A day boat trip with real sea time feels special. This one mixes St George Bay’s clear water with time in Symi’s Gialos port, all for a very low price. The catch: wind and sea conditions can make the ride (and even getting in and out) more challenging than you’d expect.

I like that the schedule is tight and easy to follow: leave Rhodes at 10:00, swim around midday, then explore Symi in the afternoon. You also get practical safety basics on board—freshwater showers, an experienced crew, and a lifeguard. My only caution is simple: the swim stop is time-limited, and it can run shorter depending on how the day goes.

Key Points at a Glance

• St George Bay swim stop with clear water and flotation gear options
• Enough Symi time to walk the waterfront and grab lunch on your own
• First-come seating strategy for the upper deck, plus indoor AC on the main deck
• Freshwater showers and lifeguard support for a more comfortable day at sea
• A flexible captain who can adjust the plan when weather changes
• Friendly onboard service (bar staff like Oksana and a chatty captain such as Yannis get named often)

From Mandraki Harbour to the Open Sea: How the Day Starts

Your day begins at Mandraki Harbour in Rhodes, with SP Cruises’ kiosk easy to spot at Pl. Eleftherias 85100, opposite the Bank of Greece. The cruise is scheduled to start every day at 10:00, so I’d treat this like a real departure, not a casual stroll and wander situation.

One detail that matters: the upper deck seats are first-come, first-served. If you want the best views, show up early rather than assuming you can just arrive whenever. Reviews also suggest getting there around 9:30 helps you beat the crowd before the best spots fill.

If the sun (or wind) isn’t your thing, you’ll be glad the main deck saloon has indoor seating with air conditioning. That’s a big quality-of-life boost on a Greek summer day, and it also helps on choppier legs when you just want to be comfortable.

Cruising Toward Symi: Coast Views, Real Sea Time, and What Feels Different

After departure, you’re out on open water with a long, scenic stretch ahead. You’ll spend about two hours traveling toward Agios Georgios for the swim stop, with time to enjoy the coastline views from the boat.

This isn’t the kind of trip where you’re rushing past sights in a mini-bus. Instead, you’re doing something more relaxing and more “island Greece”: watching the Dodecanese from sea level, with salt air and horizon views. On good days, people even report seeing dolphins, so it’s worth keeping your eyes up when the boat moves and the water looks calm.

On the comfort side, expect a “working boat day” feel. The ride can get bumpy—especially on the way back—so if you’re motion-sickness prone, plan for it. A practical tip that pops up: some staff give passengers something to help with seasickness (a lemon-chewing routine gets mentioned), and that kind of small support can make the difference between enjoying the day and feeling miserable.

St George Bay Swim Stop: Clear Water, Short Time, and Getting Back On Board

This is the main moment most people remember. You arrive at the Agios Georgios / St George Bay area after the Rhodes cruise leg, and you’ll have about one hour for swimming in clear-blue water. The water is famous for being so inviting that even non-expert swimmers tend to enjoy it—often with flotation accessories provided.

Just be honest with yourself about timing. Even though the plan calls for roughly an hour, the actual time can shrink (a shorter stop gets reported when the schedule tightens). So don’t spend your first 20 minutes doing a full photoshoot and then panic about the clock—keep moving, enjoy the swim, and leave yourself buffer time to re-board.

Getting off can also feel organized but slow. One review notes boarding/exiting is done one person at a time off the gang plank during mass moments. That’s normal for safety, but it does mean you might wait a bit before you’re the next person in line.

Practical comfort tips for the swim hour

• Bring beachwear and plan to use a towel right away after you get back on board.
• Pack sunscreen and protect your neck and ears—Greek sun doesn’t negotiate.
• If it’s windy, bring something that covers your legs. One review calls out that the non-sunny side can feel very cold and windy even in warmer months.
• Consider a waterproof watch or timer. You’ll want an eye on the time so you’re not rushing the last minutes.

Safety support is a real plus here. The cruise includes a lifeguard, and reviews mention fast help if something goes wrong onboard. You’ll also have freshwater showers to rinse off after the water time, which makes the rest of the day feel much more comfortable.

Symi (Gialos Port) in the Afternoon: Walking the Town Without Feeling Rushed

After the swim, you depart around 13:00 for Gialos, Symi’s main port. The schedule then gives you a block of free time—roughly three hours or a bit more—to explore, browse shops, and eat.

This is where Symi’s magic shows up: small streets, waterfront energy, and the feeling of a place that’s built for wandering. You’re not locked into a tour route. Instead, you can choose your own pace—walk the harbor edges, pop into side streets, and find a table that matches your mood.

Lunch is on your own dime. That’s not a deal-breaker; Symi is exactly the kind of place where food is part of the experience. A couple of reviews specifically recommend seafood spots (one named suggestion is Tholos), and the general theme is that lunch tastes better when you pick it casually at the port and linger a bit.

If you like a “micro beach break,” keep an eye out for small spots near where boats dock. One review calls out a nearby beach worth visiting, which is a nice bonus if you want to stretch your legs after the morning ride.

How to use your Symi time best

• Start by walking the harbor first, then head into streets so your route makes sense.
• Eat earlier rather than later if it’s peak heat. Reviews mention Symi can be very hot, and lunch timing affects how pleasant the walk feels.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The town is charming, but you’ll still be doing real walking.

Onboard Comfort and Small Details: Seating, Toilets, and Wind

A boat day can be either pleasant or stressful depending on the little things. Here are the ones that matter most based on the practical notes people shared.

Seating and where to be

Upper deck looks great, but it fills fast. If you want to sit outside for views, arrive early. If you end up inside on the main deck, the air conditioning is a genuine plus and helps you recover between swim and Symi exploration.

Also, expect crowding. Reviews note the boat can be busy, and not everyone finds a perfect seat near a window. So if you’re picky about comfort, plan to be flexible.

Wind, cold moments, and re-dressing

Even when the sun is out, wind off the water can cut fast. Multiple reviews mention bringing extra clothing for the breeze, especially on the swim-to-boat return and during waiting times.

Toilets and other practical bits

One review points out the toilets could use a bit of TLC. That’s not unusual on a full-day boat, but it’s worth knowing so you’re not surprised.

Smoking location

If smoke affects you, note that smoking is reported to be upstairs, between the bar area and the wheelhouse—so when the wind shifts, it may drift toward you depending on where you sit.

Help for mobility needs

The cruise is listed as wheelchair accessible, and one review says crew members helped with mobility scooter access on and off the boat. If you use any mobility device, I’d still arrive with time and be ready for staff to guide you through boarding.

Price and Value: Is $41 Really Fair for This Day?

At $41 per person, the value comes from what’s packaged together: boat transport, a scheduled swim stop at St George Bay, and afternoon free time in Symi. You’re basically paying for one ticket that covers the two main experiences—sea time plus Symi time—without having to coordinate separate transport on your own.

It’s also good value because key extras are included: freshwater showers, an experienced crew, and a lifeguard. Those are not just nice-to-haves on a swimming day. The fact that you get support means you can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

What’s not included matters too. Food and drinks are extra, and that’s normal on boats. Also, there’s no hotel pickup, so you’re responsible for getting to Mandraki Harbour yourself. If you’re already staying near Rhodes’ center, that’s easy. If you’re further out, plan for the travel time.

Bottom line on value: this is a budget-friendly way to see Symi when you only have one day and you really want that St George Bay water moment.

Who This Trip Fits Best (and Who Might Want Another Option)

This cruise makes sense for you if:

• You want a one-day Symi visit from Rhodes with minimal planning.
• You like swimming outdoors and want a planned stop rather than searching for beaches on your own.
• You’re comfortable adjusting your expectations on timing, since the swim stop can run shorter when the captain adjusts for the day.

Consider skipping (or at least preparing extra) if:

• You get cold easily or hate wind. Reviews repeatedly flag chilly, windy moments outside.
• You’re highly sensitive to motion. The boat can rock, especially on the way back.
• You need a long, deep Symi exploration. This gives you enough time to enjoy the town, but it’s still a port-and-walk style visit, not a slow, full-day immersion.

Should You Book SP Cruises to Symi and St George Bay?

I’d book this if your goal is simple: Symi plus a swim in famous clear water, all from Rhodes, with a schedule that keeps the day moving. The included lifeguard, showers, and crew support make it feel safer and more comfortable than random ad-hoc plans.

Book with smart prep if you can:

• Arrive early for better seating (upper deck fills quickly).
• Bring swim basics plus a warm layer for wind.
• Keep an eye on time during the swim hour so you’re not sprinting back onto the boat.
• Plan your lunch budget in Symi, since food and drinks are on you.

If weather looks iffy, remember the captain can change the program for safety, so a flexible mindset helps.

FAQ

Where do I meet SP Cruises for the Symi trip?

You’ll find the SP Cruises kiosk at Mandraki Harbour, opposite the building of the Bank of Greece, at Pl. Eleftherias 85100.

What time does the cruise leave Rhodes?

The Symi cruise from SP Cruises starts daily at 10:00 from Mandraki Harbour.

How long is the experience and when do I return?

The duration is listed as 510 minutes, and the schedule has you back around 18:30.

How long do I get to swim at St George Bay?

You’re scheduled to spend about one hour for swimming/diving at St George Bay. Some days this can be shorter depending on how operations go.

How much free time do I have in Symi?

You arrive in Gialos, Symi’s main port, at 13:00 and depart back at 16:20, giving you roughly three hours of exploration time.

Is lunch included in the cruise fare?

No. Lunch is not included, and you’ll buy food at your own expense in Symi.

What’s included on the boat?

Included items are the boat cruise, swimming stop to Saint George Bay, time to explore Gialos, freshwater showers, experienced crew, and a lifeguard.

What food and drinks should I plan for?

Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them onboard if you want snacks or drinks, and also for lunch in Symi.

What should I bring with me?

Bring beachwear, sunscreen, a towel, and comfortable shoes.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible, and what about cancellation?

The activity is listed as wheelchair accessible. The schedule can also change for safety reasons based on the captain’s instructions, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.