Symi Island, a picturesque gem in the Aegean Sea, beckons travelers to explore its historic charm. This budget-friendly cruise from Rhodes offers a comprehensive experience, including a visit to the stunning Panormitis Monastery and free time to wander the colorful streets of Symi village. With convenient hotel pickups from Ialysos and Ixia, this day-long excursion promises a seamless and enriching adventure. Whether seeking to immerse in the island’s neoclassical architecture or uncover its medieval history, the journey to Symi is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- Full-day cruise from Rhodes to explore the island of Symi, including sightseeing at the Panormitis Monastery and free time in the picturesque Symi village.
- Transfers available from hotels in Ialyssos and Ixia to the meeting point at Mandraki Port in Rhodes Town.
- Opportunity to experience Symi’s religious heritage, natural beauty, and local culture during the 1-hour visit to Panormitis Monastery and 3.5 hours of free time in Symi village.
- Budget-friendly day trip with a maximum of 350 participants, providing a cost-effective way to explore the Aegean island.
- Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, boarding cards, a map, and information about Symi Island to enhance the overall experience.
Overview of the Experience
This all-day cruise allows visitors to experience the striking island of Symi in the Aegean Sea.
Guests will enjoy sightseeing at the St. Michael Panormitis monastery and have ample free time to explore Symi village, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off included.
The budget-friendly outing provides a map and information about the island, along with boarding cards for the day trip.
Travelers can take advantage of the free time to relax, swim, shop, and dine at their leisure.
With a maximum of 350 participants, this tour offers a comfortable and convenient way to discover the beauty of Symi.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rhodes.
Included in the Cruise Package
The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations, boarding cards for the day trip, and a map with information about Symi Island.
Visitors will also enjoy a brief 1-hour visit to the Panormitis Monastery and have 3.5 hours of free time to explore Symi village at their leisure.
The cruise offers the following inclusions:
- Food and drinks
- A tour guide to provide information and assistance
- Ample time for relaxing, swimming, shopping, and dining in Symi village
This convenient, budget-friendly outing provides a great opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of Symi Island, one of the most striking in the Aegean.
Pickup and Meeting Point Details
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup.
Pickups are provided from designated pickup points in Ialyssos, Ixia, Rhodes Town, and Kallithea and Faliraki Resorts.
The meeting point is at the Mandraki Port (Elefterias Avenue) in front of the Evangelismos Church, where you can arrive between 8 – 8:40 AM. It’s a convenient option for those staying in these areas.
Once there, you’ll receive your boarding cards and map with information about Symi Island. This makes it easy to get to the departure point and start your day trip to explore the stunning island of Symi.
Visiting the Panormitis Monastery
After arriving at the Mandraki Port, travelers will have a brief 1-hour visit to the St. Michael Panormitis monastery, a significant Greek Orthodox site located on the southern coast of Symi island.
This stunning 18th-century monastery is renowned for its impressive architecture and breathtaking natural setting overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Visitors can:
- Explore the monastery’s ornate chapel and admire its intricate Byzantine frescoes and icons.
- Stroll through the tranquil courtyards and gardens, offering panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and coastline.
- Attend a brief service to experience the monastery’s spiritual atmosphere and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.
The visit to Panormitis Monastery provides a unique glimpse into Symi’s religious heritage and the island’s captivating natural beauty.
Free Time in Symi Village
Once visitors have explored the Panormitis Monastery, they’ll enjoy 3.5 hours of free time to wander the picturesque Symi village at their own pace.
Symi’s main town is a postcard-perfect collection of colorful neoclassical mansions and narrow alleys. Visitors can browse the shops, cafes, and restaurants that line the harbor promenade.
For a bird’s-eye view, they can climb the 500 steps to the Kastro, the medieval castle ruins atop the hill.
Those seeking a tranquil respite can relax on one of Symi’s beaches or find a quiet spot to take in the island’s charming atmosphere.
With ample time to soak up the local culture, the free time in Symi village is a highlight of the day trip.
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Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
The all-day cruise to Symi Island includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off for visitors at select locations in Ialyssos, Ixia, and Rhodes City. This added service makes the trip more accessible and comfortable for travelers.
The pickup and drop-off locations include:
- Ialyssos
- Ixia
- Rhodes Town
The meeting point is at the Mandraki Port (Elefterias Avenue) in front of the Evangelismos Church, where you can arrive between 8 – 8:40 AM to board the cruise.
This door-to-door transportation takes the hassle out of getting to and from the port, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day exploring the beautiful island of Symi.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
This cancellation policy ensures flexibility for travelers while also allowing the tour operator to manage bookings effectively. The table below provides a quick reference for understanding the cancellation terms:
Time Frame | Refund |
---|---|
24+ hours in advance | Full refund |
Less than 24 hours | No refund |
Last-minute changes | Not accepted |
Additional Information
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is near public transportation.
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as there are no heart problems or other serious medical conditions permitted on the tour.
The maximum number of travelers for this experience is 350.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Panormitis Monastery?
When visiting the Panormitis Monastery, modest attire is required. Visitors should wear long pants or skirts and cover their shoulders. The dress code aims to respect the religious nature of the site.
Are There Any Special Considerations for Children on the Cruise?
Children must be accompanied by an adult on the cruise. The tour is stroller-accessible, and there are no special requirements for children beyond standard safety precautions. Families can enjoy the free time exploring Symi village together.
Can We Book the Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, the tour can accommodate private groups. Travelers can book the cruise for a private outing, which allows for customized experiences and flexibility. Group sizes are limited to 350 participants per tour.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
Yes, there may be discounts available for seniors and students on this tour. Customers are advised to inquire about any such offers when booking the tour to see if they qualify for any reduced pricing.
Can We Customize the Itinerary or Add Additional Stops?
The itinerary and stops for this cruise cannot be customized. The tour offers a pre-set program with a visit to the Panormitis Monastery and free time in Symi village. Additional stops or changes to the itinerary are not available.
Recap
This budget-friendly cruise to the enchanting island of Symi offers a comprehensive experience.
Travelers can explore the 18th-century Panormitis Monastery, stroll through the picturesque Symi village, and enjoy free time to discover the island’s highlights.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour provides a seamless and convenient way to experience the island’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
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