Halki & Alimia – A Journey Through Silence, Colour, and Timeless Aegean Beauty

Just a breath away from Rhodes, the island of Chalki welcomes you with an effortless charm that feels untouched by time. Known as one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Dodecanese, Halki is a place where simplicity becomes luxury. Its neoclassical harbour, painted in warm pastels and bathed in golden light, invites you to slow down, wander, and rediscover the pleasure of quiet moments by the sea. With crystal-clear waters, traditional tavernas, and a pace of life that belongs to another era, Halki is not just a destination—it is an experience of calm authenticity.

At the heart of the island lies the picturesque harbour village of Nimborio, where elegant 19th-century houses line the waterfront. Here you can stroll along the promenade, enjoy fresh seafood by the sea, or simply take in the tranquil rhythm of island life.

Rising above the harbour, the abandoned medieval settlement of Chorio tells a different story. Once the island’s main village, it now stands quietly beneath the imposing ruins of the Castle of the Knights of St. John (Chalki). A walk up to the castle rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into Halki’s rich past shaped by the Knights of St. John.

One of the island’s most treasured landmarks is the monastery of Monastery of Agios Ioannis Alarga (Chalki), dedicated to Saint John. Nestled inland in a peaceful valley, it is both a spiritual center and a place of quiet beauty, especially during its annual festival in late summer.

For those seeking the island’s famous waters, Pondamos Beach offers a rare stretch of sandy shoreline just a short walk from the harbour—perfect for a refreshing swim. Other hidden coves around the island invite exploration, with waters so clear they seem almost unreal.

Across the water lies the uninhabited island of Alimia, a hidden gem wrapped in mystery and natural beauty. Once a small naval base and historical refuge, today Alimia stands still and serene, offering secluded bays, turquoise waters, and echoes of history waiting to be explored. It is a place where nature has reclaimed its space, creating a rare sanctuary for swimming, snorkeling, and quiet reflection.

Together, Halki and Alimia form a perfect contrast—one alive with soft island charm, the other preserved in wild tranquility. On your journey with Rhodes Sea Lines, you are not just visiting islands—you are crossing into stories shaped by sea, stone, and silence.

🐬🐬🐬 P.S. Be prepared to see wild dolphins as you cruise past the uninhabited islets west of Kritinia Castle, Makri 🐬🐬🐬

🚢 Our New 25m Vessel “Aphrodite Royal” Has Arrived in Rhodes!

We’re proud to announce the arrival of our brand-new vessel, the Aphrodite Royal, now officially part of the Rhodes Sea Lines fleet and fully operating on our Rhodes–Symi and St George Bay routes.

Built in Cyprus by Exantas Marine Ltd, the Aphrodite Royal is a 25-meter modern cruise vessel designed for comfort, safety, and speed. With sleek lines, spacious decks, and air-conditioned interiors, it offers passengers a luxurious and relaxing journey across the Aegean.


🌊 Experience the Rhodes–Symi Cruise Like Never Before

The Aphrodite Royal now serves our daily route from Rhodes to Symi, offering travelers the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the island’s iconic harbor and the turquoise waters of St George Bay — one of the most stunning swimming spots in the Dodecanese.

  • Route: Rhodes → Symi → St George Bay → Rhodes

  • Departure: Daily from Mandraki Harbor, Rhodes

  • Highlights: Symi Town, St George Bay, scenic coastal views, picturesque village, swimming!

  • Tickets: From €45


A New Standard of Comfort at Sea

The Aphrodite Royal has been custom-built to reflect the signature quality and reliability of Rhodes Sea Lines.
Features include:

  • Modern, eco-efficient engines for smooth sailing

  • Spacious sun deck and shaded lounge areas

  • Premium sound system and safety-certified design

Whether you’re visiting Symi for the first time or returning to rediscover its charm, your journey aboard the Aphrodite Royal is part of the experience.


Book Your Trip

Join us aboard the newest addition to our fleet and explore the Aegean in style.
Book your seats online at www.rhodessealines.com or visit our kiosks at Mandraki Harbor, opposite the neo-classical building of the Bank of Greece.

Rhodes Sea Lines – Connecting Rhodes with Symi and St George Bay in comfort and style.

We are building a new boat! The APHRODITE ROYAL is under construction in Cyprus. Our red boats seem to multiply in number every year…!

This boat, Aphrodite Royal, will be somewhat bigger than the Aphrodite Queen & the Aphrodite Princess but she will also be operating the Rhodes to Symi route. We plan to offer 2 swimstops, at both Agia Marina and at St George’s Bay. You can check out www.rhodes-symi.com for more details.

 

 

The Birth of Aphrodite Royal: A New Chapter for Rhodes Sea Lines

Rhodes Sea Lines is proud to announce the construction of its newest vessel, the Aphrodite Royal, currently being built in Cyprus. This 26-meter beauty is set to join our fleet alongside the beloved Aphrodite Queen and Aphrodite Princess, continuing our tradition of delivering exceptional maritime experiences in the Aegean.

Crafting Excellence in Cyprus

The construction of Aphrodite Royal is a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation. Designed with the same elegance and efficiency as her sister ships, she promises a smooth and luxurious journey for passengers exploring the breathtaking waters around Rhodes. The shipyard in Cyprus, known for its expertise in crafting high-performance vessels, is ensuring that every detail—from the sleek exterior to the comfortable interiors—is built to perfection.

What to Expect from Aphrodite Royal

While the Aphrodite Royal will share many features with her sister ships, she will also bring enhancements that elevate the experience for both passengers and crew. Expect modern amenities, improved energy efficiency, and a stylish design that blends comfort with maritime sophistication.

Expanding Our Fleet, Enhancing Your Journey

With the addition of Aphrodite Royal, Rhodes Sea Lines is expanding its capabilities, offering more routes and better service to our passengers. Whether you’re a returning traveler or a first-time visitor, we can’t wait to welcome you aboard this new chapter of our journey.

Stay tuned for more updates on the construction progress and launch date. The Aphrodite Royal is coming soon, and we’re excited to set sail into the future with you!

The Aphrodite Royal will also be operating the Rhodes to Symi route.

We plan to offer 2 swimstops, at both Agia Marina and at St George’s Bay.

Symi Island, located in the southeastern Aegean Sea, is part of Greece’s Dodecanese group of islands. With a population of approximately 2,500, it is a small but historically rich island, famous for its traditional sponge diving industry and its shipbuilding heritage. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring the island’s vibrant neoclassical mansions and picturesque streets.

Additionally, Symi boasts several beautiful beaches, including Nos Beach, Nimborios Beach, Pedi Beach, and St. George Beach. While mostly rocky, these beaches offer crystal-clear, turquoise waters that are perfect for a refreshing dip.

Why is Symi Island so well-known?

Symi Island is famous for its close proximity to Rhodes, located about 41 kilometers away, making it an ideal destination for a short boat trip or day cruise. The port of Rhodes serves as a key transportation hub for ferry services, allowing visitors to include Symi in an island-hopping itinerary starting from Rhodes.

The journey from Rhodes to Symi takes approximately one hour by fast boat. Additionally, a variety of boat trips cater to different interests and schedules, with many day cruises including stops at popular sites such as St. George Beach and the Panormitis Monastery.

St. George’s Beach, accessible only by boat, is famous for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. Towering cliffs reaching up to 350 meters surround the beach, creating a stunning natural backdrop. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

St. George’s Bay in Symi, Greece, is a breathtakingly secluded cove surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Accessible only by boat, this hidden gem offers an untouched, serene escape perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The dramatic rock formations create a striking contrast against the shimmering sea, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Visitors should explore St. George’s Bay for its pristine waters, peaceful atmosphere, and stunning scenery that feels like a private paradise. Whether you’re looking to unwind on a boat, take a refreshing dip, or admire the majestic cliffs rising from the sea, this bay is one of Symi’s most spectacular and photogenic locations. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting to experience the island’s untouched charm.

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An exciting day today! The new engines for our Aphrodite Royal have arrived in Cyprus! Unpacking time guys…..have fun!

rhodes to symi new engines