From Rhodes: Boat Trip to Symi Island with Hotel Transfer

Exploring Symi Island from Rhodes: A Detailed Review of the Boat Trip with Hotel Transfers

When it comes to experiencing Greece’s Dodecanese islands, a day trip from Rhodes to Symi offers a delightful mix of colorful scenery, historic sites, and authentic island life. This particular tour, offered by Cretanholidays, combines convenience—thanks to hotel pickup and drop-off—with the romance of a boat cruise and the charm of Symi’s winding streets and vibrant harbor.

What immediately draws us to this experience is its focus on authentic, laid-back exploration. You get the chance to wander through Symi’s pastel-colored houses, admire its painted fishing boats, and even climb the famous Kali Strata. Plus, the knowledgeable tour guides ensure you won’t miss the stories behind the sights.

That said, it’s important to note that this tour’s duration is about 8 hours—so it’s a fairly full day, and the weather can turn up the heat, especially in summer. It’s best suited for travelers who love scenic boat rides and historical exploration without the pressure of a rushed schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, informative day that showcases one of Greece’s most picturesque islands, this trip fits the bill nicely.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transfers: Hotel pickup makes the journey seamless, starting your day relaxed and hassle-free.
• Authentic Experiences: Wander through Symi’s quaint streets, admire historic monasteries, and enjoy stunning sea views.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Tour guides are well-informed and friendly, making the history and culture of Symi come alive.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect colorful houses, painted fishing boats, and panoramic views from Kali Strata.
• Flexible Pricing: At $71 per person, the trip offers good value considering transportation, guided tours, and the boat ride.
• Limited Free Time: While you get to explore, there’s no designated free beach time, which might matter to beach lovers.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel or nearby accommodation, the day begins with a comfortable transfer to Rhodes harbor. This pre-arranged pickup saves you the trouble of navigating public transport or taxis, making the start of your adventure smooth and stress-free. Once at the harbor, you’ll board a boat that promises a scenic cruise across the sea—an opportunity to enjoy the gentle sway of the vessel and the chance to spot the coastline’s natural beauty.

The cruise itself is a highlight. As you glide toward Symi, you’ll see the calm, deep blue waters contrasted with the colorful outlines of Symi’s houses, which seem to cling to the hills like a painter’s palette. This part of the journey offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to unwind from the busy land-based pace.

Exploring Symi’s Town

On arrival, the small town welcomes you with its iconic pastel facades and charming harbor. We loved the way the colorful boats bobbed against the backdrop of the narrow streets—an authentic slice of Greek island life. Reviewers often mention how the guides give insightful commentary about Symi’s history and local customs, making the walk more meaningful.

You’ll have time to wander freely, discovering the natural sponges that still live along the coast—a fascinating glimpse into Symi’s traditional industry. Visiting one of the many churches or monasteries is also part of the plan, with guides providing context about their significance.

Climbing Kali Strata

A standout feature is the Kali Strata, a staircase of roughly 400 steps that snakes up the hillside. This climb offers a fantastic vantage point over the town and the sea beyond. While some might find the ascent a bit challenging in the heat—reviewers like Dragos noted it was “very hot”—the view from the top makes the effort worthwhile.

One reviewer mentioned that the tour guide Ann was particularly enthusiastic and helpful, sharing stories about the local architecture and history along the way. It’s a good way to see the town from above and get a different perspective.

Visiting Monasteries and Churches

Symi is dotted with monasteries and chapels, many dating back centuries. These often sit perched on the hillside, offering tranquil atmospheres and stunning vistas. While entrance fees are not included in the tour, visiting these sites is usually free, and the guides often point out their historical and religious significance.

Return Journey and Reflection

After a few hours exploring, the boat takes you back to Rhodes, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s sights. The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

What’s Included, What’s Not

For the price of $71, the tour covers hotel transfers, a guided tour, and the boat tickets—a package that balances convenience with value. Having the transfer included is a major plus, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Rhodes’ transportation options.

However, lunch and entry fees to churches or monasteries are not included, so bringing some cash and snacks is advisable. The tour also features a live guide who speaks German, so travelers comfortable with this language will gain the most from the storytelling.

Considerations

• Weather: As noted in reviews, summer can be hot, especially climbing the Kali Strata. Pack sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes.
• Mobility: The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the stairs and uneven terrain.
• Timing: Check the starting times—these vary, so planning around your schedule is essential.

Authenticity and Value

This trip strikes a good balance between organized sightseeing and free exploration. The guided component ensures you learn about Symi’s history and culture without feeling rushed, while the free time allows for spontaneous discovery or a quiet moment by the harbor.

We appreciate that the tour keeps the experience genuine—focusing on Symi’s natural beauty, architecture, and local crafts, rather than overly commercialized attractions. The reviews reflect this, with travelers praising the guides’ knowledge and Symi’s stunning scenery.

In terms of value, at $71, you’re paying for a combination of transport, guidance, and the boat ride, all of which would be more complicated or costly to arrange independently. Plus, the comfort of hotel pickup means you avoid the hassle of figuring out how to get to the harbor, especially if you’re new to Rhodes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip suits travelers who want to see a classic Greek island with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for those interested in picturesque scenery, local architecture, and a relaxed pace. If you love knowledgeable guides and stunning views, you’ll appreciate the insights from the guides—many of whom are praised for their friendliness and expertise.

However, it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or anyone seeking a beach-focused day, as there’s limited free time for lounging or swimming. It’s also best for travelers comfortable with a German-speaking guide, although the experience still offers a lot of visual and cultural stimulation.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Rhodes and wanting a taste of authentic Greek island life, this Symi boat trip stands out as a well-rounded choice. It offers a scenic cruise, rich cultural sights, and manageable planning with hotel transfers—all at a reasonable price. The highlights, like climbing Kali Strata and wandering Symi’s colorful streets, make it a memorable day, especially thanks to the knowledgeable guides who bring the island’s stories to life.

While it’s a full day and can get hot in the summer, the experience is a seamless way to enjoy Symi without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s ideally suited for travelers who value comfort, culture, and natural beauty in equal measure.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and educational glimpse of Greece’s beautiful Dodecanese islands, this tour offers solid value and authentic charm in spades.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup at or near your accommodation in Rhodes City, Faliraki, Afandou, and many other nearby areas.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including transfers, the boat cruise, and exploring Symi.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, especially if you plan to walk or climb Kali Strata. Sunscreen and water are also recommended.

Are there any additional costs?
Entry fees to monasteries or churches are not included, and lunch is not part of the package, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to stairs and uneven terrain. Children are welcome, but keep in mind the full-day schedule.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the guide in English?
The live tour guide speaks German, so some understanding of the language may enhance your experience, though the sights speak for themselves.

This Symi island boat trip from Rhodes offers a practical, authentic, and scenic way to experience one of Greece’s charming islands. Whether you’re after stunning views, cultural insights, or just a relaxing day on the water, it’s a trip worth considering.