Speedboat to Symi sounds simple, until St George’s Bay. This Rhodes to Symi day trip pairs a fast crossing with real time on the island, plus a 30-minute swim stop in one of the Dodecanese’s prettiest bays.

I love the pace here: you lose less time to transit and more time to wandering around Symi’s waterfront. I also like that the swim break is timed well—short enough to keep your schedule intact, long enough to actually enjoy the water.

One thing to consider: the plan changes by departure time. The 15:15 sailing skips the swim (it’s a brief photo stop), and in late September and October the order may shift so the bay looks its best in the light.

Key highlights you’ll care about

• High-speed ride from Rhodes that gets you to Symi in about an hour
• Around 3 hours in Symi for shopping, viewpoints, and lunch at your own pace
• St George’s Bay swimming stop (30 minutes on the morning departures)
• Season-aware timing: late Sep/Oct may visit St George’s Bay first for better colors
• Bring a layer: the boat can feel cool on the crossing, and crew often help with warm extras
• Optional sunset-friendly timing on the 15:15 departure (no swim, less busy)

Fast boat day from Rhodes: where the value really comes from

The big reason this trip works is simple: speed buys you freedom. Instead of spending half your day on a slow ferry, you take a high-speed boat and get to Symi quickly. That matters because Symi isn’t a place you enjoy by watching it from a distance. You want to walk the harbor, pop into lanes, and take your time choosing where to eat.

You also get a smart day structure. You’re not rushed out of Symi the second you arrive, and you’re not stuck on deck with nothing to do. The schedule is built around giving you: time on land, a set swimming break, and enough sailing time to enjoy the coastline without turning it into a long endurance test.

This isn’t a private boat or a full guided tour. The vibe is more like: show up, board, explore, and enjoy the best view moments the route offers.

Boarding in Rhodes: Mandraki Harbor and pickup options

Most sailings begin around Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes. That’s a convenient starting point because it’s close to the core waterfront area, and it keeps the whole day trip from feeling overly complicated.

That said, the exact meeting point can vary depending on the option you choose. Your day includes both pickup variations and different return drop-off areas around Rhodes’s east coast. The only consistent rule: the activity ends back at your meeting point, so plan for a clean start and finish without hunting for a separate transfer at the end.

If you’re staying farther out (Lindos, Kolymbia, Kiotari, Lardos areas), the pickup options matter. This tour is designed so you can get on and off without needing to personally coordinate a bus to the harbor.

Symi arrival: the harbor views that make the trip feel worth it

Once you arrive, Symi hits you right away. The fishing harbor is framed by pastel-colored buildings, and you notice colorful church domes dotted across the town. It’s not just pretty from the boat. When you’re on land, the scenery stays with you as you walk along the waterfront.

You get about 3 hours exploring Symi on your own. This is the sweet spot for most people. Symi’s town is compact enough that you can wander without needing a tight guided script, but there’s still enough variety to keep you busy—harbor views, small shops, and spots where you can stop and take photos without feeling like you’re sprinting.

The pace also helps you make smart choices. Want a longer lunch? You can. Want to walk up toward a viewpoint? You can. Want to just browse and snack? You can do that too.

Making the most of your Symi time: what to do in those 3 hours

With your own time on Symi, your best plan is to pick one “must-do” and one “nice if time” activity, then let the rest be flexible.

1) Start with the waterfront

Get your bearings fast by walking the harbor and checking out the waterfront streets. It’s the easiest way to spot the direction you want to head next.

2) Walk for a view, not a checklist

Symi rewards simple wandering. If you feel like walking toward a church or a higher viewpoint, you’ll likely find better panoramas over the harbor. The goal isn’t a long hike—it’s a payoff view.

3) Plan lunch and try local flavor

Meals aren’t included, so you’ll pay at tavernas and cafés. This is your chance to look for Symi-style mini shrimps and pour yourself into a glass of local ouzo if that’s your thing. (If you don’t see exactly what you want, just treat it like a browse-and-choose moment.)

4) Don’t over-optimize your schedule

You have about 3 hours. That’s enough time to feel unhurried, but not enough to treat Symi like a multi-day base. If you spend too long searching for the perfect meal, the bay swim stop will still come whether you’re ready or not.

St George’s Bay swim stop: crystal water and the timing that matters

Now for the part you remember: St George’s Bay. On many departures, you get a 30-minute swimming stop. This isn’t a rushed “jump in for a second” break. You can actually enjoy it—float, swim, and cool off after time on land.

The bay is known for clear, bright water that makes even a short swim feel special. It’s one of those places where you look down and the water color alone changes the mood.

Which departures include the 30-minute swim?

• The 9:00 and 11:00 departures include a 30-minute swim stop at St George’s Bay.

