Rhodes to Symi Cruise Review: Is it Worth it?

Thinking about hopping on a cruise from Rhodes to Symi Island? That’s very much a trip people talk about! Taking a day trip from Rhodes to Symi with that seemingly promised “3 Hours Free Time” sounds wonderful. But what’s it really like? I figured I could give you the lowdown, the genuine, is-it-worth-your-precious-vacation-time scoop. That way you can plan better!

What to Expect on the Rhodes to Symi Cruise

The initial allure of this cruise really revolves around that promise: seeing Symi, this picture-perfect Greek island, and wandering around for a good chunk of time. The boats tend to be bigger, carrying lots of excited people, with the promise of that gorgeous island visit.

So, usually, the day gets going kinda early, right? They want you at the port probably before you’ve had your second cup. When you board the boat you can expect people. Possibly many people.

I remember one cruise I was on — to a different island — where it felt that there were possibly as many people onboard the boat, as there were on the island. In that situation you would expect that boarding can sometimes get a bit busy, but once things settle, finding a spot with a decent view should become a bit simpler.

Oh and the cruise? Well it will give you the wide open ocean for viewing pleasure! After arriving, how to get around and explore the island are important too. Like how practical is three hours exactly?

Symi Island: A Visual Feast, but How Much Can You Really See?

Symi… oh, Symi! Seriously, the harbor alone is worth the trip. It really is. All those buildings in various shades look terrific stacked up around the harbor; it makes for unforgettable photos. But those “3 Hours Free Time”? How well it is spent can completely change what you think about the trip. Consider that arrival time. By that, I mean when your boat docks. I’m trying to say; Are you planning on a relaxed lunch at a taverna? If the boat is delayed you could be in trouble!

Then there is, of course, the walk. Assuming you’re mobile, a little walk around town and up to the church at the top can, like, show you the place’s true beauty. So just think how the heat of the day might impact that for you.

You might also feel there is an urge to soak it all in quickly, before needing to get back to the boat on time.

Oh and, the shops, yes. The sponges might draw you in, or one of the little art places that seem to call to the artistic.

The Cruise Experience: Is the Journey as Good as the Destination?

The cruise part; how good it is could sway how you view things. A smooth ride, nice ocean views, and that gentle breeze really is a memory you can keep.

However; you do get a lot of people bunched in together. You are bound to get someone wanting to talk loudly into their phone, no matter how many times crew ask them not to. That may impact what you thought about it all.

The boats, like, they often have drinks and snacks for sale. Don’t assume the prices will be inexpensive; they are basically relying on your need for an ice cream or soft drink in the scorching heat. I think a packed lunch would do you well, as an idea, if you are trying to watch those Euros.

Potential Downsides: What They Don’t Always Tell You

Ok so lets be realistic. Everything is not always picture perfect. As beautiful as Symi is; you are not going to be the only tourist there that day. It can, maybe, get really crowded. The smaller streets of Symi may seem packed. Especially when there are several boats arriving at the same time.

About the boat, yes. Remember this too it’s almost as though there will always be someone getting motion sickness, or complaining about something or another. I would prepare. Possibly even before that second cup of coffee. It really is something that may spoil what you thought was going to be paradise.

And, about being on time, yes? If you, or a whole bunch of others are not, I imagine there are many sailing schedules to keep. So if you should miss the boat… I do not know, but I’d expect it wouldn’t be fun. Getting stranded probably is nobody’s idea of fun!

So, Is the Rhodes to Symi Cruise Worth It?

Alright, it’s decision time, yes? Getting there early, maybe packing your own lunch, and kind of knowing the possible downside means your enjoyment of the cruise to Symi could become, very likely, amazing. It also very, very much depends what floats your boat!

A rushed few hours in a crowded place aren’t going to do the trick for some. For other folk, the whole cruise there, that slice of sponge cake bought onboard, and a quick peek at a new place? Well; that really is something they’ll hold dear forever.

Look; just be ready for that reality. Then decide if you want the chance to see what Symi offers.

Basically, for some folk this trip is absolutely heaven. Just, really, plan with open eyes. You can probably find better peace of mind that way.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Symi Trip