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

Experience the Beauty of Symi and St. George Bay with a Convenient Faliraki Boat Tour

If you’re staying on Rhodes and craving a day trip that combines scenic sailing with authentic island charm, this high-speed boat to Symi from Faliraki might be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but our research shows that it offers a streamlined way to enjoy one of the Dodecanese’s most colorful islands without the hassle of lengthy transfers or overcrowded tours.

What stands out are the comfort of the direct departure points—no long bus rides to Rhodes port—and the generous three hours of free time on Symi, giving you ample opportunity to explore, eat, or swim. Plus, the swim stop at St. George’s Bay is a perfect refreshment in crystal waters. The only potential drawback? This trip clocks in at around 8 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

This tour seems ideal for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, appreciate stunning coastal views, and want hassle-free access to Symi. Families, couple travelers, or anyone eager to maximize their island experience without sacrificing comfort will find this trip appealing.

Key Points

• Direct departure from Faliraki avoids the need for a bus ride to Rhodes Port
• Three hours of free time on Symi provides flexibility for exploration, lunch, or shopping
• Swim stop in St. George’s Bay offers a refreshing break in clear, inviting waters
• Free parking at the Amada Colossos stop makes logistics easier
• High-speed boat ensures a quick, comfortable journey
• Multiple pickup points in Faliraki improve accessibility

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This boat trip from Faliraki to Symi is designed for travelers who want to make the most of their day without the fuss. From the moment you start, the emphasis on convenience and comfort is clear. The tour departs directly from four points along Faliraki Beach, including Calypso Beach, the Apollo Blue Hotel, Amada Colossos Resort, and Faliraki Harbour. This means no long transfers into Rhodes town or port—just walk to your pickup spot and hop aboard.

The high-speed vessel used for this tour slices through the water, offering a quick ride of approximately 1.5 hours to Symi. While the boat is fast, reviews point out that the engine can be loud, so bringing earplugs or headphones might be a good idea—something we often recommend for any boat journey. Passengers tend to find the ride comfortable despite occasional bumps, and the scenery along the coast is something you’ll want to pay attention to. Expect views of rugged cliffs, charming coves, and the glittering sea.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour has a clearly structured schedule, balancing sightseeing, free time, and swimming opportunities:

• First stop: Mandraki Harbour (about 10 minutes), where passengers disembark briefly. This provides a perfect introduction to Symi’s colorful harbor, with its pastel-colored neoclassical buildings and lively fishing boats. As one traveler noted, “Symi was fantastic, 3 hours was perfect.” That’s enough time to stroll along the waterfront, browse local shops, or grab a quick bite.

• Free exploration in Symi: The three hours on Symi are often described as “more than enough” for most travelers to soak in the town’s charm, whether that means wandering its narrow alleyways, taking photos of the church domes, or sitting in a taverna for local fare (at your expense). Many reviews emphasize the friendliness of guides and the beauty of the setting, with one saying, “Symi is a really nice place to visit.”

• Return journey and swimming stop at St. George’s Bay: About 30 minutes are allocated for a swim, which travelers consistently praise. The waters are reported as “crystal clear” and perfect for cooling down after a hot day. Some reviews mention that the current and wind can be strong, making swimming a bit challenging at times, but the stunning scenery more than compensates.

• Final cruise back to Faliraki: The last leg offers approximately 1.5 hours of coastal views and relaxation. The boat’s comfort and the friendly crew are key highlights, with many reviewers mentioning the professional and attentive staff.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour lasts around 8 hours in total, with the departure times varying based on season and availability—check ahead for current schedules. The free parking at Amada Colossos Resort is a real plus for those traveling by car, as it can be tricky to find parking elsewhere along the busy Faliraki strip.

Pickup points are well-distributed, starting from 9:45 AM at Faliraki Harbour, with subsequent stops at nearby hotels and beaches. The check-in process is straightforward, with staff guiding you from the Sea Lines desk and organizing transport to the boat station, making the whole process smooth.

While lunch isn’t included, you’ll find plenty of traditional tavernas on Symi to enjoy a leisurely meal at your own pace. This flexibility allows you to tailor your experience, whether you prefer local seafood, gyros, or a relaxed coffee by the water.

What Travelers Love—and What Could Be Better

The reviews consistently highlight the quality of the guides and crew, noting their friendliness and professionalism, which greatly enhances the experience. The scenic beauty of Symi and the swimming stop at St. George’s Bay also consistently receive high praise.

However, some mention that the timing can be affected by weather conditions, leading to adjustments in the schedule or route. For example, one traveler noted a slightly shorter stay on Symi due to weather, but still called the day “completely worth it.” Others point out that the boat can be noisy, so bringing ear protection might improve comfort.

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Value for Money

Considering the convenience of direct departure, free parking, and the inclusion of a swim stop plus three hours on Symi, this tour offers good value—especially for those who prefer avoiding longer, more complicated transfers. The price, combined with the quality of the experience, makes it a strong choice for travelers who want a well-organized, scenic day trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you want a seamless, hassle-free way to visit Symi without the need for complicated transfers or waiting around. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience but still want authentic island exploration. Couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing and swimming will find this highly satisfying.

If you’re after a relaxed pace, scenic views, and the chance to spend quality time in Symi, this tour checks all those boxes. Just remember, it’s a full day—so pack sun protection, a hat, and perhaps some snacks if you’re hungry between the free hours.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Faliraki offers an excellent way to experience Symi and St. George’s Bay with minimal hassle. Its direct departure points and free parking make logistics straightforward, while the three hours of free time on Symi allow for genuine exploration at your own pace. The swim stop adds that refreshing element—perfect for cooling off and enjoying the beautiful waters.

What makes this experience stand out are the friendly guides, scenic coastal scenery, and efficient schedule. It’s a solid choice for anyone staying in Faliraki who wants to visit Symi without the stress of long transfers or overcrowded tours. Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or on your own, you’ll appreciate the balance of comfort, value, and authentic Greek island charm.

For those who love a good mix of sightseeing and swimming, plus the convenience of direct departure, this tour offers a memorable day out that packs in plenty of highlights without feeling rushed.

FAQ

Is parking available at the departure points?
Yes, free parking is available at the Amada Colossos Beach station, making it easy if you’re traveling by car.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to dine at one of the many tavernas on Symi during your free time.

How long is the boat ride to Symi?
The journey lasts about 1.5 hours each way, with some reviews mentioning the engine noise, so consider bringing earplugs if you’re sensitive.

What is the free time on Symi like?
You’ll have approximately 3 hours to explore the town, shop, eat, or simply enjoy the atmosphere at your own pace.

Can I swim at St. George’s Bay?
Yes, there’s a 30-minute swim stop at St. George’s Bay, known for its clear waters. Be aware that currents and wind can make swimming challenging at times.

Are there any accessibility accommodations?
The boat trip is wheelchair accessible, and pickup points are conveniently located, but it’s best to check with the provider for specific needs.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, practical way to enjoy Symi’s beauty, especially for those based in Faliraki or nearby. It combines scenic cruising, authentic town exploration, and refreshing swimming—making it a trip you’ll likely remember fondly.

You can check availability for your dates here: