THE ISLAND OF SYMI
The island of Symi is one of the smallest populated islands in Greece (58 km2) and a centerpiece of the Dodekanisa group of islands, mainly due to its particularly beautiful character. It combines picturesqueness and a spellbinding landscape with a historical interest and unique traditional architecture. It is surrounded by beautiful beaches and bays (coastal length 85 km), which can be admired during the journey. The trip to Symi offers the visitor the chance to get to know the variety, diversity and difference of Greek islands and especially those of Dodekanisa.
Departure at 9.00 to PANORMITIS Monastery
Our boat departs at 09.00 from Mandraki port in the heart of Rhodes town. Once out in the open water, leaving behind the Aquarium of Rhodes, we set sail to Panormitis, a closed natural cone in the southwest end of the island, where the imposing steeple of the monastery can be admired. It is the most important monastery of Dodekanisa after the one of Agios Ioannis in the island of Patmos. The church was built in the 18th century. Its interior is highly decorated with remarkable wall paintings, byzantine paintings, a wood-carved altarpiece and the impressive icon of Archangel Michail with the oblations from worshippers. The visitor has the chance to visit the Folkloric and Church museum of the monastery. Our visit lasts one hour.
SAINT GEORGE BAY
We next sail for 45 minutes along the eastern coasts of Symi to reach the northern part of the island, the town of Symi. During our sailing, the visitors have the opportunity to see up-close the variety of the magnificent beaches of the island and, exclusively with our ship, the beach of Saint George, one of the most impressive of the whole world.
Our passengers can photograph and/or swim in the crystal clear emerald waters of Agios Georgios surrounded by breathtaking hills of 300m of height. This beach is inaccessible from mainland and for this reason it is highly popular to luxurious yachts. When weather conditons and traffic do not allow for safe swimming in St. George Bay, we visit the equally astounding Nimporio Bay. (Please contact us to verify which days include swimming)
SYMI TOWN
A few minutes later, leaving behind the Nymo moira, the visitors await the magnificent view of the city of Symi, which looks like an actual painting. Surrounding the natural, horseshoed-like port lie the traditional, colourful houses, which are built amphitheatrically on the rocks.
The arrival time in the city of Symi is around 12.30 and the visitors have enough free time (approx. 4 hours – 3 hours when program includes swimming-) to get to know the city, walk in the narrow, quaint streets and the Kali Strata, which links the two villages of the city. They can also visit one of the numerous quaint taverns, with a wonderful sea view, where one of the local specialties is served; the famous “simian baby shrimp”, which is fished exclusively in the island. On the warm summer days the visitors can also swim in the crystal clear waters of the island.
ARRIVAL TO RHODES
We depart Symi approximately at 16.15 and after a quick and pleasant trip along the Turkish coast, we are back to Rhodes by 17.50 o’clock. During the trip you can enjoy the view and sea breeze on our spacious covered or uncovered open decks, sunbathe or relax in our fully air-conditioned lounges. Cold beverages and free Wi-Fi access are available to make the short trip even more enjoyable.
