Are you fans of the movie Mamma Mia, featuring Meryl Streep? Do you remember the charming setting where the movie takes place? Would you like to rent a catamaran or sailboat there? This magnificent setting belongs to Greece and is located on the islands of Sporades. The islands Skopelos, Alonissos, Skyros and Skiathos of the archipelago are located in the northern Aegean Sea. You will succumb to the green oases and idyllic beaches ideal for relaxation. We will take you on a 7-day cruise in Greece, departing from Skiathos.
Practical information for a sailing in Greece
What permit you must have to take a cruise in Greece? To sail in Greece, you will normally be asked for both permits, but the coastal one seems to be sufficient.
When to leave? We recommend that you come outside of the summer rush, i.e. at the first notes of spring or September and October.
Day 1: Arrival in Athens and head towards Skiathos
After landing in Athens, you have two choices: take the ferry or fly to Skiathos.
Once arrived, head directly to the port of Skiathos to check-in the boat. Then go for a walk in the village and stroll among the beautiful red-roofed houses with its flowered alleys. If you have time, we recommend you to visit the Annunciation Monastery, which is a little higher up.
Day 2: Skiathos
It’s time to set off on an adventure to discover the 60 beaches of the island! Please note that the beaches on the south coast are sheltered from the wind, so they are more pleasant to spend the day. Our selection of beaches/visits/water sports: Kooukounaries, Banana Beach for the festive atmosphere, Lalaria for its splendid cliffs or Kastro to admire the ruins. End your day with an aperitif on the Bourtzi peninsula at anchor.
Day 3: Skiathos → Skopelos
17.8 nautical miles, 3.5 hours of sailing
Change of island, change of atmosphere, direction Skopelos for a very natural island, far from the festive frenzy. Once moored, among the pines, olive trees, vineyards, almond trees … no doubt you are in Greece! We told you about it in introduction, if you are a fan of MammaMia, you can go to Kastani Beach to jerker on Abba or simply to practice a water sport. After that, head up the coast to the small port of Loutraki, in the village of Glossa. You can have dinner and enjoy a delicious seafood dish in Agnanti.
Day 4: Skopelos
Have breakfast at the port and go for a day’s hike. Walk to discover the marvellous monasteries perched in the mountains, notably the Moni Evangelistrias, a building dating from the 18th century, or the Moni Promodo, which was built on the model of those of Athos.
Finish your day further south towards the bay of Panormos, a quiet anchorage to fall asleep to the sweet notes of the cicadas’ songs.
Day 5: Skopelos → Alonissos
13.7 nautical miles, 2 hours 45 minutes of sailing
Set sail at first light for the island of Alonissos, famous for its marine reserve and protected green spaces. Discover Kira Panagia and Peristera to the east, forming a marine national park with a monk seal community. After strolling on the white sandy beach, sail to the port of Steni Vala for an evening tasting of local specialities such as tuna and squid. For the more discerning, you can go to a small digestive market in the direction of La Hora to admire the breathtaking view of the Sporades.
Day 6: Alonissos → Skyros Island
51.5 nautical miles, 10 hours of sailing
Being in the middle of the Aegean Sea, this is the off-road adventure of your week. For this long crossing, you will have to leave at dawn! Few people sail there because it is quite isolated from the others. We propose you a beach day at Pefkos on the small white pebbles far from mass tourism to enjoy the silence to swim quietly towards the bay of Acherounès. If you feel like stretching your legs, we recommend Katafigio park. You will spend the night at the Linaria port.
Day 7: Skyros Island → Skiathos
53.3 nautical miles, 10.5 hours of sailing
7th and last day of the cruise, it is time to bring your sailboat or catamaran back to port and make a long journey. You will be able to return to the port of departure of Skiathos and make an assessment of your boat with the owner.
If you liked this itinerary, you might also enjoy the idea of a yacht charter in Zakynthos.
