Luxury Boat Trip to Symi Island with Swimming at St. George

Discover the Charm of Symi on a Luxury Boat Trip

This luxury boat tour offers a full day exploring Symi Island, one of the most beautiful locations in the Dodecanese. Priced at $78 per person, the journey lasts approximately 8 hours and includes round-trip boat tickets and hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected). The tour departs from Rhodes, sailing in a comfortable, luxury vessel with ample seating options—choose between sun or shaded areas—making it a relaxing and flexible experience.

What makes this experience stand out are its beautiful stops, like St. George’s Bay for swimming, and Symi’s stunning harbor, which is often regarded as one of Greece’s most picturesque. While some reviews mention a slightly chaotic return schedule, overall, this tour provides a great balance of sightseeing, relaxing, and enjoying local flavors. It suits travelers seeking a luxurious, well-organized day trip that combines natural beauty and authentic Greek charm.

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Key Points

• Luxury boat experience with comfortable seating options, sun or shade
• Full day trip lasting 8 hours from Rhodes to Symi
• Includes round-trip tickets and hotel transfer (if selected)
• Swim at St. George’s Bay, accessible only by boat
• Three hours in Symi to explore the harbor and local sights
• Taste local cuisine, especially Symi shrimp, a signature dish

Departure and Check-In at Rhodes Harbor

The tour starts at Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes, with check-in available from 09:15 to 09:40 am at the tour office on Gallias street 6, next to the Benetton shop. If you choose the transfer option, your hotel will be arranged for pickup and drop-off. Travelers who come on their own should arrive early to secure their boarding pass.

The boat departs promptly, so arriving on time helps ensure a smooth start. The meeting point is straightforward to find, right at the harbor, making this a convenient option for travelers already staying in Rhodes.

The Scenic Sail from Rhodes to Symi

Once onboard, the luxury vessel begins its journey northwest, sailing across the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The trip offers relaxing views of the coastline, with plenty of space to enjoy the sea breeze and scenery. Staff are available to serve drinks and snacks, so you can settle in with a coffee or chilled beverage as you leave Rhodes behind and head toward Symi.

The sailing time is designed to maximize comfort, with a leisurely pace that allows for taking photos or simply soaking up the sea views before reaching your first stop.

Relaxing at St. George’s Bay for Swimming and Sunbathing

The first stop on the tour is St. George’s Bay, a spectacular natural bay on the east coast of Symi. This bay is only accessible by boat, which makes it a special, secluded spot. Here, the boat drops anchor for about 1.5 hours, giving travelers plenty of time to swim in the crystal-clear waters, relax on the beach, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery.

The bay’s natural landscape, with its turquoise waters and wild surroundings, provides a perfect setting for refreshing swims. Remember to bring sunscreen, sun hat, and sunglasses to enjoy the time comfortably and safely.

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Arrival and Exploring Symi’s Harbour

At around 13:00, the boat sets sail again for Symi’s harbor, one of the most beautiful and renowned in Greece. The sight of the harbor’s colorful buildings, neoclassical architecture, and vibrant atmosphere is often described as unforgettable. The harbor is a lively hub of cafes, shops, and restaurants, offering plenty of options to explore.

You have about three hours in Symi to walk around, take photos, and soak in the low-key charm of this authentic Greek island. The tour suggests trying Symi shrimp, a signature dish, giving visitors a taste of local flavors.

The Return Journey and Slight Schedule Chaos

Boarding for the return begins at 4:00 pm, with the boat leaving by 4:30 pm. The trip back to Rhodes is around 1.5 hours. Some reviews note that the return schedule can feel a bit chaotic, possibly due to the timing or crowd management. Despite this, the overall experience remains positive, with most travelers appreciating the well-organized sightseeing and relaxing pace.

The boat arrives back in Rhodes around 6:00 pm, concluding the 8-hour adventure.

What’s Included and Optional Extras

This tour covers round-trip boat tickets and, if selected, hotel transfer from your accommodation. The boat is equipped for comfort, with seating choices, and the crew facilitates a smooth trip.

You should bring cash for personal expenses or additional food and drinks at Symi. The tour offers the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and to reserve now and pay later, ensuring flexibility in planning.

Practical Tips for the Day

To make the most of the trip, bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen. Arrive early for check-in if you’re not using the transfer service. The tour departs from Rhodes in the late morning, so plan your day accordingly.

If your hotel isn’t listed for pickup, contact the provider after booking with your hotel name to organize a pickup time. This ensures a hassle-free start to the day.

How This Tour Compares to Similar Options

This tour stands out for its luxury vessel, offering comfortable seating and a relaxed pace. The swimming stop at St. George’s Bay is a highlight, especially since this bay is only accessible by boat. The three hours in Symi provides a good amount of time to explore without feeling rushed, and the local cuisine—notably the Symi shrimp—adds a special touch.

Compared to other options, this experience emphasizes comfort and authenticity, making it ideal for travelers who want a premium feel while exploring Symi.

Final Thoughts on the Symi Island Luxury Boat Trip

This 8-hour day cruise offers a solid combination of scenic sailing, swimming, and free time in Symi. The cost of $78 reflects the luxury and full-day itinerary, making it a value-for-money option for those seeking a relaxed, scenic escape.

The stunning harbor views, natural swimming bay, and local flavors are truly the tour’s highlights. While the chaotic return schedule is a minor concern, it doesn’t overshadow the overall pleasure of the experience.

This trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy luxury comfort, beautiful scenery, and authentic Greek island charm. It’s a reliable choice for a memorable day exploring Symi’s natural beauty and vibrant harbor life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the transfer option. Otherwise, you should arrive at the Harbor office at Gallias street 6 for check-in.

Can I swim at St. George’s Bay?
Absolutely. The bay is a spectacular natural stop where you can swim in crystal-clear waters for about 1.5 hours.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, and cash for personal expenses or additional food.

How long is the stay in Symi?
You have approximately three hours on the island to explore, take photos, and enjoy local dishes.

What are the reviews like?
The tour has a high rating of 4.8/5 from four reviews. Commenters cite beautiful views, nice stops, and good organization, though some mention the return schedule can feel a bit chaotic.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While specific details aren’t included, the relaxed pace and comfortable boat suggest it could suit families, especially those looking for a scenic day trip with swimming options.

How do I book this experience?
You can reserve your spot easily, with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby