Sailing itinerary in the Sporades Islands

Volos, "the jewel of the Pagasetic Gulf", is one of the most attractive cities in Greece, as well as one of the country’s most prominent ports. Located in the center of mainland Greece's western coast, the wealth of the region and its long history have left their mark on the city’s architecture, which exudes confidence and grandeur.

Today we partner up with the charter company Istion Yachting to provide you with an exclusive 7-day sailing itinerary through Sporared Islands starting from their fleet base located in the Port of Volos.

Volos is a city sited 320 km north of Athens and 219 km south of Thessaloniki. Many visitors arrive in their own vehicles, but public transport options are available from all main cities. If you are arriving as a group, Istion Yachting is happy to organize a private transfer for you by minibus with their reliable partners.

From Volos, you can easily reach the beautiful green islands of the Sporades including Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros. Sheltered and unspoiled anchorages along with sandy white beaches are a common feature of all these islands.

The area is well known for the Alonissos National Marine Park. Dolphins, sea turtles, and one the most endangered species of seal, the Monachus-Monachus or Mediterranean Seal live there. If you are lucky you may encounter some of these most beautiful and friendliest marine creatures on your trip!

Discover unspoiled bays & small ports of the Pagasetic Gulf and sail to the beautiful green islands of Sporades with Istion Yachting! Check their boat availability and book your holiday today.

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DAY 1- Volos/Amaliapoli

DAY 2 - Skopelos

DAY 3 - Alonnissos

DAY 4 - Kyra Panagia

DAY 5 - Skiathos

DAY 6 - Paleo Trikeri Island

DAY 7 - Volos

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DAY 1- Volos/Amaliapoli

Your journey starts in Volos, a city of ancient myths and history located in central Greece, under the shadow of the mountain Pelion. This is the port where the hero Jason and the Argonauts set sail with their ship Argo to their quest, seeking the Golden Fleece. It is this port where our quest begins as modern Argonauts, seeking wonderful places, adventure, and the freedom of sailing. 

We set sail to Amaliapoli, or Mitzela as locals call it, a charming little village inside the Pagasitikos Gulf. Climbing up the hill, its architecture makes you feel as if you are on an island rather than on the mainland.

There are taverns and beach bars where you can grab a bite, and sip on coffee or cocktails. Enjoy the sunset from Loutraki Bay, and take a stroll alongside the seashore and up the stone-built stairs for a lovely view from the church’s terrace.

Across the seaside lies the small island of Kikinthos, hosting only the small chapel of Aghia Marina. Sailing a bit apart from the mooring point and the main beach, you can discover small bays with enchanting little clear-watered beaches, often only accessible by boat, either on the south or on the east side (“Nies”). 

Moreover, the Underwater Shipwreck Museum Diving Park, one of the first of its kind in Greece, has recently been established, as well as a marine virtual reality center. 

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DAY 2 - Skopelos

On day 2, we reach Skopelos, the largest of the four main islands in the Sporades. The main ports are Skopelos, Loutraki (Glossa) and Klima (Elios). The island’s relaxing blue and green scenery includes a large number of natural springs, pine trees stretching out for the seashore, hidden coves, and winding paths through vast forests. This is the island where many scenes of the movie "Mamma Mia!" were filmed!

Skopelos town, located in a cove, is worth exploring. Lagstone streets with whitewashed stairs, ornate arches, bougainvillea, and pretty windowsills, all provide a scenic set. Have dinner in any of the numerous tavernas and restaurants (you might want to try the local “Skopelitiki” fried cheese pie). Occasionally, streets will bring you to a scenic terrace overlooking the harbor and Mount Palouki, or a little square in the shade of a plane tree.

Throughout the island, you can’t go more than a few steps without bumping into a chapel, church, or monastery. There are more than 360 to explore if you want, which is amazing when you consider how small Skopelos is. A remarkable site is Agios Ioannis -once a Catholic Monastery- built at the tip of an impressive rock (be prepared to climb 110 steps!), which was also the setting for the movie’s wedding scene.

Having a coastline that is burrowed with snug little coves, Skopelos is an excellent destination for water sports like diving, kayaking, and snorkeling.

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DAY 3 - Alonnissos

Being a rather quiet and intact destination, Alonnissos offers absolute relaxation for nature lovers. Its lush flora offers a great set for hiking, maybe to one of the most stunning spots on the island, the chapel of Agion Anargyron. 

Alonnissos is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), an endangered species, as well as other rare wildlife species. The Marine Park is the largest in the Mediterranean, and there are 14 spots there where diving is allowed, where you can enjoy the incomparable natural beauty.

You’ll also want to discover Hora (the main town), from where an amazing sunset will be seen; here, you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood in any of the local tavernas.

Most beaches here have pebbles. Agios Demetrios, Kokkinokastro, Lefkos Yalos, Megalos Mourtias, Milia, and Chrissi Milia are some of Alonnissos’ most organized beaches. You can also reach various small beaches in the northern part of the coast, only accessible by boat. 

As for sightseeing, you should not miss the Old Village, Patitiri Village, Roussoum Yalos, Steni Vala, and Votsi, all picturesque villages located in small bays.

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DAY 4 - Kyra Panagia

We set sail in the morning to Kyra Panagia (also called Pelagonissi), located in the southeast of Alonnissos. It is a small island with no permanent population, apart from a few monks in the scenic, worth-visiting monastery of Megisti Lavra, with the island itself belonging to the autonomous polity of Mount Athos.

It is part of the Alonnissos Marine Park, and as such part of the natural habitat of the famous endangered monk seal –if you’re lucky, you might spot one here as well. Enjoy a day of total relaxation and fun on board your private boat!

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DAY 5 - Skiathos

Considered the most cosmopolitan of the Sporades complex, Skiathos is probably one of the most preferred destinations in Greece. 

Skiathos' beaches are a must-see for any visitor, ranging from the bustling Koukounaries (included in several world's best beaches lists) to the serene and tranquil Banana Beach and Lalaria. Other beaches include Vromolimnos, Kanapitsa, Aghia Eleni, Xanemos, Achladies, and Megali Ammos, all offering beach bars, tavernas, umbrellas, sun beds, and watersports.

You’ll want to check out Bourtzi: a pine-wood islet with a Venetian 13th-century fortress. You can visit the café-restaurant on the top end and enjoy the breathtaking view, preferably during a sunset. Continue with a stroll amongst the swirling roads of the city, with its charming stone-built alleys and blossom-red rooftops.

Skiathos is also known for its nightlife; you’ll understand why walking along Papadiamanti Str., always lit and joyful, filled with cafés, bars, and restaurants. Traditional taverns such as “Akrogiali” and “Mylos” are also located along the seaside towards the airport. 

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DAY 6 - Paleo Trikeri Island

The island, located on a ridge on the southern arm of Pelion, is one of Greece’s undiscovered gems. It is so small that you can see all of it within 2-3 hours of walking through hillsides covered in thyme and juniper to deserted beaches and coves. Only about 20 people live here full-time, there are no roads, and no cars – transport is on foot or by mule.

The island is also completely flat. Its highest peak is 129 meters, where the fortress-like Evangelistria Monastery, a place of interest worth visiting, is located.

The beaches are few but charming, with turquoise crystal-clear waters. Locals refer to them as Afetka, Hagia Sophia, and Prasini Ammos, all close to each other.

Besides the picturesque view, local taverns can offer you a classic traditional Magnesian meal with tsipouro or wine. 

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DAY 7 - Volos

We use this final day to return to our base and end this unique and unforgettable sailing holiday.