Rhodes Town: Boat Trip to Symi Island and St Marina Bay

Rhodes Town: Boat Trip to Symi Island and Saint Marina Bay

When you’re visiting Rhodes, a boat trip to Symi and Saint Marina Bay offers a delightful mix of scenic water views, charming villages, and relaxing swimming spots. For about $36.14 per person and lasting roughly 8 hours, this tour from Rizos Cruises takes you on a leisurely journey that combines natural beauty with authentic Greek island charm.

What we love about this experience are the stunning views from the water, especially as you leave Rhodes Harbor, and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters at Saint Marina Bay. Both are great for unwinding and adding a splash of adventure to your day. On the downside, it’s a slower boat compared to faster catamarans, which means the ride might feel a little more laid-back — not ideal if you’re chasing a tight schedule.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and appreciate authentic small-town charm, especially if you want to explore Symi’s colorful neo-classical houses and enjoy a convenient, organized day out. Perfect for those seeking a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and leisure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price with good value for a full day at sea and on land.
• Ideal for swimming and snorkeling at Saint Marina Bay, with clear, inviting waters.
• Shorter exploration time on Symi (about 3 hours), perfect for a relaxed visit.
• Comfortable onboard amenities like air conditioning, toilets, WiFi, and sunbeds.
• Authentic experience with friendly guides and well-organized logistics.
• Flexible free time to explore Symi at your own pace, including shops, cafes, and scenic streets.

An In-Depth Look at the Rhodes to Symi and Saint Marina Bay Cruise

The Experience of Leaving Rhodes Harbour

The journey begins in the early morning, with most options asking you to arrive 20 minutes early. The boat, operated by Rizos Cruises, is a modern vessel with a comfortable open sundeck, perfect for soaking up the sun, and indoor areas cooled by air conditioning when you need a break.

As the boat departs, we loved the views of Rhodes shrinking into the distance and the fresh sea breeze on our faces. The boat’s spacious design ensures you won’t feel crowded, and the onboard WiFi means you can check messages or share photos while en route.

Saint Marina Bay: The Perfect Swim Stop

The first highlight is the 45-minute stop at Saint Marina Bay. This tranquil, hidden bay is reachable only by boat, making it a pristine spot for a quick swim or snorkel. Reviews consistently praise this stop for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere. One traveler quoted, “Dip in the ocean was stunning,” and another appreciated the brief but well-timed swim break.

The crew supplies floats and snorkel gear, making it accessible for all levels of swimmers. The calm waters are ideal for those new to snorkeling or anyone wanting to cool off after some sunbathing on the boat’s sunbeds.

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The Voyage to Symi: A Picturesque Ride

After the swim, the boat sails toward the tiny island of Symi, enjoying around 1.5 to 2 hours of scenic cruising. The journey itself is part of the charm — the rocky coastline, seaside villages, and clustered houses become part of your moving postcard.

Travelers often remark that the view from the water offers a different perspective of Greece’s beauty, with the colorful neo-classical houses in Symi standing out against the backdrop of rugged hills. The boat’s slow pace means you can really savor the scenery and take plenty of photos.

Exploring Symi: Free Time in a Picture-Perfect Harbor

Disembarking in Symi, you get roughly 3 hours to explore at your leisure. This is enough time to stroll the narrow streets lined with pastel-colored houses, visit local shops, or enjoy a leisurely lunch with a view. Many reviews mention that this amount of time is just right — long enough to soak up the charm but not so long that you feel rushed.

One traveler noted, “We enjoyed a leisurely lunch on the island, bought ice cream, and explored the harbor.” Symi is known for its beautiful harbor views, quaint cafes, and the chance to lose yourself in the colorful streets. If you’re a fan of picturesque towns, this is a highlight of the trip.

Returning to Rhodes: A Relaxing Evening Cruise

As the day winds down, the boat sets sail back toward Rhodes, offering evening views of the coast. The onboard amenities, like the air-conditioned indoor area and refreshments available on board, help ensure a comfortable return journey. Many reviews mention how smooth and punctual the return trip is, making for a hassle-free end to your day.

Practical Aspects and Tips for Your Trip

The tour includes essentials like toilets onboard, WiFi, floats, and insurance. However, you’ll need to bring your own towels, snorkeling gear, and cash for any onshore purchases or snacks. The price covers the cruise, swim stop, amenities, and free time in Symi, making it a solid value considering the full day of activity.

The trip does not include hotel pickup, so planning transportation to the meeting point is on you. The meeting point is clearly indicated and requires arriving 20 minutes early. Travelers have praised the process for being well-organized and punctual, with helpful staff providing clear instructions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for relaxed travelers who enjoy beautiful scenery, swimming, and authentic village exploration. It’s especially suited to those who want a cost-effective, well-organized day out without the rush or crowds of larger catamaran trips.

If you’re interested in a comfortable, scenic cruise with friendly guides and a genuine Greek island experience, you’ll find this tour offers a good balance of activity and leisure.

The Sum Up

This boat trip to Symi and Saint Marina Bay offers a thoughtful blend of natural beauty, authentic island charm, and relaxed cruising at a fair price. The swimming stop is a standout feature, praised for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a quick refreshing dip. The free time on Symi allows for genuine exploration, whether you’re snapping photos of colorful houses or sampling local treats.

The onboard amenities and smooth organization make this a comfortable choice for most travelers, especially those who value authentic small-town character and scenic water views. While the slower boat might not suit thrill-seekers or those in a hurry, it’s ideal for anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the Greek island atmosphere.

If you’re after a well-priced, authentic experience that combines gentle adventure with cultural charm, this tour checks all the boxes — especially if you love crystal waters, colorful streets, and friendly guides.

FAQ

What is the duration of the trip?
The entire tour lasts about 8 hours, with departure in the morning and return in the evening.

Is there a hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at a designated meeting point, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the departure location.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, cash, and snorkeling gear if you have it. Towels are not provided.

Can I swim and snorkel at Saint Marina Bay?
Yes, the stop at Saint Marina Bay is specifically for swimming and snorkeling, with floats and gear available onboard.

How much time do I get in Symi?
You’ll have about 3 hours to explore at your own pace, enough for a leisurely walk, shopping, or a relaxed meal.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, it features sunbeds on the open deck, air-conditioned indoor space, toilets, and WiFi onboard for a smooth experience.

What if I decide to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: