Rhodes: Speedboat trip to Symi Town and Panormitis Monastery
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Reservations
History
Symi rose to prominence in the 19th century as a sponge-diving and shipbuilding powerhouse, its neoclassical mansions funded by maritime wealth under Ottoman rule. The Panormitis Monastery, dedicated to the Archangel Michael, has been a seafaring pilgrimage site since Byzantine times, with sailors leaving votive ships for protection.
Today, Symi’s pastel harbor and the monastery’s bell tower remain iconic symbols of Dodecanese heritage, blending natural beauty with centuries of Orthodox tradition and Aegean trade history.
Highlights
- Speed across the Aegean to Symi’s postcard-perfect amphitheater harbor
- Visit the revered Panormitis Monastery with its Byzantine museum and frescoes
- Enjoy a panoramic photo stop overlooking Symi’s colorful rooftops
- Savor a complimentary snack-box featuring local Rhodian treats
- Relax on air-conditioned deck or sundeck with sea views
- Explore Symi’s alleys, shops, and waterfront tavernas at leisure
Full Description
Depart Rhodes on a high-speed boat and cruise through turquoise waters toward Symi. As the island emerges, its neoclassical houses cascade down the hills in shades of ochre, pink, and blue. Disembark at Gialos harbor and board a luxury minibus for the scenic drive to Panormitis.
At the monastery, explore the courtyard, pebble-mosaic floors, and museum of maritime offerings. A 40-minute stop allows time for photos and quiet reflection. Return to Symi town for free time—stroll the Kali Strata, swim at Yialos beach, or enjoy fresh seafood. A panoramic viewpoint offers sweeping island vistas.
The speedboat returns you to Rhodes in the late afternoon, leaving time to continue exploring the medieval Old Town or relax at your hotel.
Why Choose This Experience?
This full-day adventure combines high-speed travel, cultural depth, and island freedom in one seamless package. The included minibus transfer to Panormitis eliminates hiking or taxi hassles, while generous free time in Symi lets you tailor the day—whether swimming, shopping, or savoring local flavors.
With a snack-box, comfortable boat, and expert coordination, it’s ideal for travelers seeking both iconic sights and authentic Greek island vibes without the stress of self-planning.
What’s Included
- Round-trip speedboat transfer from Rhodes to Symi
- Luxury minibus transfer to/from Panormitis Monastery
- 40-minute guided stop at Panormitis with museum access
- Panoramic photo stop overlooking Symi town
- Complimentary snack-box (local cheese, olives, bread, fruit, water)
- Air-conditioned enclosed cabin and sundeck
- Professional crew and English-speaking coordinator
- Life jackets and safety briefing
- Onboard restroom and small bar (drinks for purchase)
- Digital island map and monastery guide
- All port fees and taxes
- Free Wi-Fi onboard (signal permitting)
Itinerary
- Check-in at Rhodes Tourist Port (30 minutes before departure)
- Speedboat departure from Mandraki Harbor
- Cruise to Symi with coastal views (60–75 minutes)
- Arrive Gialos Harbor, Symi
- Minibus transfer to Panormitis Monastery (20 minutes)
- Panormitis: Free time & museum visit (40 minutes)
- Return to Symi town (20 minutes)
- Panoramic photo stop en route
- Free time in Symi town (3–3.5 hours)
- Re-board speedboat at Gialos
- Return cruise to Rhodes (60–75 minutes)
- Disembark at central Rhodes port (~8.5 hours total)
Pricing
From $49 per person
Meeting Point
Rhodes Tourist Port (Mandraki Harbor) – look for the speedboat company desk near the windmills and deer statues. Arrive 30 minutes before scheduled departure for check-in and boarding.
How to get there
- Walk from Rhodes Old Town (5–10 minutes)
- Taxi to Mandraki Harbor entrance (drop-off at deer pillars)
- Local bus #5 to “Mandraki” stop
- Free parking at nearby commercial (10-minute walk from port)
Good to Know
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimwear and towel (for Yialos beach)
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Camera or smartphone
- Light jacket (sea breeze)
- Cash in euros (monastery shop, small tavernas)
- Reusable water bottle
- Motion sickness medication (if needed)
Know before you go
- Speedboat departs on time—late arrivals cannot board
- Panormitis requires modest dress (shoulders/knees covered)
- Free time in Symi is unguided; in Symi is unguided
- Minibus has AC; limited luggage space—travel light
- Snack-box provided; full lunch available in Symi (€12–18)
- Monastery museum donation €1 (optional)
- Return departure from Symi is fixed—be at port 15 min early
Reviews
- Fantastic day! Symi is stunning—plenty of time for swimming at Yialos, monastery visit, and lunch. Snack-box was a nice touch. Highly recommend!
- Well-organized trip. Loved the monastery and panoramic views. Walked to the beach for a dip, then enjoyed fresh fish in town. Perfect pacing.
- Great excursion! Driver was friendly, boat comfortable. Time in Symi felt just right for exploring, eating, and relaxing.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
How much free time do I have in Symi town?
You’ll have approximately 3 to 3.5 hours of independent time in Symi after the Panormitis visit and panoramic stop. The minibus returns you to Gialos harbor around 11:30 AM–12:00 PM, with the speedboat departing between 3:00–3:30 PM. This allows time to swim at Yialos or Nos beach (5-minute walk), climb part of the Kali Strata for photos, shop for sponges and spices, and enjoy a full lunch at a harbor taverna. The coordinator announces the exact re-boarding time upon arrival. Most visitors find this duration ideal for a relaxed yet fulfilling visit. Late returnees risk missing the boat, as the schedule is strictly enforced.
Is the Panormitis Monastery visit guided?
No, the 40-minute stop at Panormitis is self-guided, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace. A coordinator provides a brief introduction and map upon arrival, highlighting the church, Byzantine museum, and bell tower. Informational plaques in English and Greek explain the monastery’s history and the Archangel Michael cult. Photography is allowed outside the church interior. Modest dress is required—scarves and wraps are available at the entrance. The museum houses votive ship models and icons. You rejoin the minibus at the designated time for the return to Symi town.
What is included in the snack-box?
The complimentary snack-box is distributed onboard during the cruise to Symi and features authentic Rhodian flavors: local goat cheese, olives, crusty bread, seasonal fruit (figs or grapes), and a bottle of water. It’s designed as a light mid-morning meal to tide you over until lunch in Symi. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request at booking. The box is eco-friendly and compact. Full meals are not included, but Symi’s waterfront offers dozens of tavernas with fresh seafood, meze, and Symi shrimp (€12–18).
Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, you can swim during your free time in Symi at Yialos beach (pebbly, right by the harbor) or nearby Nos beach (sandy, 5-minute walk). Water is crystal-clear and calm in summer. The speedboat does not make dedicated swim stops due to the schedule and monastery focus. Bring swimwear, towel, and water shoes. Changing facilities are limited—use tavernas or public restrooms. The crew can store wet items in a designated area for the return trip. Panormitis has no beach access.
What if the weather affects the boat trip?
Safety is prioritized—the captain monitors Aegean conditions daily. Cancellations are rare but occur if winds exceed 6 Beaufort or storms approach. You’ll be notified by email/SMS by 7:00 AM with a full refund or free rescheduling. Light chop does not cancel; the speedboat is stable with enclosed cabin. The minibus operates regardless of sea conditions. If only the return is affected, alternative ferry transport may be arranged. Check marine forecasts the night before. All decisions ensure passenger safety while delivering the full land program.
