High cruise to Symi island & St George bay

An Authentic Day on the Water: High Cruise to Symi Island & St. George Bay

Taking a boat trip around Rhodes’ smaller islands offers a refreshing break from busy streets and crowded beaches. This full-day cruise to Symi Island, departing from Rhodes for about 8 to 9 hours, is quite popular, with many travelers booking it about 10 days in advance. Priced at $67.64 per person, it promises a mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and a taste of local island life. The experience involves a luxury yacht, optional hotel pickup, and two main stops: the charming, low-key Symi Island and the secluded St. George Bay.

What I love about this cruise is how it balances the stunning scenery and calm waters with the chance to explore—without the feeling of being rushed or overwhelmed. The boat itself is described as clean, comfortable, and spacious, a major plus when you’re spending nearly a full day on the water. The free snorkeling equipment and WiFi onboard mean you can stay connected and explore beneath the surface, which many reviews highlight as a highlight. Plus, the option to enjoy a cocktail from the onboard bar makes it easy to relax and soak in the sun.

One thing to keep in mind is that timing can be a bit flexible, especially during busy seasons when the boat might be more crowded, as some reviewers pointed out. Plus, if you’re keen to enjoy a leisurely lunch or explore Symi at your own pace, this trip offers roughly 3 hours in the town, which is enough for a relaxed walk and some shopping, but not a deep dive into every corner. If you value quiet, uncrowded beaches and natural beauty, this cruise might feel a little more commercialized than a private or small-group tour.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenic Stops: Multiple reviews praise the clear waters and beautiful swimming spots, especially at St. George Bay, where the natural landscape and turquoise waters create a perfect backdrop for relaxing and snorkeling.
• Well-Organized Transportation: The hotel pickup and luxury transfer add comfort and convenience, especially for those unfamiliar with Rhodes. Many mention a professional, friendly driver like Apoustolus, who makes the journey enjoyable from start to finish.
• Comfortable Vessel: The boat — the Doll — is often described as new, spacious, and clean, with inside seating and sunbathing spots. This means you’ll stay comfortable even under the hot sun, something many travelers appreciate, especially during summer.
• Authentic Island Experience: Time in Symi allows for shopping, sightseeing, and relaxed exploration, giving a taste of a classic Greek island, with many reviews calling it beautiful and authentic.
• Value for Money: At just over $67, the cruise offers full-day entertainment, swimming stops, snorkeling gear, and onboard WiFi, making it good value despite some reviewers noting additional costs for drinks onboard.
• Some Room for Improvement: A common concern is crowd density during peak seasons and the fact that some felt the cruise was too structured for their tastes. Also, a few mention the potential for cheaper booking options locally, so it pays to compare prices.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

Booking and Preparation

Booking this cruise generally requires about ten days’ notice, which suggests it’s popular but flexible enough to plan ahead. The online reservation includes mobile tickets, simplifying your trip. Many reviewers highlight the added convenience of hotel pickup, which saves a lot of hassle—particularly in busy resorts like Kolimbia. However, others found the pick-up points could be confusing or require a short taxi ride, so double-check the meeting details before paying. The start time at 10:00 am provides a good window for early risers to get ready and arrive comfortably.

The Journey to Symi

The transfers are described as comfortable; the driver Apoustolus, in particular, gets praise for his friendly, humorous style. The bus ride itself takes around an hour or so, with many noting the scenic views along the way. The boat, called the Doll, is about a year old in some reviews, appearing well-maintained and clean. Some travelers, especially during peak season, found the boat packed with around 220 passengers, which could affect comfort if you prefer quieter, more intimate trips.

Symi Island: The Jewel of the Dodecanese

Once at Symi, you’ll find an island that is remote yet cosmopolitan, with breathtaking architecture and a laid-back vibe. Many reviews describe Symi as beautiful and charming, with plenty of photo-worthy spots and inviting shops. The roughly three hours allotted here are enough to wander through the narrow streets, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or browse local crafts. As one reviewer puts it, “Symi is magical, highly recommended,” and others mention the delicious local shrimp and friendly atmosphere.

St. George Bay: A Secluded Swim

The second stop, St. George Bay, is praised for its unspoiled beauty and crystal-clear waters. You’ll drop anchor for about an hour and a half, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or just float and relax. Many travelers enjoy borrowing snorkel gear to explore the underwater world, often citing the colourful fish and clear visibility as memorable highlights. Some guests say it feels like a private paradise, especially since the bay is only accessible by boat.

The Experience Onboard

On the boat, you’ll find a bar with reasonably priced drinks (not included in the ticket price), and WiFi to share your photos or check messages. The crew are frequently described as courteous and helpful, making sure everyone is comfortable. Even on crowded days, many mention friendly staff that go out of their way.

Timing and Flexibility

Most travelers report around 10 hours total, with enough time for a swim, exploration, and some downtime. The approximate 3 hours in Symi are usually enough for a gentle exploration, but not a deep dive into every alley or museum. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, scenic, and less hurried experience, this tour hits the right notes. However, those who prefer more independent exploration might wish for a longer stay ashore.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a scenic, comfortable, and straightforward way to see Symi and swim in natural bays. It suits those who enjoy relaxation with a bit of sightseeing and aren’t too concerned about a busy boat. The luxury vessel and organized transfers make it comfortable, especially for visitors who prefer not to handle logistics. It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy traveling in a group and sharing the experience.

You’ll love this tour if you’re looking for stunning views, casual underwater exploration, and an authentic taste of Greek island life without the hassle of self-driving or navigating schedules. However, if you’re a hardcore explorer wanting to spend more time ashore or avoid crowds, you might want to consider alternatives or smaller tours.

Final Thoughts

This cruise to Symi and St. George Bay offers a well-rounded, scenic day that combines luxury, natural beauty, and gentle adventure. The friendly crew, beautiful swimming spots, and authentic island atmosphere make it a worthwhile experience. The value for money comes through the full-day itinerary, snorkeling gear, and the convenience of transportation.

It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy relaxed cruises with scenic stops and want to sample the charm of Symi without exhaustive planning. The organized logistics and comfortable boat help make it an enjoyable and hassle-free day, for anyone ready to embrace a bit of the Greek island dream.

FAQ

How early should I arrive for the cruise?
It’s recommended to get there at least an hour before the 10:00 am start to secure a good spot on the boat, especially if you want to sit upfront or in sunnier areas.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from certain locations like Rhodos town is offered, adding convenience. Be sure to confirm your pickup point beforehand to avoid extra taxi costs, as some reviews suggest.

How long is the boat ride to Symi?
The journey typically takes around 50 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the season.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the boat ride, snorkeling equipment, onboard WiFi, and restroom access. Drinks at the onboard bar and food are not included, and alcoholic beverages are served only to adults.

Is there enough time on Symi?
Most reviews mention about 3 hours, which is enough for a relaxed walk, shopping, and lunch. If you want to explore in depth, you might need extra time outside of the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, a towel, and some cash for drinks or souvenirs. The boat offers pool noodles and snorkeling gear, but you might prefer your own mask if you’re particular.

This trip offers a beautiful escape into the Greek islands, blending scenic views, relaxing swimming stops, and a charming peek into Symi’s lovely streets—and all at a very reasonable price. Perfect for those who want to enjoy the water and the wonders of Greece without the fuss.