Rhodes: Cruise to Symi & St George's Bay with Hotel Transfer

Exploring Greece’s Dodecanese islands often means hopping between charming spots, but this particular cruise to Symi and St. George’s Bay offers a memorable mix of scenic views, authentic island charm, and relaxing swimming spots. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a compelling picture for travelers seeking a day filled with picturesque scenery and laid-back adventures.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the speedy boat ride promises a quick and comfortable trip with panoramic views that are simply stunning. Second, the three hours of free time in Symi allows for genuine exploration, whether that’s wandering the colorful streets or sampling local cuisine. Lastly, the swim stop at St. George’s Bay—famous for its crystal-clear waters—appears to be a highlight for many. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the relatively short time available at each stop, which might feel rushed for those wanting a more leisurely pace.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want an efficient yet authentic taste of Symi’s beauty, combined with the convenience of hotel transfers and a scenic boat ride. If you love exploring islands quickly but thoroughly and enjoy a splash in beautiful waters, this cruise could be just what you need.

This experience made our article of 13 Top Cruises And Boat Tours In Greece (With Reviews & Prices).

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Key Points

Fast and comfortable boat transfer with open-air seating offers excellent sea views.
Three hours in Symi provides ample time to explore, shop, and enjoy local food.
Swim stop at St. George’s Bay is a crystal-clear highlight, perfect for relaxing or cooling off.
Hotel transfers are available from several Rhodes resorts, making the trip hassle-free.
The tour is about 6 hours long, balancing sightseeing with relaxation.
Reviews praise knowledgeable guides, smooth logistics, and the stunning scenery.

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The Itinerary in Detail

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Departure from Rhodes

The day kicks off around 11 am at Mandraki Harbour. The high-speed boat, praised for its modern design and cleanliness, gets underway swiftly, cruising across the sea in about an hour. Reviewers like Caitlin appreciated the friendly crew handing out fleeces to keep warm during the breeze, highlighting the crew’s attentiveness on cooler days. The boats feature open-air, individual seats—ensuring every guest gets a clear view and a chance to feel the breeze while soaking in the sights.

Arrival at Symi Island

Symi’s approach is nothing short of postcard-perfect. As you glide into the harbor, you’ll see the pastel-colored neoclassical buildings that seem to spill into the turquoise waters. The harbor scene, described as charming and colorful, is a favorite among visitors. Symi’s relaxed atmosphere is particularly appealing, and according to reviews, three hours is enough time to explore without feeling rushed. You might stroll along the waterfront, browse local shops, or sit down for a leisurely lunch featuring the island’s famous Symi shrimps—a dish you’ll definitely want to try.

Exploring Symi

Many reviews highlight how well-organized and charmingly peaceful Symi feels. Reviewers like Henry describe it as a “hidden paradise,” perfect for wandering through narrow streets lined with quaint cafes and boutiques. The local cuisine is another draw, with waterfront tavernas offering fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes, making the free time both relaxing and flavorful.

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The Swim at St. George’s Bay

After exploring Symi, the boat heads towards the famous St. George’s Bay—a spot accessible exclusively by boat. With just 30 minutes allocated for swimming, many reviewers noted how the crystal-clear waters made it a magical experience. Faye called it “exactly what was needed to cool off,” emphasizing how refreshing the stop is after a warm day exploring. Some choose to relax on the boat, soaking in the sun and stunning surrounding cliffs, while others jump into the inviting waters for a quick swim.

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Return to Rhodes

The cruise back leaves St. George’s Bay in the early evening, arriving back at Mandraki Harbour around 5 pm. Reviewers like Tony appreciated how punctual the pick-up and drop-off were, making the whole experience smooth from start to finish.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package offers three hours of free time in Symi, a swimming stop at St. George’s Bay, and hotel transfers from select resorts. The boat itself is praised for its speed and spaciousness, with only one hour of travel each way, making the journey quick yet comfortable.

What’s not included are snacks and drinks, so bringing your own or planning to buy lunch in Symi is recommended. The flexible cancellation policy allows booking with confidence, and the reserve now, pay later feature makes it easy to plan without immediate financial commitment.

The Authentic Experience: Why It Works

The reviews reveal that guides and crew are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive—factors that make the cruise feel safe and well-organized. Caitlin’s comment about receiving maps of Symi with graphics shows the level of thought put into helping travelers enjoy their free time effectively.

The boat’s open-air seating is a big plus—every passenger gets a great view, and many reviewers appreciated how comfortable and modern the vessel felt. The short, scenic cruise is ideal for those who want to maximize sightseeing without long sea journeys, which many found to be smooth and enjoyable.

Value for Money

Considering the duration of about 6 hours, the hotel transfer, and the free time in Symi plus swimming stop, many travelers agree that this tour offers great value. The experience combines scenic travel, cultural exploration, and relaxation, all within a well-organized timetable. The positive reviews praising the guides, boat quality, and timing suggest that the tour is not just about ticking boxes but genuinely providing a memorable day out.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to those seeking a snapshot of Symi’s charm without the hassle of planning multiple ferry trips or local transport. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights with minimal stress. The combination of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor makes it suitable for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration.

Given the shorter time in each location, travelers who prefer a leisurely, unhurried pace might find it slightly rushed—so if you’re after a deep dive into Symi’s culture or extensive shopping, you might want to consider longer or more in-depth options.

FAQ

Is hotel transfer available for all resorts?
Hotel transfers are arranged from several resorts including Faliraki, Kalithea, Ixia, Kremasti, and Kolymbia. Transfers are coordinated via WhatsApp and can be booked until 22:00 the night before.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, and a towel for the St. George’s Bay swim stop. Snacks and drinks are not included, so consider packing some or buying in Symi.

How long is the boat ride?
The trip from Rhodes to Symi takes approximately 1 hour on a high-speed boat, which is praised for being fast, smooth, and comfortable.

Are seats allocated or first-come, first-served?
Every guest is assigned an individual open-air seat, ensuring clear views and comfort during the ride.

Can I explore Symi freely?
Yes, you get approximately three hours to explore the town, shop, or dine at your own pace.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the smooth, short cruise and swimming stop make it suitable for families, especially those comfortable with boat trips.

What language is the tour hosted in?
The tour is conducted in English and Greek, with guides who are knowledgeable and friendly.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot online now and choose to pay later. This allows flexible planning without immediate costs.

Final Thoughts

This cruise to Symi and St. George’s Bay offers a well-rounded taste of Greek island life. With comfortable high-speed transportation, ample free time to explore one of the most picturesque harbors in the Aegean, and a refreshing swim stop in a renowned bay, it balances adventure and relaxation beautifully.

The positive reviews underscore its reliability, scenic beauty, and well-organized nature. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting an authentic, relaxed day that showcases the best of Symi’s charm without the hassle of extensive planning.

If you’re after a value-packed, scenic, and culturally enriching day, this tour ticks many boxes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Greek island hopper, it’s a day that’s likely to leave lasting memories—and maybe even a few delicious shrimp dishes in your tummy.