7 days cruise Sporady
Day 1: Skiathos – Skopelos - 15NM
The first day is always full of expectations. No sooner do you leave the bustling harbour of Skiathos than you are heading east, some 15 nautical miles away. The destination? Skopelos. Yes, the very island where Meryl Streep sang ABBA songs and Pierce Brosnan tried to... well, sing too.
Skopelos is incredibly green, full of pine forests and olive groves. The first obligatory stop is, of course, the church of Agios Ioannis Kastri, perched on a rock above the sea. The hike up is a bit of a cardio, but the view? Priceless. You'll feel like you're in a movie, only without the mass of extras.
And the beaches? Milia and Panormos are notorious, but their pebbles and crystal waters are worth it. But with a boat, you have the advantage of finding your own completely deserted cove. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a Mediterranean seal, which has taken a liking to the waters here. In the evening, anchor in the capital, grab a fresh fish and a glass of retsina at a taverna and watch the chirp. What more could you ask for?
Day 2: Skopelos - Patitiri, Alonissos - 7.00 NM
After yesterday's movie, it's time for some quiet time. We sail just 7 nautical miles northeast and find ourselves on the island of Alonissos. And this is where the real magic begins. The island is the heart of the largest protected marine park in Europe. In practice, that means only one thing: the water is so clear you feel like you're floating on a boat, and the underwater life is incredibly rich.
We anchor in the picturesque port of Patitiri and head for the old hilltop village of Chora. Narrow cobbled streets, stone houses and the view from the medieval castle at sunset... this is the kind of kitsch you just love. The most beautiful beach here is Agios Dimitrios with its white sand, but honestly, you can't go wrong here. Whether you choose Megalos Mourtias, Steni Vala or Milia, you'll find divine tranquillity everywhere. If you're active, try kayaking or diving. It's like swimming in a giant aquarium.
Day 3: Patitiri, Alonnisos - Kyra Panagia/Pelagos - 20.00 NM
Today we're going to venture even further away from civilization. After 20 nautical miles of sailing we reach Kyra Panagia, an island that is also part of a marine park. The island is home to many springs and a reconstructed monastery, originally built in 1100 AD to protect against pirate attacks; currently there is a single monk living here.
The north bay of the island is one of the largest natural harbours in the Mediterranean, so safe anchorage is taken care of. And then... nothing. You can swim, sunbathe, read a book and enjoy the silence that is so deep you can almost hear it. It's a detox for the soul that should be prescribed by your insurance company.
Day 4: Kyra Panagia/Pelagos - Fakistra Beach - 42.00 NM
Get ready for a longer cruise, but the reward! We're heading for the coast of mainland Greece, the Pelion peninsula, where Fakistra beach is hidden. And this is not just any beach. It's a wild, untamed jewel nestled among the rocks and lush greenery. Turquoise water, fine sand and the feeling of being at the end of the world.
To make matters worse, there's a cave just off the beach and a small chapel where the Greek language was supposedly taught in secret during Ottoman rule. And yes, this is also where they filmed a few scenes from Mamma Mia!. It seems the filmmakers had quite a nose for finding paradise. For the adventurous, there's a waterfall and other caves nearby to explore. This place just has it all.
Day 5: Fakistra Beach - Koukounaries - 19.00 NM
Slowly, we are returning to civilization. After 19 nautical miles of sailing south we land again on the shores of Skiathos, this time at its most famous beach - Koukounaries. And it's a bit of a shock. After days in deserted coves, you find yourself on a perfectly organised beach with golden sand, sun loungers, parasols and beach bars blaring summer hits.
But you know what? It's got something to it. Having an iced frappé, renting a paddleboard and just people-watching is actually quite a nice change after days of solitude. The water here is shallow, perfect for families, and there's a protected pine forest behind the beach that smells intoxicating. Koukounaries is said to be the most photographed spot on the island, so be sure to take that obligatory holiday selfie.
Day 6: Koukounaries - Skiathos - 6.00 NM
The last day of the cruise takes us back to the starting point. We sail the last 6 nautical miles along the coast and arrive back at the port of Skiathos. But the adventure is not over! Before you return the ship, you must explore the surrounding area.
Hop on a water taxi and get a ride to Lalaria beach. It is only accessible by boat and its white pebbles, wild rock formations and sea caves will take your breath away. It's a world apart from the busy beaches to the south. If you like to party, try Banana Beach, where it's alive from afternoon to night.
In the evening, stroll along the promenade, which is divided by the small Bourtzi peninsula with the remains of a fortress. Settle into one of the dozens of restaurants and indulge in one last Greek dinner. Younger years (or those who feel like it) can end the evening at one of the many bars and clubs.
Day 7: Skiathos - 0.00 NM
Last morning. Wake up to a sunny day, have breakfast on board and jump into the clear sea for the last time. It's time to say goodbye. You stroll through town, shop for souvenirs for those who stayed home (and especially olive oil for yourself), and slowly come to terms with the fact that this week's adventure is over.
You return home with salt in your hair, skin tanned from the sun and a head full of memories. Memories of quiet coves, starry skies over the sea and a feeling of absolute freedom. And with only one thought: When are we going again? Because sailing in Greece is not just a holiday. It's an addiction. And we bet you've just been infected.
