Rhodes: Speedboat Trip to Symi with Free Time to Explore

Rhodes: Speedboat Trip to Symi with Free Time to Explore — An Authentic Day on the Water and Land

If you’re looking for a quick, exciting escape from Rhodes, the speedboat trip to Symi offers a fantastic blend of scenery, comfort, and leisure. This tour — often praised for its speed and value — takes you across the Aegean in style, with a speedy 80-minute ride that promises stunning views of Rhodes’ castle walls, windmills, and the Saint Nicholas Fortress, before arriving in the picturesque bay of Symi. Once there, you get over three hours to wander, shop, and feast on local cuisine, making it a well-rounded day.

What I really appreciate about this experience is the modern, comfortable speedboat equipped with both an air-conditioned enclosed deck and a sunbathing sundeck. Many travelers rave about the cleanliness and comfort onboard, with Jade noting how “we thoroughly enjoyed the aircon inside space, comfy seats and bar.” The ability to choose whether to sit inside or soak up the sun outside adds flexibility, especially since some reviews mention limited outdoor seating and arriving early is advisable if you want a seat in the sun.

A highlight for me is the stunning coastal views during the crossing. Seeing Rhodes’ windmills, the fortress walls, and the Naillac Tower from the water is quite a sight — perfect for snapping memorable photos. At Symi, the colorful neoclassical houses reflecting in the calm sea create a postcard scene, and the reviews confirm Symi’s charm: “Symi Island is beautiful,” says Selina, “the streets are so beautiful you could get lost.”

That said, the trip isn’t perfect for everyone. Some reviews mention that the boat can be crowded and that the return trip might take longer than scheduled, with Mitchell noting a return of about 95 minutes instead of 80. Also, if you’re eager to lounge in the open air, arriving early is a must to secure a seat outside, especially during peak times. Still, with prices around $28, it’s hard to find a more cost-effective way to combine scenic travel and free time on Symi.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Modern, comfortable speedboats with both air-conditioned indoor spaces and outdoor sun decks.
• Ample free time in Symi — over three hours to explore, shop, or relax.
• Stunning views during the crossing — from Rhodes’ windmills and fortress to Symi’s colorful houses.
• Value for money — around $28, with many travelers commenting on its affordability.
• Good organization — departures and arrivals are typically punctual, and the process is straightforward.
• Ideal for flexible travelers — those who enjoy a mix of scenic travel and independent exploration.
• Tips from reviews — arrive early if you want a sun seat; the boat might be crowded during peak times.
• A friendly crew — reviews mention helpful staff, making the experience smoother.
• Limited guided sightseeing — this is a self-guided free time, so plan your own visit.

A Detailed Look at the Rhodian Speedboat Experience

Starting from Rhodes: A Smooth Departure

The trip begins at either Kolona Harbor or an alternative meeting point, depending on your booking choice. The process is straightforward — you’ll scan a QR code or show your ticket, board the sleek speedboat, and settle into your preferred spot. The journey is about 80 minutes, and during that time, you’re treated to panoramic views of Rhodes. The sight of the medieval castle walls, the minarets of the Old Town, and the Saint Nicholas Fortress from the water is worth the early start.

Many travelers, like Faye, appreciate how “timings were spot on,” and the speedy transfer makes the whole trip feel efficient and refreshing. The boat’s interior is praised for being clean and well-maintained, with Jade mentioning how the “bar and comfy seats” make the indoor space quite enjoyable, especially if you want to avoid the sun or sea spray.

The Scenic Crossing

During the crossing, the boat’s high speed allows for a fast and exhilarating journey, giving you a taste of the open sea without the long haul. You might find, as Mitchell did, that the return takes a little longer than expected — around 95 minutes — but most reviewers agree that the ride remains comfortable and scenic.

Symi: A Picture-Perfect Island

Once you arrive in Symi, the real charm unfolds. The town’s amphitheatrical layout and vivid neoclassical houses reflected in the calm harbor waters are postcard-worthy. Many visitors find themselves taking endless photos; as Selina notes, “Symi Island is beautiful,” and “you could get lost” wandering its streets.

You’ll have more than enough time (about 4 hours) to explore at your own pace. Some opt for a quick meal — many review the local eateries as “delicious,” offering fresh seafood and Greek specialties — or shop for souvenirs. The famous tourist train, running hourly, offers a quick way to see the town if you prefer not to walk extensively.

The Return Journey

The trip back is similar in comfort, and many travelers find that sitting downstairs by the café or in the air-conditioned cabin makes the journey more relaxing. The reviews praise the helpfulness of the crew and the smoothness of the trip. Some mention arriving back on time, emphasizing the reliable organization of the trip.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you love independent exploration paired with scenic transportation, this trip offers a perfect fit. It’s ideal for travelers who value good value for money, don’t mind sharing limited outdoor seating, and want a quick but immersive visit to Symi. Families with children, especially those who appreciate comfortable, speedy travel, also find this a worthwhile outing. However, if you’re after guided sightseeing or a more structured tour, you might find this experience a bit too free-form.

The Sum Up: Is This Trip Worth It?

For just about $28, you get a fast, comfortable ride across the Aegean with stunning views and plenty of free time to enjoy Symi’s colorful charm. The modern speedboat, friendly crew, and flexible schedule make this trip a great-value option. It suits travelers who prioritize quick transit combined with authentic, unstructured exploration.

If your aim is to see a quintessential Greek island with minimal fuss, this tour delivers. Just remember to arrive early if you want that perfect sunbathing spot, and come prepared to wander Symi’s vibrant streets, take photos, and soak up the island’s relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this day trip makes for a memorable taste of Greece’s coastal beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the starting points for this speedboat tour?
The departure locations vary depending on your booking, but commonly it’s from Kolona Harbor in Rhodes.

How long is the boat ride between Rhodes and Symi?
Expect around 80 minutes each way, with some reviews mentioning the return leg might take closer to 95 minutes.

What kind of seating options are available onboard?
You can choose between an air-conditioned indoor space and an outdoor sun deck. Arriving early is recommended if you want to secure a seat outside.

How much free time do I get in Symi?
You’ll have approximately 3.5 to 4 hours to explore the island at your own pace, suitable for shopping, dining, and sightseeing.

Is the trip suitable for families or children?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with children, and the short, high-speed ride tends to keep kids engaged and comfortable.

Are there guided tours on Symi?
No, this is a self-guided free time in Symi, allowing you to explore independently or take a tourist train around the town.

What is included in the price?
Roundtrip speedboat transportation and free time in Symi are included. Food, drinks, and entry to attractions are not.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Is this experience good value for money?
Absolutely. With positive reviews highlighting its affordability and the quality of the trip, most travelers find it offers excellent value, especially considering the scenic beauty and free exploration time.

This speedboat trip to Symi from Rhodes combines the thrill of a fast ride with the charm of one of Greece’s most colorful islands, all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re after picturesque photos, local cuisine, or just a fun day on the water, it’s a reliable choice that’s easy to enjoy.