Rhodes: Boat trip to Symi island with swimming at St. George

Thinking about a day out on the water while in Rhodes? This boat trip to Symi, with a refreshing stop at St. George’s Bay, is one of those experiences that promises memorable sights, a chance to relax, and a glimpse of local flavors. It’s a well-loved excursion with a solid 4.1 out of 5 from nearly 60 reviews, which tells us most travelers find it worth their time—though, as always, there are a few things to keep in mind.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its combination of two beautiful destinations in one day—Symi’s colorful, picturesque town and the stunning swimming spot at St. George’s Bay. Plus, the chance to try local delicacies like Simiako Garidaki, baby shrimps cooked in olive oil, adds a tasty touch that many travelers enjoy. That said, the actual boat journey can be quite lengthy, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer shorter excursions.

This tour works best for those who love scenic boat rides, want a taste of authentic Greek island life, and don’t mind a long day on the water. If you’re after a relaxed pace, beautiful views, and some great photo opportunities, you’ll find plenty to love here. But if you’re seeking a shorter, more intimate experience or have specific needs with transportation, it’s worth considering those factors beforehand.

Key Points

• Great value for multiple destinations in one day, combining Symi and a swimming stop
• Photo opportunities galore—colorful houses, scenic harbor, and crystal-clear waters
• Local food options, especially Simiako Garidaki, make the trip tastier
• Long boat ride means patience is needed, but most reviews say it’s worth it
• Flexible options for transfers and meeting points to suit different travelers
• Ideal for lovers of scenery, photography, and local flavors—less so for those seeking a quick trip or a short cruise

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An Honest Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This full-day cruise from Rhodes is designed to give you a taste of two iconic Greek spots while also allowing some time for swimming and exploring. Starting early, you’ll meet at the Gallias Street office next to a Benetton shop at Mandraki Harbor, or opt for a hotel transfer if that’s included. From there, the journey begins with a roughly 30-minute bus or coach ride, during which you might get a glimpse of the scenery as the day gears up.

Once aboard the boat—generally a spacious vessel that can accommodate over 200 people—you’ll start the scenic part of the trip. Passengers often mention the comfortable, roomy setting with plenty of seats upstairs on the deck for those who want an unobstructed view, or downstairs for protection from the wind. The ride offers lovely views of the coastline and the surrounding Aegean, setting the scene for what’s to come.

The Swimming Stop at St. George’s Bay

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the stunning swimming stop at St. George’s Bay. The reviews are full of praise for the crystal-clear waters where you can see the bottom even in deep spots, making it perfect for snorkeling and cooling off. This stop typically lasts around 45 minutes, enough for a swim, some snorkeling, or simply soaking in the scenery from the boat. Travelers often describe it as one of the most beautiful beaches they’ve seen, and most agree it’s a real treat.

Symi Town Exploration

After the swim, the boat heads to Symi, a tiny island famous for its colorful buildings, lively harbor, and charming streets. Most of the time, passengers get a free 3-hour window to explore, which is plenty of time to wander Gialos, the main harbor area. This small but lively place is filled with cafes, seafood restaurants, spice stalls, and handmade jewelry shops. Many reviews mention how perfect the timing is for a relaxed lunch or a quick shopping spree.

The scenic views on the way to and from Symi are often highlighted as a major plus, with travelers taking countless photos of the brightly painted houses and the rolling hills in the background. The town itself offers plenty of opportunities for photos—perfect for social media lovers—and some reviewers mention buying local souvenirs or enjoying a refreshing ice cream.

What to Expect from the Tour

The tour is a full 8.5 hours, starting early in the morning and ending in the evening. It includes round-trip boat tickets and the swimming stop at St. George’s Bay. Food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch on Symi. The organized nature of the trip means most logistics are handled, but keep in mind the boat ride can be long—some reviews mention a two-hour journey to Symi—so packing a light coat or something warm is advisable, especially if you’re prone to feeling chilly on the water.

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Transport and Meeting Points

If you don’t book a transfer, you’ll need to check in between 09:15 and 09:40 at the office in Mandraki Harbor for your boarding pass. But many travelers opt for a hotel transfer, which can be arranged afterward by contacting the provider. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

The Crew and Overall Atmosphere

Most reviews praise the staff as friendly, helpful, and efficient, often going out of their way to ensure everyone is comfortable and informed. The boat itself, while described as spacious, is also noted to be quite old by some. Still, it remains functional and safe, with plenty of seating and a shop on board for snacks and drinks.

The Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic boat journeys, picturesque towns, and crystal-clear swimming spots, this trip ticks all those boxes. It offers excellent value, especially with the option to include hotel transfers, and reviewers consistently mention how the stunning views and the charm of Symi make the long ride worthwhile.

However, it’s worth noting that the long boat journey may not be ideal for everyone—particularly if you’re sensitive to seasickness or prefer shorter excursions. It’s also a full day, so patience and comfort with being on the water for several hours are key.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience and are eager to explore two beautiful islands in one go. If you love taking photos, enjoy local food, and don’t mind a bit of a boat ride, you’ll likely find this tour a highlight of your time in Rhodes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup is not included in the basic package, but you can book an option that provides transfers from your hotel. If not, you’ll need to meet at the designated office in Mandraki Harbor.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for after swimming. It’s also a good idea to have some snacks or drinks for the day, especially since food isn’t included.

How long is the boat ride?
The journey to Symi takes about two hours, depending on sea conditions. The return trip is similar in length, so be prepared for a long day on the water.

Can I explore Symi at my own pace?
Yes, most of the time you’ll have around 3 hours to walk around, shop, or have lunch. It’s a self-guided free time, giving you flexibility.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is described as spacious with many seats upstairs and downstairs. However, some reviews mention it’s quite old, so if you’re sensitive to boat quality, keep that in mind.

What food options are available?
Food and drinks aren’t included, but there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops in Symi to enjoy during your free time.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly aimed at families, the trip can suit older children comfortable with boat rides and swimming, but check with the provider if traveling with very young kids.

What’s the main takeaway from reviews?
Most travelers praise the stunning scenery, helpful staff, and good value, with many saying the swimming stop at St. George’s Bay was a highlight. A few mentioned the boat’s age but still found it a worthwhile experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines scenic views, a charming Greek island, and a refreshing swim, this boat trip to Symi is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want to pack in two destinations without the need to plan multiple logistics yourself. The trip’s length and the boat ride might be a consideration, but most reviewers agree the experience is worth it.

This tour suits those who value relaxed exploration, stunning photo ops, and local flavors. It’s less suited if you prefer quick, short excursions or are sensitive to long boat rides. Overall, it offers a memorable way to see a different side of Greece—one filled with color, character, and a splash of the sea.

Happy exploring—I hope your trip turns out just as magical as many others have described!

You can check availability for your dates here: