A full-day cruise from Rhodes to Symi offers a scenic crossing, a refreshing swim at emerald St George Bay, and three hours to explore Symi’s harbor and waterfront. Expect clear water, limestone coves, and easy walking around the town.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the quay in Mandraki Harbor as gulls wheel and a low-arched ferry eases away, the town of Rhodes shrinking behind limestone walls. The boat slips into the Aegean with a practiced steadiness, the sea opening to a palette of blues; St George Bay appears first as a bright green crescent where the captain will drop anchor for a swim and snorkeling stop.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Light — minimal sustained exertion but comfortable walking and climbing short flights of stairs recommended
Wildlife
History
Symi was a prosperous 19th-century sponge-fishing and shipbuilding center; many of its ornate waterfront houses date from that boom era.
Conservation
Visitors should use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching marine life, and respect protected areas — the Dodecanese’s coastal ecosystems are sensitive to overuse.
Reserve your spot on the Boat Trip to Symi Island with swimming stop at St George Bay today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early for check-in
Check in at Mandraki Harbor between 09:10–09:40 to collect your boarding pass and avoid last-minute crowds.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The Aegean sun is strong and reflections off the water amplify exposure — choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect skin and marine life.
Wear non-slip footwear
Gangways and rocky shorelines can be slick; closed-toe, water-capable shoes make boarding and exploring safer.
Carry small cash
Some taverna owners and market stalls on Symi prefer cash for small purchases and tips.
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
Needed for the scheduled swim and to dry off quickly on the return trip.
summer
Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
Protects skin from strong sun and reduces impact on marine ecosystems.
summer
Non-slip water shoes
Useful for boarding, disembarking and exploring rocky shorelines safely.
summer
Light windproof layer
A thin jacket helps on the crossing when winds pick up, especially outside summer.
spring