Clear water and pastel streets, all in one day. I love the boat-only calm of Saint George Bay, where you get 1.5 hours to swim or snorkel with free gear, and I love the real time in Symi (about 3 hours) to wander and enjoy an included lunch.

This is the kind of day trip that balances sea time with enough island time to feel like you did more than just hop off for photos. The boat has practical extras like WiFi and a restroom, and the transfer uses an air-conditioned vehicle when it’s included.

One consideration: the day can run hot and a few parts can feel different from what you expected—swim timing and shop hours can be affected by the schedule and daily rhythms, including siesta-time closures.

Key takeaways before you book

• Boat-only Saint George Bay swim time with anchor-and-swim comfort and clear water views
• Free snorkeling gear, plus pool noodles for less confident swimmers
• About 3 hours in Symi for harbor strolling, shops, and an included lunch
• On-board comfort basics like WiFi, restroom access, and air-conditioned transfers when available
• A small cash-based on-board bar (alcohol is for adults only)

How the Rhodes-to-Symi day runs (meet point, pickup, and what time to plan for)

This trip is built around a straightforward plan: you leave Rhodes at 10:00 am, spend the day on the water and on Symi, and then return to the same meeting point area. The start point is Platia Eleftherias (Pl. Eleftherias, Rodos 851 00, Greece), and the activity ends back there.

You’ll get a mobile ticket, and you should expect an email about pickup details about 24 hours before. Then, if you’re using hotel transfers, the operator also sends a message around 9:00 pm the evening before with the exact pickup place and time (often via WhatsApp or email). For some hotels, the pickup spot may be at a near location rather than directly at your door.

Here’s the one logistics rule that matters: transfers are only provided if your booking was made at least 14 hours before the activity. Miss that window, and you may have to make your own way to the closest pickup point listed for your area. Also, do not treat the pickup message as a suggestion. If you’re late, the company notes they don’t take responsibility for missed pickup timing—so aim to be early, not exactly on time.

On the day, the boat trip also won’t be empty: the maximum group size is 220 travelers. You’ll likely feel that most on busier summer days, especially if the boat is full and you want the best deck views.

Saint George Bay: the boat-only swim stop that makes the day feel special

Saint George Bay is the reason this cruise gets chosen again and again. It’s a natural bay on the east coast of Symi, and the key point is access: it’s only reachable by boat. You anchor for 1.5 hours, which is enough time to swim, snorkel, or just sit and soak in the scenery.

The water quality is the main story. This bay is described as turquoise and crystal-clear, and you can see why people treat it like the highlight. If you’re into snorkeling, the cruise includes snorkeling equipment, so you don’t need to pack gear. Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, there are pool noodles reported on board for extra support—so you can still enjoy being in the water without going full risk-taker.

If you just want the view, you can do that too. Several descriptions emphasize relaxing in the bay—floating, photos, and watching the cliffs and coastline around you. When the heat is up, this is also one of the rare times your day has a built-in break from sun exposure.

A practical note: confirm the exact anchoring point on the day

A small number of experiences mention the cruise anchoring in a smaller nearby cove rather than the exact St George Bay name you may be expecting. I wouldn’t panic, but I would do one thing: when you board (or as the crew clarifies the schedule), ask which bay you’ll anchor in first and how long you’ll have. That quick question can save a lot of disappointment if your heart is set on that specific location.

Symi Island: 3 hours to wander pastel streets and the harbor maze

After the sea stop, the itinerary shifts to the island itself. You get about 3 hours in Symi, and that’s usually just enough time to do the fun stuff: stroll the harbor, take photos of the architecture, and pop into a few shops.

Symi is often described as remote but still charming and lively in the way island towns can be. The vibe people consistently point to is Old-World style with an eye-catching harbor—pastel-colored houses, narrow streets, and flower-filled balconies. You’ll also notice the religious buildings scattered through town, including churches and monasteries that reflect the island’s maritime connection.

Plan for heat and limited shopping time

Symi is also hot in summer. More than one account mentions how hot the island can get, and it matters because your 3 hours are not split into separate shopping and sightseeing blocks. It’s one long window—so bring a simple strategy: start with the harbor area, then work your way into the streets, and build in breaks when you need them.

Also, if your goal is shopping, remember that siesta-time closures can limit how many stores are open. Some places may simply not be trading while the island rests. If you hit that window, you’ll still get plenty of scenery, tavernas, and strolling time—but you may not get the full shopping experience you pictured.

Lunch is included, but treat it like a rest break, not a feast deadline

Lunch is included on this cruise. The most useful way to think about that: you’re not hunting for food from scratch while managing time pressure. You’ll have a meal built into the day, which makes Symi feel easier and more relaxed.

If you want to eat local seafood on Symi, the island is known for it—one mention highlights Symi shrimps as something people seek out in town. The cruise’s included lunch may not be the exact dish you’d pick in a perfect world, but it does give you the break you need so you can keep walking.

The boat (often the DOLL): seating, comfort, and what to expect on board

The boat is a major part of the comfort level, and many accounts describe it as clean and in excellent condition. You can choose your style of comfort: some people love the top deck for views, while others prefer covered areas or seating inside if the heat is intense.

One smart tip: if you want a prime spot at the front for the best angles, arrive early. People specifically recommend getting there before transfers arrive, because once everyone is onboard, it’s harder to snag a top deck position with the view you want.

A/C and crowding: small tradeoffs

Air-conditioned vehicle transport is included, but the boat itself is a little more mixed. One account notes a lack of A/C indoors as a minor drawback, while another says the boat had comfortable seating inside that helped with heat. So expect to rely on a mix of deck breeze, shade, and the fact that you’ll be off the boat for swims.

Crowding can also be a factor on summer days. A July experience mentions the boat felt busy and that some timing felt different from expectations. That doesn’t mean the day is ruined—it just means you’ll want to be realistic about personal space and where you sit.

Practical onboard items

You should have WiFi on board, and there’s a restroom available. Those details sound small until you’re stuck on a long day. It also helps if you need to coordinate with your pickup message the evening before.

The onboard bar and drinks: included value vs what costs extra

Alcohol is a bit of a rules-and-expectations area here. Alcoholic beverages are served only to adults, and the cruise description frames drinking as an on-board option rather than included fare. So budget for it if you care about cocktails or wine.

The on-board bar experience seems a little variable depending on the day and what the crew can make. Some people describe a bar setup that’s more like a small counter with limited drink-making skills (for example, being able to make specific cocktails but not a full range). Others report that drinks are reasonably priced, like a €2.50 Coke Zero example.

One important heads-up: there’s at least one report that the bar uses cash rather than card. If you’re the type who likes certainty, bring some cash just in case.

Also, remember snacks are not included. If you get snacky between swimming and town time, you may need to buy them on board or find them on Symi.

Price and value: what $82.90 really covers in your day

At $82.90 per person, the value comes from bundling. You’re not paying for separate tickets for a cruise, snorkeling gear, lunch, and transportation pieces all at once.

What you get that matters:

• Round-trip-style cruise time for a full day window (about 8 to 9 hours)
• Snorkeling equipment included
• Lunch included
• On-board WiFi and restroom access
• Transfer from/to your hotel can be included, but only under the booking-time rule

If you’re thinking of this as a “ship + gear + lunch” package, the price makes sense for many people. The biggest value risk isn’t the cruise itself—it’s logistics. If your transfer isn’t included due to the 14-hour booking cutoff, you could spend extra time and money getting to the correct pickup point.

There’s also a money-check idea worth sharing. One experience notes they later saw the same trip listed elsewhere for about €20 less when booked in person at the marina. That won’t apply every day, and it might depend on availability, but it’s a good reminder: if you’re already in Rhodes and comparing options, it’s worth checking local ticket offices too.

Crowds, timing quirks, and how to have the day you want

A day like this lives or dies by timing. The official schedule lists a first stop at Saint George Bay, then Symi, then the return. But a couple of accounts describe changes in the sequence—basically, that swim and town timing can feel swapped on the day.

So don’t lock in expectations like a robot. Instead, do this:

• Stay flexible about whether you swim first or later.
• If you care about the order, ask at the start and listen for the day’s actual plan.
• Remember that sea conditions can affect swim opportunities, since one account describes not getting a second swim due to sea conditions.

Also plan around the sun. The cruise includes air-conditioned transport on the way, but once you’re on deck, you’re in Greek summer reality. The best strategy is to switch between shade and sun, and pick a seating location that matches the kind of day you want—views or comfort.

Who this cruise fits best (and who should skip it)

This tour is a great match if you want:

• A relaxing sea day with a real swim stop that’s reached by boat
• Snorkeling gear included without extra shopping or packing
• Enough time in Symi to feel the island vibe without rushing through everything
• A simple package where lunch is taken care of

It’s less ideal if you strongly want:

• A guaranteed experience that never changes (because daily schedules and conditions can shift)
• A big, full-service bar experience with lots of options
• A long shopping-focused Symi visit, since siesta hours can limit what’s open

If you’re traveling with kids or need help getting a buggy on and off the boat, there’s at least one mention of staff helping with that. So it may work well for families who want the water views but still need practical assistance.

Should you book? My decision guide

If your dream day includes a secluded boat-only bay swim plus unhurried Symi exploring, this is a strong choice. The combination of 1.5 hours in the water, free snorkeling equipment, and included lunch makes the day feel efficient without feeling like a checklist tour.

Book it if:

• You care about swimming and want clear-water views off the boat
• You want a simple cruise-to-town structure
• You can be flexible about timing and daily conditions

Consider skipping or asking more questions if:

• St George Bay is your top priority and you’re worried about day-to-day changes—ask onboard which bay you’ll anchor.
• You’re expecting a large, fully functioning bar scene—this seems more limited than a dedicated bar.

FAQ

Do I need to print anything or can I use a mobile ticket?

You get a mobile ticket. You should have it ready on your phone for check-in.

Where is the meeting point in Rhodes?

The tour starts at Platia Eleftherias (Pl. Eleftherias, Rodos 851 00, Greece) and ends back at the meeting point.

What time does the cruise depart?

The start time listed is 10:00 am. The total day runs about 8 to 9 hours.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup depends on booking timing. Transfers from/to your hotel are provided only for bookings made at least 14 hours before the activity. You’ll receive pickup details by email or through WhatsApp around 9:00 pm the previous afternoon.

How long do we spend at Saint George Bay and Symi?

You have about 1.5 hours at Saint George Bay and about 3 hours on Symi.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included. You can also use support items like pool noodles if needed.

What meals are included?

Lunch is included. Snacks are not included, and bar items are extra.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

Alcoholic beverages are not included. Alcohol is served only to adults and is purchased on board.

What happens if the weather is bad?

This cruise requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience starts. If you cancel less than 24 hours in advance, the amount you paid is not refunded.