Rhodes:Full-Day Trip to Panormitis – Snt George – Symi

Planning a day trip from Rhodes to explore nearby gems like Symi and the Panormitis Monastery? This full-day boat tour promises a scenic cruise combined with cultural highlights, but it’s worth knowing what to expect before you book. We’ve looked at the details, reviews, and what makes this experience tick to give you a practical, honest overview.

What we like about this tour is the chance to see Iconic sights from the water — the historic Rhodes windmills, the fortress, and the bustling Old Town. We also appreciate the freedom to explore Symi at your own pace for four hours — a perfect balance of guided and independent discovery.

A potential drawback is that some travelers have found the boat’s comfort level to be less than ideal, especially for the longer trip, as noted by a reviewer who described the vessel as old, noisy, and underwhelming in comfort. That’s something to consider if you’re sensitive to onboard conditions.

This tour generally suits those wanting a full-day experience combining scenery, culture, and free time — ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, relaxed island strolling, and photo opportunities. It’s also a budget-friendly option, especially if you want to see Symi without the high cost of private transfers.

Key Points

• Scenic water cruise offers views of Rhodes’ historic landmarks and Aegean coastlines.
• Visit two major sites: the stunning Panormitis Monastery and Symi’s colorful harbor.
• Flexibility: 4 hours on Symi for self-guided exploration.
• Inclusion of photo stops like Saint George Bay.
• Longer boat ride may be uncomfortable for some, especially on an older vessel.
• Ideal for travelers on a budget seeking authentic island experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Embarking from Rhodes’ Mandraki port, the first thing you’ll notice is the welcoming atmosphere onboard the SYMI II catamaran, with options to relax either in the air-conditioned interior or on the spacious sundeck. Many travelers appreciate the comfortable sailing experience, as it allows for stunning views of Rhodes’ coastline — from the medieval walls and the fortress to the windmills — all while gently drifting towards the islands.

The cruise lasts around 110 minutes, during which you’ll pass by notable sights like the Old Town’s minarets and clocktower, making the journey itself part of the sightseeing. The boat’s route takes you across the Aegean, providing a different perspective of Rhodes’ urban charm and natural scenery. While some reviews mention the boat’s age and noise, most agree that the views make up for the discomfort, especially if you’re eager for a scenic adventure rather than luxury.

Visiting Panormitis Monastery

The highlight for many is the visit to the monastery dedicated to the Archangel Michael in Panormitis. It’s a peaceful spot with a beautiful seaside backdrop that offers a glimpse into religious and cultural traditions of the area. You get about an hour on-site, enough to walk around, take photos, and soak in the tranquil ambiance. The monastery’s setting is picturesque, with a sense of serenity that stands in contrast to the bustling tourist spots.

One traveler mentioned that “they promise to bring you to Symi and the Monastery and that is what they do. But no more than that,” highlighting that the tour doesn’t include guided commentary or detailed historical insights. Still, the scenery and the experience of visiting a functioning monastery in such a lovely location make it worthwhile for many.

The Short Stop at Saint George Bay

Before heading to Symi, there’s a quick photo stop at Saint George Bay — just about five minutes. It’s a beautiful spot, often photographed for its clear waters and rugged coastline. This brief stop allows you to snap some pictures without missing out on the main itinerary.

Exploring Symi

Arriving at Symi’s harbor, you’ll see the town’s colorful neoclassical houses reflecting in the water, a scene that many travelers rave about. The town’s amphitheatrical layout and vibrant facades make it one of the most photogenic spots in the southern Greek islands. During your four hours of free time, you’re encouraged to explore, shop for local crafts and souvenirs, or simply relax in a café and enjoy the atmosphere.

Some reviews highlight the charm of Symi’s architecture and scenery, but also note that the town can be busy, especially during peak season. It’s a good idea to plan your walk – whether you want to visit the main harbor area or explore the narrow streets further away from the crowds.

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The Return Journey

The boat ride back takes around 115 minutes, giving you another chance to enjoy the views and reflect on your day. Many travelers find this a relaxing end to a busy day of sightseeing.

Practical Details

This tour runs approximately 8 hours, with check availability for specific start times. The boat departs from Rhodes’ Mandraki port, so arriving an hour early to check in and exchange your voucher is recommended. The group size is not specified, but the boat’s capacity and shared nature make for a social atmosphere.

Included in the price are round-trip transportation, the scenic cruise, the visit to Panormitis Monastery, and free time on Symi. You’ll need to cover personal expenses, entrance fees (if any), and food on your own. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for travelers with mobility needs.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around Symi’s hilly streets. Sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera will help you stay comfortable and capture memories during this full-day adventure.

Considerations and Tips

Given the review mentioning the old and noisy boat, if comfort is your priority, you might want to explore other options. However, the price point tends to be affordable, and the scenic views from the boat are a significant part of the experience. Remember to bring your ID or passport, as it’s required to board.

Who This Tour is Best For

This trip suits travelers looking for an affordable, scenic day trip that combines boat travel with cultural stops. It’s ideal if you enjoy independent exploration, as the four hours in Symi give plenty of freedom to wander and discover at your pace. Those seeking luxury onboard amenities may find this less appealing, but if you’re after a budget-friendly, authentic experience, it delivers.

It’s also suitable for those who aren’t overly bothered by the boat’s age or comfort level, focusing instead on the beauty of Symi and the tranquility of Panormitis. If you prefer a more structured, guided tour, this might not be the best fit, but for a relaxed, scenic day out, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Rhodes to Symi and Panormitis tour offers a solid balance of scenic cruising, cultural sights, and free time. You’ll enjoy the views of Rhodes’ historic skyline from the water and have a chance to explore one of Greece’s most picturesque islands at your own pace. While the boat’s comfort level might not win awards, the experience itself — with stunning photos at Saint George Bay and the peaceful monastery — makes it worthwhile for many.

If you’re after a cost-effective way to see Symi and Panormitis without the fuss of private transfers or guided tours, this trip delivers decent value. Just be prepared for a longer boat ride and the possibility of less-than-luxury onboard conditions. For lovers of scenic views, authentic island atmospheres, and flexible exploration, this tour is a worthwhile choice.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride from Rhodes to Symi?
The outward journey takes about 110 minutes, and the return trip is approximately 115 minutes, making it a full day of sailing and sightseeing.

What is included in the tour?
Your package includes round-trip boat transportation, a visit to Panormitis Monastery, and about four hours free on Symi for exploration or relaxation.

Is the boat comfortable?
Some travelers find the boat a bit outdated and noisy. It has both indoor air-conditioned seating and a spacious sundeck, but comfort levels vary.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Yes, pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera. You should also bring your passport or ID and any personal expenses you may incur.

How much free time do I get on Symi?
You have about four hours to explore the town, shop, or relax at your own pace. It’s enough for a good walk and some photos.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This full-day tour from Rhodes to Symi and Panormitis offers a taste of Greek island life with scenic sailing, cultural visits, and free time to soak in the atmosphere — perfect for travelers seeking a balanced, budget-friendly island experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: