Symi - Datça Ferry: 2026 Return Guide
Connecting the island of Symi in Greece's Dodecanese group to Muğla's Datça peninsula, this route is the return leg of the direct Datça - Symi service launched by Mavi Transfer on June 1, 2026. Departing from Symi Port (Gialos), the modern catamaran covers the approximately 28-kilometer distance in an average of 45 minutes, arriving directly at Datça Pier. It is the shortest and most comfortable return route to Turkey for passengers visiting Symi for a day or a few days. The route carries foot passengers only; no vehicles are allowed.
Return Schedules and Weekly Program
Return departures are integrated with the outbound schedule, covering both day-trip and overnight options. For the 2026 summer season, return departure times from Symi to Datça are as follows:
| Program | Return Departure from Symi | Corresponding Outbound | Type |
|---|
| Monday | 17:30 | Monday 09:30 | Day trip (same day) |
| Wednesday | 15:30 | Tuesday 10:00 | 1-night stay |
| Thursday | 17:30 | Thursday 09:30 | Day trip (same day) |
| Sunday | 15:30 | Friday 10:00 | 2-night premium |
For day-trippers, the last departure from Symi is at 17:30 in the evening, returning to Datça on the same day. For overnight programs, the return is at 15:30 in the afternoon; this allows you to spend time on the island until noon on your final day and comfortably head down to the port. Since times may vary depending on season density and weather conditions, it is important to confirm your return day through Mavi Transfer's official channels (mavitransfer.com / +90 252 275 02 04).
Journey Duration, Tickets, and Reservation
The journey between Symi Port and Datça Pier takes an average of 45 minutes by fast catamaran. Return tickets are purchased on an on-demand basis: no payment is made initially, and the seat is confirmed with a deposit after the request is approved. Passengers who buy round-trip tickets have their return spot secured from the start; one-way return tickets can also be purchased. 2026 prices are the same as the outbound route: adult one-way 75 €, round-trip 130 €; child (5–12 years) 50 €, over 65 years 65 €, student (ISIC) 60 €, and infants aged 0–4 travel free. For detailed fares and the outbound schedule, you can review the Datça - Symi schedule and price page.
How to Plan Your Last Day in Symi
To make the most of your return day, it is a good idea to group the island's landmarks in the morning:
- Around Gialos Port: Morning breakfast and final photos among the neoclassical mansions.
- Kali Strata and Chorio: The historic staircase leading to the upper town; early hours are cooler for the view.
- Local shopping: The island's famous natural sponges, spices, honey, and olive oil products are ideal return gifts.
- Symi shrimp: Don't forget to taste the island's signature tiny crispy shrimp for lunch at the tavernas by the port.
Since the return for overnight programs is at 15:30, a visit to Pedi Bay or a short boat tour before noon can fit into the schedule; for the day-trip program, the 17:30 departure leaves ample time until the late afternoon.
Departure from Symi and Border Procedures
Since Symi is part of Greece and the EU/Schengen area, you will pass through passport and exit control at Gialos Port on your return. Be at the port at least 60–90 minutes before departure. Exit procedures are quick for passengers who entered with a valid Schengen visa or a green passport; the passport must be valid for at least 6 months. Upon arrival at Datça Pier, you will enter the country by passing through Turkish customs and passport control.
Connections After Arriving in Datça
After arriving at the central Datça pier, transportation to popular Aegean spots is easy:
- Marmaris: Approximately 1.5–2 hours by road; there are regular bus and minibus services.
- Bodrum: Seasonal maritime transport and road connections are available between Datça and Bodrum.
- Muğla / airports: Road transfers can be planned to Dalaman and Bodrum-Milas airports.
For those wishing to stay in Datça, the peninsula is worth a few more days with its tranquil bays and almond-olive orchards. For all current crossings between Turkey and the Greek islands, you can visit our Greek Islands and Turkey - Greek Islands ferry guide pages.