Rhodes Town: Boat Trip to Symi Island and St Marina Bay

Planning a day out on the water from Rhodes? This boat tour to Symi Island and St. Marina Bay offers a fantastic way to see some of the best scenery in the Dodecanese. For around $36, you’ll enjoy a full 8-hour adventure featuring swimming, snorkeling, and exploring a charming Greek island—an affordable option that combines natural beauty with culture and leisure.

What we particularly love about this trip is its simplicity and value—starting and ending right from Rhodes Harbour makes logistics straightforward, especially if you’re short on time or prefer not to deal with complicated transfers. Plus, the swim stop at St. Marina Bay, accessible only by boat, offers some of the clearest waters you’ll find in Greece. However, the slower boat ride compared to high-speed catamarans might be a consideration if you’re keen on squeezing in as much island time as possible. This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic days with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Convenient Departure and Return: Starts and ends at Rhodes Harbour, making it easy to include in your day.
• Beautiful Water Stops: Crystal-clear waters at St. Marina Bay ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Charming Symi: Free time on Symi allows for exploring vibrant streets and neo-classical architecture.
• Affordable Price: At just over $36 per person, it offers excellent value given the length and inclusions.
• Comfortable Amenities: Onboard facilities include toilets, air conditioning, WiFi, sunbeds, and floats.
• Authentic Experience: Smaller, slower boat offers a more relaxed vibe compared to larger catamarans.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Booking and Meeting Process

Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility if your plans shift. The tour begins at Rhodes Harbour—you’ll need to arrive about 20 minutes beforehand to exchange your voucher at the Rizos Cruises desk. The boat is easy to spot with the “DISCOVERY” signage, and the staff is known for being friendly and helpful—an important detail, especially if you’re new to the area.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure and Water Views:
The day kicks off in the morning with a smooth departure from Rhodes Harbour. The journey to St. Marina Bay takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, soak up the sun, and perhaps chat with fellow travelers. As one reviewer pointed out, the vessel is handled well, and the boat is notably clean with amenities like snacks, a bar, and air-conditioned indoor areas—perfect for relaxing during the ride.

St. Marina Bay – The Swimming Stop:
The highlight here is the crystal-clear waters of St. Marina Bay. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, enough for a quick dip and some snorkeling. Reviewers mention that the water’s quality is excellent, and the swim is well-timed to cater to both snorkelers and those who prefer to lounge on the boat. The onboard floats and Wi-Fi are a bonus, allowing you to relax or share your photos effortlessly.

Sailing to Symi:
After the swim, it’s just a short, scenic cruise to Symi Harbour. The boat moves at a leisurely pace, providing ample opportunity to admire the rocky coastlines and colorful village views lining the bay. This slower pace is preferred by those who want to avoid the high-speed rush but still enjoy the journey.

Free Time on Symi:
Disembarking in Symi, you get around three hours to explore. Many reviews highlight that this is enough time to wander the pastel-colored streets, admire the neo-classical architecture, and grab a leisurely lunch. One traveler even mentions enjoying a meal with a view of the water before shopping for souvenirs or just soaking in the village atmosphere.

The reviews emphasize that the time feels well-balanced. You’re not rushed, and it allows for a genuine feel of the island. Several travelers found that this duration is perfect unless you want to visit specific sights like the Orthodox Monastery, which might require more time.

The Return Journey

In the late afternoon or early evening, you set sail back to Rhodes. The return trip offers a chance to relax, reflect on your day, and enjoy the sunset views. As one review noted, the crew keeps everything running smoothly, and the boat departs on time—an important point for tight schedules.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Authentic Charm of Symi

Symi itself is a highlight. The neo-classical houses and picturesque harbor make for some stunning photo opportunities, and reviewers have shared that the island’s beauty is even better in person. The free time allows you to explore at your own pace, whether that’s shopping for local products, enjoying a coffee, or simply soaking in the views.

The Swim Stop at St. Marina Bay

Unlike larger catamarans that miss out on this kind of intimate water stop, this tour’s boat is slower, making swimming and snorkeling more feasible and enjoyable. As one reviewer mentioned, it was “the perfect amount of time,” and the water quality more than met expectations.

Comfort and Convenience

Amenities onboard—including toilets, WiFi, air conditioning, and sunbeds—are appreciated. These details make the whole experience more comfortable, especially during the longer ferry ride. The boat’s cleanliness and friendly crew are often praised, making for a relaxed day out.

Cost-Effective and Value-Focused

For just above $36, travelers get a full day out with scenic cruising, swimming, and sightseeing. While the boat is slower than high-speed options, the ability to swim at St. Marina Bay and enjoy a leisurely exploration of Symi adds significant value. The tour’s reviews highlight that it offers a good balance of affordability, comfort, and authentic experiences.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Remember to bring towels, biodegradable sunscreen, and snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the water stop.
• Towel and sunscreen are not included, so pack accordingly.
• Arrive early—20 minutes before departure—to ensure smooth check-in.
• If you plan to explore Symi in depth, consider hiring a moped or taking additional time on your own, as the free three hours are well-spent but not enough for everything.
• The tour does not include food or drinks, so bring cash if you want to buy refreshments or snacks onboard or on the island.
• The trip is suitable for all ages, but be prepared for potentially some walking on uneven surfaces on Symi.

The Sum Up

This boat trip to Symi and St. Marina Bay offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to experience some of Rhodes’ most beautiful sights. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy relaxed water stops, charming island exploring, and scenic cruises without the rush of high-speed vessels. The combination of comfortable amenities, authentic charm, and authentic water activities makes it a great choice for those seeking an immersive yet affordable day out.

While it might feel slower than other options, that’s part of its charm—allowing you to truly unwind, take in the views, and enjoy Greece’s beautiful waters at a gentle pace. Whether you want to swim in the crystal-clear bay, wander Symi’s colorful streets, or simply relax on deck with a drink, this tour provides a solid balance of fun, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip from Rhodes?
The journey to St. Marina Bay and back takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way, making the entire day about 8 hours including stops.

What do I need to bring?
Towels, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, cash, and snorkeling gear are recommended to enjoy the water stop fully. Food and drinks are not included, so carry cash if you want to purchase snacks or refreshments onboard or on Symi.

Are there onboard facilities?
Yes, the boat has toilets, WiFi, air conditioning, sunbeds, floats, and a bar, making the ride comfortable for all.

Can I explore Symi at my own pace?
Yes, you get around 3 hours on the island to explore, shop, or relax. Reviewers say that this duration is just right for a leisurely visit.

Is the trip suitable for families?
Absolutely. The relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for families. Just keep in mind the walking involved on Symi’s streets.

Does the tour depart on time?
Based on reviews, yes. The crew is punctual, and departures tend to be on schedule, with a few short delays possible due to traffic.

What is the price and is it good value?
At about $36 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the swimming stop, free time on Symi, and onboard amenities.

Is there any flexibility in booking or cancellation?
Yes, you can reserve now with the option to pay later, and cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

This boat trip is a fantastic way to see two of the Dodecanese’s most charming spots without breaking the bank. Whether you’re after a relaxing day by the water, a quick cultural fix, or some beautiful scenery, this tour ticks plenty of boxes.