Rhodes: Day Trip to Symi Island by Fast Boat

Rhodes: Day Trip to Symi Island by Fast Boat – A Practical Guide to an Enchanting Getaway

Visiting Symi Island from Rhodes offers the chance to see one of the Dodecanese’s most picturesque spots with minimal hassle. This day trip by high-speed boat is designed for those who want to maximize their time exploring rather than battling the crowds or enduring long travel hours. The trip promises a swift journey with about 4 hours of free time on Symi, giving you enough opportunity to explore, shop, eat, and snap photos without feeling rushed.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances efficiency with genuine freedom—you’re whisked away in just over an hour and a quarter, leaving plenty of time to enjoy Symi’s colorful streets. Plus, the inclusion of local specialties like the Simiako Garidaki baby shrimps makes it more than just a sightseeing tour; it’s a taste of authentic local life.

A possible consideration is the 2-hour boat ride each way, which might be a little long for those prone to seasickness or with very young children. The boat’s comfort and onboard amenities, however, seem to keep most travelers comfortable and relaxed.

This tour suits travelers who want a quick yet immersive experience, those craving picture-perfect scenery, and anyone eager to explore a charming Greek island without the fuss of planning their own transportation.

Key Points

• Fast and Efficient: The high-speed boat gets you from Rhodes to Symi in just about 1 hour 15 minutes, freeing up plenty of time on the island.
• Authentic Experience: Ample free time allows for exploring Symi’s colorful architecture, bustling harbor, and local shops.
• Local Flavors: Don’t miss trying the Simiako Garidaki baby shrimps, a beloved local dish cooked in olive oil.
• Comfortable Travel: The boat is described as spacious, with onboard bar facilities, toilets, and options to sit outside or in air-conditioned comfort.
• Well-Organized: Most reviews praise the smooth check-in process, punctual transfers, and accommodating staff.
• Good Value: For around $48.56, you get round-trip tickets, hotel pickup if booked, and a full day of exploration, making it a solid budget-friendly option.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Your journey begins in Rhodes Town at Gallias Street, next to the Benetton shop at Mandraki Harbor. If you’ve booked an included hotel pickup, you’ll be collected early, with pickup times communicated via WhatsApp or email. For those choosing to meet at the harbor independently, check-in opens at 09:15, giving you time to collect your boarding pass before departure.

Most travelers are picked up in a comfortable minibus, which makes the transition from hotel to port seamless. The coach ride to the port takes about 30 minutes, offering a chance to sit back and get some initial views of Rhodes.

The Speedboat Experience

Once onboard the high-speed boat, expect a journey that’s both quick and scenic. The boat’s modern design, with options to sit inside with air conditioning or outside on the deck, caters to various comfort preferences. Reviews mention the boat as spacious, clean, and well-equipped, with a bar serving drinks and snacks, along with toilets—important amenities on such a trip.

The approximately 75-minute ride to Symi offers stunning views of the coastline and the islands, with many passengers noting how relaxing and enjoyable the journey can be. Some reviews even highlight that bringing along a book or sun protection makes the ride even better.

Arriving at Symi

As the boat approaches Symi’s vibrant harbor, the sights are sure to enchant. Symi is known for its colorful neoclassical buildings, cliffside churches, and lively harbor area called Gialos. This is where most of your 4 hours of free time will be spent.

Many travelers enjoy wandering through the narrow streets, discovering tiny shops selling handmade jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs. One review highlights how easy it was to browse and purchase unique items, with many shops offering local crafts and gifts. Expect to see stalls selling sponges, spices, and other island specialties.

Exploring Symi

The reviews consistently mention that the free time is ample for a good walk, sightseeing, or grabbing a meal. For instance, some travelers took the opportunity to visit Symi Castle, climb the stairs for panoramic views, or relax at a seaside tavern.

Most importantly, you’ll get to taste the local delicacy, Simiako Garidaki, baby shrimps cooked in olive oil—something reviewers describe as a real highlight and a must-try dish. Several reviews mention how enjoyable and authentic the food is, making the trip not just visual but also flavorful.

Additional Activities and Shopping

Unlike many other day trips, Symi’s shops are a draw for those looking for unique souvenirs. Handmade jewelry and clothing are often praised for their quality and originality. One review notes how the shops offered discounts, making shopping even more appealing.

For those with extra time, some reviews mention optional activities like riding a train or enjoying a drink at local bars, all adding to the relaxed, authentic vibe of the island.

The Return Journey

After your free exploration, the boat departs back to Rhodes, usually around 4 hours after arrival—giving you a relaxed afternoon. The ride back offers similar scenic views, and most travelers agree it’s a tranquil way to wind down the day.

The coach picks you up at the port, and the entire experience wraps up with a return to your hotel or designated drop-off point.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, no-fuss experience. It offers a great balance of speed, comfort, and authentic exploration, making it suitable for singles, couples, or small groups. It’s especially appealing to those who want to maximize their time on Symi without the stress of planning logistics themselves.

If you’re after picturesque scenery, local cuisine, and charming streets, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also a good choice for anyone who appreciates value for money—for a reasonable price, you get round-trip transport, free time, and access to a stunning island.

However, if long boat rides bother you or you prefer a more leisurely pace, you might find the 2-hour journey each way a bit tiring. Still, many reviews note the boat’s comfort and the scenic ride as highlights rather than drawbacks.

Final Thoughts

This Symi Island day trip from Rhodes by fast boat offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to see a beautiful Greek island without the hassle of ferry schedules or complex logistics. The high praise in reviews about the smooth organization, friendly staff, and stunning scenery speaks volumes about its reliability.

The opportunity to explore Symi’s colorful architecture, indulge in local dishes, and browse handmade shops within just a few hours makes this a compelling option. The trip’s value is further heightened by the inclusion of hotel pickup (if booked), ensuring a hassle-free start and end to your day.

Overall, if you’re looking for a well-paced, authentic taste of Symi, this tour is worth considering—especially if you value comfort, efficiency, and a dash of local flavor.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride from Rhodes to Symi?
The boat ride takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a quick way to reach Symi compared to traditional ferries.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you select that option when booking. Otherwise, you’ll need to check in at the meeting point in Mandraki Harbor.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring essentials such as sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and cash for personal expenses. A book or entertainment for the boat ride is also recommended.

How much free time do I get on Symi?
Most travelers enjoy around 4 hours of free time to explore, shop, eat, or relax. Some reviews mention that it’s enough to climb the castle, browse shops, and enjoy local food.

Are there onboard facilities?
Yes, the boat features toilets, a bar selling drinks and snacks, and options to sit outside or inside with air conditioning, making for a comfortable journey.

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs approximately $48.56 per person, offering good value considering the included round-trip transportation and a full day of exploration.

Can I customize my experience?
While the standard tour offers about 4 hours on Symi, some reviews mention that certain options, like swimming at St Georges Bay, can be arranged without extra charge if booked in advance.

Is this suitable for children or those prone to seasickness?
The boat ride is relatively short and comfortable, but if you or your children are sensitive to seasickness, consider bringing motion sickness remedies. The reviews suggest the boat is spacious and well-maintained.

To sum it up, this Rhodes to Symi day trip by fast boat is a well-reviewed, practical way to enjoy one of Greece’s most charming islands with ease. It combines beautiful scenery, authentic local flavors, and efficient travel, making it a worthwhile addition to your Greek island adventures.