The 15:15 option: no swim, but a calmer feel

If you choose the 15:15 departure, you still go by St George’s Bay, but it’s only a short 5-minute photo stop—no swimming. The payoff is different: this timing can feel less hot, less busy, and you can catch a great sunset on the return sail back to Rhodes.

Late September and October note: order affects the light

In late September and October, the itinerary may visit St George’s Bay first. The reason is practical: if you go after Symi, the bay can be shaded, and the water won’t show the same vivid colors. If photography matters to you, picking a date in those months can change the whole look.

The return sail: coastlines, downtime, and maybe a surprise

On the way back, you’re not stuck in a long, empty stretch. The day is built to keep you moving from one “high moment” to the next: Symi time, then St George’s Bay, then scenic cruising back toward Rhodes.

On your return, you can relax on deck for salt-air views. If you’re lucky with the route and the sea conditions, you might even spot dolphins on the way back—nothing you can count on, but it’s the kind of bonus that happens often enough to make people smile when it does.

If you chose a late departure, your return can feel like the best kind of ending: the light gets softer, and the ride back to Rhodes turns into a slow scenic finish rather than a frantic “get me home” moment.

Comfort tips that make a difference on a high-speed boat

A high-speed boat is fun, but it’s not always warm. The crossing can feel cool, especially if you’re going earlier in the day or you’re prone to feeling chilled on open decks.

Here are the practical things I’d do to make the day more comfortable:

• Bring a light jacket or layer for the crossing and time on deck
• Wear swimwear so the swim stop is frictionless
• Pack a towel (you’ll want it after the water)
• Wear footwear you’re comfortable walking in around Symi’s harbor lanes

Crew support is a plus. Some days, the staff may provide warm extras like fleeces or jackets, which is a big comfort win if the sea wind is stronger than you expected.

Also note seating can be a trade-off: some areas may have tighter sports-style seats, while other parts of the boat may have bench seating if you prefer more room.

Price and value: is $55 a fair deal?

At about $55 per person, this trip sits in a “pay for convenience” category. You’re paying for three things you’d otherwise have to mix and match yourself:

• Speed (less transit time)
• A structured Symi stop
• A dedicated swim break at St George’s Bay

Is it the cheapest way to get to Symi? Probably not. But that’s not the point of this particular day trip. The value comes from getting the best parts of the route without spending your whole day on logistics.

If you want a low-effort day with strong scenery and a real swimming moment, this is good value. If you’re the kind of traveler who loves slow travel and doesn’t care about timing, you may prefer a cheaper ferry option. Still, you’ll miss the “we arrived fast and still had plenty of time” feel that makes this one popular.

Who should book this Rhodes to Symi boat trip

You’ll likely love it if you:

• Want a day trip that doesn’t eat your entire schedule
• Like clear “anchor moments”: Symi on your own + a timed bay swim
• Prefer a fast boat over a long ferry ride
• Enjoy scenic cruising and want time for photos without turning the day into a checklist

It may not be your perfect match if you:

• Are set on swimming in St George’s Bay but plan to use the 15:15 departure (that one skips the swim)
• Want a fully guided experience with a detailed lecture the whole way (this is more independent exploration)

Should you book it?

I think you should book this if your idea of a perfect Rhodes day is: get to Symi fast, explore freely, and end with a swim in seriously clear water. The combination is the point, and it’s priced reasonably for what you’re getting—especially the time management.

If you’re flexible, consider your departure choice carefully:

• Choose 9:00 or 11:00 if St George’s Bay swimming is a must.
• Choose 15:15 if you’d rather skip the swim, enjoy a calmer pace, and aim for sunset on the return.

Either way, bring layers, plan lunch on Symi, and treat the day as a scenic sampler that’s short enough to keep it fun.

FAQ

How long is the Rhodes to Symi boat trip?

The duration is listed as 6 to 9 hours, depending on the selected departure time.

What is the price per person?

The price is $55 per person.

What’s included in the ticket?

You get a high-speed boat cruise, free time to explore Symi, and a swimming stop at St George’s Bay (on the departures that include it).

Is lunch included?

No. Meals and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to buy food on Symi.

Do I get to swim at St George’s Bay?

For the 9:00 and 11:00 departures, you get a 30-minute swim stop.

Which departure times do not include swimming?

The 15:15 departure does not include a swim stop. It’s described as a 5-minute photo stop at St George’s Bay instead.

Where does the tour start from?

The sailing starts at Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes, but the exact meeting point can vary depending on the option you book.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear and a towel.

Is there hotel transfer service included?

No. Hotel transfers are not included.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a way to book without paying right away?

Yes. You can reserve now and pay later.

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