Kiotari, Lardos, Pefkos, & Lindos: Speedboat to Symi Island

If you’re staying in the southern parts of Rhodes like Kiotari, Lardos, Pefkos, or Lindos, a day trip to Symi Island offers a refreshing escape filled with stunning scenery, charming architecture, and a touch of adventure. This high-speed boat tour promises around 3 hours on the picturesque Symi, combined with a quick swim stop in Saint Georges Bay, all without the hassle of long bus rides or complicated transfers. It’s an excellent way to experience one of the Dodecanese’s most photogenic islands, especially if you appreciate quick, well-organized trips that maximize your time.

What we particularly love about this tour is its direct departure points, which eliminate the need for a lengthy travel to Rhodes Town. Plus, the speedboat aspect ensures you spend more time exploring rather than sitting in transit. That said, travelers should note that the tour’s duration is quite packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a tad rushed. This trip is a fantastic choice for visitors who want an authentic Symi experience in a single day—especially those staying in the southern resorts.

Key Points

• Convenient departure points from Kiotari and Lardos, ideal for southern Rhodes travelers.
• High-speed boat reduces travel time, giving you more exploration and leisure.
• Three hours of free time on Symi means you can wander, eat, or swim at your own pace.
• Swim stop at Saint Georges Bay offers a chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters.
• Authentic Symi experience with colorful architecture and scenic harbor views.
• Accessible for a variety of travelers, especially those who prefer avoiding long bus rides.

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

This trip is designed to be straightforward: a high-speed boat whisks you from the southeastern coast of Rhodes to Symi, with a brief stop at Mandraki Harbour in between. It’s a practical choice for those who want to see Symi without the inconvenience of navigating public transport or arranging independent boat trips. With departure options from Kiotari and Lardos, you won’t need to spend extra time on buses or taxis—just meet your host, Rhodes Sea Lines, at one of the designated pickup points, and you’re ready to set sail.

What to Expect on the Boat Ride

The boat itself is a modern, comfortable vessel with enough space for groups of all sizes. The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes each way, with a quick 10-minute stop at Mandraki Harbour, where the boat disembarks and embarks passengers. The ride is smooth, and the boat’s high speed means you’ll cover the distance quickly, leaving you with maximum free time on Symi.

Travelers have mentioned that guides are friendly and knowledgeable, providing helpful commentary about the sights along the way and what to expect on Symi. The crew’s professionalism makes the entire journey feel safe and relaxed, even if you’re not a seasoned sailor.

The Symi Stop: What You Can Do

Once in Symi, you’re free to explore independently for about three hours. The town’s colourful, neoclassical buildings and charming fishing harbor are perfect for wandering, snapping photos, or browsing local shops. Reviewers have appreciated the authentic feel of Symi, with one noting its “pastel-colored buildings that frame the bay and the colorful church domes.”

You might choose to sit at one of the many tavernas and try local delicacies—reviewers recommend the famous baby shrimp, a seafood specialty that captures the island’s culinary charm. If swimming is your thing, the crystal-clear waters of Saint Georges Bay are just a short trip away; many guests take the opportunity to cool off before heading back.

One traveler described their time, saying, “The three hours gave me enough time to relax, explore, and enjoy some delicious local food without feeling rushed.” The free time truly lets you soak in the atmosphere, take photos, or simply unwind.

The Return Journey

After your three hours on Symi, the boat departs back, sailing through Saint Georges Bay for a final swim or sunbathe before heading to Rhodes. The return trip is a little shorter—about 2 hours and 20 minutes—giving you a full 9-hour experience that balances travel and leisure nicely.

Reviewers emphasize that the views during the cruise back are stunning—the coastline, the bay, and the colorful townscape all make for great photo opportunities. A common sentiment is that the trip offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off with pickup from two main locations in Kiotari and Lardos, with designated meeting points like the red steps on the beach below Rodos Maris Hotel or the hotels in Kiotari and Lardos. You’ll then board the speedboat, which takes you across the sea to Symi with a quick “pit stop” at Mandraki Harbour to pick up or drop off additional passengers.

Once in Symi, you get about three hours to explore the town. This is plenty of time to stroll around the harbor, admire the pastel-colored buildings, or find a cozy spot for lunch—although meals are at your own expense. Some reviewers loved sampling local seafood, especially the baby shrimp, which is a regional delicacy.

Afterward, the boat departs for Saint Georges Bay, where you can take a dip or relax on deck. The swim stop is around 30 minutes, enough to cool off and enjoy the peaceful surroundings—many travelers have called this the highlight of their day.

The return cruise offers more beautiful views along the coast, and the boat docks back at the original pickup points in Kiotari and Lardos, completing the roughly nine-hour round trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers staying in Kiotari, Lardos, Pefkos, or Lindos who want a hassle-free way to visit Symi. It suits those who enjoy short, organized excursions with a mix of sightseeing and leisure. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and want to maximize your time on Symi without the hassle of renting a boat or arranging transfers independently, this is a solid choice.

It’s also perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a scenic day out that balances sightseeing with relaxation. The boat’s modern amenities and the friendly crew help create a safe and enjoyable atmosphere, even for those less experienced with boat trips.

Considerations and Tips

• Timing can vary slightly depending on the season, but most trips start in the morning and return by late afternoon.
• Weather conditions might affect the schedule or the swimming stop—if offered, accept fleece layers during windy days.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water—it’s a full day in the sun.
• Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and ensure availability.
• If you’re particularly eager to try local dishes, plan to bring some extra cash for lunch in Symi.
• Reviewers mention that guides speak English, Greek, and German, which helps ensure clear communication.

Why This Experience Is Worth It

This tour offers a well-balanced day for travelers eager to see one of the most picturesque islands near Rhodes without the fuss of independent planning. The speedboat makes it possible to spend more time in Symi, and the three hours of free exploration allows you to experience its charm at your own pace. The swimming stop in Saint Georges Bay adds a refreshing element, especially on hot days.

What truly elevates this experience are the friendly guides and crew, who make the entire trip feel personalized and safe. The authentic atmosphere in Symi, with its colorful buildings and lively harbor, makes for some memorable photos and experiences.

For those staying in southern Rhodes, this trip offers excellent value—combining transportation, free time, and swimming—without breaking the bank. It’s especially suited for travelers who value efficiency, scenic beauty, and the opportunity to explore a new island without the fuss of complex logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is around 9 hours, including pickup, boat travel, free time on Symi, and return.

Are there specific pickup points?
Yes, pickup is included from Kiotari and Lardos, with designated meeting points like the red steps on the beach below Rodos Maris Hotel and local hotels.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are at your own expense in Symi. However, you are free to choose from the many local tavernas for lunch.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, there’s a 30-minute stop at Saint Georges Bay specifically for swimming and relaxing in the water.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides and crew speak English, Greek, and German, making communication straightforward.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and family-friendly nature of the boat make it suitable for children, provided they are comfortable on boats.

Is there a risk of missing the boat?
The tour has a tight schedule, so arriving on time for pickup is crucial. But given the organized nature and the short disembarkation at Mandraki Harbour, missing the boat is unlikely if you follow instructions.

Final Thoughts

This high-speed boat tour from Kiotari, Lardos, Pefkos, or Lindos to Symi offers a practical, scenic, and culturally enriching day for anyone looking to explore beyond Rhodes. It combines quick, comfortable transportation with ample free time to wander, dine, or swim in one of the most photogenic settings in the Dodecanese.

Its ease of access, friendly crew, and stunning views make it a favorite for southern Rhodes visitors who want to maximize their island experience without the hassle. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, this trip promises a memorable glimpse of Symi’s vibrant harbor and charming streets—all in one well-organized day.

In short, if you’re after a hassle-free, scenic, and authentic day trip to Symi that respects your time and desire for real experiences, this tour is an excellent choice.