Rhodes: Symi, St George, Panormitis-Full day cruise-SYMI II

Key Points

• 8-hour full-day cruise departing from Rhodes Mandraki Port on a comfortable catamaran
• Visit the colorful island of Symi with three hours of free time for shopping, dining, and exploring
• Enjoy a scenic photo stop at Saint Georges Bay for stunning water views
• Explore the Panormitis Monastery, a significant spiritual site, with a guided visit inside the 18th-century church
• Relax on outdoor sundecks or in the air-conditioned lounge during the sailing segments
• Daily departures ensure flexible planning, with options for free cancellation and booking now, pay later

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Rhodes to Symi: A Relaxing Full-Day Catamaran Journey

This tour offers a full-day cruise departing from Rhodes’ Mandraki Port aboard a spacious, modern catamaran designed for comfort and sightseeing. The journey lasts approximately 8 hours, including stops at Symi, Saint Georges Bay, and Panormitis Monastery. It’s a practical choice for travelers craving a blend of scenic sailing, cultural highlights, and leisure.

The departure point is easy to find in Rhodes’ Mandraki Port, where the SYMI II boat is docked. The tour includes daily departures, making it hassle-free to plan, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip. The experience suits those who enjoy relaxed days on the water with plenty of free time to explore each location at their own pace.

The Spacious Catamaran: Comfort on the Open Sea

Traveling on the SYMI II, you’ll appreciate the comfortable, modern design of the vessel, which features outdoor sundecks perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the views. For a break from the sun, you can retreat into the air-conditioned lounge, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather.

The boat includes a shop for drinks and snacks, and the toilets are accessible during the trip, making the journey convenient and enjoyable. The crew is described as friendly and helpful, contributing to a smooth sailing experience. The larger capacity of the boat means a crowded environment can occur, but it generally remains an efficient setup for sightseeing and relaxation.

Symi Island: Colorful Village and Free Exploration Time

The tour’s highlight is the stunning harbor of Symi, famous for its pastel-colored neoclassical buildings and charming alleyways. Visitors get around three hours of free time to wander, shop, or dine at seaside tavernas. The shops often feature local sponges and handmade crafts, perfect for those wanting a quick souvenir.

The free time allows for self-guided walks, scenic photos, and sampling fresh seafood. Although free time is ample for exploring the town, note that the main focus is on sightseeing and shopping, not extensive sightseeing. Some may find the schedule tight, especially if they wish to linger longer or visit more distant spots.

Saint Georges Bay: A Picture-Perfect Waterstop

After leaving Symi, the boat makes a short stop at Saint Georges Bay for a photo opportunity. The crystal-clear waters and natural beauty of this bay make it an ideal spot for capturing memorable images.

This brief scenic stop allows passengers to enjoy stunning water views and take some quick photos before continuing the cruise. It is a passive experience with no planned activities, serving simply as a chance to relax and appreciate the landscape.

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Panormitis Monastery: Sacred Site and Cultural Highlight

The final stop is the Panormitis Monastery, set in a peaceful bay and known as a major Greek pilgrimage site. The 18th-century church hosts the sacred icon of Archangel Michael and is a must-visit for those interested in spiritual landmarks.

The tour allows about one hour for self-guided exploration of the monastery complex. Visitors can step inside the church, view sacred icons, and admire the tranquil surroundings. The monastery’s setting in the sheltered bay offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for a moment of reflection before heading back to Rhodes.

The Sailing Itinerary: From Rhodes to Symi and Back

The itinerary begins at Mandraki Port, where the SYMI II departs after check-in outside the ship. The first sailing segment lasts about 110 minutes to reach Symi. After three hours on the island, the boat heads to Saint Georges Bay for a quick photo stop.

Next, a 45-minute voyage takes the boat to the Panormitis Monastery, where the group spends around an hour exploring. The return leg involves another 110-minute cruise back to Rhodes. The schedule allows for a balanced day, but some reviews note that return times can vary, and delays may occur.

Meeting Point and Practical Details for Participants

The meeting point for the tour is Rhodes Mandraki Port, specifically at the Seadreams check-in desk outside the SYMI II boat. It’s recommended to exchange vouchers for a boarding pass early to avoid any last-minute issues.
Participants should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and a camera to capture the scenic moments.
It’s important to input full names, age, and nationality during booking, and the full phone number is required for contact. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a viable option for many travelers with mobility needs.

The Experience: Balancing Sightseeing and Relaxation

This full-day cruise combines scenic sailing with cultural visits and free exploration time. The scenic water views of Rhodes’ walls, the fortress, and the iconic skyline set a picturesque tone at the start of the journey.

While the boat itself offers a comfortable environment, the crowded capacity can lead to a less private experience during the sailing. The three hours on Symi provide enough time to browse, snap photos, and dine, but the short visits to Panormitis mean it’s more about experiencing than deep exploration.

Some reviews mention delays and schedule changes due to weather, and limited time at the monastery. These are minor inconveniences compared to the overall relaxing pace and breathtaking scenery.

Worth Considering: What This Tour Does Well and Its Limitations

The tour excels in offering stunning water and island scenery, with plenty of space on deck to unwind or enjoy the sun. The free time in Symi is a large plus, giving flexibility to shop or dine at leisure.

However, some reviews highlight that most of the day is spent on the boat, and visiting the monastery is relatively brief. Also, delays or program changes due to weather can impact expectations. The crowded environment on the vessel might be a consideration for those seeking a more intimate experience.

This cruise is ideal for those who value scenic sailing, cultural visits, and flexible exploration, but less suited for travelers expecting longer excursions or extensive sightseeing at each stop.

Final Thoughts on the Symi, Saint Georges Bay, and Panormitis Cruise

The Rhodes: Symi, St George, Panormitis full-day cruise provides a balanced mix of sailing, sightseeing, and free time operating on a comfortable catamaran. The three-hour visit to Symi allows enough time to enjoy the town’s colorful architecture and local shops, making it a good option for casual explorers.

The short stops at Saint Georges Bay and Panormitis Monastery offer beautiful photo opportunities and a glance into Greek spiritual life. The schedule is flexible, with daily departures and full refund options if canceled ahead of time.

While the schedule and program can sometimes be affected by weather or operational issues, the overall experience combines breathtaking views with relaxed, accessible sightseeing. This tour suits those seeking a scenic day on the water with a taste of local culture, ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and flexibility over extensive exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring for the day?
Participants need to bring a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and a camera to capture the scenery.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

How long is the free time at Symi?
The free time at Symi is approximately three hours, enough for exploring, shopping, or dining.

Does the schedule always follow the itinerary?
The itinerary is subject to weather and operational conditions, which can cause changes or delays, particularly affecting the return times.

Is there food available onboard?
Yes, there is a shop on board for drinks and snacks, but no mention of included meals; travelers are advised to bring essentials if desired.

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