Fast Boat To Symi with a swimming stop at St George’s Bay! (Only 1hr journey)

When you’re staying in Rhodes and want to escape to a quieter Greek island without eating up your entire day, this fast boat to Symi Island offers exactly what you need. We like that you can reach this picturesque island in just an hour, leaving plenty of time to explore its charming harbor and narrow streets without feeling rushed. The included swim stop at St George’s Bay on the return journey gives you a chance to cool off in some seriously clear Mediterranean water—a nice bonus that makes the journey feel more like a complete experience than just transportation.

The main consideration is that the experience depends somewhat on which departure time you choose and whether you’re comfortable with boat travel that can get choppy. This tour works best for travelers who want an authentic taste of a Greek island without committing to an overnight trip, and for anyone who doesn’t mind a bit of spray and sea spray in exchange for genuine adventure.

Understanding the Value: Why This Tour Makes Sense

At $71.35 per person, you’re getting a fast boat ride, a full afternoon on Symi Island, and a swimming break for less than many restaurants charge for dinner. That’s genuinely good value for a day trip in Greece. What’s more, you can book up to 24 hours before departure and cancel for a full refund if plans change, which takes the risk out of the equation.

One reviewer noted they could have booked directly at the quayside for €45 (about $38) instead of paying through a booking platform, so if you’re already in Rhodes, asking around at the harbor might save you money. That said, the convenience of booking ahead online and knowing your spot is secured has value too, especially during peak season when boats fill up quickly.

The Journey: What to Expect on the Fast Boat

The boat itself is surprisingly comfortable, with what travelers describe as “gaming chair” style seats that are genuinely cushioned. One traveler said “the seats are very comfy,” while another noted the crew even provides fleeces for the journey if you get cold. That’s a thoughtful touch that makes a difference on open water.

The crossing to Symi takes approximately one hour and 10 minutes, which means you’re not spending half your day just getting there. This is genuinely faster than traditional ferries, which can take two to three hours. However, understand that “fast” means the boat moves quickly across open water, and several reviewers mentioned it can get choppy. One traveler with motion sickness noted that watching the horizon helps, and another suggested not eating a big breakfast beforehand. The boat does have onboard restrooms, which is practical for a journey of this length.

The 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. departures include the swimming stop; if you’re considering the 3:15 p.m. departure, know that it only stops for photos at St George’s Bay, not for swimming. That’s an important distinction depending on whether the water stop is a priority for you.

Symi Island: Three Hours to Discover Something Special

You’ll have three hours on Symi Island, which is enough time to get a real feel for the place without feeling pressured. The island is famous for its colorful harbor-front houses reflected in the water—the kind of view that makes you understand why Greek islands have captured travelers’ imaginations for centuries. Unlike Rhodes, which can feel crowded with package tourism, Symi retains a quieter, more authentic character.

Most visitors head straight to the restaurants and tavernas clustered around the harbor, and honestly, that’s not a bad strategy. The food is genuinely good—fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional Greek dishes. One traveler raved about finding “a lovely fish market restaurant” and mentioned receiving complimentary melon after their meal, which speaks to the hospitality you’ll encounter. Another visitor specifically recommended the “Taverna International restaurant” for attentive service. The dining experience here feels less touristy than what you’d find in Rhodes’ main areas.

If you want to venture beyond the waterfront, the island has narrow, winding streets that are pleasant to explore. One reviewer mentioned climbing the Kali Strata for “great views,” and another suggested visiting the “Panormitis Sponge Shop” for insights into traditional sponge production. These aren’t major attractions requiring hours of time—they’re the kind of discoveries you make while wandering, which is exactly how travel should feel.

One practical note: the island is very sheltered and can get quite hot and still during midday. Several reviewers mentioned that sitting in restaurants and cafes is partly about escaping the sun, so bring sunscreen and water. The lack of breeze means the heat can feel intense, so plan accordingly.

St George’s Bay: The Swimming Stop

The 30-minute swim stop at St George’s Bay is where the journey shifts from sightseeing to pure pleasure. The water here is genuinely clear and inviting—reviewers consistently described it as “crystal clear,” “turquoise,” and “very blue.” One traveler called it a “magical experience we won’t forget,” and another said the “swim stop is superb.”

Bring a bathing suit, towel, and a change of clothes. This isn’t optional—multiple reviewers emphasized this point. The boat’s spray will soak you on the return journey regardless, so having a towel and dry clothes waiting is genuinely appreciated. One traveler suggested sitting “at the top at the back on the side” if you want the best experience and don’t mind getting wet.

The 30 minutes feels a bit brief to some travelers. One reviewer suggested the boat could spend an hour here instead of 30 minutes, and another noted that you might prefer swimming after Symi rather than before, so you’re not walking around wet for the rest of your time on the island. These are reasonable points if you’re planning your day.

Practical Logistics: Getting There and What to Bring

The meeting point is at Rhodes Sea Lines, located at Pl. Eleftherias in Rhodes. According to reviews, finding the location and parking can be tricky. One traveler mentioned needing to leave 30 minutes just to find a parking space and walk from wherever they end up parked. Another reviewer drove past the turnoff a couple of times before finding it. If you’re renting a car, arrive early and be prepared to hunt for parking. If you’re staying within walking distance or using a taxi, that eliminates this hassle.

You’ll receive a mobile ticket, but several reviewers noted that you’ll need to exchange this for a physical boarding pass at the quayside. Arrive early if you want a spot on the upper deck—the views are noticeably better from up there, and seats fill up quickly.

Pack more than you think you’ll need: water, snacks, sunscreen, a light jacket or sweater for the boat, a plastic bag to sit on (to avoid getting a soggy bottom from spray-dampened seats), your swimming gear, and a towel. The boat doesn’t have food or beverage service, so bringing your own is essential. One reviewer specifically mentioned “make sure you pack drinks and snacks as no facilities on board.”

The Crew and Customer Service

Most reviews praise the crew as friendly and helpful. One traveler noted that “the staff and company was very nice and looked after those that got sick,” which speaks to genuine care beyond just operating the boat. Another mentioned the “friendly staff” and “very nice” crew. However, one reviewer found some crew members “a little grumpy,” so experiences vary.

There’s one important note about booking through different channels. Several reviewers who booked through Viator mentioned frustrations about incorrect meeting points or times listed in the app. One group showed up at the wrong harbor at the wrong time and had a difficult interaction with staff. The operator’s response suggests this was a user error (showing up at the wrong location), but the takeaway is clear: double-check your booking confirmation details carefully and verify the exact meeting point and departure time before you go.

Weather Considerations and Cancellation Policy

The tour requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, which is a genuine safety net. A couple of reviewers mentioned rough conditions—one said “it was super rough so be ready” and another noted “it was only rough leaving the harbour”—so this is a real possibility depending on sea conditions. The crew hands out blankets and rain gear, so they’re prepared for less-than-perfect weather.

Who Should Book This Tour

This experience is perfect for travelers staying in Rhodes who want to see a different island without committing to an overnight trip. It works well for people who enjoy authentic Greek island culture and don’t mind a bit of adventure (the boat ride can be choppy). It’s ideal if you want good value—three hours on a beautiful island plus a swim stop for under $75 is genuinely affordable.

It’s less ideal if you’re prone to severe motion sickness, prefer leisurely pacing, or want to spend extended time swimming. It’s also worth considering if you’re on a tight ship schedule—one traveler nearly missed their cruise departure because they lost track of time on the island. The boat will leave without you if you’re not back on time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat journey to Symi?
The journey takes approximately one hour to one hour and 10 minutes each way. It’s a fast boat, so you’re not spending half your day in transit.

Is the boat ride rough?
The boat can experience choppy conditions, especially leaving the harbor. Several reviewers mentioned the journey being rough or breezy, so it’s not perfectly smooth. The crew provides blankets and rain gear if needed. If you’re prone to motion sickness, watching the horizon helps, and skipping a big breakfast beforehand is wise.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring a bathing suit, towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, water, snacks, a light jacket, and a plastic bag to sit on (seats can be damp from spray). There are no food or beverage facilities on the boat, so you’ll need to bring everything you might want.

Can I get a refund if I need to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, your money is not refunded. The tour can also be canceled due to poor weather, with a refund or rescheduling offered.

What’s included in the ticket price?
The $71.35 price includes the round-trip boat journey, a 30-minute swim stop at St George’s Bay (on 9:00 and 11:00 departures), and onboard restroom access. Admission to Symi Island is free. Food, drinks, and activities on the island are not included.

How much free time do you have on Symi Island?
You’ll have approximately three hours of free time to explore, eat, shop, and wander the island. Most visitors spend this time at the harbor-front restaurants and shops, though you can venture into the island’s interior if you prefer.

Is the 3:15 p.m. departure different from the earlier ones?
Yes, the 3:15 p.m. departure does not include a swim stop at St George’s Bay—it only stops for photos. If swimming is important to you, book the 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. departure instead.

How many people go on this tour?
The boat can accommodate a maximum of 118 travelers. This is a group experience, so you won’t have privacy, but the boat is large enough that it doesn’t feel cramped.

What’s the best place to sit on the boat?
Reviewers consistently recommend sitting on the upper deck at the back on the side for the best views. Arrive early to claim these spots, as they fill up quickly. Be aware that upper deck seats get more spray from the water, so bring extra dry clothes if this bothers you.

Final Verdict

This fast boat to Symi delivers genuine value for travelers looking to escape Rhodes for a day without major logistical headaches. With a 4.5-star rating from over 740 reviews, the experience is consistently praised for its efficient timing, beautiful destination, and included swim stop. At $71.35 per person, you’re getting a three-hour island visit plus water activities for less than many all-day tours charge. The boat is comfortable, the crew is generally attentive, and Symi Island itself is genuinely charming—colorful harbor houses, good food, and a slower pace than Rhodes.

The main things to manage are practical: arrive early for parking and upper-deck seating, bring everything you might need (water, snacks, sunscreen), verify your exact meeting point and time before you go, and be prepared for potentially choppy water. The experience works best for travelers who want authentic Greek island time without spending a full day traveling, and who are flexible enough to handle variable sea conditions. If you’re staying in Rhodes and want to see somewhere different without major complications, this tour is worth booking.