Speed boats make short work of Symi. This direct outing from Faliraki’s beach puts Rhodes-day energy into two memorable stops, with a full stretch of island time plus a classic swim bay moment. You’ll also move with the kind of tight schedule that’s built for good weather and quick horizons.

What I love most is the 3 hours in Symi, enough time to wander the port area and still sit down for a relaxed meal by the sea. I also really like the structure of the day: a 30-minute break at Saint George Bay with clear-water views and time to jump in if you want.

One thing to plan for: the ride can feel choppy when conditions turn windy, especially for people sitting toward the front. Also, the day depends on weather, so if the sea is rough enough, you might see changes to dates.

Key things to know before you go

• Direct run from Faliraki saves you time compared with routing through other ports
• 3 hours on Symi gives you a real feel for the island instead of a quick photo stop
• Saint George Bay swim stop is short, but it’s timed for great scenery and a refreshing break
• Fast, speedy boat means a quick day on the water, with some motion you should expect
• English-speaking service and a mobile ticket make check-in straightforward
• Max group size 118 keeps it from feeling like an endless crowd

Fast Boat Day Trips: The point of this route

This is the kind of day trip that works when you want more “place time” and less “getting there” time. A direct fast-boat format from Faliraki means you start seeing the island mood sooner, and you don’t waste your day bouncing between transfers.

You’re basically buying two payoffs: Symi’s village-port feel and a quick swim-bay break. That combo is why this tour stays popular. It’s not trying to do everything; it’s trying to do the best bits in one day.

Getting to the dock: your 10:20 meet-up at Ammoudes

The tour starts at 10:20am and meets at 9679+VX Ammoudes (also listed as 9679+VX5 Ammoudes), Greece. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, so you’re not solving a complicated return.

Because the start is early enough to feel like a full day, I suggest you give yourself buffer time to locate the exact spot. The route description notes it’s near public transportation, which is helpful if you’re not driving, but I’d still plan to arrive without stress.

You’ll receive confirmation at the time of booking, and the tour uses a mobile ticket. That’s a small detail, but it matters on a fast-boat day where lines and last-minute confusion can eat into your time.

Symi stop: what 3 hours is really good for

Your first stop is Symi, with about 3 hours of free time. That time window is long enough to do more than a quick loop. It’s also short enough that you’re not trapped on a strict schedule the entire day.

What you can aim for in that window:

• Walk the port area and take in the island’s layout around the water
• Find a spot for a relaxed meal near the sea
• Do a slow wander for viewpoints without rushing every five minutes

One practical tip from the way this kind of day typically plays out: in 3 hours, your biggest enemy is decision fatigue. Pick one direction to start (toward the higher viewpoint area or toward the village waterfront), then give yourself permission to return on your own pace. If you keep turning back to re-check where you are, the island time can start slipping away.

People also point out the port of Gialo on Symi as a pretty place to base yourself for the first stretch. That makes sense: it’s where the day lands, and it’s a convenient anchor for both photos and food.

Why this timing works: Symi rewards a leisurely approach. Three hours gives you enough freedom to feel the island vibe—without needing another full day on the Greek Islands circuit.

The possible drawback: If you fall for Symi hard, 3 hours can feel short. You’ll have to choose between a bit of wandering or a longer sit-down. If you want a slower, deeper Symi day, you might prefer a longer stay on the island instead.

Saint George Bay: the 30-minute swim stop payoff

After Symi, there’s a 30-minute stop at Saint George Bay. This is the part of the day that’s all about the visuals and the water. The stop is brief, but it’s timed for that clear, bright “jump in” kind of moment.

How to use that 30 minutes well:

• Treat it like a quick reset for your body—sun, spray, and a short swim if conditions feel safe
• If you’re not sure about swimming that day, you can still enjoy the view and take photos without losing the whole experience
• Plan your time so you’re back before the boat leaves, because the schedule is tight by design

This is also where the speed-boat format shines. You get a “view plus action” stop without the long travel time that often comes with ferries or multi-stop routes.

If you want the swim to be your main event, keep your expectations realistic: 30 minutes is enough for a refreshing swim and a quick look around, but it’s not a long beach day.

Boat ride reality: speed, motion, and where comfort matters

This outing is on a fast boat, and you should expect the ride to feel more intense than slower ferries. The most consistent concern is wind and sea conditions. If it’s windy out, you may feel it more depending on where you’re seated.

One practical consideration: people noted that being toward the front can make the ride feel windier. If you’re sensitive to wind or motion, I’d aim for seating that feels more sheltered if the crew allows choices. Even a small shift can make a difference when you’re bouncing over waves.

Comfort details you can’t ignore:

• The trip is fast, so hold tight to your schedule and don’t plan on wandering too far before departure
• Toilets exist on board, and at least one passenger reported a toilet not working during the day of their trip

That doesn’t mean it will happen to you, but it’s worth knowing that onboard facilities may not always be flawless on a sea-going day.

Also, the tour description mentions service animals are allowed and that most people can participate. That’s reassuring, especially if you travel with a companion animal or you’re looking for a day trip that isn’t overly restricted.

Finally, this experience is weather-dependent. The provider notes it requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.

Value for money: what $83.27 buys you

At $83.27 per person, you’re paying for speed, direct routing, and two structured stops in one day. That price can feel high if you compare it to slower ferries, but it often makes sense if your goal is to maximize island time while staying based in Rhodes (especially if you’re already planning a busy vacation).

Here’s how I’d judge the value:

• You get direct access to Symi without extra hops
• You receive a full, usable block of Symi time (3 hours)
• You get a distinct scenery-and-swim stop at Saint George Bay

In other words, the cost isn’t just for transportation. It’s for packaging the best parts of a Symi day into a schedule that fits into one Rhodes day without turning the day into logistics work.

If you’re the type who hates early ferry lines and long travel stretches, a fast boat can feel like paying for convenience—and for that extra energy on the water.

Who this tour is best for

This tour fits best if you want a taste of Symi and you like the rhythm of short, clear segments.

You’ll probably enjoy it most if:

• You’re staying in Faliraki and want an easy, direct way to reach Symi
• You like active stops where you can walk, snack, and swim in the same day
• You’re comfortable with speed-boat motion and can handle a potentially windy ride

It might be less ideal if:

• You need long, unhurried time on Symi (3 hours can feel tight)
• You’re very sensitive to rough water or wind and can’t tolerate fast-boat conditions

If you want a full-on Symi immersion with fewer time limits, consider alternatives that keep you on the island longer. But if your goal is a satisfying day, this layout is built for that.

Should you book the Fast Boat to Symi?

I’d book this if you want a direct, time-smart Symi day and the Saint George Bay swim stop is appealing to you. The schedule is clear: Symi first for wandering, then a short water-and-view break. That structure is exactly why it works for many Rhodes vacations.

I’d pause before booking only if wind and choppy rides are a major problem for you, or if you’d rather spend the whole day on Symi with no clock pressure. If that’s you, you’ll likely feel happier with a longer island stay instead.

If the forecast looks good and you’re up for speed-boat fun, this is a solid way to get two stand-out moments in one outing.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?

The tour starts at 10:20am.

Where is the meeting point for the boat?

The meeting point is listed as 9679+VX Ammoudes (also shown as 9679+VX5 Ammoudes), Greece.

How long is the experience?

The duration is about 7 hours.

Is there a ticket included for the stops?

A ticket for Symi is free for the stop time listed, and the St George Bay stop is also free.

How much time do you get in Symi?

You get about 3 hours of free time on Symi.

How long is the stop at Saint George’s Bay?

You get about 30 minutes at Saint George’s Bay.

Is the tour in English?

Yes, it is offered in English.

What is the maximum group size?

The maximum number of travelers is 118.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed.

What’s the cancellation policy if weather is poor?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

Small Group Sunset Hiking from Salakos to Profitis IliasRhodes: Winery Tour, Tasting and cooking with the WinemakerRhodes: Full Day East Coast Bay to Bay Boat Trip with LunchTraditional Greek COOKING class and Wine Tasting in Rhodes