Symi Cruise Port

History

Symi’s story is carved into the Aegean Sea through its twin legacies of shipbuilding and sponge diving. While mentioned in Homer's Iliad, the island rose to significant prominence under the Knights of St. John in the 14th century, who fortified the upper Chorio to defend against Ottoman expansion. However, the neoclassical architecture you see today is a 19th-century phenomenon. During this era, Symi was more prosperous than Rhodes, serving as the sponge-diving capital of the world. Wealthy sea captains expressed their status by building the multi-colored mansions that ring the harbor, utilizing Italian architects to create the unique Symian style. This prosperity took a devastating hit during WWII when the island was heavily bombed; the British officially accepted the German surrender of the Dodecanese right here in Symi on May 8, 1945. You can see the consequences of this era in the ruins of the Kastro, built upon the ancient acropolis, where the Knights' fortifications still stand. The decline of the sponge trade in the mid-20th century preserved the town in a state of suspended animation, preventing the high-rise development seen elsewhere. Today, the strict archaeological laws mean every renovation must maintain the exact 19th-century color palette and structural dimensions you witness from the ship's rail.

The Verdict

In Symi, the visitors who come away happiest are the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt to the island’s vertical reality. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. At Waterways Cruise, no two travelers want the same day ashore in the beautiful Aegean Sea.

Symi’s culinary identity is defined by its namesake shrimp (Symiako Garidaki). These tiny, reddish crustaceans are unique to the local waters and are served deep-fried so they can be eaten whole. Beyond the shrimp, look for 'Gaopoula' (baked fish with onions and tomatoes) and 'Misokoiti' (a local version of sourdough bread). To drink, seek out wines from the neighboring island of Rhodes, particularly the white Athiri grape, which pairs perfectly with the saltiness of the fried fish. For something stronger, Symi produces a unique sage-infused raki that locals use as a digestif. You can find authentic versions at the street markets near the bridge, where locals buy their supplies. One honest note: travelers often expect the heavy moussaka and souvlaki common in Athens, but Symi’s true diet is lighter, focused almost entirely on what can be pulled from the sea and the dry, rocky hills. The local thyme honey is known to be some of the most aromatic in the Dodecanese.

Getting back to the ship

The latest safe departure time from Chorio to the ship is 60 minutes before the all-aboard time. If you are in Chorio, do not rely on walking down the Kali Strata if you are tired; it takes 15 minutes and can be taxing on the knees. Instead, take a taxi from the Chorio square, which will cost about €12.00 (~$14.00 USD) and take 10 minutes to reach the harbor. If you miss the ship in Symi, you must take a ferry to Rhodes (approx. €25 / ~$29 USD) and arrange a flight or secondary ferry to your next port, as there is no airport on Symi. The Port Authority number is +30 2246 071205. Always carry your ship's port agent contact card.

Cultural etiquette

In Symi, as in most of Greece, a simple nod or a 'Kalimera' (Good morning) earns immense goodwill. When entering the Panormitis Monastery, silence is expected, and photography is strictly forbidden inside the main church where the icon is housed. Locals generally dine later than Americans—lunch is rarely before 2:00 PM and dinner starts at 9:00 PM. In restaurants, you do not need to flag down the waiter for the bill; it is considered rude for them to bring it before you ask, as it implies they are rushing you. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in the American sense; rounding up the bill by 5–10% is the local norm. A common cultural misunderstanding involves the Kali Strata: these steps are essentially the residents' front porches. Avoid shouting or peering directly into windows as you climb. Also, avoid wearing swimwear anywhere away from the immediate harbor edge or beaches; it is considered disrespectful in the town center and residential alleys.

Practical tips

Cash is still king in Symi, especially for the local bus, water taxis, and small shops in Chorio. While harbor restaurants accept major credit cards, always have €20–€30 in small bills. A 10% tip is standard for good service in restaurants, while for taxis, simply rounding up to the nearest €5 is sufficient. Learn these five phrases to earn goodwill: 'Kalimera' (Good morning), 'Efcharisto' (Thank you), 'Parakalo' (Please/You're welcome), 'Nai' (Yes—sounds like nay), and 'Ochi' (No—sounds like o-hee). Beware of the 'free' sponge demonstrations that lead to a hard sell of overpriced kits. When visiting the Monastery, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered; if you forget, they often have wraps at the entrance, but it is better to be prepared. The best time to visit the Kali Strata is before 8:30 AM; any later and the stone acts as a radiator, making the climb twice as difficult. Finally, watch your step on the harbor marble; when even slightly wet, it is as slick as ice.