Symi gets busy in the morning. This afternoon trip keeps things calmer and cooler, with a fast boat to one of the Dodecanese’s prettiest ports. You get about 3 hours on Symi to wander the harbor streets, then watch the sunset on the way back to Rhodes.

I love the mix of speed and freedom here: the ride is quick enough that you still feel like you got a real mini-vacation, and the island time is long enough to actually eat, poke around shops, and take photos without rushing. The downside is simple: expect sea spray and wind, so plan for a damp boat ride deck and bring waterproof clothing.

Quick hits before you go

• Afternoon timing for fewer crowds and more comfortable exploring
• Fast high-speed cruise that saves your day for what you came for
• Roughly 3 hours on Symi to sightsee, snack, or swim at your own pace
• Sunset sail back to Rhodes, with photo stops along the way
• Local hits you can hunt down like Symi mini shrimps and ouzo
• Practical seat tip: choose shelter for the sunset

Rhodes-to-Symi sunset trip: what you’re really getting

This is a straightforward Rhodes to Symi boat tour with a big focus on two moments: time on the island and sunset on the return. You’re not signing up for a full guided tour on Symi. You’re getting transportation, island free time, and that beautiful ride back when the light turns soft.

For about $55 per person, you’re basically paying for a high-speed connection plus the timing that makes Symi feel relaxed instead of packed. If you already know you want a few hours of independent exploring (rather than a narrated history walk), this format is a good match.

Just note the tour includes the boat only. Food and drinks are on you, so plan meals and snacks around whatever you feel like doing on Symi.

Getting on board at Mandraki Harbour (and why that matters)

You meet at the Rhodes Sea Lines desk in Mandraki Harbour, right opposite the National Bank of Greece. This is one of those simple meeting points that helps on a short day trip: you can find it, show up, and be moving.

The tour is hosted/greeter in English, and it’s listed as wheelchair accessible. That said, boats can still have some movement and railings, so if you use a wheelchair, show up a bit early so staff can help you get settled comfortably.

Also, keep in mind the total duration is listed as 5 hours. Symi time is roughly 3 hours, which means you’ll want to use that time intentionally instead of drifting into late starts.

The Aphrodite Princess ride: fast crossing, real sea air

You’ll travel on the Aphrodite Princess, and the whole point is speed. This is a high-speed boat cruise, which usually means less “travel time tax” and more island time. On the way, you may even have pauses for photos, since the captain can stop for everyone to snap pictures.

The ride is also where you’ll feel the weather. Expect windy deck moments and splashes—even if it looks calm. In practice, that’s why you should pack for wet conditions. One-time rain protection has been provided on some departures, but you don’t want to rely on luck if you’re prone to getting cold.

A practical packing checklist for the boat

• Waterproof or at least quick-dry outer layer
• Non-slip shoes
• Swimwear or a change of clothes if you want to swim in Symi
• Sunglasses and sunscreen, even in the afternoon (wind doesn’t block sun)

Symi in the afternoon: how to spend your free time well

You’ll disembark in Symi and get about 3 hours to explore on your own. This timing is the big advantage. You’re arriving when Symi is typically less crowded and less brutally hot, so you can actually wander and stop for photos without feeling like you’re constantly sidestepping other tour groups.

Here’s what Symi looks like when you first arrive: the harbor water is a bright turquoise, the bay is framed by pastel-colored buildings, and you’ll notice colorful church domes dotted around town. It’s scenic in a way that doesn’t require a tour script.

Use your time like this

1. Start at the waterfront first so you get oriented fast.
2. Walk a loop through the harbor area and main streets, pausing for photos where the colors pop.
3. Pick one “anchor plan” for lunch or a snack, then treat the rest as browsing time.

There are steps and some incline. If you’re not feeling up for climbing, focus on the lower areas near the harbor and keep the sightseeing simple. You can still have a great Symi visit without turning it into a leg workout.

Lunch and swimming: your call

You can have lunch at one of the traditional tavernas (not included in the price). If you’d rather cool off, swimming is an option—your afternoon timing makes that extra tempting.

What to eat in Symi: mini shrimps and ouzo

This tour gives you enough time to do more than just look. I like that you can actually fit in food and a proper break without the schedule feeling like it was designed for stress.

Try the Symi mini shrimps if you see them on a menu. Pair that with a sip (or two) of local ouzo if that’s your style. It’s a classic local pairing for island time, and it feels more authentic when you’re eating somewhere you can reach easily on foot.

Because food isn’t included, you control the budget. You can go casual with a snack, or you can sit down for a leisurely meal while the afternoon slows down.

Sunset on the way back: best seats and photo strategy

The final act is the sunset sail back to Rhodes. This is where the whole afternoon timing pays off. The light changes quickly on the water, and it turns Symi’s colors into something more golden and soft.

You’ll also have moments to photograph. One captain-style touch: the boat can stop briefly for photos, so everyone can get the shot without leaning over railings like a startled flamingo.

Seat tip that makes a difference

If you care about comfort during sunset, choose seats with shelter from wind and rain. A strong suggestion from experience is to aim for the last seats on both tiers, especially on the ground at the end of the boat. That’s usually the spot where you catch the sunset view while staying a bit drier and less blasted by wind.

If you hate cold deck air, plan to dress like you’re going to the sea, not like you’re strolling in town.

One timing note

Return times can be off by a little. In at least one case, the boat came back about 10 minutes late. It’s not chaos, but if you’re connecting to something right after, give yourself a buffer.

Value check: is $55 a good deal for this day?

For $55 per person, you’re buying a practical package:

• Boat transport on a named vessel (the Aphrodite Princess)
• About 3 hours on Symi
• A sunset return experience

What keeps the value strong is the afternoon schedule. It’s not just “later in the day.” It changes the feel of Symi—less packed, less heat. That matters, because Symi is the kind of place where walking slowly and looking closely is part of the point.

What can lower value for some people: you’re on your own on Symi. If you want an expert guide walking you through history, architecture, and stories street by street, you may prefer a tour that includes narration.

Also remember: food and drinks aren’t included, so your final cost depends on what you choose to eat and drink.

Who should book this Symi sunset cruise

This tour fits best if you want:

• A half-day plan that still feels like you went somewhere
• A calmer Symi visit, thanks to the afternoon departure
• Island time for eating and wandering at your own pace
• Sunset views without committing a full day

It may not be ideal if:

• You want a guided walking tour on Symi
• You don’t handle wind or wet decks well (go waterproof)
• You’re counting on perfect, minute-by-minute timing for a tight next appointment

Should you book it

Yes, if your goal is Symi + sunset + breathing room. This is one of those trips where the timing is the product: afternoon reduces stress, boat speed buys you time, and the return sunset gives you a payoff you can feel in your bones.

Before you book, do two things: check the starting times availability (departure times can vary), and pack for spray and wind. If you do that, you’ll get a smooth day—quick transport, real island wandering, and a sunset sail that feels like more than a day trip.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the Rhodes to Symi sunset trip?

The duration is listed as 5 hours, with about 3 hours on Symi.

What time of day does the tour run?

It’s an afternoon departure, and the return includes sunset on the way back to Rhodes.

How much does the tour cost?

The price is $55 per person.

What’s the meeting point in Rhodes?

Meet at the Rhodes Sea Lines desk in Mandraki Harbour, just opposite the National Bank of Greece.

Where does the tour end?

It ends back at the same meeting point in Mandraki Harbour.

Is food or drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included. You can purchase lunch on Symi at tavernas.

Do I need to bring my own clothing for the boat ride?

Yes. It’s a boat trip with wind and possible sea spray, so plan for wet and breezy conditions. One-time rain protection may be provided on some departures, but having waterproof clothing is smart.

Do you provide a guide on Symi?

This trip is mainly transportation plus free time on Symi, so plan to explore on your own rather than relying on a guided tour.

What language is spoken by the host or greeter?

The host/greeter is English.

Is the boat tour wheelchair accessible?

It is listed as wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund is listed.