Rhodes: High-Speed Boat to Symi Island and St George’s Bay

Travelers looking to add a splash of adventure and authentic Greek charm to their Rhodes holiday will find this high-speed boat trip to Symi a memorable choice. Offering a quick, comfortable ride across the sparkling waters of the Dodecanese, this tour balances scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and a refreshing swim—all for a reasonable price.

What we love most about this experience is how efficiently it maximizes your time, giving you around three hours to explore Symi’s colorful streets and a delightful half-hour swim stop at St. George’s Bay. Plus, the lively commentary and friendly crew keep the journey engaging.

A potential consideration is the weather: it can be chilly on the boat, especially early in the season or if you’re sensitive to wind. Packing a jacket is a smart move. This trip suits travelers who want a taste of local life, enjoy scenic boat rides, and don’t mind some active strolling during their free time. If you’re seeking a quick escape with plenty of authentic flavor, this tour might be perfect.

Key Points

• Fast and comfortable transportation saves time and energy.
• Three hours in Symi offer enough to explore the town without feeling rushed.
• Swim stop at St. George’s Bay is a highlight, with clear waters perfect for a splash or a lounge.
• Affordable price point delivers good value considering the included activities and sights.
• Friendly, professional crew enhances the overall experience, making it smooth and enjoyable.
• Flexible departure times allow you to choose a schedule that fits your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want to see the beautiful island of Symi quickly but thoroughly. Starting from Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes, you’ll hop aboard a high-speed boat that whisks you across the sea in about an hour—more than enough time to enjoy the views of the coast and the open water. The boat’s speed allows for more time on the island and at the swim stop, making it a better deal than slower, longer trips.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour typically begins with a sightseeing cruise of about an hour. During this time, you’ll glide past Rhodes’ coast and out into the open sea, soaking up views of the crystalline waters and rugged shoreline. If you’re lucky, you may spot dolphins, as some reviews mention seeing these playful creatures on the return journey.

Next, you’ll arrive at Symi, a small fishing island famous for its pastel-colored neoclassical buildings and lively harbor. You’ll have roughly three hours to explore on your own. This window is just right for wandering the narrow streets, visiting shops, or grabbing a local lunch at a traditional taverna—at your own expense.

The return trip includes a 20-minute cruise before reaching St. George’s Bay, where you’ll stop for a 30-minute swim (from September to October, the swim might be replaced by a quick photo stop). The bay is known for its stunning turquoise water and picturesque setting—perfect for cooling off or soaking up the sun.

Finally, you’ll cruise back to Rhodes, enjoying coastal views during a 70-minute return sail—a relaxing way to end the day. Keep in mind that the 3:15 departure skips the swim stop, but offers a less busy, cooler time to enjoy Symi and a gorgeous sunset on the way back.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of around $55 per person includes the high-speed boat cruise, free time in Symi, and a swimming stop in St. George’s Bay. It’s a good value considering the scenic journey, the opportunity to explore a charming island, and the chance to relax in crystal-clear waters.

However, meals and drinks are not included, and there are no hotel transfers—so you’ll need to arrange transportation to the meeting point. Meeting instructions are flexible, depending on the option you select, but the process is straightforward.

Appreciating Symi and St. George’s Bay

Once you arrive in Symi, the town’s unique character shines. The vibrant, pastel-colored buildings, the lively harbor, and the small, winding streets reflect a welcoming, laid-back vibe. Some reviews mention walking up to a church for panoramic views—a rewarding activity for those who enjoy a gentle climb. The free time allows for spontaneous discoveries, whether it’s shopping for souvenirs, tasting local delicacies, or simply enjoying the scene.

St. George’s Bay, the highlight for many, offers crystal-clear waters and a peaceful environment. Travelers rave about its beauty, with some describing it as “breathtaking” and “unforgettable.” The swim stop is usually 30 minutes, which provides ample time to float, paddle, or just bask in the sunshine.

