Rhodes: Sunset Cruise to Symi Island with 3 Hours Free Time

Rhodes: Sunset Cruise to Symi Island with 3 Hours Free Time
Location: Dodecanese, Greece
Country: Greece
Rating: 4.8/5 (151 reviews)
Supplier: Rhodes Sea Lines
Duration: About 5 hours, check availability for exact times

Quick Overview of the Experience

Imagine cruising across the sparkling waters of the Dodecanese on a high-speed boat, Aphrodite Princess, heading to the picturesque island of Symi. The tour kicks off from Mandraki Harbor, and for around five hours total, you’ll get a taste of local charm, stunning scenery, and a spectacular sunset on your way back. What makes this trip stand out? First, the afternoon departure lets you enjoy Symi when it’s less crowded and cooler—which we really appreciate after a morning of sightseeing. Second, the three hours of free time on Symi give you ample opportunity to wander, find a cozy taverna, or take a dip in the inviting waters.

A couple of things to keep in mind: this is primarily a transport-focused tour, so food and drinks are not included, and you’ll want to bring your own snacks or plan to eat at a local restaurant on the island. Also, since it’s a high-speed boat, splashes are common, so waterproof clothing is advisable.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, authentic experience with plenty of time to explore Symi at their own pace and enjoy a memorable sunset voyage. If you’re after a quick, scenic escape with beautiful views and local flavor, this is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Efficient Transport: High-speed boat saves time, giving you more hours on Symi.
• Less Crowded: Afternoon departure means fewer travelers and more relaxed sightseeing.
• Local Flavors: Opportunity to try Symi mini shrimps and local Ouzo, plus dining at local tavernas.
• Picture-Perfect Sunset: A stunning view on the way back adds a magical touch to the day.
• Flexible Exploration: About 3 hours free to wander, shop, eat, or swim.
• Well-Reviewed Service: Many travelers praise the friendly staff and smooth operation.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

The Journey Begins at Mandraki Harbor

Starting at the Rhodes Sea Lines desk in Mandraki Harbor, just opposite the National Bank of Greece, we found the process simple and straightforward. The meeting point is well-marked, and the staff is friendly and helpful. You’ll board the Aphrodite Princess, a high-speed vessel designed for comfort and speed, which means a quicker crossing—about an hour each way—compared to traditional ferries.

During the ride, you’ll notice the crew’s attention to detail. Many reviews mention the provision of raincoats and bomber jackets, which prove handy given the sea spray and wind. As one traveler noted, “It’s better to go as early as possible to choose the best viewing seats,” especially for catching the sunset, since the boat isn’t huge, and seating can fill up fast.

Arrival in Symi: A Vibrant Fishing Village

Disembarking in Symi is like stepping into a postcard scene. The fishing harbor is dotted with colorful, pastel-painted neoclassical buildings that cling to the hillside, framing the turquoise water beautifully. You’ll find the church domes adding splashes of color among the rooftops, and a relaxed, friendly vibe permeates the small town.

Travelers note that Symi is very quaint and beautiful, with just a handful of shops, bars, and restaurants. Many comments highlight how not crowded it was during this afternoon trip—ideal for a peaceful exploration. Zoe mentioned that “Symi was amazing, and not crowded at all at this time,” which makes it a perfect escape from the busier, more tourist-heavy morning arrivals.

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Your Three Hours of Free Time

The tour offers roughly three hours to explore independently, which is more than enough for most travelers. You can opt to:

• Stroll through the charming streets, popping into shops for local crafts or souvenirs.
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional taverna—many reviews recommend trying local dishes and Ouzo.
• Swim or relax at a nearby bay—the waters are beautifully clear and inviting.
• Climb or walk around if you’re feeling active, though some reviews mention that stairs can be steep, so prepare accordingly.

As Harikrishnan pointed out, “We had around 2 hours 45 minutes in Symi, which was enough to sightsee and eat something,” emphasizing that the timing is well-balanced for a relaxed visit.

The Return Journey and Sunset Views

Leaving Symi, you’ll cruise back along the coast, enjoying spectacular coastal views and the chance to take in the scenery from the water. The highlight of the return trip is the magnificent sunset, which many reviewers—like Julie-Anne and Bastian—describe as “beautiful” and “magical.” The captain often stops the boat briefly to allow everyone to capture photos, adding to the experience’s charm.

A consistent theme among reviews is how the sunset elevates the trip—a perfect way to end a day of island hopping. Remember, the boat might be slightly late returning, but most travelers agree the view is worth it.

What’s Not Included & Practical Tips

Food and drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, so plan to bring snacks or plan to dine in Symi’s tavernas. The water splash during the trip is common, so waterproof clothing or swimwear is advisable. Also, the timing makes this trip ideal for those with a flexible schedule, seeking a less crowded, cooler, and more relaxed experience than morning tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Travelers who want a balanced combination of scenic travel and free exploration will love this tour. It’s especially suitable for those who:

• Appreciate authentic small-town charm away from big crowds.
• Want to enjoy a sunset in a quiet, peaceful setting.
• Prefer more time on the island than on a crowded day trip.
• Like local food experiences and trying regional specialties.
• Are comfortable with short boat rides and standing or walking for a few hours.

It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic adventure with opportunities to take stunning photos and taste local flavors without committing a full day.

In-Depth Review: What Makes This Trip Stand Out

The Speed and Convenience of the High-Speed Boat

The high-speed vessel is a major plus. Unlike traditional ferries, it cuts down travel time, giving you more hours to enjoy Symi. This efficiency means you spend less time in transit and more exploring or relaxing. Many reviews praise the smooth operation and friendly staff, which makes the journey comfortable from start to finish.

A Less Crowded, Authentic Symi

Waiting for morning arrivals means bigger crowds and hotter weather. Traveling in the afternoon, as this tour does, offers a less hectic, more leisurely experience. As Zoe noted, “Symi was very quaint and beautiful. It is very picturesque and relaxing.” Many travelers appreciate the peace and quiet—a chance to savor the town’s tranquility.

The Flexibility of Free Exploration Time

Three hours on Symi is a generous window. You’re free to wander, shop, eat, or swim—whatever suits your mood. This independence is a big draw, allowing a more authentic and personal experience than guided tours.

The Sunset Cruise: A Magical Ending

The return journey’s sunset is often highlighted as the highlight of the trip. Many reviews describe it as “magical” or “perfect,” with the captain stopping the boat so everyone can snap photos. It adds a romantic and memorable finish to an already delightful day.

Worth the Cost?

While not cheap, the value lies in the speed, comfort, and authentic exploration time. Compared to full-day tours that might be rushed or crowded, this trip offers a relaxed pace and a chance to truly enjoy Symi. The reviews confirm the good value for money and friendly service.

Practical Considerations

• Weather: Waterproof clothing is recommended due to seawater splashes.
• Timing: Afternoon departure is ideal to avoid heat and crowds.
• Food: Bring snacks or plan to eat in Symi.
• Seating: Early arrival can secure better seats, especially for sunset views.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but some steep stairs on the island might pose challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to dine in Symi at your own expense.

How long do I get on Symi?
You have about three hours to explore the town, which is generally enough for sightseeing, shopping, or a quick swim.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and waterproof clothing or a swimwear to handle seawater splashes.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the high-speed boat is generally praised for comfort and efficiency. However, splashes are common, so waterproof clothing is recommended.

Will I see the sunset?
Absolutely. The return trip includes a magnificent sunset view that many describe as the trip’s highlight.

What if I want a guided tour of Symi?
This is primarily a transportation and free exploration tour, so guided sightseeing isn’t included. You’re responsible for your own wanderings.

Final Thoughts

This Sunset Cruise to Symi offers a practical, scenic, and peaceful way to experience one of the most charming islands in Greece. The combination of fast transportation, ample free time, and a spectacular sunset makes it a popular choice, especially for travelers seeking authenticity without the crowds. The friendly staff and beautiful views earn consistent praise, and many travelers find it excellent value for the price.

If you’re a traveler who values relaxed exploration, stunning scenery, and local flavors, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s an ideal afternoon escape that manages to blend efficiency, comfort, and authentic charm—a true highlight in your Rhodes itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: