Rhodes: Symi Island & Panormitis Monastery Day Trip by Boat

If you’re exploring Rhodes and craving a taste of the Aegean’s colorful islands, the Symi Island & Panormitis Monastery day trip by boat offers a charming escape. For around $51, you get a full nine hours of scenic cruising, cultural sights, and relaxed island exploration. The journey on the modern, comfortable Nikolaos X ferry makes the roughly 1 hour and 45-minute crossing feel quick and breezy, giving you ample time to soak in the views and plan your day on Symi.

What I particularly like about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized — from the pickup in Rhodes to the drop-off at your hotel. Plus, the stops at the Panormitis Monastery and Symi’s colorful harbor are thoughtfully timed, giving you enough freedom to explore without feeling rushed. I also appreciate that there’s a Saturday swimming stop at Nymporio Bay, perfect for cooling off in the clear waters, adding a bit of fun to the itinerary. The guides and crew seem attentive, and reviews often mention how well-organized the trip is.

That said, one thing to consider is the length of the ferry ride. While the views are stunning, some travelers, especially those prone to seasickness, might find the boat rocking at the open water sections — especially on windy days. Also, the visit to the monastery is un-guided, which might feel a bit lacking if you’re hoping for detailed historical insights. Bringing a light jacket and sun protection is a good idea, especially since the boat has both indoor and outdoor seating, and the weather can vary.

This trip offers excellent value for the experience it provides. You get to visit two must-see spots in one day, with plenty of time for wandering through Symi’s neo-classical mansions, browsing local shops, sampling fresh seafood, or simply relaxing by the harbor. The reviews highlight how many travelers fell in love with Symi’s charm, often wishing they had more time there. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another glimpse of the Greek islands, this trip strikes a good balance between sightseeing and leisure.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable transportation: The Nikolaos X ferry offers a smooth, airy ride with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Authentic Symi experience: Explore a town full of vibrant, neo-classical homes, lively cafes, and local artisan shops.
• Well-paced itinerary: The trip includes key stops — Panormitis Monastery with a free hour, and several hours to roam Symi — making it manageable yet fulfilling.
• Additional swimming option: On Saturdays from mid-June to September, you can enjoy a quick 20-minute swim at Nymporio Bay, a charming bonus.
• Excellent organization: From pickup to drop-off, reviews praise how smoothly everything runs, with clear instructions and friendly staff.
• Authentic atmosphere: Many reviews mention the warm hospitality, the peaceful vibe of the monastery, and the picturesque harbor that’s perfect for photos.

A detailed look at the experience

Starting Point & Transportation

The trip begins with an optional pickup from designated points like Ixia, Ialyssos, Faliraki, Kalithea, or Rhodes Town, making it convenient if you’re staying in those areas. The meeting point at Mandraki Port involves spotting a red sign with the Manos Ggoing logo, and staff are very clear about where to find your boarding pass. The reviews emphasize how well-organized the pickup and transfer processes are — one traveler mentioned that the driver Carlos was punctual and friendly, which sets a positive tone for the day.

The ferry Nikolaos X is designed to carry up to 420 passengers, with three decks, a snack bar, and bathrooms. This size means plenty of space, even during busy seasons, but it also implies that the boat can get quite crowded, especially in peak summer months. Many reviews point out that the boat is clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, making the crossing a pleasure rather than a chore.

The Monastery of Panormitis

The first major stop is the Panormitis Monastery, an impressive site dedicated to the Archangel Michael. You’ll have about an hour here — enough time to light a candle, walk around, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The reviews reflect its beauty, noting the bells ringing and the serenity of the surroundings. One traveler appreciated the chance to light candles for loved ones, adding a personal touch to the visit.

It’s worth mentioning that the monastery is a popular stop, and during peak times, the queue to enter can be long, as noted by some reviews. However, the quick-paced schedule still allows for a meaningful visit. The reviews also mention that this stop is un-guided, so if you prefer detailed historical commentary, you might wish to do some pre-trip reading.

Cruising the Coast & Swimming Stop

After the monastery, the boat departs for a scenic cruise along Symi’s west coast, often described as breathtaking. The views of rocky cliffs, azure waters, and tiny fishing coves are what make this trip special. On Saturdays, there’s an added bonus — a quick 20-minute swim stop at Nymporio Bay — which many reviews recommend as a highlight, especially in the summer months.

This swimming stop allows you to cool down and enjoy a true Mediterranean experience. Be sure to bring swimwear if you’re interested, as some travelers suggest that it’s a perfect way to relax before heading into Symi.

Exploring Symi

Once you arrive in Symi’s harbor, the sight of colorful neo-classical houses and private yachts is enough to make anyone smile. You’ll have approximately 3.5 to 4 hours to explore, which many regard as just enough time to get a good sense of the island. The walk through the port showcases vibrant shops selling sponges, wooden carvings, and local art, while cafes beckon for a quick coffee or a seafood lunch.

Several reviews highlight how easy it is to get around — whether by the fun train, foot, or simply wandering at your own pace. The Noddy train seems to be a popular choice for panoramic views of the town, and some travelers recommend trying Symi shrimps as a local delicacy.

Return & Drop-Off

The return journey mirrors the morning’s cruise, with the same attentive crew. The reviews note that the boat may run slightly late on the way back, especially if the sea is rough — a common occurrence in open water. The drop-off points in Rhodes are numerous, covering major hotels and popular areas, which makes it convenient.

Who should consider this trip?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, well-organized day trip that combines scenic cruising, cultural visits, and free time without the burden of planning every detail. It’s suitable for those who enjoy picturesque towns, historic sites, and a bit of sea air. If you’re comfortable with boat rides and want to avoid the hassle of independent ferry bookings, this trip offers excellent value and peace of mind.

It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see one of the most charming islands near Rhodes. However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into local history or nightlife, you might find the limited free time on Symi a bit restrictive.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sun protection: A sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential, especially on the open deck.
• Pack a light jacket: The boat can get windy, and the weather might change unexpectedly.
• Swim gear: If you plan to swim at Nymporio Bay, bring your swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops.
• Arrive early: Getting to the port on time ensures you won’t miss the ferry, as some reviews mention boats leaving promptly.
• Manage expectations: The monastery visit is un-guided, so prepare to explore on your own or do some pre-reading.
• Food and drinks: Meals aren’t included, so consider bringing snacks or plan to eat on Symi.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The trip covers roundtrip boat tickets, a map of Symi with information and directions, free time at Panormitis Monastery and Symi, and a Saturday swimming stop at Nymporio Bay.

Are there pickup options from hotels?
Yes, if you select the option, there’s port transfer from designated pickup points like Ixia, Ialyssos, Faliraki, Kalithea, and Rhodes Town.

How long is the trip overall?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including transfers, cruising, stops, and free time.

Is there a guide during the stops?
The monastery visit is un-guided, but staff and crew provide clear instructions for boarding and departure. You might find some reviews wish for more guided commentary.

Can children or people with limited mobility join?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the trip is suitable for most ages, but consider the boat ride’s rocking and walking involved in exploring Symi.

What’s the best time to go?
Mid-June to September offers the swimming stop and warm weather, but check availability and weather forecasts to ensure a smooth trip.

Final thoughts

This Symi Island day trip from Rhodes provides a satisfying balance of scenic cruising, cultural visits, and free time to explore a genuinely picturesque Greek island. Many travelers praise the smooth organization, friendly staff, and the stunning views — making it a worthwhile outing for those wanting a taste of the Cyclades without the hassle of independent travel. While it’s not a guided tour of every site, the freedom to wander and absorb the local charm makes it a worthwhile adventure.

Whether you want to relax, take fantastic photos, or sample local seafood, this trip offers a practical way to see Symi in a single day. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, it’s a straightforward choice for a memorable Greek island experience.