Kolympia’s stunning coastal scenery makes it a must-visit destination in Greece. Travelers can embark on an 8-hour high-speed boat cruise to the picturesque island of Symi and St. George’s Bay, all for the reasonable price of $89.54 per person. This excursion offers a chance to take in the island’s neoclassical architecture, indulge in local delicacies, and enjoy breathtaking views from the boat. With 30 minutes of swimming in crystal-clear waters and three hours of free time to explore, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for all. But the true excitement lies in what awaits upon arrival to this stunning Greek destination.
Key Points
- High-speed boat cruise from Kolympia to Symi Island, with a 30-minute swimming stop in St. George’s Bay, costs $89.54 per person.
- Explore the picturesque fishing harbor, colorful church domes, and sample local specialties like Symi mini shrimps and Ouzo during the 3-hour stay on Symi Island.
- Enjoy stunning coastal views and the pastel-colored neoclassical buildings during the boat ride back to Kolymbia.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and includes an English-speaking host for seamless communication.
- Received an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 51 reviews, with positive feedback on the transportation and value for money.
Cruise Overview and Pricing
According to the information provided, the high-speed boat cruise from Kolympia to Symi Island costs from $89.54 per person.
The cruise duration is 8 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers a reserve now and pay later option.
Visitors can expect to spend 3 hours exploring Symi Island and a 30-minute swimming stop in St. George’s Bay.
The boat cruise allows travelers to admire the turquoise waters, pastel-colored neoclassical buildings, and coastal views during the return journey.
The tour is accessible to wheelchair users and includes an English-speaking host or greeter.
Itinerary and Highlights
The high-speed boat cruise departs from Kolymbia Harbor, offering travelers 3 hours of free time to explore the charming island of Symi.
During the journey, the boat makes a 30-minute stop at St. George’s Bay, allowing passengers to take a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters.
Along the way, visitors can admire the picturesque fishing harbor, the pastel-colored neoclassical buildings, and the colorful church domes that dot the island.
The cruise also provides an opportunity to try local specialties, such as Symi mini shrimps and Ouzo, enhancing the cultural experience.
The return journey offers stunning coastal views, completing the scenic and memorable excursion.
Exploring Symi Island
Upon disembarking the high-speed boat, travelers can enjoy the enchanting ambiance of Symi Island. The island’s pastel-colored neoclassical buildings and colorful church domes create a picturesque setting. Visitors can explore the charming fishing harbor, browse local shops, and savor the island’s renowned specialties, including Symi mini shrimps and Ouzo. To enhance the experience, a table below showcases the island’s must-see attractions and activities:
| Attraction | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Symi Harbor | 1-2 hours | Turquoise waters, pastel buildings |
| St. George’s Bay | 30 minutes | Swimming in the tranquil bay |
| Local Cuisine | 1 hour | Symi shrimps, Ouzo tastings |
| Neoclassical Architecture | 1-2 hours | Ornate church domes, quaint alleys |
| Coastal Vistas | During boat ride | Stunning views during return journey |
Swimming in St. George’s Bay
During the cruise, passengers have the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim in the tranquil waters of St. George’s Bay.
The stop lasts for 30 minutes, providing ample time to take a dip and cool off. The bay’s crystal-clear turquoise waters offer a serene and picturesque setting, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
Symi’s iconic pastel-colored buildings can be admired from the water, adding to the charm of the swimming experience.
Whether you’re looking to simply relax or seek a refreshing break, the stop at St. George’s Bay is a highlight of the Symi Island tour.
Local Cuisine and Drinks
Symi Island is renowned for its delectable local cuisine and traditional beverages. During the excursion, visitors have the opportunity to sample Symi’s iconic mini shrimps, which are prized for their succulent flavor.
These bite-sized crustaceans are often served with a squeeze of lemon, providing a refreshing contrast. Plus, the famous Greek liquor, Ouzo, is a popular choice for sipping while taking in the island’s picturesque scenery.
Ouzo’s anise-flavored profile complements the local seafood dishes perfectly. Whether enjoying a plate of Symi shrimps or a glass of Ouzo, visitors can enjoy the island’s vibrant culinary traditions.
Scenic Coastal Views
The high-speed boat cruise offers breathtaking coastal views throughout the journey. Passengers will admire the turquoise waters of the fishing harbor and the pastel-colored neoclassical buildings with colorful church domes that dot the shoreline. As the boat speeds back towards Kolympia, travelers can take in the scenic coastal landscapes, from rugged cliffs to secluded coves.
| Coastal Landscapes | Turquoise Waters |
| Pastel-Colored Buildings | Colorful Church Domes |
| Rugged Cliffs | Secluded Coves |
| Fishing Harbor | Scenic Return Trip |
The combination of the crystal-clear waters, historic architecture, and dramatic natural scenery create a visually captivating experience for all who embark on this high-speed boat adventure.
Accessibility and Support
The high-speed boat cruise provides an English-speaking host or greeter to assist passengers throughout the experience. This ensures seamless communication and a smooth journey for all participants.
The tour is also wheelchair accessible, catering to the needs of travelers with mobility challenges. With these accessibility features, the Kolympia to Symi Island excursion is inclusive and welcoming, allowing a wider range of visitors to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery and cultural highlights of the destination.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the water or an immersive cultural experience, the tour’s accessibility and support make it a convenient and inclusive choice.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Kolympia to Symi Island high-speed boat cruise, with an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 51 reviews.
The transportation rating is 4.8/5, and the value for money rating is 4.7/5. Reviewers highlight their enjoyment of the trip, the stunning beauty of Symi, and the refreshing swimming experience.
However, they do caution about potential mobile data usage issues when near Turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Boat Suitable for Families With Children?
The boat cruise appears suitable for families with children. It offers free cancellation, a 30-minute swimming stop, and is wheelchair accessible, suggesting it accommodates a range of ages and abilities.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?
Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on board the high-speed boat. However, there may be refreshments and snacks available for purchase during the cruise as well.
Is Wifi Available During the Boat Trip?
WiFi is not specifically mentioned as being available during the boat trip. The tour details do not indicate the availability of onboard WiFi, so passengers should assume it is not provided.
Are Life Jackets Provided for the Swimming Stop?
Yes, life jackets are provided for the 30-minute swimming stop in St. George’s Bay. The tour ensures passengers’ safety during the activity portion of the excursion.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs on Symi Island?
Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs on Symi Island during the 3-hour free time. The island is known for its traditional crafts, handmade goods, and local specialties that make great keepsakes.
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Recap
The Kolympia high-speed boat cruise to Symi Island and St. George’s Bay offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty. At just $89.54 per person, the 8-hour journey provides 30 minutes of swimming, three hours of free time to discover Symi’s charming harbor, and the chance to indulge in local delicacies. With its accessibility and breathtaking coastal views, this tour promises a truly memorable adventure for all.