The best destinations to visit the Sporades during a sailing holiday with a skipper

Located approximately 120km north of Athens, off the eastern coast of Greece, the Sporades archipelago is one of the lesser known of the Mediterranean. Luxuriously green, with a multitude of beautiful beaches, and irresistible blue waters, the Sporades are a great destination for nature lovers. Only four of the 24 islands - Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros - are inhabited, and the further you go from the mainland, the more private the islands become.

Sailing holidays in Skopelos

People claim that Skopelos is the greenest island in the Aegean, and they may be right. A paradise for nature lovers, Skopelos is home to a wide variety of wildlife thanks to its vast forests and magnificent coastline. The island, once a Cretan colony, has a number of archaeological sites as well as 360 ​​churches, monasteries, and convents. There is a vibrant nightlife and the islanders are very proud of their cuisine. Its ideal setting and unspoiled charm makes Skopelos a popular holiday destination, especially for families and couples. Skopelos became famous thanks to the Hollywood film Mamma Mia. The picturesque church of Agios Ioannis Kastri, where the film's wedding scenes were filmed, is known as the Mamma Mia Church! The two main villages of Skopelos are Skopelos Town and Glossa. Perched on top of hills, these two villages offer a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea. From your sailboat you will take pleasure in discovering the sublime beaches of Skopelos.

Sailing holidays in Skiathos

Skiathos is the most visited island, part due to the fact that it is the home of the major international airport, part due to its famous sandy beaches. Here, everyday between sailing, you can alternate tavern as you take some time to cool off. Away from the coast, there are isolated hiking trails and Byzantine monasteries. The monastery of Kounistra, built in the 17th century, has survived until today in its original form. One of the impressive symbolic locations of the island.

Sailing holidays in Alonissos

Alonissos, a more rugged island, lies in the middle of a marine park and is surrounded by a group of uninhabited satellite islands. Off the beaten track, by boat is one of the best ways to get to this island. Perfect for those who love remote places, and nature lovers, as it is a great place for hiking. There are many different plants and animals, including rare seals.

Tips to help you to better plan for your next sailing holidays in the Sporades:

All you need to know about your next cruise in the Sporades aboard a sailboat.

When to go to the Sporades for a sailing holiday

Holiday prices

Transport options to and from your holiday

Sailing in the Sporades solo, as a couple, or with friends and family

Whether you’re looking for options for couples, a whole boat booking for families and groups of friends, or options for solo travellers there are different experiences to suit you. Be it a trip aboard a sailboat or catamaran, you can book one or multiple spots onboard without having to form your own group of travellers. Find like-minded people and return home with new friends!