Rhodes: Day Trip to Symi Island by Fast Boat

Key Points

• Fast & Efficient Transport: The tour uses one of the quickest boats available, making the roughly 1 hour 15-minute journey to Symi highly comfortable and scenic.
• Ample Free Time: You get approximately 4 hours on Symi Island to explore, shop, and enjoy local cuisine.
• Includes Hotel Pickup: If you choose, transportation to and from your hotel in Rhodes is included, streamlining the entire experience.
• Cultural and Culinary Highlights: Besides sightseeing, you’ll have the chance to taste Simiako Garidaki, a local dish featuring baby shrimps cooked in olive oil.
• Highly Rated Experience: With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 120 reviews, this trip is considered well-organized, relaxing, and worthwhile.
• Affordable Price Point: At $48.56 per person, it offers good value, especially considering the scenic journey, free time, and included logistics.

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Rhodes: Day Trip to Symi Island by Fast Boat

This day trip to Symi Island departs from Rhodes at a very competitive price of just $48.56 per person. The tour is designed for those who want to experience the beauty of this Dodecanese island without spending too much time on the travel itself. The journey takes about 1 hour 15 minutes by speedboat, which is widely praised for being one of the fastest and most comfortable vessels available in Rhodes.

The trip starts at the Rhodes Town harbor, with optional hotel pickup and drop-off included if you select that package. The boat features spacious seating, a bar selling drinks and snacks, and toilets onboard, making the journey relaxing. The total duration of the experience spans 7 to 10 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy Symi’s colorful streets, charming harbor, and local flavors.

The highlight of this tour is ample free time in Symi, which is about 4 hours to wander, shop, and take photographs. The island’s vibrant architecture and majestic churches are perfect for sightseeing, and the cozy cafes and seafood eateries line the harbor, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Symi Island’s Colorful Harbor and Scenic Streets

Upon arrival, travelers are greeted by Symi’s picturesque harbor, known as Gialos, bustling with activity. The colorful buildings and majestic churches make for stunning photos, especially with the water and boats as a backdrop. The quaint streets invite exploration, with local shops selling handmade jewelry, clothing, and gifts.

The free time allows a good balance of sightseeing, shopping, and sampling local treats. Visitors can browse unique handcrafted jewelry or pick up gifts and souvenirs from the stalls lining the streets. The local cuisine offers a highlight in the form of Simiako Garidaki, a baby shrimp dish cooked in olive oil, which is a local favorite.

The walk through Symi offers plenty of photo opportunities, as the vibrant houses and majestic churches create a colorful mosaic. Those interested in shopping for unique items will find plenty of options, and food lovers can indulge in seafood or local delicacies at the harbor’s eateries.

The Speedboat Journey: Comfort and Scenic Views

The trip from Rhodes to Symi is made on a speedboat that takes approximately 75 minutes. Many reviews mention how comfortable and spacious the boat is, with inside air-conditioned seating and outdoor decks that offer excellent views.

Travelers report that the boat ride is relaxing, with many taking advantage of the deck space to sunbathe or capture photos. The onboard bar provides drinks and snacks, and toilets are available, adding to the convenience.

The scenic views along the way include beautiful seascapes and coastal scenery, making the journey itself a memorable part of the trip. The speed of this vessel cuts down transit time significantly compared to traditional boats, giving more time on the island for sightseeing and shopping.

Symi’s Local Cuisine and Shopping Opportunities

During the free hours, many visitors take the chance to sample local cuisine at Symi’s restaurants. The Simiako Garidaki—baby shrimps cooked in olive oil—is a highlight for food lovers, and many reviews mention how tasty and fresh it is.

Shoppers will appreciate the handmade jewelry, clothing, and gifts available in Symi’s harbor area. The stalls and shops offer unique items, often with special discounts, and browsing them provides a chance to find authentic souvenirs.

The restaurants and cafes around Gialos also serve delicious seafood, with many options for a relaxing lunch or snack. The compact size of Symi means you can easily explore its main attractions within the 4 hours of free time.

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Logistical Convenience and Meeting Arrangements

The meeting point for the tour is at the Gallias street office next to the Benetton shop in Mandraki Harbor. Travelers who opt for hotel pickup will be collected from their accommodation, making logistics straightforward.

Check-in at the meeting point begins at 09:15 AM and closes at 09:40 AM. The round-trip includes bus or coach transfer lasting about 30 minutes, followed by the speedboat ride. The return trip ends back at the same meeting point, completing a smooth and well-organized experience.

This tour offers full flexibility with a cancelation policy allowing full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Payments can be made later, allowing travelers to reserve their spot without immediate commitment.

The Review Highlights: What Travelers Love

Many reviews underline how well-organized and efficient the tour is. The boat’s comfort and scenic journey are often praised, along with the ample free time in Symi to enjoy the town’s beauty and shops.

Knowledgeable guides and good transport arrangements are also appreciated, with some travelers mentioning the extra service of sorted transport to the boat from nearby hotels. The value for money is another common theme, especially given the scenic boat ride plus several hours on the island.

Most agree that Symi is a must-see, and the short travel time and cost-effective price make this tour a popular choice for exploring the charming island without the hassle of long travel.

Symi Day Trip: Who Will Enjoy It Most?

This tour is ideal for those who want efficient transport and free time on one of Greece’s most picturesque islands. It suits sea lovers, photographers, and foodies eager to try local specialties.

The speedboat offers a comfortable ride with scenic views, making it perfect for travelers who enjoy a relaxed atmosphere on the water. The 4 hours in Symi give enough room for sightseeing, shopping, or enjoying local cuisine without feeling rushed.

However, travelers who prefer more extensive exploration or multiple stops might find the 4-hour free time limiting. The cost is very reasonable, especially considering the hotel transport and scenic journey, making it a solid value for a day-trip experience.

Symi Island’s Charm in a Nutshell

The vibrant colors, majestic churches, and friendly harbor make Symi a delightful destination for a day trip. The efficient transportation allows visitors to maximize their exploration time, and the local food offers memorable flavors.

Many reviews highlight how relaxing and beautiful the entire experience is—especially with a comfortable boat ride and well-organized schedule. The affordable price combined with the proven reliability from Half Price Tours makes this trip a wise choice for anyone seeking a beautiful island adventure from Rhodes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The round-trip boat tickets to Symi and back, with hotel pickup and drop-off if selected.

How long is the boat ride?
The speedboat ride lasts approximately 75 minutes each way.

How much free time do I get on Symi?
You have about 4 hours of free time to explore, shop, and eat on Symi Island.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the price.

Where does the tour start?
From the harbor in Rhodes Town, with check-in at the Gallias street office at Mandraki Harbor, next to a Benetton shop.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option when booking.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and cash for shopping and additional purchases.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour’s comfort and duration make it suitable for families, especially those traveling with older children or seeking a relaxed day trip.

How do I book?
Reservations can be made online with pay later option, and contact details are provided for any questions or special requests.

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