Rhodes: Transfer & Cruise to Symi Island & St. George Bay

Introduction

This well-reviewed day trip from Rhodes to the nearby island of Symi offers a blend of relaxing ocean time, scenic sightseeing, and culture. Starting with free hotel transfers to Mandraki Harbour, you’ll be whisked away on a modern, eco-friendly boat for about eight hours of island exploring. It’s a trip that promises stunning scenery, authentic Greek charm, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and photos.

What we love most about this experience is the comfort and convenience—a spacious, stylish boat with accessible facilities and Wi-Fi onboard makes the journey enjoyable. The highlight, of course, is the chance to swim in St. George’s Bay, a secluded spot only reachable by boat, and to spend relaxed hours wandering Symi’s beautiful harbor.

One consideration to keep in mind is the timing of the swim stop—reviewers have noted that the allotted time was sometimes shorter than advertised, and the water can be quite chilly, especially later in the season. Still, this trip is perfect for travelers seeking a laid-back day filled with scenic views, good food, and authentic island vibes. It suits those who enjoy a mix of relaxation, light adventure, and cultural discovery without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• All-inclusive transfers make the start and end of your day smooth and stress-free.
• The new, eco-friendly boat with accessible features ensures comfort and convenience.
• St. George’s Bay offers a unique, only-by-boat swimming experience amid natural beauty.
• Symi’s charming harbor is a picture-perfect destination with neoclassical architecture.
• You’ll get a solid 3-hour free exploration, perfect for lunch and sightseeing.
• The crew’s friendly and professional service is frequently praised, with guides offering helpful commentary.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Transfer

The day begins early with a complimentary pickup from over 75 hotel and public locations around Rhodes, including major resorts like Rodos Palace and Afandou Beach. The transfer is quick and efficient, often praised for being well-organized, with some reviewers mentioning a friendly driver who makes the start of the day pleasant. If your hotel isn’t listed, you’ll be directed to a nearby pickup point—just be sure to confirm exact details when booking.

Boarding the “Doll”

Once at Mandraki Harbour, you’ll board the new, stylish boat called “Doll”—a vessel that impresses with its modern design, comfort, and eco-conscious features. The boat’s large windows, cushioned seating options in the sun or shade, onboard toilets, and free Wi-Fi make the journey more relaxing than many other tours. The onboard crew, often described as polite and helpful, provides a safety briefing, life jackets, and commentary on the sights passing by.

Cruising to St. George’s Bay

The first major stop is St. George’s Bay, a secluded natural cove only accessible by boat—a highlight for many. The bay’s crystal-clear waters invite guests to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge with a cocktail. The complimentary snorkel equipment is a welcomed touch, and reviewers love how the marine life makes it a fun spot for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

One reviewer, Neil, shared some disappointment about the shorter-than-advertised swim time, but still called the experience “worthwhile” because of the stunning setting. The cold water and shady surroundings later in the season can be a challenge, so packing a wetsuit or planning for quicker dips might help.

Sailing to Symi

After roughly 1.5 hours at St. George’s Bay, the boat departs for Symi’s iconic harbor, arriving after a scenic 30-minute cruise. The approach to Symi is striking, with the neoclassical mansions climbing up the hillside—an Instagram-worthy view that frequently gets praised in reviews.

Exploring Symi

Once ashore, you’ll have about three hours to explore. Many travelers spend their time wandering the cobbled streets of Yialos, enjoying lunch at a waterfront taverna, or shopping for local souvenirs such as sponges and handmade crafts. A popular dish is Symi shrimp, a local specialty, often highlighted in reviews as a must-try.

Reviewers like Louise describe Symi as “such a beautiful island,” with its “incredible view” as you arrive. Others mention the chance to climb the Kali Strata for panoramic views—a short walk that’s worth every step. The free time allows for a relaxed pace, with some visitors noting they could linger longer if they wished.

Return to Rhodes

The boat departs Symi around 4:30 PM and cruises back to Rhodes, with a brief 15-minute ride through the harbor. The rest of the evening involves another 40-minute transfer back to your hotel, often praised for its punctuality and friendly service. Travelers frequently mention how well-organized the entire day was, with smooth transitions between stops and a knowledgeable crew.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Comfort and Accessibility

The “Doll” stands out for its modern design, roomy decks, and accessible features, including a disabled WC. For travelers with mobility needs, this is a significant advantage over older or more crowded vessels. The Wi-Fi onboard is also a nice perk, especially if you want to post photos or check messages during the cruise.

Authentic and Relaxed Experience

Rather than a rushed, crowded tour, this cruise offers a laid-back atmosphere. The reviews consistently mention how everything runs smoothly, and the crew is attentive without being overbearing. The timed stops are generous enough for photos, swimming, and a leisurely lunch.

Value for Money

At a price that includes hotel transfers, boat ride, snorkel gear, and a 3-hour free exploration in Symi, many reviewers agree that this trip offers excellent value. The luxurious boat and friendly crew elevate the experience beyond a typical tour.

Authentic Greek Island Charm

From the neoclassical architecture in Symi to the natural beauty of St. George’s Bay, travelers get a genuine taste of Greece’s scenic coastlines and island culture. Most reviews highlight how memorable the visit to Symi is, especially when wandering its streets and sampling local cuisine.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While most feedback is positive, some travelers have noted that swim stop times can be shorter than advertised—sometimes only about 45 minutes instead of an hour or more. Water temperature can also be quite chilly, especially later in the season, which might catch some off-guard.

The lack of detailed safety instructions was mentioned by one reviewer, so if safety info is important to you, consider bringing your own life vest or asking the crew for a quick rundown.

Finally, as with many boat tours, weather conditions can affect the experience—wind or choppy seas might lead to delays or changes in the schedule.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water with some time to explore a picturesque Greek island. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort and convenience, as hotel transfers and a modern boat make the experience stress-free. Food lovers will enjoy the opportunity to try local dishes, especially Symi shrimp, in a charming harbor setting.

It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and authentic Greek atmosphere. If you’re after a luxurious, well-organized day trip with a friendly crew, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, this tour provides free transfers from over 75 hotel and public locations in Rhodes, making the start and end of your day stress-free.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The tour supplies snorkel equipment for free, but packing a hat or sunglasses might also be helpful.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours at St. George’s Bay for swimming and relaxing, and around 3 hours in Symi to explore, dine, and shop.

Is the boat accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the boat is described as fully accessible with a disabled WC and accessible facilities.

What food and drinks are included?
Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard, but meals are not included. You might want to bring some cash or cards for extra refreshments.

How good is the crew and onboard facilities?
Reviewers frequently praise the friendly, helpful staff and the clean, modern boat with Wi-Fi, toilets, and comfortable seating in and out of the sun.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, children enjoy the swim stops and the relaxed pace. Just keep in mind the water temperature and the short duration of swim time.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions might impact the schedule, but most operators aim to keep to the plan. In case of severe weather, the trip could be postponed or canceled with a full refund.

Can I book this activity last minute?
Yes, but keep in mind that transfers are only provided for bookings made at least 14 hours in advance. It’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

This Rhodes to Symi day cruise is a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Greece’s stunning coastlines and charming islands. The combination of luxurious comfort, authentic scenery, and relaxed pacing makes it a popular choice—evidenced by nearly 1,000 positive reviews. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Rhodes, this trip offers a memorable slice of Greek island life with minimal hassle.

For travelers who appreciate beautiful boats, scenic stops, delicious local food, and easy logistics, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly valuable for those wanting a comfortable, organized day that blends relaxation with culture and natural beauty.

If you’re looking for a trustworthy, enjoyable, and scenic island excursion that combines the best of Rhodes and Symi, this cruise is certainly worth considering.