Boat Trip to Symi Island with Swimming Stop at St George Bay
Recommended by 92% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Rhodes, Greece
+26
- 9 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Offered in: English
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Overview
What's Included
- Boat trip
- Restroom on board
- Shower
- LunchLunch is not included. You will have free time in Symi island, where you can have lunch.
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup
Itinerary
1
Symi
3 hours • Admission Ticket Free
2
Saint George Bay
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 200 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Naomi_A
Our trip to Symi Island and St. George Bay was absolutely amazing! The crystal-clear waters were breathtaking, and swimming there felt like a dream. Symi itself is stunning – it honestly feels like stepping into a movie set, with colorful houses and such a unique atmosphere. The food was delicious, and the staff were very professional, making sure everything went smoothly from start to finish. We also had transport provided, which was very convenient and made the whole experience stress-free.
The only downside (and kind of a funny one) was the boat itself – a bit rusty, crowded, and not the safest-looking. But when you’re young, you just want to enjoy the adventure, and it definitely added to the experience! Still, it would be nice if the boat got a little update for comfort and safety.
Overall, it was a long trip but totally worth it. I’d highly recommend it for anyone visiting Rhodes and wanting a special day out!
Reviews
4.6
based on 1,972 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Madonna_M, Jul 2026
I would just like to say that we came on to the boat and walked right off because it was in complete unacceptable condition. The idea of spending that many hours on something that looked so rusty and broken and like the bottom section of a ship should never be used to transport tourists around. It is extremely misleading that they dont show pictures of the boat. I would recommend nobody book this tour. It is unfortunate that all the options for this day trip seem overcrowded no matter what option you go with. We had 10 tickets booked for our family and unfortunately couldn't get a refund because it was obviously too late. Which is fine. We still preferred not to go on such a boat.
Madison_W, Jul 2026
Simi Island and St George's Bay are absolutely beautiful, and the scenery alone makes for an unforgettable day. The only female member of the crew was lovely, friendly, and welcoming, which we really appreciated.
Unfortunately, there were several serious safety concerns that overshadowed the trip.
First, please be aware that St George's Bay has extremely strong currents. We were not warned about this beforehand, despite the significant risk it poses.
We booked through Viator with Half Price Tours on the M/V Zeus D. Once onboard, we were never informed that purchases were cash only, nor were we given any safety briefing, including where the life jackets were located or what to do in an emergency. The boat itself was also very cramped, with limited space for passengers.
The most concerning part of the trip occurred at St George's Bay. A gentleman got into serious difficulty in the water and came dangerously close to drowning due to the strong current. Despite the obvious emergency, none of the crew appeared to notice or respond until I shouted for help.
Even then, it took several minutes for a crew member to retrieve a life buoy—valuable time in a life-threatening situation. When the buoy was finally thrown to us, it landed nowhere near where we were and, incredibly, it was not attached to a rope or secured to the boat. As we tried to help the man back, the loose rope became tangled around our necks and legs, creating another dangerous situation.
My partner, myself, and two other passengers were left to rescue the man with virtually no assistance from the crew. While we were struggling against the current to bring him back to the boat, other passengers were still being allowed to jump into the water in the exact area we were trying to reach.
When we finally got back alongside the boat, the crew's priority seemed to be retrieving the life buoy rather than helping the man onboard or checking on his condition. They did not ask if he was okay, offer assistance, or acknowledge what had just happened. When we requested some water for him, they sent a young child to fetch it instead of assisting themselves.
The overall attitude of several crew members was disappointing. Instructions were delivered abruptly (such as "Move feet"), with little courtesy or concern for passengers. At another point during the trip, a young girl became seasick onboard. The crew simply walked around the sick without checking if she was okay or attempting to clean it up.
A few things future passengers should know:
* You cannot swim at Simi Island itself.
* St George's Bay requires you to either jump from the boat or climb back onboard using a ladder.
* Simi Island involves a lot of walking and can be very busy, so I would not recommend this excursion for anyone with mobility issues or those who are not comfortable climbing or jumping into the sea.
Simi Island and St George's Bay are genuinely stunning destinations.
Finally, if the gentleman who was in distress happens to read this, I sincerely hope you are doing well. I am so sorry that you were left in such a frightening situation and that the crew showed so little urgency, care, or support. No one should have to experience that.
Thank you to everyone who stepped in to help. The passengers who assisted in getting him safely back to the boat acted quickly and selflessly, and without their efforts, the outcome could have been very different.
I cannot overlook the way this emergency
Katia_H, Jul 2026
We had a fantastic day out! The boat trip was smooth and well organized, with plenty of time to explore the island at our own pace. We also stopped for a swim in a stunning bay with crystal-clear blue water, which was a real highlight. Highly recommended for a relaxing and enjoyable day!
martina_v, Jul 2026
Private pick-up from your accommodation well organized and on time!
They take you to their office to collect the tickets and then you're all set for the tour!
On the boat there is also a toilet, and a shower (which is crucial after swimming in St George's Bay).
The staff is amazing and well organized!
To reach Symi it is about 1h30/2h by boat, but it is well worth it! Symi is amazing, don't miss the Kali Strata stairs!
wendy_w, Jul 2026
Great trip, definitely worth doing.
Would have preferred the swim on the way home.
Really nice bus picked us up from hotel, bar on the boat, and several hours to wonder round symi.
Patricia_W, Jun 2026
I think if I was to re-book this trip I'd probably go with a fast boat as the journey was very long and there also wasn't really enough room for everyone. We were picked up by the transfer service promptly, everyone was really friendly and we got to the ferry 30 mins before it was due to leave and only just managed to get a seat on the top deck. I would also note the shop on the ferry only takes cash so make sure you have some if you're wanting to purchase anything. Symi itself was incredible - I think 3 hours there was a good amount of time.
Dainius_B, Jun 2026
Very nice trip swimming stop at St George bay was fantastic , boat crew is so friendly no complaints
Renique_B, Jun 2026
The boat trip to Symi Island was amazing. From the beautiful turquoise sea to the colourful buildings on the island. Everything about it was picturesque and left me in awe. It felt like walking through a postcard! If ever in Rhodes, I highly recommend booking the boat trip to Symi Island.
Tracey_D, Jun 2026
This was a nice trip , however the boat felt very crowded on the way back we struggled to find a seat . symi was very pretty and we enjoyed the swim at st George's bay. I think with hindsight I would have booked one of the faster boats
Alex_B, Jun 2026
Amazing trip, start to finish, from the tour shop to the Crew and the women serving at the bar outstanding service and picturesque destination. Highly recommend.
Maldin_G, Jun 2026
Not enough places to sit had to sit on floor (literally) overbooked and packed people fighting for a seat other than that everything ok
Lydia_H, May 2026
I was so impressed. They gave me the pick up time the night before. Arrived at my hotel on time. So informative and friendly. The boat was great with the swimming spot and there was plenty of time to explore Symi. Thank you!
Liz_B, May 2026
The boat took longer than expected but was calm crossing & relaxing.
It did get quite cool out at sea so wished I brought more layers.
Snacks available to purchase onboard.
Board early for better seats - downstairs deck chairs faced backwards which I would’ve have liked.
Great value trip
Stephanie_L, May 2026
We booked this a few months in advance of our trip to Rhodes, it had good reviews and traveller photos and was a decent price in comparison to similar tours, the stop at st George's bay really sold us, although like many it would have been nice if it was after Symi but that being said its later and cooler in the day particularly for Mid May when our trip was. It is very cold at sea everyone on board was wrapped in their towels or hooded jumpers etc. Its also very windy/chilly and the sea can be very choppy at times! We felt the ride was long personally but the staff were lovely and had a snacks and drink bar on board. The stop at St George's Bay was stunning but because it was so cold at sea we didnt want to go in to avoid being wet and cold on our final journey to Symi which is a shame but stunning stop none the less (its not cold when the boat is stationary at st georges bay). Symi is another 15mins or so from St George's bay so not too bad. Symi itself is abs beautiful, so picturesque and there is beach areas you can also swim or just jump in from the marina, we just explored both sides got some refreshments and lunch locals were lovely too. Its busy but didnt feel like it impacted negatively, 3 hours was enough for us to explore both sides and stop for a rest. It is a long day we were shattered afterwards. Its a worth while trip albeit quite a long trip.
Ruby_M, May 2026
We unfortunately picked the most overcast windy day to go so the boat trip going over was extremely cold coming back wasn’t as bad so definitely do pack some extra layers for travel. Staff were all friendly and makes life so much easier that hotel pickup and drop off is also offered.
andrea_m, Oct 2025
We found out a day before, at 5.30pm that the trip would not include St. George Bay due to bad weather. Did not have any other choice but accepting to go only to Symi since it was the only day we had available. On our trip day it rained only 5 minutes, on our departure from Rhodos. Anyway, we missed the St. George Bay. Ferry trip was very, very bumpy. Motion sickness pills are a must.
Georgia_B, Oct 2025
Great experience. Both myself and my mum came to Rhodes with the plan to visit Symi island. I accidentally booked the cruise with the swimming stop at Saint George’s Bay and wow I am glad I did. It was utterly breathtaking - crystal clear waters. I’ve never seen something like it! Symi was equally beautiful. We opted for the transfer to and from our hotel for ease. It felt a long day, 2 hours to Saint George’s Bay, half an hour to Symi from there and then approximately 2 hours back to Rhodes but was well worth it. We even saw the sunset on the way back. Highly recommend this tour and half price tours for any excursion!
Abby_P, Oct 2025
Such a lovely tour, the boat ride was nice, you can stay below if it's too windy or rainy up top. Wear your suit so you can jump in right away and bring something warm to wrap up in afterwards.
Yelena_R, Oct 2025
Super convenient and stress free trip. Picked up on time at our hotel, taken to the boat. Everything was 100% on schedule, mo delays.
Boat ride to swim at St. George’s bay, then to Symi island with 3 hours to spare. We had dinner and enjoyed our walk. Swim at St. George’s bay was absolutely fabulous! I just wish swim came after Symi island so we would be dry on our walk
Hanne_W, Oct 2025
Symi was a beautiful picturesque little gem.
Really enjoyed it there after the long boat ride.
I think I will take the faster boat next time and with out the swim stop.
We booked this excursion with pickup from our hotel.
Gumersindo_S, Sep 2025
Very relaxed and enjoyable trip. After our recent stay in Marmaris where in most of the trips we went on you were treated like a captive audience to be harassed and upsold whatever, the change in outlook was very much appreciated. Water was available at 50 cents and soft drinks were more than reasonable but you were never approached by anyone. The service was quick and delightful despite dealing with the vagaries of signal on the phone to pay on the card since you are so close to the Turkish border but they manage to sort everything out, everything on board not only the crew but even other Greek passengers were beyond welcoming and helpful. Symi was a very pleasant day out.
Monika_N, Sep 2025
Symi is a must see place!!! Wonderful!!! Great!!! They picked up us from the hotel...everyone was super friendly...
Karen_M, Sep 2025
Well organised, friendly staff on shore and crew on boat. Accurate timings and a well stocked bar on board with reasonably priced snacks and drinks.
Kirsty_C, Sep 2025
Half Price Tours contacted us the day before to share details for the morning. We were advised to get to the office early to ensure we could check in and get good seats as it was high season. The boat was clean and journey was pleasant, although a bit rocky. Lovely swim at the bay and plenty of time to explore Symi. Overall a brilliant deal for the day’s trip.
Naomi_A, Sep 2025
Our trip to Symi Island and St. George Bay was absolutely amazing! The crystal-clear waters were breathtaking, and swimming there felt like a dream. Symi itself is stunning – it honestly feels like stepping into a movie set, with colorful houses and such a unique atmosphere. The food was delicious, and the staff were very professional, making sure everything went smoothly from start to finish. We also had transport provided, which was very convenient and made the whole experience stress-free.
The only downside (and kind of a funny one) was the boat itself – a bit rusty, crowded, and not the safest-looking. But when you’re young, you just want to enjoy the adventure, and it definitely added to the experience! Still, it would be nice if the boat got a little update for comfort and safety.
Overall, it was a long trip but totally worth it. I’d highly recommend it for anyone visiting Rhodes and wanting a special day out!
Olivia_A, Aug 2025
the experience as a whole is great, and symi and st george’s bay are beautiful. it takes around 2 hours to get to st george’s bay, and an hour of swimming when you get there which is a good amount of time. bring your own snorkel if you want to swim with one, as they only have woggles to give out. it is then around 30 minutes to get to symi town, which is stunning. 3 hours is enough time to have lunch and view most of the main street and little shops. it is then 2 hours back to rhodes.
the only small issue i found was that after our transfer dropped us off to the boat, the boat was already nearly at full capacity meaning my partner and i had to sit separately on the way there. if you don’t come with a transfer, then it would be possible for you to get to the boat early to get a seat. this was a bit of a shame due to the fact the journey is 2 hours, and it would be good if there was a way that people who pre-booked could potentially be guaranteed a seat, or seats together? we pre-booked this activity a month or two before our trip but i believe you can even book the day before or very last minute. some people i believe were stood up or struggled to find seating, which again for 2 hours is a little bit unfair. maybe tickets should only be sold based on how many seats there are on the boat?
overall it was a brilliant day. it is a long day and the boat can be choppy so definitely recommend sickness tablets if you need them. but i would definitely recommend this
David_K, Aug 2025
Was a lovely boat trip. Stopped off at a swim area for an hour and then went on to the beautiful Symi island. The staff on the boat were very professional and friendly. Would recommend.
Valentina_R, Jul 2025
The places we visited were truly spectacular, the sea was beautiful, and the island of Symi is a very charming little town.
What we didn’t enjoy, however, was the transportation by boat. Although it was large, it was far too crowded.
On the way there, we couldn’t even find two seats, but only one, which forced us to take turns sitting down, and that too under the scorching sun.
Our first impression wasn’t great, and we even considered getting off because it was just too crowded.
Moreover, in order to find a seat on the return trip, we had to waste 40 minutes of the excursion just to make sure we were among the first to board and secure a spot.
On the other hand, the transfer service from the hotel was super efficient.
violeta_G, Jul 2025
Very nice place and very organised and friendly people the driver was on time and the tour operator is was very friendly and receptive,
The place is was amazing
paul_w, Jul 2025
Excellent day out to a beautiful island , swim stop on the way to cool off , great vibe on the boat and great staff
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