Faliraki: Boat to Symi and St. George Bay with Free Parking

Traveling in Greece often means enjoying stunning coastlines, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters. This particular boat tour from Faliraki to Symi offers a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Dodecanese Islands without the hassle of long transfers or crowded excursions. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve taken this trip to give you a clear picture of what to expect, the highlights, and potential considerations.

What we love about this experience? First, the direct departure from Faliraki saves you the time and stress of a bus to Rhodes Town. Second, ample free time on Symi means you can explore at your own pace, whether you want to stroll the harbor, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or take a dip in the waters. Third, the swimming stop at St. George’s Bay offers a refreshing break and some of the clearest waters around.

However, a notable point to consider is the weather dependency—strong winds or currents can alter the schedule or swimming conditions, as some reviews mention. Still, if you’re after a day of scenic cruising, picturesque views, and local charm, this trip is a great pick for most travelers, especially those who prefer a flexible, hassle-free day with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and wandering.

• No need for long bus transfers: Depart directly from four Faliraki stops.
• Flexible exploration: About 3 hours free time in Symi to wander or dine.
• Ideal for swimming lovers: A 30-minute stop at St. George Bay for a dip.
• Convenient parking: Free parking available at Amada Colossos Beach Station.
• Comfortable high-speed boat: Quick, smooth rides with excellent coastal views.
• Authentic experience: Small group vibe with friendly guides and local insights.

This tour is built around balancing sightseeing, free exploration, and relaxing water activities. Starting from Faliraki, it’s specially designed so you can hop aboard without the need for added transportation—saving you a couple of hours that you’ll appreciate when you hit Symi.

Pickup and Departure

You can choose from four pickup points: Calypso Beach, Apollo Blue Hotel, Amada Colossos Resort, and Faliraki Harbour. Your check-in is straightforward—just head to the Faliraki Sea Lines desk on the beach, then hop on a short minibus to the Amada Colossos Beach Station where the boat awaits. This direct boarding approach is a big plus—it’s about making the start of your day easy and stress-free.

The departure times are typically around 9:45 to 10:00 AM, but checking availability is recommended to confirm exact timings, especially during peak seasons. The boat is described as a high-speed vessel, which means you’ll cover the 80-minute cruise to Symi quickly and comfortably, giving you more time on the island itself.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Symi: A Colorful Coastal Gem

Disembarking in Symi offers a feast for the senses. The harbor’s bright neoclassical buildings, pastel-colored facades, and vibrant church domes make it a postcard-perfect scene. Travelers have noted that the water in the harbor is incredibly turquoise, and the town’s atmosphere is laid-back yet lively.

You get roughly 3 hours of free time—plenty of opportunity to explore independently, find a cozy taverna (lunch at your expense, though many suggest trying local seafood), or just sit back and admire the views. Several reviews point out that the guides are friendly and helpful, providing tips on where to go and what to see.

The Coastal Cruise & Swim Stop at St. George’s Bay

After your time in Symi, the boat departs for St. George Bay. This part of the journey is often praised as a highlight. The 30-minute swim stop offers a chance to cool off in the clear, calm waters. Reviewers describe the bay as “absolutely beautiful” and mention that the water is perfect for swimming, although currents can sometimes be strong, making it tricky for weak swimmers.

Travelers like Kayleigh appreciated that the crew, including guides like Giorgos and Maria, were attentive and made sure everyone was comfortable, especially during the swim. The boat’s crew was also “very patient and polite” when managing swimmers and ensuring safety.

Return Journey and Additional Views

The cruise back to Faliraki is about 1.5 hours, providing a relaxed end to your day. Scenic coastal views and the sparkling sea are constant companions, with some reviews noting that the boat ride itself is an exciting experience, especially for those who love fast boats and sea breeze.

One interesting point from reviewers is that the itinerary can shift slightly depending on weather conditions—sometimes, St. George Bay is visited first, especially later in the season, to avoid shaded waters and less vibrant ocean colors.

This tour includes pickup directly from Faliraki, which is a huge plus for convenience, especially if you’re staying in or near Faliraki Beach. The high-speed boat offers a comfortable ride, allowing you to enjoy the views without feeling seasick, even if the sea gets bumpy.

Not included is lunch, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy a meal in Symi, which has plenty of charming tavernas. The tour is approximately 8 hours long, making it a full day of adventure, relaxation, and exploration. The guides speak English, German, and Greek, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to diverse guests.

Reviews paint a clear picture of the trip’s strengths. Many travelers appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who are often singled out for their patience and helpfulness. For example, one reviewer mentioned how the crew “checked everyone was okay” during swimming, which adds a layer of safety and comfort.

The scenery and swimming stops are consistently praised; one says, “The scenery on the trip is surreal,” and another notes that the waters in St. George’s Bay are “unbelievable.” Many highlight how easy and stress-free the process is, from booking to returning, with some reviewers stating they would definitely do it again.

Pricing is seen as good value, considering the comfort, convenience, and the chance to visit two destinations in one day—especially as it avoids the often crowded and longer bus transfer into Rhodes Town.

• Book early during peak seasons to secure your preferred departure time.
• Bring earplugs or headphones—reviews mention the boat engine can be loud.
• Pack swimwear, towel, and sunscreen for the swim stop.
• Consider bringing cash for lunch or souvenirs in Symi, as it’s not included.
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the town.
• Check the weather forecast beforehand, as strong winds may affect the experience.
• If you’re staying at Amada Colossos, take advantage of the free parking—a real perk.
• Arrive at your pickup point a few minutes early to avoid missing the boat.

This boat trip from Faliraki to Symi with a swim stop at St. George Bay offers a smooth and scenic way to explore one of Greece’s most picturesque islands. With direct departures, ample free time, and a refreshing water stop, it provides excellent value for most travelers looking to escape Rhodes for a day. The friendly guides, stunning coastal views, and ease of access make it a practical choice for those who want a hassle-free yet memorable outing.

Whether you’re after a relaxing day lounging on deck, a chance to explore Symi’s charming streets, or simply love the sea breeze, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic scenery over overly structured tours. Just remember to check the weather forecast, bring your essentials, and prepare for a day filled with beautiful vistas and memorable moments.

What is included in this tour?
Pickup directly from Faliraki and a high-speed boat cruise to Symi with a swim stop at St. George’s Bay.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You should plan to buy your own in Symi or bring snacks.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 8 hours, including transfers, cruising, and free time in Symi.

Can I park at the departure point?
Yes, free parking is available at the Amada Colossos Beach Station.

What are the pickup times?
Pickup times range from 9:45 to 10:00 AM, depending on your location.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, snacks, and possibly cash for lunch and souvenirs.

How much free time do I get in Symi?
About 3 hours, enough for exploring, dining, or relaxing by the harbor.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour might be adjusted or canceled, and full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Would I recommend this trip?
Absolutely, especially if you want a quick, scenic escape from Faliraki to one of Greece’s most beautiful islands with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sightseeing.

This trip strikes a good balance between comfort, adventure, and cultural charm, making it a highly recommended option for a memorable day exploring Greece’s stunning coastlines.

You can check availability for your dates here: