From Rhodes: Cruise to Symi Island and Saint Georges Bay

Escape the bustling streets of Rhodes and embark on a captivating day trip to the stunning Symi Island. Depart from Mandraki Harbour at 10:00 AM and enjoy a picturesque boat cruise that includes a refreshing swim stop in crystal-clear waters. Explore the charming port town of Gialos, where you’ll find local shops and traditional Greek cuisine. This adventure promises an unforgettable experience, immersing you in the breathtaking scenery of the Dodecanese islands. Get ready to discover why Symi’s beauty has captivated travelers for centuries.

Key Points

• Depart from Mandraki Harbour, Rhodes at 10:00 AM for an 8.5-hour adventure to Symi Island and Saint George Bay.
• Enjoy a scenic boat trip, 1-hour swim stop in crystal-clear waters, and 3 hours to explore Symi’s main port town.
• Tour cost starts at $37.14 per person, with full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• Experience includes boat cruise, swim stop, and exploration time, with amenities like freshwater showers and wheelchair accessibility.
• Tour has an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars based on 1,143 reviews, with praise for the boat trip, bay, and crew.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This cruise to Symi Island and Saint George’s Bay offers an 8.5-hour adventure departing from Mandraki Harbour in Rhodes at 10:00 AM.

Guests return to the port by 6:30 PM. The tour costs from $37.14 per person and features a scenic boat trip, a 1-hour swim stop at St George Bay, and 3 hours to explore the main port of Symi.

Lunch at local restaurants is optional. Amenities include hotel pickup/drop-off, freshwater showers, and an experienced crew.

Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, and travelers can reserve a spot without paying today.

Itinerary Highlights

Embarking on this cruise, guests can look forward to a scenic boat trip to the enchanting Symi Island and the picturesque Saint George Bay.

After arriving, they’ll have an hour to swim and cool off in the bay’s crystal-clear waters.

An hour of refreshing dips in the bay’s crystalline waters awaits guests upon arrival.

The highlight is the 3-hour exploration of Gialos, Symi’s main port town. Visitors can wander the colorful neoclassical buildings, browse local shops, and enjoy a traditional Greek lunch at one of the charming waterfront restaurants.

Throughout the journey, guests will admire the stunning Dodecanese island scenery and the region’s distinct coastal charm.

Amenities and Services

The cruise includes a number of amenities and services to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will enjoy a boat cruise, a refreshing swim stop, and time to explore the main port of Symi. The crew is experienced, and a lifeguard is onboard for added safety.

Freshwater showers are available for rinsing off after the swim. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests.

Travelers should bring beachwear, towels, comfortable shoes, and sun protection to make the most of this scenic coastal excursion.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

According to customer reviews, the cruise to Symi Island and Saint George Bay has received an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars based on 1,143 reviews.

Travelers praised the lovely boat trip, the amazing stop at the bay, and the great time exploring Symi.

Marzena from the UK said the trip was "brilliant" with a "nice crew" and "funny captain", recommending it highly.

Ariel from Israel enjoyed the "lovely boat trip" and "amazing stop at the bay".

Lisa from Ireland "loved every minute" and the "special swim at St George Bay", highly recommending the experience.

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Meeting Point and Logistics

Travelers will find the meeting point for the cruise at the SP Cruises Kiosk, located in Mandraki Harbour opposite the Bank of Greece.

The meeting point for the cruise is the SP Cruises Kiosk in Mandraki Harbour, opposite the Bank of Greece.

From there, the crew will guide passengers onto the waiting boat for their adventure to Symi Island and Saint Georges Bay.

The trip includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off for convenient transportation

• An experienced crew to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey

• Freshwater showers to rinse off after the swimming stop

Please note that the program may change due to weather conditions and safety reasons, as per the captain’s instructions.

Choosing the Right Trip

Selecting the right cruise trip can make all the difference in maximizing your experience on Symi Island and Saint Georges Bay. This 8.5-hour excursion offers an ideal balance of scenic boat travel, swimming, and town exploration.

With a daily 10am departure from Rhodes’ Mandraki Harbour, you’ll have ample time to enjoy the highlights, from the picturesque Saint Georges Bay to the charming port of Gialos. Accessibility, amenities, and overwhelmingly positive reviews further cement this as a top choice.

Whether you’re seeking an affordable, worry-free day trip or an idyllic Greek island adventure, this cruise checks all the boxes.

Preparing for the Cruise

When preparing for the cruise to Symi Island and Saint Georges Bay, travelers will want to ensure they’ve the essential items on hand.

These include:

• Comfortable, lightweight clothing and sturdy walking shoes to explore the island

• Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen

• Any necessary medications, a small towel, and a waterproof bag or pouch for personal items during the swimming stop

With these key essentials packed, voyagers can sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the stunning Greek island scenery during the 8.5-hour excursion.

Exploring Symi Island

Upon arrival at Symi Island, visitors are immediately captivated by the charming town of Gialos, the main port. Colorful neoclassical buildings line the picturesque harbor, their facades reflecting in the sparkling waters.

Strolling through the narrow streets, travelers discover a vibrant town filled with local restaurants, artisan shops, and lively cafes. Many opt to indulge in a traditional Greek lunch, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties.

Afterwards, visitors can explore the island’s medieval architecture, including the impressive Monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis, or simply relax on the town’s scenic promenade, taking in the stunning Aegean vistas.

Things To Know

What Is the Best Time to Visit Symi Island?

The best time to visit Symi Island is during the peak summer months of July and August when the weather is warm, the seas are calm, and the island’s picturesque streets and harbourfront come alive with lively activity.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the cruise, but they’ll find a variety of local restaurants and cafes offering tasty options to purchase during the 3-hour exploration time in Symi’s main port of Gialos.

Is There a Dress Code for the Boat Trip?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. Swimwear, sun hats, and light layers are ideal for the boat trip as you’ll have a chance to swim at St. George Bay.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The trip welcomes travelers of all ages, from young children to seniors, as it’s designed to be family-friendly. Guests just need to ensure they can safely board and disembark the boat.

What Language Is the Tour Guide Commentary In?

The tour commentary is primarily in English, though the crew may provide additional explanations in other languages as needed to cater to the diverse international guests on the cruise.

Sum Up

The captivating day trip from Rhodes to Symi Island and Saint George Bay promises an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a picturesque boat cruise, a refreshing swim stop, and ample time to explore the charming port town of Gialos, all while surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Dodecanese islands. This adventure guarantees a truly memorable day filled with local culture, stunning views, and lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: