Kos - Symi: Ferry Tickets, Prices & Schedules

Kos - Symi: Ferry tickets and schedules

From Kos, you can travel to Symi by conventional ferry or high-speed vessel, choosing the connection that best suits your travel plans and budget.

The route connects two islands in the Dodecanese and provides options for passengers travelling without a vehicle, as well as those wishing to transport a car or motorcycle.

The ferry connection is served by Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways and SAOS Ferries.

The lowest recorded passenger fare starts from €7, while the fastest available crossing takes 1 hour and 20 minutes on the specified weekly timetable.

Departure frequency changes throughout the year. Travellers can choose between direct services and ferries calling at neighbouring islands.

Ferries depart from the main passenger port of Kos and arrive at Gialos, the central harbour of Symi, close to the traditional houses, restaurants and shops surrounding the waterfront.

On booktickets.gr, you can search available ferry departures, compare ticket prices and complete your booking online.

How much are ferry tickets from Kos to Symi?

Ferry ticket prices differ considerably between conventional vessels and high-speed ferries.

The cheapest published Blue Star Ferries passenger tickets start from €7 - €9 on selected seasonal fares.

With Dodekanisos Seaways, passenger fares start from €21 during certain periods, while prices may be higher on other schedules.

SAOS Ferries offers passenger tickets from €11 according to published fares.

These prices represent recorded fares rather than fixed rates for every date or vessel.

For travellers looking for lower fares, conventional ferries offer economical options. High-speed vessels provide shorter journey times.

How long is the ferry journey from Kos to Symi?

The duration of the crossing depends on the vessel and the number of intermediate port calls.

The main recorded journey times are:

• Dodekanisos Seaways: From 1 hour and 20 minutes on direct crossings.
• Blue Star Ferries: From 2 hours and 15 minutes, with longer durations on certain schedules.
• SAOS Ferries: From 5 hours and 25 minutes on a recently recorded connection.

Dodekanisos Seaways offers the fastest option among these services, especially for passengers who want to reach Symi early.

If you are not in a hurry, you can also consider the more economical departures operated by conventional ferries.

Which days and times do ferries depart from Kos?

The Kos - Symi connection operates throughout the year, with more frequent services during certain periods.

The published timetable for the week of 26 October - 1 November includes the following departures:

These departure times apply to the specific weekly timetable and do not represent a permanent sailing schedule.

For your preferred travel date, check the actual departure time and total journey duration before purchasing your ferry tickets.

Which ferry companies operate the Kos - Symi route?

Dodekanisos Seaways serves the connection with the high-speed vessels Dodekanisos Express and Dodekanisos Pride.

These ferries provide air-conditioned passenger areas, numbered seats and facilities for transporting a limited number of vehicles.

Blue Star Ferries operates conventional passenger and vehicle ferries, including Blue Star Patmos on selected schedules.

Larger conventional vessels offer passenger lounges, catering facilities and additional seating categories.

SAOS Ferries also serves the connection on selected days with conventional vessels, providing economical fares and routes with intermediate island stops.

Direct ferries and intermediate stops

Some high-speed ferries travel directly from Kos to Symi.

Other services call at additional Dodecanese islands, including Nisyros and Tilos.

Intermediate stops affect the total journey duration but do not necessarily require passengers to change vessels.

If you are planning to stay on Symi for only a few days, choosing a direct connection can make your travel arrangements easier.

Where do ferries depart from in Kos?

Ferries depart from the main passenger port in Kos Town, close to the historic centre and the island's main tourist facilities.

Kos ferry port - Google Maps

The surrounding area has cafés, restaurants, hotels and shops.

Passengers can wait in nearby establishments offering shaded or air-conditioned seating. The availability of a dedicated passenger waiting room should be confirmed with the relevant port authorities.

If you are travelling without a vehicle, plan to arrive at the boarding point 45 - 60 minutes before departure.

Passengers transporting a vehicle should arrive at least 1 hour in advance.

Which port do ferries arrive at in Symi?

Ferries arrive at Gialos, the main passenger harbour of Symi.

Gialos harbour, Symi - Google Maps

Upon arrival, you will find yourself close to the neoclassical buildings, traditional shops and restaurants overlooking the harbour.

From Gialos, you can explore Kali Strata, the historic staircase leading towards Chorio, the upper part of the town.

Local buses, taxis and water taxis provide transportation to more distant parts of the island.

If your accommodation is located away from the port, arrange your transfer before arrival.

Travelling with a car or motorcycle

Several ferries serving the Kos - Symi route have vehicle garages.

The conventional vessels operated by Blue Star Ferries generally have larger garages, while the high-speed ferries of Dodekanisos Seaways offer more limited vehicle capacity.

When booking a car ticket, you may need to provide:

• Vehicle registration number.
• Vehicle make and category.
• Length and height, where required.
• Additional equipment affecting the vehicle's dimensions.

The availability of vehicle transportation does not guarantee garage space on every departure.

Especially during the summer season, booking car and motorcycle tickets early is recommended.

Onboard facilities, seating and luggage

Ferries operating between Kos and Symi provide passenger seating and designated onboard areas.

Larger conventional ferries offer air-conditioned lounges, catering services and different seating categories.

The high-speed vessels of Dodekanisos Seaways provide numbered seats in enclosed passenger areas.

Wi-Fi availability and possible charges vary between vessels. Electrical sockets are not guaranteed beside every seat.

Luggage should be stored in the designated areas, while valuables and essential personal belongings should remain with you.

Ferry ticket discounts from Kos to Symi

Blue Star Ferries and Dodekanisos Seaways offer special fares for selected passenger categories.

Discounts may be available for children, infants, students, large families and other eligible travellers.

The application of discounts is determined by the ferry operator and the conditions of each fare.

You can explore the available ferry ticket offers and discounts and select the appropriate category during booking.

Passengers travelling with discounted tickets must carry the relevant supporting documents.

Travelling with a pet from Kos to Symi

Pets are permitted onboard according to the conditions of the selected ferry company.

Declare your pet during booking and carry the required health and identification documents.

Conventional ferries have specific procedures for transporting pets, while accommodation options may differ on high-speed vessels.

Check the applicable restrictions and available facilities before purchasing your ticket.

What other ferry routes are available from Kos?

From Kos, you can travel to several other islands in the Dodecanese.

Explore the following ferry connections:

• Kos - Symi
• Kos - Rhodes
• Kos - Nisyros
• Kos - Tilos
• Kos - Astypalaia
• Kos - Patmos

These connections provide opportunities to visit several islands during the same holiday and organise an island-hopping itinerary.

Return ferry tickets from Symi to Kos

For your return journey, you can check the Symi - Kos ferry route.

Ferries depart from Gialos harbour in Symi and arrive at the passenger port of Kos.

Return sailing days and departure times may differ from those of the outward journey.

If you are considering a day trip to Symi, check whether a suitable return ferry is available on the same date before purchasing your tickets.

How to book Kos - Symi ferry tickets online

Through booktickets.gr, you can search available departures and complete your ferry ticket reservation online.

Follow these steps:

1. Select Kos as your departure port.
2. Choose Symi as your destination.
3. Enter your preferred travel date.
4. Select the number of passengers and seating category.
5. Add a car or motorcycle if required.
6. Check the available passenger discounts.
7. Complete payment and receive your booking confirmation.

Blue Star Ferries and Dodekanisos Seaways support Web Check-in on selected services.

Electronic boarding is available according to the operator's terms and the permitted check-in period before departure.

Find all the routes.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How much is the cheapest Kos - Symi ferry ticket?

The cheapest recorded passenger ticket starts from €7 with Blue Star Ferries during selected periods. The final price is confirmed during booking.

How long does the ferry from Kos to Symi take?

The fastest recorded sailings take 1 hour and 20 minutes with Dodekanisos Seaways. Conventional ferries operate longer crossings.

Are there daily ferries from Kos to Symi?

Daily departures may be available on certain schedules. Ferry frequency changes throughout the year.

Can I take my car to Symi?

Yes. Selected ferries have vehicle garages for cars and motorcycles. A separate vehicle reservation is required.

Can I take a day trip from Kos to Symi?

A day trip is possible only when the outward and return schedules allow it. Check both ferry departures before purchasing your tickets.

Can I receive my ferry ticket on my smartphone?

Yes. On services supporting electronic tickets, you can complete Web Check-in and use your ferry ticket directly from your smartphone.

Useful tips for travelling from Kos to Symi

• Choose a high-speed ferry if you want the shortest journey.
• Compare the fares offered by the three ferry companies.
• Check intermediate stops before purchasing your ticket.
• Reserve garage space early if you are travelling with a car.
• Arrive at the port 45 - 60 minutes before departure.
• Carry valid identification and any documents required for discounted fares.
• Check return ferry availability and weather conditions before travelling.

At a glance

The Kos - Symi ferry route is served by Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways and SAOS Ferries.

Passenger tickets start from €7, while the fastest recorded crossing takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Ferries depart from Kos and arrive at Gialos harbour in Symi, with both direct services and sailings that include intermediate island stops.

On booktickets.gr, you can compare available departures, select passenger or vehicle tickets and complete your reservation online.

Content edited by: booktickets.gr