Boat Trip to Symi Island with swimming stop at St George Bay

Explore Symi Island and St. George Bay on a Full-Day Boat Trip from Rhodes

This boat trip to Symi Island offers an engaging way to experience one of Greece’s most charming islands, all for just $46.11 per person. Departing from Rhodes, the tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with a pickup service available, making logistics smooth for travelers. The highlight is the swimming stop at St. George Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery, along with around 3 hours free time in Symi, which is perfect for exploring the colorful streets at your own pace.

While the trip provides stunning views and a relaxing day out, it’s worth noting that the ferry ride can be lengthy, and the boat can be crowded during peak times. This tour tends to be most appealing for those who enjoy scenic boat journeys, swimming, and discovering small, picturesque islands. It offers good value, especially given the free restroom on board and the chance to snorkel in an acclaimed bay, although lunch is not included.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day cruise: Priced at $46.11, including boat transportation and swimming stops.
• Two main stops: Symi for 3 hours of free time and St. George Bay for about 1 hour of swimming.
• Departure details: Starts at 10:00 am from Gallias 6, Rhodes, with pickup offered.
• Duration: Approximately 9 hours including travel, swimming, and sightseeing.
• Crowd considerations: The boat can get crowded, especially during peak season, with a maximum of 200 travelers.
• Reviews highlight: The stunning scenery, friendly crew, and beautiful swim stop at St. George Bay** as top features.

Departure and Meeting Point at Rhodes

The tour begins at Half Price Tours, Gallias 6 in Rhodes, with a pickup service that helps streamline the start of the day. The departure time is 10:00 am, and guests should be prepared for a two-hour boat ride to Symi. The return is to the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward. Most travelers appreciate the near public transportation access and service animals allowed, which add to the tour’s convenience.

Symi: A Tiny, Colorful Island with Ample Free Time

The main attraction in Symi is its small size, allowing visitors to explore by walking. With around 3 hours of free time, travelers can wander through the brightly colored houses, take photos of the picturesque harbor, or relax in local cafes. The admission to the town is free, and many reviews mention that the time allocated is more than enough to soak in the island’s charm.

Travelers often comment that Symi is very cute and friendly, with vivid buildings and a laid-back atmosphere. Some mention they wish they could stay longer to explore more thoroughly, but the 3-hour window generally suits those who enjoy a quick stroll or a coffee in the sun.

Swimming at St. George Bay: A Highlight for Snorkelers

The swimming stop at St. George Bay is highly praised, with about 1 hour dedicated to swimming and snorkeling. The bay’s crystal-clear waters and fabulous underwater life make it a favorite among guests. The admission is free, and the crew often provides helpful tips for snorkeling.

Guests note that the water quality and scenery are exceptional, making the swim stop a true highlight. The fabulous snorkeling allows views of many fish and underwater landscapes, creating a memorable experience. The toilets on the boat are also appreciated for added comfort during the day.

Boat Journey: A Scenic Ride with Crowd Considerations

The boat trip itself takes about two hours to reach Symi, with a lengthy return that can extend to around four hours of travel. The boat is described as fast, but reviews indicate that swimming is not possible on the fast boats, so the swimming stop is only available on certain vessels.

During peak periods, the boat can feel crowded, with seats limited and some reviews mentioning the boat being packed like sardines. It’s advisable to arrive early or prepare for a full boat. The restroom on board is a helpful feature, and snacks/drinks are available for purchase.

Symi’s Free Time and Local Exploration Options

The free time in Symi allows for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing along the waterfront. Guests mention that the colorful houses and picturesque streets are perfect for a gentle stroll. Some reviews suggest that more time would allow for a deeper exploration, but overall, the 3 hours are sufficient for a quick but satisfying visit.

Many appreciate the opportunity to try local delicacies or browse small shops during their free time. The walkable size of Symi makes it easy to see the highlights within the allotted time.

Practicalities: Meals, Accessibility, and Booking

Since lunch is not included, visitors should plan to bring snacks or eat in Symi. The tour does not specify any dietary options or food provisions onboard. Travel is accessible for most, and travelers with service animals are allowed, adding to the inclusivity of the trip.

The trip is booked around 14 days in advance on average, and most travelers find the cost of $46.11 to be good value, considering the scenic boat ride, swimming, and sightseeing.

Customer Feedback: Highlights and Warnings

The majority of reviews are positive, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5. Travelers praise the beautiful scenery, friendly and helpful crew, and the swimming stop at St. George Bay as particularly enjoyable. Many critics mention the length of the boat ride and the crowded conditions as potential downsides.

Some comments note the long ferry time—about 4.5 hours on the boat—which might be tiring for those sensitive to seasickness or seeking a shorter experience. Snacks and drinks for purchase are typical on board, and cash-only payments are standard.

Why This Tour Is a Solid Choice for Visitors

The full-day boat trip to Symi represents value for money and offers a blend of scenic travel, free exploration, and swimming. It’s especially appealing for those wanting a relaxing day with beautiful views and the chance to swim in St. George Bay. The informal, friendly crew and easy logistics make this tour accessible and enjoyable.

However, travelers should be prepared for crowd levels and lengthy ferry times. It’s best suited for active guests comfortable on boats and those eager to explore a small, colorful island. Overall, it remains a popular choice for a memorable day trip from Rhodes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or eat in Symi during their free time.

What is the duration of the boat trip?
The total experience lasts around 9 hours, with approximately two hours of travel each way and additional time for swimming and exploring.

Is there a restroom on the boat?
Yes, a restroom is available onboard for guest comfort during the trip.

Can I participate if I have mobility restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific accessibility details are not provided, so consider mobility needs when planning.

What should I bring for swimming and snorkeling?
While snorkeling gear is not provided, the crystal waters at St. George Bay are perfect for swimming. Bring your own gear if you have preferences.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The scenic boat ride, free time in Symi, and swimming in St. George Bay are the primary attractions.

How crowded does the boat get?
The boat can hold up to 200 travelers and can be quite full, especially during peak season.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice results in no refund.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable, especially those comfortable on boats and seeking a relaxing day exploring Greek islands.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Guests who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and short visits to picturesque islands will find this tour particularly satisfying.