Symi Island Full-Day Boat Trip From Rhodes

Symi Island, a picturesque gem in the Aegean Sea, beckons visitors to explore its enchanting charms. A full-day boat trip from Rhodes provides the perfect opportunity to take in the island’s rich culture and stunning natural beauty. Departing at 9:00 am, the voyage across the azure waters sets the stage for a day of discovery. From a guided tour of the charming town of Yalos to a visit to the serene Panormitis Monastery, the experience promises to leave a lasting impression. But the true highlight may lie in the journey itself, as the return trip unfolds a breathtaking panorama that’s sure to captivate the senses.

Key Points

• A full-day boat trip from Rhodes to the picturesque island of Symi, including a guided tour of the village of Yalos and a visit to the Panormitis Monastery.
• The trip lasts approximately 4 hours each way, with a maximum of 50 travelers and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Highlights of the trip include climbing the 400 steps of Kali Strata to reach St. John’s Fortress and exploring the local shops and culture in Yalos.
• The Panormitis Monastery, known for its sacred icon of Archangel Michael, provides a peaceful respite and an insight into the island’s spiritual heritage.
• The trip is rated 4.0 out of 5 based on over 21 reviews, and the price starts at $67.10 with free cancellation up to 24 hours.

Overview of the Trip

The full-day boat trip from Rhodes to Symi Island offers travelers a chance to explore this picturesque Greek island.

With over 21 reviews and an overall rating of 4.0, this tour provides an affordable and flexible option, priced from $67.10 with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

Catering to a maximum of 50 travelers, the trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour of the village of Yalos, and a visit to the renowned Panormitis Monastery.

Highlights include climbing the 400 steps of the Kali Strata to St. John’s Fortress and taking in the stunning Aegean Sea views during the 2-hour journey each way.

Departure and Arrival Details

The boat trip departs from selected hotels in Rhodes at 9:00 am, allowing travelers to embark on their journey across the Aegean Sea to the picturesque island of Symi.

The voyage takes approximately 2 hours, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands and coastline.

Once at Symi, travelers will disembark and have the opportunity to explore the charming village of Yalos with a professional guide.

This guided tour provides a chance to visit local shops, take in the island’s unique culture, and climb the iconic 400 steps of Kali Strata to reach the panoramic vantage point of St. John’s Fortress.

Guided Tour of Yalos

Upon arrival at Symi, travelers embark on a guided tour of the charming village of Yalos.

They’ll explore the local shops selling sponges, spices, and other traditional goods. The guide leads the group through the narrow streets, sharing insights into the island’s history and culture.

One of the highlights is the climb up the 400 steps of the Kali Strata, which leads to the St. John’s Fortress. From the fortress, visitors are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the picturesque town and the surrounding Aegean Sea.

This guided tour offers an immersive experience, allowing travelers to discover the authentic character of Symi Island.

Visit to Panormitis Monastery

After exploring the charming village of Yalos, the boat trip continues to the Panormitis Monastery, which the group reaches around 14:00.

The monastery is known for its sacred icon of the Archangel Michael and is a popular destination for visitors. The group is given 45 minutes to explore the monastery and its museum.

Travelers can admire the beautiful architecture and learn about the religious significance of the site. The visit offers a chance to immerse in the island’s spiritual heritage and provides a peaceful respite from the day’s activities.

Return Journey

At 18:15, the time comes for the group to depart Symi Island and embark on the return journey to Rhodes.

Boarding the boat, travelers will enjoy the scenic 2-hour sail back across the Aegean Sea. Along the way, they’ll have a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights – the picturesque village of Yalos, the breathtaking views from St. John’s Fortress, and the spirituality of Panormitis Monastery.

As the boat docks in Rhodes, guests will be transferred by coach back to their original hotels, concluding this comprehensive Symi Island experience.

The return journey provides a leisurely end to a memorable day exploring the charms of this enchanting Greek island.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The boat trip to Symi Island includes several key elements, such as local taxes, a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off from selected locations, and food and drinks.

While these are all covered by the price, admission tickets to the sites visited aren’t included. This allows travelers the flexibility to decide which attractions they’d like to explore.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, though children must be accompanied by an adult, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this Symi Island boat trip.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Infants are required to sit on laps during the journey.

While the majority of travelers can participate in this activity, those with mobility concerns should be aware of the 400 steps at the Kali Strata leading to St. John’s Fortress.

The boat trip is suitable for most visitors to Rhodes, offering an opportunity to explore the picturesque island of Symi and its historic Panormitis Monastery.

Traveler Reviews

Travelers have provided a mix of positive and constructive feedback on the Symi Island boat trip. Many praised the breathtaking natural beauty of the island and the cultural richness of the Panormitis Monastery. However, some noted the tour’s structure could be improved, with suggestions for more time to explore Symi’s charming village.

Positive Reviews	Constructive Feedback
Stunning scenery and architecture	Not enough time at each location
Memorable experience at Panormitis	Wish the tour was more immersive
Delicious local food and wine	Desire for more flexibility in the itinerary
Knowledgeable and friendly guide	Slightly rushed pace at times

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Symi Island?

The best time to visit Symi Island is during the spring and fall when the weather’s mild and crowds are smaller. Travelers can enjoy the island’s scenic beauty and cultural attractions without the intense heat and crowds of summer.

Is There Any Dress Code Required for the Panormitis Monastery Visit?

There’s no official dress code for visiting Panormitis Monastery, but visitors should dress modestly out of respect. Shorts, short skirts, and bare shoulders aren’t recommended. Covering up is advisable when entering the sacred religious site.

What Are the Typical Weather Conditions During the Boat Trip?

The weather during the boat trip is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). Expect sunny skies and calm seas, though occasional winds may pick up in the Aegean Sea.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, the tour provider includes refreshments as part of the package, so travelers may prefer to enjoy the provided offerings during the cruise.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are no stated restrictions on photography during the tour. Travelers can freely take photos throughout the day, capturing the scenic vistas and cultural attractions visited on the excursion.

Recap

This full-day boat trip from Rhodes to Symi Island offers a chance to take in the island’s captivating culture and breathtaking scenery. The guided tour of Yalos, visit to Panormitis Monastery, and stunning vistas from St. John’s Fortress make for a memorable day of exploration. With convenient departures and inclusions, this experience is an excellent way to discover the enchanting Symi Island.