Traveling in Greece means encountering beautiful islands, vibrant harbors, and some truly special moments. Among these, the Rhodes: Cruise to Symi by Night offers a unique way to see one of the Dodecanese’s most charming spots, all while enjoying the tranquility of the evening. If you’re looking for a mix of quick travel, scenic views, and a taste of local life, this tour might be just what you need.
What really makes this experience stand out are the speedy journey—just about an hour to reach Symi—and the chance to explore without the daytime crowds. Plus, the opportunity to sample the famed Symi shrimps adds a delicious touch. That said, it’s worth noting that Symi gets lively with yachts and visitors in the evening, so if you’re seeking complete solitude, this might be more about the ambiance than total quiet.
This tour suits those who want a short, scenic escape from Rhodes, enjoy beautiful coastlines, and don’t mind a modest time commitment of around 5.5 hours. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends who appreciate good views and good food, you’ll enjoy this trip. If you’re after a very relaxed, peaceful experience with a dash of local charm, it’s a solid pick.
Key Points
- Quick transfer: You’ll be on a high-speed boat that gets you to Symi in just about an hour.
- Less crowded at night: Symi looks different after sunset — calmer, more relaxed, with fewer travelers.
- Local flavors: Try the famous Symi shrimps, which are well-loved across Greece.
- Flexible free time: About 3 hours on the island gives you ample freedom to explore or dine.
- Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning views of colorful buildings, turquoise waters, and a lively harbor.
- Booking ease: Full cancellation refund available up to 24 hours before, and you can reserve now and pay later.
The Experience in Detail
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The Journey to Symi: Speed and Comfort
The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the high-speed boat ride. Clocking in at around one hour, it’s a swift way to escape the bustle of Rhodes and arrive at the enchanting Symi. Many reviews emphasize how the boat’s speed makes a noticeable difference—travelling below deck offers a more immediate, racy feel, while the upper deck provides a more relaxed view of the sea and coastline. One traveler from Germany even mentioned, “Ganz schön flott, das Boot,” appreciating how fast and engaging the ride was.
This quick trip means you get to maximize your time on Symi itself. Instead of spending hours in transit, you’re arriving refreshed and ready to explore. The boat is also wheelchair accessible, which broadens the option for travelers with mobility needs.
Arriving at Symi: A Harbour of Pastel Colors
Once you arrive, the view is immediately captivating. Symi’s fishing harbor is a picture-perfect scene—crystal-clear water, boats bobbing gently, and pastel-colored neoclassical buildings that seem to rise from the water’s edge. The colorful church domes add a charming touch that photographs just beautifully, especially as the sun sets or the night falls.
Free Time on Symi: Explore or Chill
You’ll be given around 3 hours of free time, which is plenty to wander through the quaint streets, find a place for dinner, or take a quick dip in the inviting waters. Several reviews praise the relaxed vibe of Symi after hours—less crowded, more intimate. One traveler suggested calling ahead if you want to dine at a specific taverna, since Symi’s popular restaurants fill up quickly, especially with yachts in the harbor.
During this time, you might want to sample the local Symi shrimps—a dish renowned across Greece. Fresh seafood lovers will find this a highlight, as the shrimps are highly praised for their quality and flavor. You can also enjoy a quiet walk along the waterfront or take some photos of the lively harbor lit up at night.
More Great Tours NearbyDining and Swimming
While the tour doesn’t include meals, there are plenty of tavernas along the waterfront where you can enjoy a traditional Greek dinner at your own expense. Many travelers find that dining here, especially with a view of the shimmering waters and yachts, makes for a memorable meal. Others opt to swim in the waters, which are said to be inviting and sparkly, especially in the evening hours.
The Return Trip
The boat ride back to Rhodes is just as quick and comfortable, wrapping up a 5.5-hour experience that’s perfect for those who prefer shorter excursions with maximum impact. The tour operates with hosts or greeters who speak English, making communication straightforward, and the group sizes tend to be manageable.
What Our Reviewers Say
A few real voices help paint the picture: Michaela from Germany appreciated the fast boat ride and recommended bringing swim gear for Saint George’s Bay, noting that it’s a good place to cool off after exploring. Luke from the UK called it a “wonderful experience,” emphasizing the scenic views and relaxed atmosphere. Pambosman from Cyprus raved about the crystal-clear waters and the vibrant colors, calling Symi “gorgeous” and not to miss.
These comments reinforce how this tour consistently delivers stunning scenery and a peaceful evening setting—great for those who want a break from packed daytime tours or busy beaches.
Practical Details & Tips
The tour is well suited for travelers who value quick trips and scenic views without extensive planning. It’s fully refundable if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind. You can also reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility to your travel schedule.
Since Symi is popular, especially with yachts and visitors in the evening, it’s smart to call ahead for dinner reservations if you want to dine at specific spots. The tour’s duration of 5.5 hours makes it manageable even for those on tight schedules, and the English-speaking hosts help ensure smooth communication.
Who Should Consider This Tour
This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides and want to see Symi in a more relaxed, less crowded setting. It appeals to those looking for a short but memorable side trip from Rhodes, especially if you enjoy waterfront views, fresh seafood, and a peaceful evening atmosphere.
If you’re after a quiet, scenic cruising experience with a dash of local flavor, and don’t mind a busy harbor with yachts and lively nightlife, this tour fits well.
FAQ
Is the boat ride comfortable?
Yes, the high-speed boat is described as quick and engaging. Travelers mention it’s a bit racy below deck but more relaxed upstairs, and it’s wheelchair accessible.
How long do I get on Symi?
You’ll have about 3 hours of free time to explore, dine, or swim. It’s enough to enjoy the town at your own pace without feeling rushed.
Do I need to worry about the weather?
Since the tour is primarily by boat and in the evening, check the weather forecast. The tour may be canceled or rescheduled in case of rough seas or storms.
Can I book last minute?
Yes, as long as you do so at least 24 hours in advance (for cancellation purposes). You also have the option to reserve now and pay later.
Is this suitable for kids?
While not explicitly labeled as a family tour, the experience is generally manageable for older children who enjoy boat rides and exploring seaside towns. Still, keep an eye on the duration and the boat’s safety standards.
Do I need to make dinner reservations beforehand?
Since Symi becomes busy with yachts and visitors, it’s recommended to call ahead if you want a specific restaurant, especially for dinner.
Rhodes: Cruise to Symi by Night
Final Thoughts
The Rhodes: Cruise to Symi by Night offers a charming, scenic escape that combines fast travel, lovely island scenery, and a relaxed vibe after dark. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a taste of Symi without committing to a full-day tour or crowded daytime excursions.
You’ll love the views of pastel-colored buildings reflected in the evening light, the chance to sample local seafood, and the peaceful atmosphere that comes with exploring an island after most travelers have gone home. It’s a straightforward adventure, well-suited for travelers craving a quick, scenic, and culturally rich experience.
If you’re after a beautiful, laid-back evening on the water with minimal fuss, this tour could be just the ticket. Just remember to book in advance, call ahead for dinner plans, and enjoy the ride.
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