Fast Boat To Symi with a swimming stop at St George’s Bay! (Only 1hr journey)

Symi makes a beautiful day trip. This fast boat from Rhodes gets you there in about one hour, gives you three hours to explore on your own, and adds a refreshing swim at St George’s Bay on the return journey. I especially like the short crossing and the freedom to spend your time as you wish, rather than being tied to a guide or bus schedule.

The swim stop is the other major plus. St George’s Bay has clear water, steep rocky scenery, and a memorable setting for a half-hour swim. The main drawback is that the boat can be choppy, windy, and crowded, while three hours in Symi can feel short if you want to climb above the harbor or eat a leisurely meal.

Key points before you book

• The crossing takes about one hour, much faster than a traditional ferry.
• You get three hours of free time in Symi, enough for the harbor, shops, food, and a short walk.
• The 9:00 and 11:00 departures include the St George’s Bay swim stop.
• The 15:15 departure does not include swimming, only a photo stop.
• The boat can be rough and windy, so bring a jacket, motion-sickness medication if needed, and spare clothes.
• Check the departure harbor carefully, since Rhodes and Faliraki departures use different boats and schedules.

Why Symi is worth the fast crossing

Symi is one of the most photogenic islands near Rhodes. Its harbor is lined with colorful neoclassical houses climbing the hillsides, giving the waterfront a tidy, almost theatrical appearance. The first view from the boat is one of the best parts of the trip.

A fast boat makes Symi practical for a day out. The crossing takes roughly one hour to one hour and ten minutes, depending on the sea. That leaves you with a useful block of time on the island instead of spending most of the day in transit.

I like this arrangement because you are not forced into a guided walk or a fixed restaurant. You can stroll along the harbor, browse shops, stop for a drink, visit a sponge shop, or simply sit by the water. The freedom is valuable, especially if you have already had your fill of organized sightseeing in Rhodes.

The trade-off is pace. Three hours is enough to see the main harbor area, but not enough for a slow, full-island exploration. You may need to choose between climbing the Kali Strata for views, enjoying a long lunch, and browsing the shops. You probably cannot do all three without watching the clock.

Boarding at Rhodes Sea Lines

The listed meeting point is Rhodes Sea Lines at Platia Eleftherias in Rhodes Town. The activity returns to the same general meeting point. The boat carries up to 118 people, so this is a group outing rather than a small private cruise.

Allow extra time before departure. The harbor area can be confusing, and parking near the departure point is difficult. If you are driving, finding a space and walking back to the boat can take longer than expected.

Pay close attention to the departure harbor and time printed on your booking. Rhodes harbor and Faliraki harbor are not interchangeable, and they use different boats. Confusion over the meeting point has caused real stress for some passengers, particularly those connecting with a cruise ship.

You may also need to exchange a mobile voucher for a boarding pass before getting on. It is sensible to arrive early, confirm the correct kiosk, and ask staff where your boat is boarding. This also improves your chances of finding a seat on the upper deck.

The operator offers the trip in English, and confirmation is provided at booking. Service animals are allowed, public transportation is nearby, and most people can participate. The boat has a restroom, which matters on a six-hour outing.

The fast boat ride to Symi

The journey is the main practical reason to choose this trip. A traditional ferry can take much longer, while the fast boat reaches Symi in about an hour. That saves time for the island itself and keeps the outing manageable for a single day.

The ride is not always gentle. Several departures have been described as choppy, particularly when leaving the harbor or crossing open water. If you suffer from motion sickness, sit where you can watch the horizon, avoid a heavy breakfast, and consider taking your usual remedy before departure.

The upper deck gives better views and fresh air, but it can be breezy. A jacket is a good idea even on a warm day. Fleeces or blankets may be handed out when the weather is cool, and rain gear may be available, but I would still pack a light waterproof layer.

Spray is another detail to expect. Some seats and the boat’s outer areas may get damp, especially on the return trip. A spare shirt, swimsuit cover-up, and a plastic bag for wet clothing are useful. Some seats are soft and comfortable but can be damp after rain or sea spray, so a plastic bag to sit on is a surprisingly practical item.

The ride is fast and exciting, but do not expect a quiet sightseeing cruise. The engines, wind, movement, and passenger numbers make it more like transport with good views than a relaxed yacht outing.

Three hours in Symi harbor

The boat gives you about three hours of free time in Symi. That is enough to get a good feel for the port, but you need to organize yourself from the start.

Begin with a short walk along the waterfront. The colorful houses, small boats, waterfront tavernas, and hillside views give Symi its appeal. The harbor is compact enough to explore on foot, and you can stop often for photographs.

The Kali Strata, the old stepped route climbing from the harbor, is worth considering if you are fit and the heat is manageable. The climb brings wider views across the harbor, but it takes time and effort. On a hot day, you may prefer to stay near the water and save your energy for the swim stop.

Symi is also associated with sponge fishing and selling. A stop at the Panormitis Sponge Shop can add a little local context to the shopping experience, with an explanation of different sponge types and textures. It is a more interesting purchase than a generic souvenir, particularly if you want something small and connected to the island.

Food is easy to find around the harbor, but timing matters. When boats arrive, many people head directly to the waterfront restaurants. If you want a calmer meal, walk and explore first, then choose a restaurant after the initial rush. One useful approach is to keep at least 60 to 90 minutes for lunch and leave enough time to return to the boarding point.

Do not cut it close. The boat may leave without late passengers. One passenger who misunderstood the return time missed the departure and had to arrange a separate ferry back to Rhodes. The safest plan is to be back at the meeting point at least 20 minutes early, with your ticket ready.

St George’s Bay: the trip’s best extra

The 30-minute stop at St George’s Bay is included on the 9:00 and 11:00 departures. It usually takes place on the return journey, after your time in Symi. The 15:15 departure does not offer the swim, only a photo stop.

This bay is memorable because of its clear water and dramatic rocky setting. You swim directly from the boat, so there is no beach infrastructure or long walk to the water. Bring your swimsuit under your clothes, since changing space may be limited.

A towel is essential. So are dry clothes, a waterproof pouch for valuables, and sandals or secure footwear if you plan to swim toward shore. The stop is short, so do not spend half the time trying to organize your bags.

Thirty minutes is enough for a refreshing swim and a few photographs, but it will not feel like a full beach visit. Some people would prefer a longer stop, while others appreciate getting back to Rhodes sooner. The brief timing works best if you see it as a memorable pause, not the main purpose of the day.

The bay can be crowded when several boats arrive. Even so, the setting makes the stop worthwhile. Go in promptly, enjoy the water, and be back on board when instructed. The crew cannot wait for passengers who are late.

Price and what you receive for $71.35

At $71.35 per person, this is not the cheapest possible way to reach Symi. The value comes from speed, convenience, and the included St George’s Bay stop. You are paying to save travel time and fit a visit to Symi into one day.

A direct booking may sometimes be cheaper. A price of about €45 at the quayside has been reported for direct purchases, compared with the higher online price paid by some passengers. Prices and availability can change, so compare the current operator price before booking. The online option may still be worthwhile if you value advance confirmation, mobile tickets, and the ability to reserve before arriving in Rhodes.

For the money, the strongest package is the 9:00 departure. You get the fast crossing, three hours in Symi, and the swim stop. The 11:00 departure also includes swimming, but leaves less flexibility around the rest of your day.

The 15:15 departure is a different proposition. Since it offers only a photo stop at St George’s Bay, do not book it if swimming is one of your main reasons for going.

The people who will like this trip most

I would recommend this boat to you if you want a simple, efficient taste of Symi without arranging separate transport. It suits couples, families, independent sightseers, and anyone who prefers free time to a guided schedule.

It is also a good choice if you are staying in Rhodes and want one memorable island day without spending hours on a slow ferry. The colorful harbor, short walk, meal, and swim make a satisfying combination.

You should think twice if you dislike fast boats, get seasick easily, need a quiet journey, or want a full day on Symi. The sea may be rough, the boat can be busy, and three hours leaves little room for delays.

Cruise passengers need particular care. Check the exact harbor, departure time, and return time against your ship’s schedule. A six-hour excursion leaves little room for confusion, traffic, or a missed boat.

Practical advice for a smoother day

• Arrive early to confirm your boarding pass and find the correct boat.
• Check whether you are leaving from Rhodes or Faliraki.
• Choose an upper-deck seat for views, but bring a jacket.
• If motion sickness affects you, watch the horizon and avoid a large breakfast.
• Pack a swimsuit, towel, dry clothes, and a plastic bag for wet items.
• Keep your return ticket and boarding instructions easy to reach.
• Return early from Symi. Do not assume three hours means you can board at the exact three-hour mark.
• Bring snacks and drinks, since onboard food service is not listed.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to climb the Kali Strata.
• Confirm that you booked a 9:00 or 11:00 departure if you want the swim stop.

The cancellation policy is fairly flexible: you can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure. Changes or cancellations inside that window are not accepted for a refund. Since the trip depends on good weather, a cancellation caused by poor conditions should result in a different date or a full refund.

Should you book the fast boat to Symi?

Yes, if you want a quick and scenic introduction to Symi and you like the idea of finishing the day with a swim in a beautiful bay. The boat is fast, the island is genuinely attractive, and three hours is enough for a pleasant first visit.

I would book an early departure, confirm the harbor directly, and treat the sea crossing as an active boat ride rather than a calm ferry journey. If the direct price is substantially lower, compare it before paying online. For many people, the time saved and the added swim make this a strong Rhodes day trip, but only if you are comfortable with a busy boat and a firm return schedule.

FAQ

How long does the boat take from Rhodes to Symi?

The fast boat takes approximately one hour to one hour and ten minutes, depending on conditions.

How long do I have in Symi?

The excursion provides approximately three hours of free time on Symi.

Is the St George’s Bay swim included?

The 9:00 and 11:00 departures include a 30-minute swim stop at St George’s Bay.

Does the 15:15 departure include swimming?

No. The 15:15 departure stops at St George’s Bay for photographs only and does not include a swimming stop.

Where does the tour begin?

The listed meeting point is Rhodes Sea Lines at Platia Eleftherias in Rhodes Town.

Where does the tour end?

The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

Yes, a restroom is available onboard.

How many people can join the boat?

The activity has a maximum group size of 118 people.

Is the experience offered in English?

Yes, the experience is offered in English.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience start time. Poor weather cancellations should result in another date or a full refund.