Rhodes: Speedboat Trip to Symi with Free Time to Explore

Rhodes: Speedboat Trip to Symi with Free Time to Explore — A Detailed Look

Taking a day to hop between Rhodes and Symi on a speedy boat sounds like a classic Greek adventure. We haven’t personally boarded this specific tour, but based on countless reviews and the details available, it seems like a solid choice for anyone wanting to combine scenic cruising with free time on a charming island.

What really stands out about this experience are two things: first, the spectacular water views of Rhodes’ Old Town and the bay of Symi — perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. Second, the generous free time in Symi, giving you a chance to explore at your own pace, shop, or enjoy some local bites.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is the limited open-air seating upstairs, which can fill up early, especially if you love catching the sun. So if you’ll want that sun-soaked deck, arriving early is a smart move. This tour works best for travelers who are happy to spend a good part of their day on the water and want a flexible, budget-friendly way to visit Symi without the hassle of arranging your own transport.

If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful scenery, enjoys exploring small towns with colorful architecture, and prefers a relaxed pace with plenty of free time, this trip could be just right. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who want good value without too many extras or guided tours.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Around $28 for a day trip, offering great value.
• Flexible Free Time: Over 3 hours to explore Symi at your own pace.
• Comfortable Journey: Modern speedboat with indoor air-conditioned space and sun deck.
• Picturesque Views: Views of Rhodes castle walls, windmills, and Symi’s colorful houses.
• Timely and Reliable: Departures and arrivals are consistently on time, based on reviews.
• Ideal for Scenic Lovers: Perfect if you want stunning water and island views without guided tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point and Departure
Most tours meet at Kolona Harbor, a central and accessible spot in Rhodes. Depending on your booking, your departure might be from this harbor or another designated point. The boat departs in the morning, often around 80 minutes of cruising to Symi, giving you a swift, smooth ride across the Aegean.

Traveling at speeds designed for comfort, you’ll notice the modern design of the boat — a mix of indoor air-conditioned comfort and outdoor decks for sunbathing or taking photos. Several reviews mention how well-maintained and pleasant the boat is, which makes a big difference when you’re spending around 1.5 hours each way on the water.

The Cruise
As you leave Rhodes, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Old Town’s minarets, the medieval clock tower, and the Saint Nicholas Fortress. Many reviews highlight how scenic the journey is, especially when sailing past Rhodes’ windmills and the Naillac Tower. It’s a great way to get a different perspective of the island that you might miss on land.

On the way, some travelers prefer the indoor space for a cool, comfortable environment, especially if the sun’s strong. Others love the open sun deck for sunbathing or just feeling the breeze. Be aware that seats upstairs tend to fill early, as noted in reviews, so arriving early can help secure your preferred spot.

Arrival at Symi
Once in Symi, the real fun begins. You’ll have around 4 hours of free time to roam the town, shop for souvenirs, or sample local fare. Symi’s architecture is what photos dreams are made of: colorful neoclassical houses, tiny alleyways, and harbors filled with fishing boats.

People often mention how easy it is to get around, whether on foot or by the tourist train, which departs hourly for a quick tour around the town. This is ideal if you’re short on time or prefer to see the highlights without wandering too far.

Returning to Rhodes
The boat departs Symi after your free exploration and heads back across the water. The return journey is generally smooth, with many reviews noting the punctuality and comfort of the trip. Some travelers do mention that the return can take about 95 minutes due to sea conditions, but overall, the trip remains enjoyable.

You’ll arrive back at Kolona Harbor, likely in the late afternoon or early evening, feeling satisfied with your day of scenic cruising and island exploring.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic Water Views
From the boat, you’ll get fantastic shots of Rhodes’ historic walls, the windmills, and the fortress. As you approach Symi, the colorful houses perched on the hillside create a postcard-perfect scene. Many reviews rave about how stunning the views are, making this trip particularly appealing for photography lovers.

Comfortable & Reliable Transport
The modern speedboat with both indoor air-conditioned and outdoor spaces is a highlight. Travelers consistently mention how comfortable and clean the boat is, and the staff, according to reviews, are helpful and friendly. The reliability of the departures and arrivals makes it a stress-free option for a day trip.

Flexible Free Time
Over 3 hours in Symi means you’re not just rushing through, but able to stroll, shop, or grab a bite at your leisure. Many reviews mention how the time feels just right to enjoy the island without feeling hurried. Whether you want to take photos, explore alleys, or sit at a café, you’ll find plenty of options.

Value for Money
At around $28, this trip is often praised for being budget-friendly. When you consider the transportation, the scenic cruise, and the free time in Symi, many reviewers feel it offers excellent value. Some even mention how it’s a good deal compared to other options, especially given the amount of free time and the quality of the boat.

A Few Considerations Before Booking

Limited Outside Seating
If sun exposure is important to you, arrive early to secure a seat on the open deck. Some reviews mention that seats upstairs fill quickly and that arriving early is advisable for a good spot.

Sea Conditions & Comfort
While most find the trip smooth, a few travelers with sensitivity to seasickness noted feeling a little queasy, especially on the way out. Sitting downstairs or in the shaded, indoor part can help.

No Guided Tour
This experience is all about free exploration, so if you prefer guided commentary or structured tours, this might not be the best fit. But for those who enjoy wandering and discovering on their own, it’s perfect.

No Food or Drinks Included
The price doesn’t include meals, so plan to eat either before or after your time in Symi. Some reviews mention onboard refreshments, but these are sold separately.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is well-suited for travelers who want a scenic, budget-friendly way to visit Symi with plenty of free time to explore. It’s ideal if you enjoy beautiful water views, comfortable transportation, and independent wandering without a guided tour.

It’s also a good pick for those who prioritize timeliness and reliability, as reviews indicate consistent departures and arrivals. If you’re not overly concerned about guided commentary or structured activities, you’ll likely find this trip fits your style.

However, if you’re seeking a more in-depth guided experience or want to include specific attractions inside Symi, this free time approach might feel a little limited.

FAQ

What is the duration of the trip?
The full experience lasts roughly 6.5 to 8 hours, including travel time and free exploration in Symi.

Where do I meet the boat?
Most tours depart from Kolona Harbor in Rhodes, but the exact meeting point might vary based on your booking option.

Can I sit outside on the boat?
Yes, there’s an outdoor sundeck, but seats upstairs tend to fill early. Arriving early helps secure a sunlit spot.

Is the trip suitable for kids?
While the tour is mainly about scenery and free exploration, children who enjoy boat rides and walking around charming towns usually find it enjoyable.

Are food and drinks included?
No, these are not included. You might find refreshments onboard for sale, but it’s best to bring some snacks or plan to eat in Symi.

How reliable is the schedule?
Based on reviews, departures and arrivals are generally on time, making it a dependable option for planning your day.

Is there any guided commentary?
No, this is a self-guided free time experience, so you’ll explore Symi independently.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially if you plan to sit outside. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring Symi.

In the end, this speedboat trip from Rhodes to Symi offers a good mix of scenic cruising, reliable transport, and free time in a beautiful Greek island. Whether you’re after stunning photo opportunities, island exploration, or just a relaxing day on the water, this tour is worth considering — especially if you value flexibility and good value for your money.

You can check availability for your dates here: