Faliraki Boat Trip Review: Symi & St George Bay (Free Parking)
Okay so, you’re thinking about that boat trip from Faliraki to Symi and St George Bay, and very likely, you’re wondering if it is, actually, worth your time and money. I get it. Holiday time is seriously precious. My own experience offered seriously amazing moments, coupled with a handful of things that maybe I wish I’d known a bit earlier. I’m going to share it all with you, in a way that’s hopefully super helpful, like your best friend giving you holiday advice.
What to Expect Onboard the Faliraki Boat to Symi
Firstly, the boat itself might be quite the surprise! That is to say, don’t be picturing some fancy yacht – think very popular, comfortable enough, and definitely geared more toward a fun day out than luxurious floating. You know? We got onboard, and it was packed. Like, really packed. So that, actually, securing a spot with decent views right away is seriously a good strategy. Seating? Mostly benches. Not terrible, yet definitely not five-star. Still, what made it great was truly the vibe. Everybody was in it for a good time; like, your typical mix of families, couples, and solo travelers, very all ready to soak up the Greek sun and that beautiful Aegean Sea.
Symi: A Picture-Perfect Harbor
Then, Symi! Honestly, wow. Just prepare for your camera to, too, get quite a workout, you see. That harbor is possibly one of the most strikingly gorgeous things you’ll see. All these colorful buildings tightly packed together climb up from the water, making it, maybe, look like someone spilled a box of toy blocks in the very prettiest way possible. Is that how it is for you? That is how it was for me. Now, you’ll get a few hours in Symi, which at first, may feel so short. It is, very. So my advice is very don’t get stuck in the tourist traps right as you get off the boat. Instead, consider wandering slightly further. You know, explore the little backstreets. You’ll find really amazing, traditional shops and restaurants, and the whole experience becomes surprisingly much more genuine. A little stroll to the church at the top of the hill gave us breathtaking views, a little slice of paradise that I probably would not have traded for a million crowded souvenir shops.
Swimming and Snorkeling at St George Bay
Right, then it’s onto St. George Bay. That is where you get a swim stop, and is that truly something to anticipate! That water is seriously clear, and so, so inviting after baking in the sun. You’ll be able to jump straight off the boat, very like proper Mediterranean-style. They also often give you snorkeling gear; well, if they have enough for everyone, so it is potentially worth bringing your own just to be sure. Honestly, bobbing around in that super clear water, looking up at those imposing cliffs around the bay, truly felt unreal. That part alone very nearly made the whole trip worth it.
The Food and Drink Situation
Alright, so, food and drinks onboard. Look, let’s just say it is potentially worth managing your expectations. You can buy snacks and drinks, yeah, but is that comparable to gourmet dining? Nope! It’s very convenient, yet seriously overpriced, typical of tourist trips. You know? Therefore, that pro tip is very pack your own water and maybe some sandwiches or something. That is to say, that will save you money and maybe also keep you from getting hangry halfway through. Very much more, when you get to Symi, very grab lunch there. I seriously had some lovely fresh seafood at a restaurant overlooking the harbor for the money I’d save. You know, the trip back can feel a bit long if you’re not prepared, and anyway, that fresh seafood might just fill that void. Trust me.
That “Free Parking” Thing
Let’s talk about that “free parking” thing, too. So, that’s possibly advertised, yet what does that even mean in reality? Don’t be picturing your own designated spot with a sign. Typically, “free parking” translates to “we know a spot nearby where you can possibly try to squeeze in with everybody else fighting for space”. Is that how it is in the brochures? Nope! However, knowing this beforehand possibly lets you mentally prepare and maybe even arrive that a little bit earlier to snag that spot. This small bit of know-how may actually make or break your journey. Or, I suppose, at the very least, it helps you avoid going completely bonkers while you drive around in circles.
Overall: Is the Faliraki Boat Trip Worth It?
In general, so, yeah, I reckon the trip is really worthwhile, very as long as you come prepared with reasonable expectations. Is that perfect? Definitely not. Is that a very cool way to see Symi and also enjoy a swim in pretty stunning waters? Totally! Therefore, ignore any fancy notions. Relax. Get your sunscreen. So that, you’ll have yourself a very memorable day. Plus, you know, you get some stories for when you’re back home, pretending that you didn’t almost have a brawl over a parking space.