High Speed Sunset Cruise to Symi Island with 3 hours of free time

If you’re looking for a quick escape from the buzz of Rhodes, a high-speed boat cruise to Symi offers a promising blend of scenic beauty and relaxed exploration. This tour, offered by Rhodes Sea Lines, whisks you across the shimmering waters of the Dodecanese to one of the region’s most picturesque fishing villages. It’s a trip that appeals especially to travelers who want a taste of island life without spending the entire day away—or those eager to capture stunning sunset views on the way back.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances efficient transportation with ample free time for personal discovery. The speed of the boat means more time on Symi itself, rather than hours spent in transit. Plus, the 5-minute photo stop at Saint George’s Bay provides a perfect quick glimpse of Symi’s colorful harbor en route—an Instagram-worthy moment that sets the tone for what’s to come. On the flip side, some travelers might find the boat ride a bit bumpy or wet, which is worth considering if you’re prone to seasickness or sensitive to rough waters.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, spontaneous exploring, and memorable sunsets. It’s a flexible option for travelers with limited time, families, or anyone curious about Symi’s charming harbor and pastel architecture. If you’re after a laid-back day with a dash of adventure and gorgeous views, this trip fits the bill.

Key Points

• Fast and efficient: More time on Symi thanks to a high-speed boat, rather than lengthy ferry rides.
• Scenic highlights: Includes a brief photo stop at Saint George’s Bay with iconic views of colorful harbor and church domes.
• Flexible exploration: About 3 hours free time to wander, dine, or swim at your leisure.
• Affordable value: At around $58, it offers a good balance between cost and experience, especially considering the scenic backdrop.
• Sunset return: The cruise features a beautiful sunset view as you head back to Rhodes—perfect for memorable photos.
• Mixed reviews on comfort: Some mention the boat ride can be bumpy and wet, so pack accordingly if you’re sensitive.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off at Rhodes Sea Lines at Pl. Eleftherias around 3:15 pm. This timing is ideal for a late afternoon departure, allowing you to enjoy the cruise into the evening. The group size can be up to 120 travelers, which means it’s lively but not overly crowded—there’s still room to find your own space on the boat.

The Journey to Symi: A Speedy Escape

The high-speed vessel is designed to minimize transit time, giving you more hours to explore Symi. The journey itself takes approximately 45 minutes, with a brief 5-minute photo stop at Saint George’s Bay. This stop is particularly well-loved by travelers for its stunning views of Symi’s colorful harbor, with its pastel-colored neoclassical buildings, fishing boats, and domed churches. Reviewers note this as a “perfect quick glimpse” that hints at the beauty of the island.

Arriving in Symi: Exploring on Your Own

Once disembarked, you are granted roughly 3 hours to wander freely. Symi’s main attraction is its fishing harbor, lined with traditional tavernas and cafes. You might enjoy strolling along the waterfront, admiring the brightly painted buildings and taking photos of the church domes. Some travelers choose to relax on the beach or take a quick swim in the clear waters. Lunch options are plentiful, with many local tavernas serving fresh seafood and Greek staples—though you’ll need to pay on your own.

One traveler described the visit as “lovely & relaxing,” highlighting how the laid-back atmosphere and scenic surroundings make for a memorable half-day trip. However, some note that in peak season, the town can be quite busy, so arriving early to beat crowds is advisable.

The Return Journey: Sunset Views

As you depart Symi, the boat offers a perfect vantage point to enjoy the sunset. Many reviews mention how the sunset cast a warm glow over the water, making the return journey especially picturesque. The cruise back is less about transport and more about the experience of watching the sky change color over the Aegean, making it a peaceful end to an active day.

The Overall Value

For around $58, the experience provides a good mix of transportation, scenic views, and free time. The main value lies in how much scenery you see without the long hours usually associated with island-hopping tours. The opportunity to explore Symi at your own pace makes this a flexible choice for travelers who prefer spontaneous wandering over rigid schedules.

Considerations and Tips

• The boat ride can be bumpy and wet, especially at the front of the vessel. Pack a rain jacket or quick-drying clothes if you’re sensitive.
• Be aware of the limited time in Symi—3 hours goes quickly, so plan your exploration accordingly.
• The sunset cruise back is a highlight, so bring a camera to capture the colorful skies.
• Confirm the departure time and plan to arrive a little early, as the meeting point is in a busy tourist area.
• Weather can impact the experience—cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, but the tour offers full refunds or rescheduling.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for anyone wanting to maximize their time exploring Symi without a full-day commitment. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, picturesque villages, and sunset views. Families, couples, or solo travelers with a sense of adventure will find it a worthwhile addition to their Rhodes itinerary. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but still want a taste of island charm, stunning vistas, and the authentic feel of a fishing port.

If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a smooth, calm ride, you might want to consider the reviews mentioning the bumpiness. Also, those looking for a very leisurely, in-depth exploration of Symi might find the 3-hour window a bit brief—but for most, that’s enough to enjoy a relaxed lunch, a walk, or a quick swim.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat ride from Rhodes to Symi?
The high-speed boat takes approximately 45 minutes to reach Symi, making it a quick and efficient way to get there.

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket includes the boat transfer, the 5-minute photo stop at Saint George’s Bay, and the 3 hours free time in Symi. The sunset cruise back is part of the experience, offering scenic views as you return.

Can I explore Symi on my own?
Yes, you have about 3 hours to wander freely. You can explore the harbor, have lunch, or swim in the waters at your leisure. Just remember to keep track of time to return for the boat’s departure.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunscreen, a hat, and water. If you’re sensitive to the sun or wind, consider additional protection. Pack a towel if you plan to swim.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Some reviews mention that the ride can be bumpy and wet, especially at the front of the boat. If you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions.

What time does the tour start and end?
It departs at 3:15 pm from Rhodes and returns after sunset, roughly 6.5 hours later.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, up to 120 travelers can participate, which keeps the experience lively but manageable.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. Poor conditions may lead to cancellation, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This high-speed cruise to Symi offers a compelling way to see one of the Dodecanese’ most iconic islands while enjoying some of the best sunset views in the region. The speedy boat ensures you spend less time in transit and more time soaking in the scenery, making it a practical choice for travelers short on time or those eager for a scenic escape. The free afternoon allows for personal exploration—whether that’s wandering the harbor, grabbing a local meal, or taking a quick swim.

While the boat ride’s bumpy nature might not be suitable for everyone, most find the experience well worth it for the stunning vistas and the chance to visit Symi’s charming town. The price point makes it an accessible adventure, especially considering the scenic highlights and flexible free time.

If you love picturesque villages, scenic boat rides, and memorable sunsets, this cruise fits the bill. It’s a lively, scenic, and generally well-reviewed way to add a splash of Greek island charm to your Rhodes holiday.