Rhodes: Boat Trip to Symi – Panormitis & St. George Bay

Rhodes: Boat Trip to Symi – Panormitis & St. George Bay

Thinking about a day out on the water from Rhodes? This boat trip to Symi and Panormitis offers a glimpse of some of the most charming spots in the Dodecanese. While it’s not a perfect experience, it’s a solid way to see beautiful landscapes and get a taste of local culture without too much fuss.

What I like about this tour is how it combines a sacred site—the Panormitis Monastery—with the chance to wander around the picturesque streets of Symi. Plus, the swimming stop at Saint George’s Bay promises a refreshing break in crystal-clear waters. A possible downside, though, is that the day’s pace can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping for more beach or exploration time.

All in all, this trip suits travelers looking for a hassle-free, scenic day that mixes culture, charm, and a bit of swimming. If you’re okay with a busy itinerary and want to tick off some must-see spots, it could be a good choice. Just keep in mind that some reviews mention the experience isn’t as relaxed or comprehensive as they’d hoped.

Key Points

• Comfortable and Stylish Boat: Departing on a new (2024) luxury cruiser, Diamond, the vessel is modern and well-equipped for a smooth ride.
• Balanced Itinerary: Visits to Panormitis Monastery and Symi’s town are well-timed, with enough free time to explore.
• Swimming Opportunities: The 30-minute swim stop at Saint George’s Bay or Nanou Bay offers a refreshing break in pristine waters.
• Time Management: The tour is about 8 hours, but some travelers feel the schedule is tight, especially in warm weather.
• Travel Essentials: Bring sun protection, swim gear, and cash — the day involves walking, swimming, and some shopping.
• Variable Experience: While some find it enjoyable, others feel they didn’t get as much time as they wanted, especially for swimming or exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Departure

The adventure begins early, with departure from Rhodes Port at 9:00 am. The exact meeting point is at the Diamond Boat, located at coordinates 36.449275970458984, 28.22509002685547. Arriving at the port at least 30 minutes early is wise, to ensure a smooth boarding process. The boat itself is described as a luxurious, brand-new vessel, which sets a high expectation for comfort and style.

The Journey to Panormitis Monastery

Once aboard, you’ll set sail for the first major stop: Panormitis Monastery. The cruise takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, arriving around 10:20 am. This monastery is famous for its healing legends and its role as a protector of sailors, making it a meaningful visit for many. You’ll have about 45 minutes on-site, which is enough time to explore the complex, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Reviews suggest that the monastery is a highlight, with some travelers appreciating the chance to see a sacred site away from the crowds. However, keep in mind that the visit is brief, so it’s more of a quick overview than an in-depth tour.

Free Time in Symi

Next, the boat heads to Symi, arriving in the charming harbor town where you’ll have at least 3 hours to stroll, shop, and dine. Symi’s narrow streets are full of character, with the chance to browse sea sponge shops, taste local dishes at traditional tavernas, or just enjoy wandering through the colorful alleys.

We loved the way Symi’s architecture and vibe feel like stepping back in time. The town’s beauty lies in its quaintness and the relaxed pace of life, even when busy with travelers. The three-hour window strikes a decent balance, but some travelers mention that it’s not enough to see everything, especially if they want to take their time exploring or sitting down for a meal.

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Swimming Break at Saint George’s Bay

On the return journey, the boat makes a 30-minute swim stop at either Saint George’s Bay or Nanou Bay, both renowned for their clear waters. This is a refreshing interlude and widely appreciated—it’s a chance to cool off, relax, and enjoy some sunbathing or snorkeling.

One review notes that they were eager to swim, especially during the hot weather, but some felt the time was too short to fully enjoy the waters. Others mentioned that the swim spot was a highlight, though some missed out on swimming altogether if they were busy taking photos or simply relaxing on deck.

The Return and Arrival

After the swim, the boat heads back to Rhodes, arriving around 5:30 pm. The full day can be busy, but the relaxed pace of a boat trip makes it manageable, especially if you’re accustomed to spending a full day outdoors.

What’s the Real Value?

When you factor in the price—generally reasonable for an all-day trip—it’s a good way to see Symi and Panormitis without the hassle of arranging transport or guided tours on your own. The new vessel adds a layer of comfort, and the mix of culture, scenery, and swimming makes for a well-rounded day out.

However, some reviews are mixed. For example, one traveler felt they paid too much for what they received, citing that the experience felt rushed and that they didn’t get to enjoy the swimming stop as much as they hoped. Others enjoyed the scenery and found the overall value to be fair, especially if they love exploring charming Greek towns and visiting monasteries.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a convenient day trip that combines sightseeing, a bit of adventure, and some leisurely downtime. It suits travelers who don’t mind a tight schedule and enjoy a structured, guided experience rather than a totally freeform day. It’s also a good choice if you want to see a sacred site and beautiful town without the hassle of organizing transport.

Practical tips:

• Dress comfortably—think layers, sensible shoes, and sun protection.
• Bring cash for souvenirs or tips, and a camera for capturing the charming streets and vistas.
• Be prepared for some walking, especially if you choose to explore Symi’s alleys or walk to the Kastro, which can involve a climb.
• Consider that the schedule might shift due to weather, so stay flexible.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Rhodes to Symi and Panormitis offers an enjoyable way to see some iconic sights in the Dodecanese. Its highlights are the scenic boat ride, the visit to the revered monastery, and the chance to wander a picturesque Greek town. The swimming stop adds a refreshing touch, although the limited time sometimes leaves travelers wishing for more time in the water.

While it’s not an all-encompassing tour that will give you deep dives into each location, it’s a practical option for those wanting to tick off these places in a single day, without the stress of planning. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, making the journey more pleasant.

If you’re okay with a busy, structured day and hope to soak up some local charm and scenic beauty, this experience is worth considering. Conversely, if you’re looking for a more relaxed or in-depth exploration, you might want to consider other options or extending your stay to fully enjoy each spot.

FAQ

How early should I arrive at the port?
It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes before the 9:00 am departure to ensure smooth boarding.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, cash, and a charged smartphone.

Is there a guided tour at Panormitis Monastery?
The itinerary mentions a short exploration time, but it does not specify a guided tour, so you might find it more of a self-guided visit.

How long is the free time at Symi?
You’ll have about 3 hours to explore the town, browse shops, and enjoy a meal.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary can change due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances, but your safety and comfort are the top priorities.

Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but the tour involves walking and a boat ride, so consider this if traveling with young children or those with mobility issues.

This boat trip offers a taste of Symi and Panormitis that many find worthwhile, especially if you’re eager to combine scenic cruising with cultural visits and a splash in the sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: