Book a Boat Trip to Symi Island with Swimming at St. George Bay

Overview

Enjoy a full day scenic boat cruise from Rhodes to the beautiful island of Symi with a refreshing swim stop at the stunning St George’s Bay. Departing in the morning from Mandraki Harbour or another central meeting point, this approximately 9‑hour experience combines open‑water cruising along the Aegean with a leisurely break for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation in turquoise waters before arriving on Symi. Once ashore, you will have free time to explore the charming neoclassical harbour town, browse local shops, taste Greek cuisine, or simply wander the colourful streets at your own pace. The day concludes with a return voyage to Rhodes in the early evening, offering a memorable combination of seaside scenery and island exploration.

Experience highlights include:

• Full‑day boat trip from Rhodes to Symi Island with scenic views of the Dodecanese seas
• Swimming and snorkeling stop at St George’s Bay known for its clear waters
• Free time to explore Symi’s picturesque harbour and colourful streets
• Opportunity to shop, dine, or relax in Symi’s traditional village setting
• Onboard facilities including restrooms for convenience during the cruise
• Pickup from selected hotels available for an extra charge

What’s included

• Full‑day boat trip from Rhodes to Symi and back
• Restroom facilities onboard
• Pickup and drop‑off from hotels on Rhodes for an additional fee (if option selected at booking)

What’s not included

• Lunch on Symi or onboard (free time to purchase food locally)
• Drinks unless otherwise specified
• Snorkeling equipment beyond flotation aids where provided
• Gratuities for the crew
• Personal expenses not specified in the description

Itinerary

Your day begins with meeting the group at a designated point in Rhodes Town, often near Mandraki Harbour, and boarding the boat for departure mid‑morning. Sit back and enjoy the scenic cruise across the Aegean Sea toward Symi, with a planned stop at St George’s Bay along the way for approximately an hour of swimming and snorkeling in the inviting sea. After the swim stop, the boat continues to Symi where you will arrive around midday and have several hours of free time to explore the charming harbour, visit local cafés or tavernas for lunch, shop for souvenirs, or stroll through the town’s narrow, colourful streets. In the late afternoon you reboard for the return cruise to Rhodes, with arrival back in port in the early evening.

Who is this experience best for

This boat trip is ideal for travellers staying on Rhodes who want to experience the charm of a neighbouring Greek island in a single day, combining swimming in clear waters with cultural exploration ashore. It suits adults and families who enjoy relaxed cruising, scenic photo opportunities, and free time to wander a traditional Aegean village. It is particularly good for visitors who appreciate a balance of swimming and sightseeing without needing to plan transport or logistics independently.

Insider notes

The journey time from Rhodes to Symi can be lengthy due to the distance across open water, so bring sun protection, seasickness remedies if needed, and a hat or sunglasses for comfort. Seating on board may be limited in peak seasons, and the vessel’s layout is typically simple, so early boarding can help secure shaded spots. The free time in Symi allows for independent exploration; local tavernas and cafés are abundant near the harbour, but lunch is not included in the basic ticket price and is paid locally. Comfortable footwear is recommended for walking on cobblestone streets and around the harbour area.

This tour is sold by Viator.