Rhodes Town: Symi Full-Day Yacht Cruise with Meal & Drinks
Imagine setting sail from the bustling Mandraki Marina in Rhodes with a small, friendly group of no more than 25 fellow travelers. For around $136 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours aboard a luxurious yacht exploring the stunning island of Symi—a place famous for its colorful neo-classical houses and peaceful coves. The trip includes two swimming stops at St. George Bay and Seskli Island, along with a delicious Greek lunch and unlimited drinks.
Two things we love about this cruise: First, the chance to float into Symi Yalos and marvel at the UNESCO-protected Old Town’s charm, and second, the relaxed yet lively atmosphere created by attentive crew and small-group intimacy. It’s clear many reviews highlight the crew’s personal touch and the stunning scenery.
A potential consideration: this tour is weather-dependent, so if a storm rolls in, the cruise could be canceled for safety reasons—though it’s fully refundable if that happens.
This experience suits those who enjoy a mix of scenic views, cultural exploration, swimming, and leisure. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed day at sea with memorable stops, especially if you appreciate good food and friendly company.
Key Points
- Small-group experience ensures personalized service and room to relax.
- Two swimming stops at beautiful bays for cooling off and snorkeling.
- Authentic Greek cuisine served on board with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks.
- Cultural stop in Symi town allows time to explore and soak in the colorful architecture.
- Stunning panoramic views of the east coast from the yacht’s deck.
- Weather cancellations are fully refundable, adding peace of mind.
A Detailed Look at the Symi Yacht Cruise
Starting Point: Mandraki Marina in Rhodes
Your day begins at Rhodes’ Mandraki Marina, a lively hub full of boats and bustling with energy. Check-in is straightforward—perhaps enjoy a coffee or tea as you settle onto a comfortable yacht. The crew, often praised for their kindness and attentiveness, will welcome you aboard, ready to make the day special. As you depart, you’ll notice the smooth ride and the anticipation of a memorable day ahead.
The Journey to Symi and First Impressions
Within a short time, the yacht glides past the coastlines of Rhodes, heading toward Symi, a charming island famous for its neo-classical architecture and vibrant harbor. Many reviews mention the stunning views from the boat—a perfect way to get a first impression of the island’s beauty. For some, the highlight is just relaxing on deck, sipping drinks, and soaking in the panoramic scenery.
Symi Town: A Colorful Architectural Gem
The first stop is Symi Yalos, where the boat gently floats into the harbor. Here, you’ll get about two hours to explore this UNESCO-protected old town—an ideal amount of time to stroll the alleys, shop for souvenirs, or sit in a café with a cold drink.
Many travelers rave about the colorful neo-classical houses, which seem to cascade down the hillside into the harbor. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a chance to appreciate the authentic charm of a town that hasn’t been overrun by tourism. Some reviews mention that there isn’t a lot to do on the island besides wandering, so bringing a card game or a book for some idle fun might be wise.
More Great Tours NearbyThe First Swimming Stop: St. George Bay
Next, the yacht sails to St. George Bay, a sheltered spot with golden sand and crystal-clear water. Many reviews highlight how perfect this stop is: “The swimming stops were the best,” says Adrienne, “and Symi was also nice, although there wasn’t much to do on the island.” Here, you can cool off with a swim, snorkel with provided gear, or simply sunbathe on the deck.
What makes this stop enjoyable is the crew’s attention to safety and comfort—they set up snorkeling gear, floats, and even a ramp to jump into the water. The unlimited drinks include water, soft drinks, beer, and wine, so you can indulge whether you prefer to relax on the boat or splash about in the water.
Lunch on the Yacht: Greek Flavors
While you soak up the sun or float in the water, the crew will prepare a full Greek meal—many reviews speak highly of the delicious moussaka and Greek salad served on board. The lunch is generous, and with unlimited wine and beer, it’s a feast that’s both relaxing and satisfying. The crew’s friendliness and willingness to cater to dietary needs add to the overall value.
Seskli Island: A Private Slice of Nature
The third stop is Seskli, a tiny, less-inhabited island that feels like your own private paradise. You can snorkel, explore the wild nature, and enjoy the rugged scenery. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many reviews mention the beautiful, untouched surroundings—ideal for those wanting a peaceful escape.
Return Journey: Coastal Views and Relaxation
On the way back to Rhodes, the boat cruises past beaches and coves, offering a different perspective of the coastline. Many travelers find the last stretch relaxing, often reflecting on a day well spent. The small size of the group and attentive crew keep the atmosphere intimate and friendly.
End of the Day: Back at Mandraki
You’ll arrive back at Rhodes’ Mandraki Marina, often feeling relaxed and fulfilled. Many reviews mention how the crew’s friendliness and the beautiful stops made for a day they’d happily repeat.
What Sets This Tour Apart?
This cruise stands out because of its small-group environment — no large, overcrowded boats here — and the personalized service many reviews mention. The quality of the food and drinks is notable, with many guests praising the Greek cuisine served on board. The swimming stops are carefully chosen for their beauty and calm waters, making it easy to cool down and enjoy the scenery.
On top of that, the timing and itinerary give ample opportunity to explore Symi’s charming town without feeling rushed—something many other tours lack. The panoramic views from the boat and the unlimited drinks are added bonuses, making it a well-rounded day for those seeking relaxation, scenic beauty, and a taste of Greek island life.
Practicalities and Considerations
The price of $136 might seem high compared to other boat trips, but many travelers agree it’s excellent value given the included meals, drinks, and stops. The tour is weather-dependent, so if a storm strikes, the trip could be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund, offering peace of mind.
While the lack of hotel pickup might be inconvenient for some, the meeting point at Mandraki Marina is easily accessible if you’re already in Rhodes town.
The yacht’s comfort and cleanliness receive mixed reviews—some mention that the boat could use some TLC, but the crew’s friendliness more than makes up for it. Towel rental isn’t included, so bringing your own is recommended.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you enjoy small-group adventures, scenic coastal cruising, and authentic Greek experiences, this tour will delight you. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a relaxed day with plenty of swimming and sightseeing. For those who value friendly service and good food above all, this cruise delivers.
History buffs or those looking for a cultural deep dive might find the limited exploration time at Symi a bit restrictive, but the beautiful scenery and friendly atmosphere more than compensate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the price?
The tour includes a yacht cruise, full Greek lunch, unlimited drinks (water, soft drinks, beer, wine), two swimming stops, and free time to explore Symi town.
Are there any additional costs?
Not unless you want to buy souvenirs or bring towels yourself, as towels are not included. The tour doesn’t cover hotel transfers.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with a typical start time that varies; check availability for specific departures.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel for the swimming stops. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended for sun protection.
What is the cancellation policy?
If weather conditions force cancellation, the cruise is fully refundable. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.
Can I bring my own drinks or food onboard?
No, only the drinks provided are included; outside food and drinks are generally not allowed.
How crowded does the boat get?
This tour keeps group sizes small—no more than 25 passengers—so you won’t feel cramped and can enjoy a more intimate experience.
Is there a dress code?
Casual, comfortable attire suitable for swimming and sunbathing is perfect. Bring a hat and sunglasses for extra comfort.
To sum it up, the Rhodes to Symi yacht cruise offers a well-balanced combination of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relaxed leisure. It’s a great pick for travelers wanting a personalized, enjoyable day on the water, with the added bonus of tasting authentic Greek cuisine and enjoying multiple swimming opportunities. While it may be pricier than some options, many reviews confirm it’s worth every penny—especially with the friendly crew, delicious food, and stunning stops.
If you’re after a comfortable, small-group adventure that combines scenery, culture, and leisure, this cruise deserves serious consideration—and it’s sure to leave you with lasting memories of Symi’s colorful charm.
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