Faliraki: Direct Cruise to Symi & Saint George’s Bay

Traveling from Faliraki to the stunning island of Symi via high-speed boat is a popular choice for those looking to maximize their time exploring Greece’s beautiful Dodecanese. With a comfortable ride, a scenic swim stop, and ample free time on Symi, this tour offers a well-rounded day out. What makes this experience particularly attractive is its direct boat service, which eliminates the hassle of long bus transfers—something many travelers appreciate after a day of sightseeing or relaxing on the beach.

One of the features we love most about this cruise is the 3 hours of free time in Symi Town. It gives you enough flexibility to wander the colorful streets, grab some local delicacies, or simply soak up the vibe at your own pace. The 30-minute swim stop in Saint George’s Bay is another highlight—perfect for cooling off in crystal-clear waters. However, a potential consideration is the weather’s impact on swimming, as some reviews noted challenging currents or shorter swim times due to wind or weather conditions.

This trip is ideal for travelers who value convenience, scenic beauty, and authentic island exploration without the fuss of complex logistics. If you’re after a relaxed yet adventure-packed day with the chance to explore a picturesque Greek island, this tour will suit you well.

Key Points

• Direct Departure from Faliraki: No need for bus transfers to Rhodes town, saving time and effort.
• Ample Free Time: Three hours in Symi give plenty of opportunity for exploration, lunch, and shopping.
• Scenic Swim Stop: A 30-minute dip in Saint George’s Bay offers a refreshing break with stunning views.
• High-Speed Boat Ride: Fast and comfortable, making the journey enjoyable with breathtaking coastal scenery.
• Parking Convenience: Free parking available at the Amada Colossos Beach Station.
• Accessible for Different Travelers: Includes wheelchair accessibility and multiple pickup points.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

If you’re considering this cruise, you’ll appreciate that it begins with multiple pickup points in Faliraki, including Calypso Beach, Apollo Blue Hotel, Faliraki Harbour, and Amada Colossos Resort. This flexibility makes it easy to join without extra travel. The boat departs around 10:00 AM, with check-in available from 09:50, and some travelers have noted that the staff are friendly and welcoming—adding to the relaxed vibe.

The boat itself, operated by Rhodes Sea Lines, is described in reviews as sleek, clean, and with a modern design. Many reviewers mention that the ride is smooth, even when the seas are a bit bumpy, which is a bonus for those prone to seasickness. The crew is often praised for their professionalism and friendliness, with guides providing helpful commentary along the way.

The 80-minute cruise to Symi offers plenty of opportunity to enjoy the coastal views—think rugged cliffs, charming coves, and the glittering sea. Once in Symi, the disembarkation area is the fishing harbor—a scene straight out of a postcard, with pastel-colored neoclassical buildings, vibrant fishing boats, and domed churches. This makes for a perfect setting to stroll, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Exploring Symi

The 3 hours of free time is enough to really get a feel for the town. Many review quotes highlight how easy it is to explore independently, with some recommending local tavernas for fresh seafood or traditional Greek dishes. One reviewer described the town as “beautiful” and enjoyed wandering the narrow streets, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying the relaxed pace.

Some travelers mentioned that the timing of the stop is ideal—allowing enough time for a leisurely lunch, a walk along the harbor, or a quick dip at the nearby beaches. A few reviews noted that the weather can influence the experience, with wind making swimming more challenging and the water less calm. Still, the swim stop in Saint George’s Bay remains a favorite for many, offering splendidly clear water and beautiful scenery.

The Swim Stop in Saint George’s Bay

The 30-minute swim stop is often described as breathtaking, with reviewers remarking on the crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to cool off after a busy morning exploring Symi. Some mention that the currents can be strong, and weather conditions may affect the quality and duration of the swim, so don’t go expecting a long, lazy float—be prepared for a quick splash, a photo op, or just soaking up the sun.

Return Journey and Final Views

As the boat departs Saint George’s Bay, the scenic cruise back offers more opportunities for photos and relaxing on deck. Many reviewers note that the boat ride back is equally scenic, with striking views of the coastline. The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, making it suitable for those who want a full but manageable day trip.

Practicalities and Value

The price point of $82 per person is considered good value, especially given the convenience of direct pickup, the length of free time, and the quality of the cruise. With most reviews praising the friendly staff and smooth operation, travelers seem confident they’re getting a reliable experience. Notably, the availability of free parking at the Amada Colossos stop is a practical bonus, easing the logistics for those driving.

While lunch isn’t included, the three hours in Symi are ample for grabbing a meal at one of the many local tavernas or packing a picnic. It’s worth noting that some reviewers have praised the delicious local food and tapas offerings in Symi, which can turn a quick stop into a true foodie adventure.

The timing of the cruise is flexible, with departures available after September, with slight adjustments in the route to optimize the experience based on weather. The onboard commentary in English, German, and Greek provides added context, enriching the experience—especially for those who love learning little tidbits about local sights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a hassle-free day trip that balances scenic beauty with independence. It’s excellent for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to explore Symi without the stress of planning transport or long waiting times. If you enjoy swimming in clear waters, taking photos of colorful harbor scenes, or just relaxing on a boat with good company, this trip ticks those boxes.

However, if you’re particularly eager for an extended stay or want to explore every inch of Symi, this 3-hour visit might feel limited. Also, those sensitive to weather conditions should note that wind and currents can impact the swimming experience. But overall, the value for money, smooth logistics, and stunning scenery make this a popular choice.

The Sum Up

This cruise from Faliraki to Symi offers a fantastic way to experience one of Greece’s most picturesque islands without the hassle of complicated transfers. The direct boat service saves time, and the ample free time in Symi allows you to explore at your own pace, whether that’s wandering the charming streets or relaxing at a seaside taverna. The swimming stop in Saint George’s Bay adds a refreshing element, while the scenic journey makes the whole day feel like a mini adventure.

If you’re after a convenient, well-organized trip that combines stunning coastal views, cultural exploration, and a splash of fun in the water, this tour is hard to beat at its price point. It’s especially great for those staying in Faliraki or nearby who want to experience Symi without the complications of larger group tours or long transfers.

For anyone seeking a beautiful, relaxed day out in Greece that provides both insta-worthy scenes and authentic local charm, this cruise is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is provided directly from Faliraki at four different locations, including Calypso Beach, Apollo Blue Hotel, Faliraki Harbour, and Amada Colossos Resort.

What time does the tour start?
The boat departs around 10:00 AM, with check-in starting at 09:50. Exact times can vary depending on availability and weather conditions.

Can I park near the departure point?
Absolutely. Free parking is available at the Amada Colossos Beach Station, close to the departure area, making it easy if you’re driving.

How long is the boat ride?
The journey to Symi takes approximately 80 minutes each way. This allows for scenic views and a comfortable ride.

How much time do I get in Symi?
You’ll have roughly 3 hours to explore the town, find lunch, or relax at your leisure.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of options available on Symi. Pack your own or enjoy local tavernas.

What about swimming?
There’s a 30-minute swim stop at Saint George’s Bay, perfect for cooling off. Keep in mind that weather and currents can influence the swim’s duration and comfort.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for all travelers.

What’s the overall value?
Given the convenience, scenic ride, free parking, and ample free time, many reviewers say it offers very good value for the price.

Would you recommend this tour?
Definitely, especially if you’re staying in Faliraki and want a straightforward way to see Symi and enjoy some water time without the hassle of transfer logistics or overspending.

Whether you’re after a relaxing day or a quick cultural escape, this cruise combines everything you need for a memorable Greek island adventure.