply take in the views.
• Sightseeing cruise around Symi’s harbor**: Another 75 minutes—here, the focus is on the scenic beauty and the sunset views.
• Free time in Symi: About 3 hours, ideal for strolling, shopping, dining, or just soaking in the atmosphere.
• Return cruise and transfer back: The boat ride back takes around 15 minutes, with a 50-minute bus transfer to your hotel.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for romantics, couples, or anyone craving a quiet, scenic evening. It’s perfect if you value comfort, beautiful views, and a relaxed pace. The inclusive transfers and accessible boat make it appealing for a broad range of travelers, including those who might have mobility considerations. It’s also suited for those who prefer a less crowded, more atmospheric version of Symi—visiting at night offers a different charm than daytime visits.

This tour might not be the best fit if you’re looking for a full-day exploration or an in-depth sightseeing adventure. The brief ground time leaves little opportunity for extensive shopping or sightseeing, so it’s best as an overview or a romantic escape rather than a full exploration.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes to Symi by Night cruise offers a scenic, relaxing, and visually stunning experience that emphasizes calm, comfort, and beauty. The combination of a modern, eco-friendly vessel and the enchanting night views of Symi’s harbor makes this a worthwhile pick for travelers who want a peaceful evening with memorable vistas.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of the island, the opportunity to see Symi illuminated at night while enjoying good company and local food makes this trip special. Just remember, the limited free time means you’ll want to plan your dinner and walking accordingly, and be prepared for a late return.

For those who enjoy scenic cruises with a touch of romance—especially if you’re staying in Rhodes and want an elegant, hassle-free outing—this cruise fits the bill nicely. It’s a relaxing way to add a memorable experience to your Greek island itinerary.

FAQ

How do I know where to meet for the pickup?
You’ll receive an email 24 hours before the trip with all the details about your pickup location and time. Make sure to answer promptly, as transfers are only provided if booked at least 14 hours in advance.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
Yes, the boat has accessible facilities, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

How long do I get in Symi?
You’ll have about 3 hours of free time to explore, dine, or shop in Yialos. This is enough for a relaxed stroll but not for deep sightseeing.

What’s the best way to enjoy the harbor during the night cruise?
Find a comfortable spot on the boat with a good view, settle in with a drink from the onboard bar, and take in the illuminated houses, harbor, and mountains—the scenery is truly magical at night.

Can I buy drinks and dinner on the island?
Yes, many travelers enjoy dining at waterfront tavernas. The tour itself offers a bar service onboard for drinks and light refreshments.

How late does the trip return?
Expect to be back in Rhodes around 10:30 PM, so plan your evening accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-focused, the accessible boat and relaxed pace make it generally suitable for travelers of all ages. Just consider the evening timing if you’re traveling with young children.

What if I want a longer stay in Symi?
This tour provides a quick overview perfect for a picturesque evening, but if you want more time, consider planning an additional day on the island separately.

All in all, if you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and comfortable way to see Symi at night, this cruise is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: