Boat Trip to Symi Island by Fast Boat

A Practical and Enjoyable Day Trip to Symi Island by Fast Boat

If you’re visiting Rhodes and craving a taste of the Dodecanese’s colorful charm, a boat trip to Symi Island might be just what you’re looking for. This tour promises a speedy 75-minute ride on a fast boat, compared to traditional ferries, giving you more time to explore one of Greece’s most picturesque islands. It’s a popular choice, booked on average 16 days in advance, and with a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating from nearly 800 reviews, it clearly hits the mark for many travelers.

What we particularly like is how straightforward and convenient the experience is—especially if you opt for the upgrade that includes hotel transfers. The trip offers a great balance of scenic travel and independent exploration, making it perfect for those who want a hassle-free day in beautiful surroundings. On the flip side, some might find the 4-hour window in Symi a little tight, especially if you want to soak in every corner of this charming island. This tour suits first-time visitors, photography lovers, and anyone looking for a cost-effective way to visit Symi without the stress of organizing transport themselves.

Key Points

• Fast, efficient ride: 75-minute trip on a modern speedboat.
• Flexible options: Standard check-in or upgraded hotel transfers.
• Authentic experience: Plenty of free time to explore Symi independently.
• Great value: Around $46 per person for a full day out.
• Stunning visuals: Expect colorful houses and beautiful bays.
• Well-reviewed: Consistently praised for organization and scenery.
• Potential limitations: Limited time on the island and some reports of discomfort on the boat.
• Weather dependence: The trip is weather-sensitive, with cancellations possible in poor conditions.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Check-in

Your day begins at the Half Price Tours office in Rhodes, conveniently located at Gallias 6. The check-in process is straightforward, with tickets either collected beforehand or on the day of the trip. The tour departs around 10:00 am, and you can opt for hotel pickup and drop-off, which many reviewers found to be a real time-saver and stress reducer—especially if you’re staying outside the immediate city center.

The Fast Boat Journey

Once aboard the modern, clean speedboat, you’ll notice the emphasis on comfort and clarity of instructions. The ride lasts approximately 75 minutes, offering a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and views of the coast. Some reviews mention that seas can be choppy, so bringing motion sickness tablets might be wise if you’re prone to seasickness. The boat isn’t just a transport—it’s part of the experience, with many noticing the occasional dolphin sighting as the boat approaches Symi, an added highlight for nature lovers.

Arriving at Symi: Free Time to Explore

Upon arrival in Symi, you’ll have around 4 hours to wander the narrow streets, admire the multicolored houses, and enjoy the local atmosphere. Reviewers consistently praise the island’s stunning scenery—the quaint harbor, vibrant architecture, and panoramic views make for fantastic photos. Symi’s small size means you can comfortably walk or sit in a taverna, soaking in the sunshine and delicious local food.

Several reviews mention the variety of restaurants, shops, and tavernas, and the opportunity to indulge in authentic Greek cuisine or simply enjoy a coffee by the waterfront. One reviewer specifically appreciated the fabulous mountain views and fresh, authentic food—a true highlight for food lovers.

Return and Optional Transfers

The boat departs back to Rhodes in the late afternoon, giving you a few hours to relax or explore more before heading home. Those who booked upgraded transfers said it made the whole experience seamless, removing the stress of navigating public transport or taxis.

What Makes This Tour Worth It?

Value for money is a common theme among reviews. At about $46, this trip offers a full day’s worth of scenery, sightseeing, and island charm, without the hassle of organizing your own transportation. Many travelers found the organized check-in, smooth boat ride, and timely transfers made the day more enjoyable and less stressful.

The 75-minute ride is a real perk, especially compared to traditional ferries that can take longer. This means more time in Symi and less time spent on the water—perfect for those eager to explore without spending all day on transport.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the majority of reviews highlight the smooth organization and stunning scenery, there are some points to bear in mind. A few travelers expressed disappointment about the shorter-than-expected free time—just four hours—which might not be enough if you want to explore every corner of Symi.

Others noted discomfort on the boat—particularly the noise levels and fumes—especially on the boats with diesel fumes and high noise levels. If you are sensitive to noise or fumes, bringing earplugs or motion sickness remedies could improve your experience.

A small number of reviewers also mentioned schedule changes or cancellations, sometimes without detailed explanations. The tour does operate in good weather, and cancellations are possible in poor weather conditions with full refunds or rescheduling options.

Who Would Love This Trip?

This fast boat trip to Symi is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick escape to an authentic Greek island. It’s also perfect for photography enthusiasts eager to capture colorful houses and scenic bays, or food lovers keen to enjoy Symi’s culinary delights. If you’re after a cost-effective and well-organized day trip with minimal planning, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you prefer longer stays or dislike rough seas, you might want to consider alternative options or prepare accordingly. Those prone to motion sickness should bring remedies, especially since the boat rides can be a bit noisy and fumes-heavy, according to some reviews.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers seeking a beautiful, hassle-free day trip from Rhodes, this fast boat tour to Symi ticks many boxes. The stunning scenery, quick travel time, and good value make it a popular choice, especially among those who want to maximize sightseeing with minimal fuss. The independent exploration time gives you the freedom to wander, take photos, or relax in local tavernas, adding a genuine touch of authenticity.

While some may find the limited time in Symi a drawback or experience discomfort on the boat, these issues are generally outweighed by the tour’s efficiency and scenic appeal. The upgraded hotel transfers are a definite plus, making the entire day seamless and enjoyable.

This tour is best for those who prioritize speed, convenience, and authentic charm. It offers a very good balance of comfort and adventure, making it a smart choice for a memorable day in the Greek islands.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
You can upgrade to include hotel transfers from both southern and northern Rhodes. Many reviewers found this option to be very convenient and stress-free.

What is the departure time?
The tour departs around 10:00 am from the Half Price Tours office in Rhodes. It’s advisable to arrive a little earlier for check-in.

How long is the boat ride?
The journey on the speed boat lasts approximately 75 minutes, making it quicker than traditional ferries.

How much time do I have in Symi?
You’ll get about 4 hours on the island for sightseeing, eating, or relaxing.

Is food included?
No, the tour does not include food, but many visitors recommend bringing snacks or planning to enjoy Symi’s local tavernas.

Can I book hotel transfers?
Yes, upgrading to include two-way hotel transfers is available and highly recommended for added ease.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sun protection, water, motion sickness remedies, and your camera. Also, consider a light jacket or layers if the weather is cooler.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of poor weather, the experience may be canceled or rescheduled, with refunds or alternative dates offered.

In sum, this boat trip to Symi offers stunning views, good value, and a straightforward experience—perfect for those wanting a taste of Greece’s colorful islands without the fuss. Just pack your camera and a sense of adventure, and you’ll be set for an unforgettable day.