Rhodes: Daily Cruise to Symi – Panormitis & St. George Bay

Embarking on a captivating cruise from Rhodes, visitors can discover the enchanting island of Symi. This daily excursion promises an immersive experience, from exploring the historic Panormitis Monastery to indulging in a refreshing swim at St. George’s Bay. With 3 hours of free time in the charming town of Gialos, travelers can meander through the quaint streets and savor the local cuisine. Onboard the luxurious Diamond, guests can relax and take in the stunning coastal scenery, making this a truly unforgettable journey through the Dodecanese islands. What awaits beyond the shores of Symi is a treasure trove of cultural delights and natural wonders.

Good To Know

• Daily cruise from Rhodes to Symi island, lasting 8 hours and costing €45 per person.
• Visit to the historic Panormitis Monastery and a swimming stop at St. Georges Bay or Nanou Beach.
• Minimum 3 hours of free time to explore the charming town of Gialos in Symi.
• Cruise aboard the luxurious, air-conditioned fast cruiser Diamond with onboard amenities.
• Suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The daily cruise from Rhodes to the picturesque island of Symi costs €45.00 per person.

The cruise lasts 8 hours, departing at 9:00 am from Rhodes Port and returning at 5:20 pm.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot now without paying until later.

The cruise includes a visit to the Panormitis Monastery, a swimming stop, and at least 3 hours of free time to explore or dine in Symi’s central port, Gialos.

The newly built, luxurious fast cruiser, Diamond, offers air-conditioned facilities, onboard toilets, snacks, and drinks.

Itinerary Highlights

The daily cruise to Symi offers a range of highlights for travelers.

The first stop is the Panormitis Monastery, where visitors will have an hour to explore this historic Greek Orthodox landmark.

Next, the boat will make a swimming stop at either St. Georges Bay or Nanou Beach, providing a refreshing break.

Arriving at Gialos, the central port of Symi, passengers will have at least 3 hours of free time to wander the island’s charming streets, admire its unique architecture, and sample the local cuisine.

These key elements of the itinerary allow travelers to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of the Dodecanese islands during this full-day excursion.

Boat Experience

Newly built in 2024, the luxurious fast cruiser Diamond transports guests on the daily cruise to Symi.

The air-conditioned salon and onboard toilets provide comfort, while snacks and drinks are available for purchase. An optional guided tour is offered, though it’s not available daily.

The crew speaks English and Polish. The vessel’s modern amenities and efficient design ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to the charming island of Symi.

Passengers can sit back, relax, and take in the stunning scenery as the Diamond navigates the azure waters of the Aegean Sea.

Important Participant Information

Before embarking on the daily cruise to Symi, there are a few important considerations for participants.

The tour isn’t suitable for people with epilepsy, high blood pressure, or those over 95 years of age. Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, a change of clothes, towels, cameras, credit cards, sunscreen, and cash.

It’s also recommended to bring a charged smartphone to stay connected. Participants should be aware that the swimming stops may vary from St. Georges Bay to Nanou Beach, and the time spent in Symi could be shorter than the advertised 3 hours.

Customer Feedback

Based on 25 customer reviews, the overall rating for the daily cruise to Symi stands at 3.6 out of 5.

Reviewers rated the value for money at 3.5/5. Common issues included cancellations of activities, lack of audio guides, shorter time on Symi than advertised, and discrepancies in swimming stops.

Despite these challenges, the majority of customers expressed general satisfaction with the trip experience.

The cruise offers a unique opportunity to visit the picturesque island of Symi, with its historic Panormitis Monastery and scenic swimming spots.

Travelers should weigh the pros and cons based on their preferences and expectations to determine if this cruise is the right fit for their Rhodes vacation.

Duration and Departure

Departing at 9:00 am from Rhodes Port, the daily cruise to Symi lasts 8 hours, returning at 5:20 pm.

This provides ample time for visitors to explore the island’s highlights, including the Panormitis Monastery and either St. Georges Bay or Nanou Beach.

Travelers can look forward to arriving at Gialos, Symi’s central port, at 12:40 pm, allowing for at least 3 hours of free time to wander the charming town and indulge in local cuisine.

The cruise is operated on a newly built, luxurious fast cruiser, offering air-conditioned comfort and onboard amenities throughout the journey.

Swimming Stops

The cruise offers a stop for swimming at either St. Georges Bay or Nanou Beach. This refreshing break allows passengers to cool off and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

The swimming stop provides the opportunity to:

• Rejuvenate with a refreshing dip
• Admire the stunning coastal scenery
• Relax on the sandy shores
• Capture picturesque moments for lasting memories

This portion of the itinerary is a highlight for many, offering a chance to take in the natural beauty of the region and recharge before continuing the journey to explore the charming town of Symi.

Monastery Visit

Upon arrival at 10:20 am, passengers have roughly one hour to explore the Panormitis Monastery, a prominent religious site on the island of Symi.

The monastery dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the Archangel Michael, who’s revered as the protector of the island. Visitors can wander through the ornate courtyards and visit the main cathedral, which features stunning Byzantine-style frescoes and icons.

The monastery also houses a small museum showcasing religious artifacts and historical relics. Passengers are encouraged to take their time exploring the grounds and soaking in the serene atmosphere before returning to the cruise ship to continue their Symi adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The boat has amenities like an air-conditioned salon and toilets, but outside food and beverages are permitted for the convenience of the travelers.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Yes, there’s a discounted rate for children and seniors. Kids under 12 get 25% off, and seniors over 65 receive a 15% discount. However, these reduced prices are not mentioned in the tour overview provided.

Can I Leave My Luggage on the Boat During the Symi Visit?

Yes, passengers can leave their luggage on the boat during the Symi visit. The vessel has secure storage areas for bags and belongings so they’ll be safe while exploring the island.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Cruise Vessel?

The cruise vessel doesn’t provide Wi-Fi for passengers. Travelers should plan accordingly and ensure they have their own data or connectivity during the tour, as on-board Wi-Fi is not an available amenity.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location on Symi Island?

The itinerary allows for at least 3 hours of free time to explore or dine in Symi’s central port, Gialos. However, the specific duration spent at each location on the island is not clearly outlined in the provided information.

The Sum Up

This daily cruise to Symi offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic Panormitis Monastery, enjoy a refreshing swim at St. George’s Bay, and discover the charming streets of Gialos. With comfortable amenities and stunning coastal scenery, this 8-hour journey is an excellent way to experience the Dodecanese islands from Rhodes.