High Speed Sunset Cruise to Symi Island with 3 hours of free time

A Practical Look at the High-Speed Sunset Cruise to Symi Island

If you’re considering a day trip from Rhodes to Symi, this high-speed boat cruise offers a quick, scenic journey combined with enough free time to enjoy the island’s charm. While not an all-day affair, it’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Symi without the fuss of longer tours. What makes this experience stand out? First, the speedy boat ride means more time on the island itself instead of hours in transit. Second, the sunset return adds a romantic touch to an already beautiful day.

But it’s not all smooth sailing—some travelers have mentioned that the boat ride can be quite bumpy, and conditions may vary. That said, if you’re comfortable with boat trips and looking to squeeze in a visit to Symi, this tour might fit the bill. It’s best suited for solo travelers, couples, or groups who are eager for a relaxed day with stunning coastal views rather than a detailed sightseeing tour.

Key Points

• Fast boat service maximizes your time exploring Symi instead of spending hours in transit.
• 3 hours of free exploration gives ample opportunity to wander, eat, or swim.
• Stunning scenery includes a brief photo stop at Saint George Bay and the colorful harbor of Symi.
• Affordable price point makes it a good value for a half-day trip, especially considering the scenic returns at sunset.
• Bumpy ride warning—the boat can be choppy, so bring appropriate clothing or seasickness remedies if needed.
• Ideal for travelers who appreciate quick getaways with scenic coastal views rather than in-depth tours.

Introduction: What to Expect from This Symi Day Trip

If you’ve been eyeing a way to see Symi without committing to a full-day tour, this high-speed sunset cruise might catch your interest. The idea is simple: hop on a swift boat from Rhodes, enjoy a brief stop for photos, and then have around three hours to explore the colorful fishing town on your own. Plus, the trip wraps up with a sunset cruise back, which sounds absolutely lovely if you enjoy scenery and relaxed moments on the water.

What we really like about this experience is how it emphasizes saving time. Instead of spending hours on ferries or long boat rides, this tour is designed to give you a taste of Symi’s beauty in a manageable, half-day format. The scenic highlight is definitely the return trip at sunset, which many reviews praise as a peaceful, memorable way to close the day.

A potential downside? The boat can be quite bumpy, especially if you’re sensitive to motion or expecting a smooth ride. Some travelers weren’t prepared for the wetness or the intensity of the waves, so packing accordingly is wise. Still, for those seeking a quick, picturesque escape, this trip hits many of the right notes.

If you’re someone who loves gorgeous coastal views, wants flexibility on your island visit, and isn’t overly concerned about a slightly choppy boat ride, this tour could be a great fit.

How the Itinerary Breaks Down

The Departure: Starting at Rhodes Sea Lines

The adventure begins at Rhodes Sea Lines, located at Pl. Eleftherias. The meeting time is 3:15 pm, giving you plenty of time to settle in and get ready for the trip. The group size is capped at around 120 travelers, so it’s relatively well-organized without feeling crowded.

The First Stop: Saint George Bay

On your way to Symi, there’s a quick 5-minute photo stop at Saint George Bay. This spot is a favorite for capturing the idyllic scenery—think turquoise waters, pastel-colored buildings, and charming church domes. It’s a brief but worthwhile pause to snap some pictures and appreciate the scenery. The included photo stop makes it clear that the focus is on stunning coastal views.

The Main Event: Disembarking at Symi

Once you arrive in Symi, you’re free to explore for about 3 hours. This gives you enough leeway to wander through the picturesque fishing town, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many traditional tavernas (at your expense), or dip into the sparkling waters for a quick swim. Symi’s harbor is a visual feast—colorful buildings, fishing boats, and narrow streets all contribute to its charm.

Some reviews mention how much they appreciated the free time. One traveler called the day “lovely & relaxing,” noting that the boat ride itself was “pleasant,” and they enjoyed a “delicious lunch in Symi.”

The Return: Sunset Cruise Back to Rhodes

After your exploration, the boat departs for Rhodes, offering one of the most scenic parts of the trip—the sunset sail back. The sunset views are often praised as “amazing,” providing a peaceful, picturesque end to your day. It’s a moment that many travelers find memorable, especially as the sky turns hues of orange and pink over the water.

The Pros and Cons

Pros

Quick, efficient trip: The high-speed boat saves time, giving you plenty of hours on Symi without a lengthy journey.
Stunning scenery: The brief stop at Saint George Bay and the sunset cruise make for postcard-worthy views.
Affordable price: For just over $58, the experience offers decent value, considering transportation, the scenic cruise, and the flexibility of free exploration.
Flexible free time: Three hours on Symi is enough to wander, have a meal, or swim, making this suitable for casual travelers.

Cons

Bumpy boat ride: As some reviews mention, the boat can be quite wet and choppy, especially at the front. Prepare accordingly if you’re prone to seasickness or dislike rough waters.
Limited time on the island: If you’re hoping for an in-depth tour or want to see more than the harbor area, the three hours might feel a bit tight.
Weather dependency: The trip is weather-sensitive; poor weather could lead to cancellations or less enjoyable conditions.

Valuing the Experience: Is It Worth It?

When breaking down the value, consider the price ($58.11 per person). For a little over six hours—including the boat ride, free time, and scenic return—you’re getting a good mix of transportation and leisure. The included photo stop adds a nice touch, and the sunset sail back enhances the experience.

However, keep in mind the boat’s reputation for being bumpy. If you’re a cautious traveler or prone to seasickness, you might want to bring remedies or consider whether a longer, calmer ferry might suit you better.

One thing that stands out is how many people book this trip repeatedly—booked over five times last week alone suggests it’s a popular choice for those looking for a quick, scenic escape.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a taste of Symi’s beauty without a full-day commitment. It’s perfect if you love scenic boat rides, sunset views, and having some free hours to explore. It’s especially suited for those who aren’t overly concerned with extensive sightseeing—more about relaxing, taking photos, and enjoying the coast.

If you’re traveling solo, a couple, or even a small group, and are comfortable with a potentially bumpy boat ride, this could be a highlight of your stay.

Final Thoughts

This high-speed sunset cruise to Symi offers a practical way to see one of the Dodecanese’s most charming islands without the fuss of longer tours. The combination of quick transit, free exploration time, and breathtaking sea views makes it appealing for travelers who prioritize scenery and flexibility.

While the boat ride can be rough, many find the experience worth it for the stunning vistas and the peaceful sunset cruise. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a scenic, relaxed day and are okay with a brief visit rather than a comprehensive tour.

Overall, if you’re after beautiful coastal views, a relaxed pace, and a memorable sunset, this trip delivers. Just come prepared for a potentially bumpy ride, pack some sunscreen, and enjoy the colorful charm of Symi at your leisure.

FAQ

How long is the total trip?
Around 6 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, free exploration, and the return sunset cruise.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 3:15 pm from Rhodes.

How much free time do I get on Symi?
Approximately 3 hours, enough for a leisurely walk, a meal, or swimming.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Some reviews mention the boat can be very bumpy and wet, especially at the front. If you’re sensitive, bring seasickness remedies or waterproof clothing.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes the boat ride, a 5-minute photo stop at Saint George’s Bay, and the free time on Symi. The sunset sail back is part of the experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start. Poor weather may cause cancellations or rescheduling.

Is this suitable for families or children?
While not specifically designed as a family tour, children comfortable with boat rides could enjoy it. Always consider the boat’s rough conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, possibly a hat, and anything else you’d need for exploring or swimming.

How many people typically book this tour?
Up to 120 travelers, which keeps things lively but manageable.

What’s the price?
Just over $58 per person, offering a decent value for a scenic day trip with sunset views.

If you love quick trips with stunning scenery and a relaxed vibe, this Symi cruise could be just what you need. Just remember to pack smart, stay safe on the boat, and enjoy the colorful charm of Symi at your own pace.