SAILING IN SPORADES ISLANDS
Located in the northwest Aegean, nestled between the island of Evia and Mount Pelion on the mainland, you'll find the captivating Sporades Island group. This group comprises 24 islands and islets, with only four - Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros - being permanently inhabited.
Despite its extraordinary natural beauty, the Sporades remain one of the Mediterranean's less-visited and lesser-known island groups. Here, pine-scented hills slope gently toward the sea, where inviting sandy and pebble beaches meet irresistibly blue waters, perfect for relaxation and swimming. Notably, the Sporades are home to the Mediterranean's largest marine reserve, extending over 2,250 square kilometers (870 square miles) in the Aegean Sea. This sanctuary boasts a rich variety of flora, fauna, and aquatic life, including monk seals and dolphins, with Alonissos island situated at its heart.
Sailing conditions in the Sporades are ideal and safe, even for novice charterers. Unlike the strong 'Meltemi' wind that prevails in other parts of the Aegean during the summer, the Sporades Islands are protected from these fierce gusts. Instead, a gentle breeze from the northeast prevails during the summer months, providing a predictable, moderate wind with an average force of 3-6 Beaufort. This consistent wind direction can vary as it meanders through the islands. On the leeward sides of the islands, the sea remains calm, creating the perfect setting for an exciting sail when the wind is favorable.
You may start your sailing vacations in the Saronic Islands from different marinas, according to yacht availability, flight schedules, charter duration and desired itineraries:
Marina Alimos (Athens)
Marina Zeas (Athens)
Marina Agios Kosmas (Athens)
Marina Vouliagmeni (Athens)
POPULAR SAILING DESTINATION IN THE SPORADES
Skiathos, a jewel of the Sporades, is a dream destination for sailors. The main port, Skiathos Town, offers excellent anchorage and access to vibrant nightlife and charming cobblestone streets. Sailors can explore stunning beaches like Koukounaries and Lalaria, famous for their crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. With its lush landscapes and tranquil bays, Skiathos promises an unforgettable sailing adventure.
SKIATHOS
Alonissos, the gem of the Sporades, is a haven for sailors seeking pristine nature and calm waters. The main port, Patitiri, offers secure anchorage and access to the island’s charming Old Village. Explore secluded beaches like Chrisi Milia and Kokkinokastro, or sail within the Alonissos Marine Park, home to rare marine life. With its unspoiled beauty and peaceful ambiance, Alonissos promises a unique and relaxing sailing experience.
ALONISSOS
Skopelos, known for its lush greenery and crystal-clear waters, is a serene destination for sailors in the Sporades. The main ports, Skopelos Town and Loutraki, provide safe anchorage and easy access to the island’s charming villages. Sailors can explore iconic beaches like Kastani, featured in Mamma Mia, and Panormos, perfect for relaxation. With its stunning coastline and unspoiled beauty, Skopelos is a must-visit for an idyllic sailing experience.
SKOPELOS
Skyros, the largest island in the Sporades, offers sailors a blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. The main port, Linaria, provides safe anchorage and access to the island’s picturesque Chora, perched on a hill with stunning views. Sailors can discover serene beaches like Atsitsa and Pefkos, ideal for relaxation and exploration. With its rugged coastline and rich traditions, Skyros is a distinctive and unforgettable stop for any sailing adventure.
SKYROS
CHARTER A YACHT IN THE SPORADES ISLANDS
Monohull sailing yacht or Catamaran? Bareboat, Skippered or Crewed Charter? No matter what is your preferred sailing yacht and charter type, we can offer plenty of options, so that you can tailor your sailing vacations in the Saronic Islands to your needs.
MONOHULL SAILING YACHTS
Monohull Sailing Yachts are beautiful classic sailing yachts that are characterized by their one hull. Since they are smaller in width than catamarans, it is easy to find them a room to moor in Greek ports, even in the peak months July and August. All our monohull sailing yachts can be chartered bareboat and with a professional skipper.
CATAMARANS
Catamarans are characterized by their two hulls, which provide significantly more pace than classic monohull sailing boats. They are an ideal choice if you are planning a cruise with a group of friends or family. Our camarans can be chartered either bareboat or with a professional skipper.
SAILING ITINERARIES IN THE SPORADES
The Sporades Island group is a year-round sailing haven, thanks to its temperate climate and gentle winds. The ideal gateways to this paradise are Marina Skiathos and Marina Volos. Skiathos boasts a substantial international airport with daily connections to numerous European airports, particularly during the summer season. Meanwhile, Volos is conveniently situated on the mainland, between Athens and Thessaloniki. You can easily reach it via taxi, train, or bus from Athens or Thessaloniki International Airports.
When planning your itinerary, you have a plethora of options, depending on the distances you wish to cover and the amount of time you'd like to spend at sea.
For a relaxing one-week journey with shorter distances, consider stops at Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonnisos, and the small islets surrounding Alonnisos. There are eight charming, uninhabited islets around Alonnisos, each with its unique appeal. To the northeast, Piperi serves as a refuge for the Mediterranean Monk seal, and although setting foot on the island is prohibited, observing its natural beauty from the boat is a priceless experience. Kyra Panagia, the largest of these islets, features lovely beaches and the remnants of an abandoned 16th-century monastery. Psathoura Island is a diver's dream, with submerged remains of an ancient city. Peristera Island offers several sandy beaches and the remains of a castle. The other smaller islets in the vicinity include Pappous, Skantzoura, Psathouropoud, Gioura, and Adephi.
If you desire a more extended voyage or plan a two-week excursion, you can also sail to Skyros Island or explore the Pagasetic Gulf (also known as the Gulf of Volos). Add stops on Evia Island and the Greek mainland to create a comprehensive and memorable journey.