Symi to Rhodes Ferry

Symi Guide

The Greek island of Symi is one of the Dodecanese Islands and is located around 40 km to the north west of the island of Rhodes and 420 km from the Port of Piraeus. Symi's closest neighbours are the Datca and Bozburun peninsulars of Mugla Province in Turkey. The island's terrain is mainly mountainous and its coastline is made up of either beaches and secluded coves, or rocky cliffs. Located on the north east coast of the island is its main town, also called Symi. The lower town is the area around the harbour, called Yialos, and the upper town is called Horio or Ano Symi. There isn't a great deal to see or do on the island, and this is perhaps where its charm is. Apart from lazing on the beach or swimming in its crystal clear waters the Monastery of the Archangel Panormitis, which is an early 18th century Greek Orthodox monastery built on the coast in the south west of the country, is worth visiting. Overlooking Ano Symi is the Kastro which was built by the Knights of St. John as an expansion of a Byzantine castle on the same site. Quite a bit of the structure remains and there are also signs of an ancient citadel on which two later castles were built.

Rhodes Guide

The Greek island of Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese group of islands and is a popular destination for tourists, especially as it has around 300 days of sunshine every year. The island lies in the eastern Aegean Sea and is to the north of the island of Crete and to the south east of Athens. The island has all the facilities to make it the popular tourist destination that it has become and includes a beautiful coastline and has plenty of culture and a lively nightlife. 

The island's main town, Rhodes Town, is very charming and visitors will see enormous medieval fortifications and narrow alleys that are simply full of character. However, the island's beaches are perhaps the biggest attraction and is what makes it so popular. many of the island's beaches are located on the eastern shore and Lindos stands out as offering the best stretch of sand and pebbles and is close to the Megali Paralia. 

Rhodes is connected by ferry with daily services to Piraeus, by conventional and high speed boats. During the summer months Rhodes is also connected with the rest of the Dodecanese islands, along with Crete and Cyclades.

Everything you need to know about Symi Rhodes ferry tickets

When is the best time to book ferries from Symi to Rhodes?  

We recommend to book your ferry from Symi to Rhodes in advance to get it at the cheapest price. The Symi to Rhodes ferry cost varies depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Rhodes Symi ferry prices are higher in the peak summer months between June to September. Ferries during these months can sell out so if you’re wanting to travel on a Symi to Rhodes ferry in summer it’s always best to make sure you book in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the best ferry from Symi to Rhodes to suit you.

Do you offer student discount on Symi Rhodes ferry tickets?  

Yes, students can get a 5% discount on Symi Rhodes ferry tickets all year round. Check out our special offers page for more discounts and to get the cheapest Symi to Rhodes ferry booking.

Onboard the Symi Rhodes ferry 

How long does it take to disembark the ferry from Symi to Rhodes?

It all depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.

Symi to Rhodes ferry with luggage

If you're getting the Symi to Rhodes ferry with luggage, then there are certain restrictions that may apply. The amount of luggage you can take on the Symi to Rhodes ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.

Blue Star Ferries: up to 50kg   
Dodekanisos Seaways: up to 40kg
SAOS Ferries: up to 50kg
Sebeco Lines: up to 50kg

What facilities are available on board ferries from Symi to Rhodes?

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the Symi to Rhodes ferry. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.

What accommodation and seating options are available?  

The accommodation and seating on the boat from Symi to Rhodes differs depending on the ferry company and how long the journey is. Prices are also dependent on the company you travel with and the size of your cabin. 

Blue Star Ferries: As well as Economy and airline-style seating, there are also both private and shared cabins available on board including 2, 3 and 4 berth cabins. 

Dodekanisos Seaways: There’s a variety of seating on board including economy, super economy and business seats.

SAOS Ferries: Numbered air-type seats, super economy deck seats and open-air deck seats are available on board.

Sebeco Lines: you can choose from open-deck seating and comfortable seating below deck.

Is there reduced mobility access on the Symi to Rhodes ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Symi to Rhodes are suitable for people with reduced mobility. The exact facilities on board will depend on the ship you’re travelling on. It's best to inform the ferry company at the time of booking to see if they can accommodate any requests.

Blue Star Ferries: Special cabins, priority boarding and wheelchairs are available on board. 

Dodekanisos Seaways: Ships have special areas for those who need them with easy access too. The crew is also available to assist.

SAOS Ferries: Accessible areas are available for people with disabilities.  

Sebeco Lines: Facilities are available on board to assist those with disabilities. 

Taking the ferry from Symi to Rhodes 

How early do I need to arrive at Symi port?  

If you're travelling from Symi to Rhodes by ferry, we recommend arriving at Symi port at least 1 hour before departure. However, if you are travelling with a vehicle, it’s best to arrive 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before departure to allow time for parking. Wherever you’re travelling from, you should allow plenty of time to get to the port in case of traffic.

How and when will I get my Symi to Rhodes ferry tickets?

Your Symi to Rhodes ferry tickets will be sent by email. You will then need to check in with the ferry company before you travel and you may receive an additional boarding pass.

When do I need to check in?  

The latest check-in time for your Symi Rhodes ferry crossing should be in your confirmation email.  

Blue star ferries: from 48 to 2 hours before the scheduled departure time 

Dodekanisos Seaways: at least 1 hour before departure

SAOS Ferries: at least 1 hour before departure

Sebeco Lines: at least 30 minutes before departure for foot passengers and 1 hour before if you’re travelling with a vehicle 

Is there parking at Symi port?  

Unfortunately, no parking is available at Symi port. 

How to get to Symi port 

Symi ferry port, also known as Gialos, is located in the capital of Symi. It's easily accessible from the town centre and the rest of the island. 

By foot: Symi ferry port is just a short walk from the centre of Symi. 

By bus: you can catch a bus to Symi ferry port from various destinations across the island.

By taxi: taxis are also available to take you to the port.

Useful information on your arrival to Rhodes

Rhodes ferry port is conveniently located in the east of Rhodes town, near to the Old Town. All of the town's amenities are within walking distance including shops, restaurants and hotels. Public buses are also available near the port to take you to various other locations in Rhodes. 

If you’re travelling by car, speed limits in Rhodes are as follows:  

Built-up areas: 50km/h or 30mph
Motorways: 80km/h or 50mph