A Practical Review of the Kolymbia High-Speed Boat to Symi Island & St. George’s Bay
Traveling in Greece often means taking in historic ruins or relaxing on sun-kissed beaches. But what about a day trip that combines a quick, exhilarating boat ride with a taste of authentic island life? That’s exactly what the High-Speed Boat to Symi from Kolymbia offers. We’re here to give you a detailed look at this popular excursion — what makes it special, what to consider, and whether it’s worth your time.
Two things we love about this trip are the speedy, smooth boat transfer that gives you more time on Symi without the long bus rides, and the crystal-clear swimming stop at St. George’s Bay—a highlight for many travelers. On the downside, the three-hour window on Symi is just enough for a quick exploration, which might leave some wanting more time. Still, for those seeking a relaxed yet active day of sightseeing and swimming, this tour hits the mark.
If you enjoy scenic boat rides, small-group explorations, and the charm of Greek island fishing villages, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially perfect for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of coach transfers and prefer enjoying the sea and local culture at a leisurely pace.
Key Points
- Fast and comfortable transfer: The high-speed boat offers a smooth, quick ride from Kolymbia, saving you from lengthy bus journeys.
- Authentic Symi experience: About 3 hours to wander the colorful fishing harbor and explore on your own.
- Refreshing swim stop: A 30-minute swim in St. George’s Bay with clear, inviting waters makes this trip memorable.
- Value for money: With a full day including transport, free time on the island, and a swim stop, this is a well-rounded outing.
- Customer praise: Consistently rated 4.9/5 based on 79 reviews, with many mentioning punctuality, beautiful scenery, and excellent organization.
- Accessibility: Suitable for those with mobility issues, as it’s wheelchair accessible, and includes English-speaking hosts.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience
Starting directly from Kolymbia Harbor—which is conveniently close to many hotels—the trip begins with a prompt boat departure. The high-speed boat is designed for both comfort and speed, allowing you to cover the distance to Symi efficiently. This is a real perk for travelers who might otherwise face a long bus ride in the blazing Greek sun.
As you cruise out of Kolymbia, you’ll enjoy views of Rhodes, the main island nearby, and the open sea with its shining blue waters. The boat’s swift motion means you get to Symi faster, leaving more time for exploring the island itself. Reviews repeatedly mention the prompt boarding process and the smoothness of the cruise, making the journey stress-free and comfortable.
Once in Symi, you’ll find yourself in a truly picture-perfect setting. The harbor is a postcard scene — turquoise waters, colorful neoclassical buildings, and lively tavernas. You’ll have about 3 hours to explore at your own pace. Many travelers mention feeling that this time is well-spent: enough to wander, take photos, enjoy a local lunch, or relax by the water.
What sets this tour apart is the swimming stop in St. George’s Bay. About 30 minutes of free time are allocated for a dip in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters. Several reviews rave about this highlight — the towering, inviting waters and the refreshing swim as a perfect break in the day. One traveler called it “magical,” and many mention how clean and inviting the waters are.
On the way back, the boat stops again at St. George’s Bay for a second swim or sunbathing session. This flexibility to enjoy more water time adds to the trip’s appeal, especially in the summer months.
The return journey to Kolymbia is just as smooth, with many noting the punctuality of the trip, which is a big plus for travelers with tight schedules. The overall experience is very well-organized, with friendly, professional staff and clear communication throughout.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kolympia.
The Value of the Experience
When we analyze the value here, it’s clear that this trip offers a lot for a reasonable price. The transportation, free time on Symi, and swimming stops combine to give a full day of enjoyment without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers independently. Many reviews mention how easy and stress-free the experience is — no need for extra taxis, no long waiting times, just a straightforward, enjoyable day.
The cost is justified by the quality of the boat, the convenience of direct departure from Kolymbia, and the overall organization. It’s a good choice for travelers who want an authentic and scenic Greek island experience without the expense or effort of a private tour.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for those who enjoy sea-based adventures, picturesque villages, and a taste of local life. It suits travelers who want a quick but meaningful visit to Symi, with time for photos, exploring, and swimming. The family-friendly nature, accessibility, and the manageable 8-hour duration make it an excellent option for a wide range of visitors.
If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates comfort, efficiency, and authenticity, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s particularly attractive for those who dislike long bus rides, prefer a small-group feel, and love the idea of combining sightseeing with swimming.
Practical Tips for Participants
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses — the sun can be intense during the boat cruise and on the island.
- Pack swimwear and a towel for the stops at St. George’s Bay.
- Consider bringing cash or cards for lunch on Symi — the tour doesn’t include meals.
- Arrive early at Kolymbia Harbor, although reviews mention the boarding process is prompt.
- Check the starting times when booking because they can vary — the tour lasts about 8 hours in total.
- If you require wheelchair access, rest assured the tour is accessible, but it’s good to confirm with the provider beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the boat ride from Kolymbia to Symi?
The boat ride is designed to be quick and smooth, with the high-speed vessel getting you to Symi efficiently, leaving you more time to explore on land.
What does the tour include?
It includes a high-speed boat cruise, about 3 hours of free time on Symi, and a 30-minute swimming stop at St. George’s Bay.
Is there any food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of tavernas on Symi where you can buy lunch.
Is the trip family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families, especially since it’s wheelchair accessible and offers a relaxed pace.
How punctual is the departure and return?
Reviews note that the tour is very punctual; departure time is precise, and the crew manages time well to ensure everyone gets the full experience.
Can I customize my time on Symi?
The itinerary allows about 3 hours for exploration, which is usually enough for a quick wander, but not a full day. Further customization would require private arrangements.
To sum it up, this high-speed boat trip from Kolymbia to Symi offers a wonderful combination of scenic travel, authentic island charm, and refreshing swims. It’s a great pick for travelers looking for a well-organized, value-packed day that captures the essence of Greek island life without unnecessary fuss. Whether you’re seeking scenic photos, a taste of local culture, or just a dip in some crystal-clear waters, this tour delivers on many fronts—making it a highlight of any Greek holiday.
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