Rhodes Town: Symi Full-Day Yacht Cruise with Meal & Drinks

Imagine cruising the Aegean in style, with the wind in your hair, panoramic sea views, and a plate of authentic Greek food in front of you. That’s exactly what this full-day Symi yacht trip offers—an escape into beautiful scenery, charming towns, and refreshing swim spots, all aboard a luxury vessel with a small group of fellow travelers.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of relaxed exploration, personalized service, and picture-perfect scenery. The crew’s attentiveness and the chance to enjoy unlimited drinks while soaking up the sun make it feel both special and laid-back. But it’s worth noting that the trip’s pace and the boat’s comfort level might not suit travelers who prefer larger crowds or more high-energy excursions.

This tour is perfect for those who value authentic local charm, stunning vistas, and a more intimate sailing experience. It’s especially suited for anyone wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and leisure, all with excellent value for money.

Key Points

• Small-group atmosphere: Max of 25 passengers for a more intimate experience
• Multiple swim stops: Two opportunities to cool off in crystal-clear waters
• Authentic Greek cuisine: Full lunch with unlimited drinks, including wine and beer
• Beautiful scenery: Panoramic views of Symi’s colorful houses and the east coast
• Flexible exploration: Free time in Symi town and Seskli Island for personal discovery
• Weather-dependent: Possible cancellation if weather conditions aren’t suitable

An Overview of the Symi Yacht Experience

This full-day cruise is designed to offer a relaxed yet enriching way to see the islands around Rhodes. The journey begins with check-in at the Mandraki Rhodes Marina, where you can enjoy a coffee or tea before setting sail. From there, the yacht cuts across the Aegean, heading toward the rugged, mountainous island of Symi.

The first stop is Symi’s main port, Yalos, a UNESCO-protected town famous for its colorful neo-classical houses that cascade down the hillside. As you float into port, you’ll notice how picturesque the scene is—like stepping into a postcard. You’ll have about two hours here to wander through narrow alleys, browse local shops, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Reviewers like Daniel mention how this part of the trip feels authentic, with plenty of opportunity to explore at your own pace.

The Charm of Symi Town

Symi’s town is a highlight in itself. The small time window allows you to walk the charming streets, take photos of the pastel-colored buildings, and enjoy the relaxed pace. Some reviewers suggested bringing card games or a speaker, as there isn’t music onboard during free time, which can be a fun way to enhance your experience.

What makes Symi special is its blend of historic charm and natural beauty. Its UNESCO status means preservation of the town’s architectural heritage, and the views from the waterfront are truly stunning. The town also offers an array of local shops, perfect for picking up souvenirs or trying some local treats.

The Swimming Stops: St. George Bay and Seskli Island

After exploring Symi, the boat heads to the first swimming stop at St. George Bay. This sheltered cove is a picture-perfect spot with golden sand, clear waters, and steep rocky cliffs overhanging. As one reviewer said, “The swimming stops were the best,” and with snorkels and floats provided, it’s easy to spend a good amount of time here cooling off and sunbathing.

The crew is praised for their attentiveness; they prepare a traditional Greek lunch of moussaka and salads while guests are relaxing in the bay. The unlimited drinks—beer, wine, soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea—keep everyone refreshed during this downtime. Several reviews mention how surprisingly good the food was for a boat meal, with Jade calling it “delicious” and appreciating the abundance of drinks.

Next, the yacht sails to Seskli Island, a tiny, private island that feels like your own slice of paradise. The island is appreciated for its wild nature and snorkeling opportunities. Guests like Samantha enjoyed exploring the less-inhabited corner of the Dodecanese, and others appreciated the variety—beach, rocks, and even a small church.

Returning to Rhodes

The journey back offers another chance to appreciate the panoramic views of beaches and coves along the east coast of Rhodes. The experience ends back at Mandraki port, with many guests feeling relaxed and enriched by the day.

Throughout the trip, the crew’s professionalism and friendliness shine through, making the day seamless and enjoyable. Several reviewers, including Daniel and Richard, highlight the crew’s attentiveness, with Daniel praising them for providing a birthday cake and welcoming service.

The Value of This Tour

For $136 per person, this cruise offers a well-rounded package. It includes a full day of sailing, two swimming stops, a delicious Greek lunch, and unlimited drinks—elements that contribute to the overall value. Reviewers frequently mention how the service and attention to detail elevate the experience beyond just a boat ride.

Compared to larger, more crowded alternatives, this smaller, more personalized cruise ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd. Many guests appreciated the adequate time at each stop, especially the two swim spots and Symi’s exploration, which allow for genuine relaxation and discovery.

Practical Tips for Enjoying the Tour

• Bring swimwear and a towel for the swimming stops—these are essentials.
• Consider bringing a speaker if you’d like music during free time, as one reviewer noted there was none provided.
• If you want to explore Symi town more independently, bringing some small games or books can make your free time more enjoyable.
• Dress comfortably for the boat ride, and prepare for potentially bumpy or fast-moving conditions, as some guests experienced.
• Keep in mind that the boat has a changing room and provides snorkels, floats, and vests, so you don’t need to bring your own gear unless you prefer it.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates a personalized, relaxed day out with beautiful scenery, this cruise is a match. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy swimming in scenic bays, exploring charming towns at a leisurely pace, and savoring local cuisine with unlimited drinks in a laid-back environment.

It might not be perfect if you’re seeking a high-energy, party-style boat or a larger boat experience where intimacy isn’t prioritized. But for those wanting authenticity, quality service, and great value, this cruise delivers.

The Sum Up

This Symi full-day yacht trip from Rhodes offers a thoughtful blend of scenic views, cultural charm, and leisurely activities. The small-group setting ensures a more personal experience, while the flexibility to explore Symi and enjoy multiple swim stops adds to its appeal. The crew’s attentive service, combined with delicious Greek food and unlimited drinks, makes it a great option for travelers looking to unwind and take in the beauty of the Dodecanese.

It’s especially suited for those who value quality and comfort over crowds, and for anyone seeking a memorable day in the Greek islands without breaking the bank. The positive reviews about friendly staff, stunning scenery, and well-planned stops underscore the overall value.

For anyone craving a relaxed, authentic Greek island experience with excellent service and scenery, this cruise ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times available depending on the day.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers a fast yacht cruise, full lunch, unlimited drinks (water, beer, wine, soft drinks, coffee, and tea), two swimming stops, and free time to explore Symi.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
Snorkels, floats, and life jackets are provided, but you should bring your own towel and swimwear.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, if weather conditions prevent the trip from going ahead, it is fully refundable.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

Are there any additional costs?
Not unless you choose to buy souvenirs or extra drinks beyond the unlimited selection.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot as the tour can sell out, especially during peak seasons. You can book now and pay later, giving you flexibility.