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Why Travelers Keep Coming Back

Numerous reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, noting that staff are attentive and helpful. Many mention how smooth and punctual the trip runs, with some even saying it’s “great value for money.” Several comments highlight how well-organized the process is—from booking to arrival—making it suitable even for first-time visitors.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with some reviews mentioning the need for a jacket due to wind or cool weather, especially early in the season. The seating is generally comfortable, although some find the sports seats a bit narrow—benches further back are available for those who prefer more space.

The Value of This Trip

For around $55, you get a lot: a fast, scenic ride, a decent chunk of time on Symi, and a swim in one of Greece’s most beautiful bays. When you consider the costs of individual taxi rides, boat rentals, or guided tours, this package offers excellent value. The flexibility of departure times allows you to tailor the experience—whether you want to start early, catch a sunset, or avoid the crowds.

The reviews consistently praise the length of time in Symi as “just right,” and many say they’d happily return. The opportunity to see the island’s highlights in a day makes it an efficient choice for travelers with limited time.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear and a towel: The swim stop at St. George’s Bay is a highlight, and you’ll want to be ready to jump in.
• Pack a jacket or layers: It can get breezy or cool on the boat, especially in early or late season.
• Plan your exploration in Symi wisely: three hours is enough for a quick walk, a meal, or some shopping, but don’t expect to see everything.
• Book in advance if possible, especially during peak season, as this tour is popular.
• Be prepared for a lively, friendly atmosphere—the crew is often praised for their helpfulness and professionalism.
• Check the departure time to ensure it matches your preferred activity; note that the 3:15 departure skips the swim but offers a beautiful sunset.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts between 6 to 9 hours, depending on the departure time you choose. The core boat ride is around 2-3 hours, with additional time allocated for exploring Symi and the swim stop at St. George’s Bay.

Where does the tour start and end?
Start points vary depending on your selected option but are generally near Mandraki Harbor or a nearby accessible location. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point.

Is hotel transfer included?
No, hotel transfers aren’t part of the package. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the high-speed boat cruise, free time in Symi, and a swim stop at St. George’s Bay. Meals, drinks, and personal expenses are additional.

Are there any special considerations for the boat?
The boat is comfortable and fast, but it can get cool due to wind; bringing a jacket is advisable. Seating arrangements include sports seats and benches—choose what’s comfortable for you.

Can I customize my trip?
Yes, depending on the departure time, you might have options like skipping the swim stop for a sunset cruise, which offers a different but equally stunning experience.

How much time do I get in Symi?
Approximately three hours, enough for a quick stroll, shopping, or a meal. Some reviews mention this is the perfect amount of time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and scenic nature suggest it’s family-friendly, provided children are comfortable on a boat and can enjoy a few hours exploring.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a jacket or layers are recommended. Comfortable shoes for walking around Symi are also a good idea.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for those who want a quick, scenic trip with a taste of local life. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the beauty of Symi and St. George’s Bay. The friendly crew and smooth operation make it accessible for first-time visitors, while the stunning scenery keeps seasoned travelers enchanted.

If you’re interested in authentic Greek island charm, enjoy swimming and exploring at a relaxed pace, and appreciate well-organized tours offering good value, this trip ticks all those boxes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, efficiency, and natural beauty over lengthy, crowded excursions.

The Sum Up

In summary, this high-speed boat tour from Rhodes to Symi offers an attractive combination of quick, comfortable transportation, beautiful scenery, and a taste of local life. With a balanced itinerary that includes sightseeing, a swim, and free exploration time, it suits travelers seeking a hassle-free way to experience one of Greece’s most charming islands.

The consistently positive reviews attest to the professionalism of the crew and the overall value, making it clear that many visitors find it a highlight of their holiday. It’s an excellent choice if you want a memorable day with plenty of photo opportunities, authentic moments, and a splash of adventure—all at a fair price.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour provides a quick, scenic escape to a beloved Greek island. Pack your swimsuit, bring your camera, and get ready for a day of beauty, culture, and fun on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: