Symi Island Full-Day Boat Trip From Rhodes

Symi Island, with its picturesque pastel-colored houses and breathtaking vistas, beckons travelers to explore its rich history and cultural heritage. A full-day boat trip from Rhodes provides the perfect opportunity to discover this enchanting destination. Embarking at 9:00 AM, the excursion immerses visitors in the island’s charm, from the guided tour of Yalos village to the awe-inspiring panoramic views from St. John’s Fortress. The journey also includes a visit to the historic Panormitis Monastery, offering a captivating blend of spiritual and natural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a day of beauty and tranquility, this trip promises an unforgettable experience.

Good To Know

• A full-day boat excursion from Rhodes to the picturesque island of Symi, with a guided tour of the charming harbor town of Yalos and a visit to the Panormitis Monastery.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, professional guidance, and covers key sights and attractions, providing an immersive experience of Symi’s rich history and natural beauty.
• Travelers can enjoy panoramic views from the St. John’s Fortress and explore the island’s pastel-colored houses, boutiques, and sponge-diving shops during the guided tour of Yalos.
• The trip’s average rating of 4.0 from 21 reviews suggests a generally positive customer experience, though some criticism has been raised regarding the tour structure and dining options.
• The tour can be booked for $65.15 per person, with a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours before the experience and a maximum group size of 50 travelers.

Trip Overview

The trip offers a full-day boat excursion from Rhodes to the picturesque island of Symi.

With an average rating of 4.0 from 21 reviews, the boat trip takes approximately one hour each way.

Departing at 9:00 AM from selected Rhodes hotels, the tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers.

Upon arrival at Symi, the itinerary includes a guided tour of the charming Yalos village and a visit to the St. John’s Fortress for panoramic sea views.

Participants will also sail to the Panormitis Monastery, home to the sacred icon of the Archangel Michael.

The tour includes local taxes, professional guidance, transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Itinerary Highlights

Upon arrival at the island of Symi, travelers can explore the picturesque Yalos village, with its pastel-colored harbor homes. The itinerary includes a guided tour of this charming area.

Visitors will then ascend to the St. John’s Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

The final highlight is a sail to the Panormitis Monastery, home to the sacred icon of the Archangel Michael.

This comprehensive tour allows travelers to experience the island’s key sights and attractions, immersing them in Symi’s rich history and natural beauty.

Inclusions

This Symi Island boat trip includes a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

The tour includes all local taxes, ensuring travelers don’t have to worry about additional charges. A professional guide will lead the group, providing insights and commentary throughout the journey.

Hotel pickup and drop-off services are provided for selected accommodations, making transportation seamless. The boat transportation itself is included, along with food and drinks during the trip.

Gratuities are also covered, so travelers can relax and enjoy the experience without the need to tip.

With these comprehensive inclusions, the Symi Island boat trip offers a well-rounded and hassle-free day trip from Rhodes.

Customer Experiences

Travelers have offered a mix of feedback on their experiences with the Symi Island boat trip.

Positive reviews highlight the beauty of the island, the local food and wines, and the overall experience.

However, some customers criticized the tour structure and claimed the guide focused too heavily on a sponge factory.

There were also complaints about restaurant pressure and the quality of food options.

Numerous travelers suggested exploring the island independently for a more authentic and enjoyable experience.

Booking Information

The Symi Island boat trip can be booked from $65.15 per person.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Public transportation is available near the departure point.

The maximum group size is 50 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Whether seeking a scenic day trip or an immersive cultural exploration, this boat tour offers a convenient and affordable way to discover the picturesque island of Symi from Rhodes.

Embarkation and Arrival

Early in the morning, guests are greeted by their hotel representatives and escorted to the designated departure point.

After a brief check-in, they board the ferry and embark on the scenic one-hour journey to Symi Island. The views during the crossing are breathtaking, with the rugged coastline and emerald waters of the Aegean Sea unfolding before them.

Upon arrival, the group disembarks at the charming harbor of Symi, where they:

1. Admire the pastel-colored houses lining the waterfront.
2. Take in the lively atmosphere of the bustling port.
3. Prepare to begin their guided tour of the Yalos village.
4. Feel a sense of excitement as they step onto the island and begin their day’s exploration.

Guided Tour of Yalos

Stepping off the ferry, the group is greeted by their local guide who leads them on a walking tour of Yalos, Symi’s main harbor town.

The guide points out the town’s iconic pastel-colored homes, many dating back to the 19th century. They pass by narrow, winding streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and traditional sponge-diving shops.

The guide shares insights into the island’s history and culture, highlighting Symi’s strategic location and its role as a center of sponge harvesting.

The group admires the contrast between the brightly painted buildings and the sparkling Aegean Sea.

The tour provides an immersive glimpse into the picturesque harbor town and its rich heritage.

Visit to Panormitis Monastery

After their exploration of Yalos, the group boards the boat once more for the sail to Panormitis Monastery.

This sacred site is home to the icon of the Archangel Michael, one of the most revered in Greece.

Visitors can expect to:

1. Admire the stunning 18th-century architecture of the monastery.
2. Explore the impressive Byzantine frescoes adorning the interior.
3. Witness the icon of the Archangel Michael, believed to have miraculous powers.
4. Stroll the serene grounds and take in the panoramic views of the sea.

The guided tour provides insight into the monastery’s rich history and cultural significance, offering a truly immersive experience for travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Shorter or Longer Trip Duration?

The information provided doesn’t indicate if there are options for shorter or longer trip durations. The trip overview states the journey is approximately one hour each way, but doesn’t mention any flexibility in the schedule.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Boat Trip?

The boat trip does not allow pets. Passengers are not permitted to bring animals on the excursion for safety and comfort reasons. This policy applies to all travelers booking the full-day boat trip from Rhodes to Symi Island.

Are Life Jackets Provided for the Boat Ride?

Yes, life jackets are provided for the boat trip. The tour operator ensures the safety of all passengers by making life jackets available during the boat ride as a standard safety precaution.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is casual and comfortable. Participants are advised to wear lightweight clothing, closed-toe shoes, and sun protection such as hats and sunscreen. No formal attire is required.

Can I Pay With a Credit Card on the Boat?

Yes, travelers can pay with a credit card on the boat. Most major credit cards are accepted for any onboard purchases during the tour.

The Sum Up

Discover the picturesque charm of Symi Island on this full-day boat trip from Rhodes. Explore the pastel-colored homes of Yalos village, take in the stunning views from St. John’s Fortress, and visit the historic Panormitis Monastery. With professional guidance, hotel pickup, and meals included, this captivating tour offers a seamless and immersive experience of Symi’s rich history and natural beauty.