5-day sailing trip in the islands of the Sporades

A unique 5-day sailing trip in the region of Thessaly and the Sporades.

For five days, we’ll be sailing around the Sporades, setting out from Volos. We’ll discover well-known islands as well as small, uninhabited islets, passing by Trikeri, Skopelos, Alonnisos, Pontikonisi, and Skiathos.

We swim in secluded coves with crystal-clear waters, explore the picturesque alleys of the islands, and get an up-close look at the Alonnisos National Marine Park. Sailing, stops for swimming, local flavors, and peaceful moments on deck come together to create a journey that brings us closer to the sea and the authentic character of the Sporades

An opportunity to discover the Sporades in the most unique way!

Day 1: Volos – Trikeri

Day 2: Trikeri – Pontikonisi – Skopelos

Day 3: Skopelos – Alonnisos

Day 4: Alonnisos – Glossa (Skopelos) or Skiathos

Day 5: Glossa – Platanias, Pelion

Sample Five-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Volos – Trikeri

At 1:00 PM, we’ll meet at the port of Volos, where we’ll get to know the crew and the captain. Next, we’ll settle into our cabins and organize the necessary supplies for the trip. This is followed by a briefing on how the boat operates and the basic safety rules for sailing.

Departure is scheduled for 3:00 p.m., bound for Trikeri. The route is approximately 15 nautical miles and takes 2.5–3 hours.

Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Monastery of Panagia, which is about a 20-minute walk away. Afterward, there will be time for an afternoon swim at a nearby beach before we return to the boat.

For the evening, we recommend dinner at the tavern located right in front of the mooring spot.

Total distance: 15 nautical miles

Difficulty level: 1/5

Day 2: Trikeri – Pontikonisi – Skopelos

At sunrise, we weigh anchor and set off on the longest sailing leg of the trip. We wake up to find ourselves already at sea, giving us more time to fully enjoy the sailing experience.

After about 19 nautical miles, weather permitting, we make a stop at Pontikonisi. In a peaceful cove with crystal-clear waters, we enjoy a swim and lunch on board.

After about two hours, we continue toward Chora on Skopelos, following the northern coast of the island and passing by the Gourouni Lighthouse. If time permits, we may make another stop for a swim at the islet of Tsougria.

We are expected to arrive in Skopelos around 7:00 p.m. The evening is free for a stroll through the narrow streets of Chora, with options for dining, shopping, and visiting local shops.

Total distance: 41 nautical miles

Difficulty level: 2/5

Day 3: Skopelos – Alonnisos

We start the day with a warm Skopelos-style pita from a local bakery and a morning stroll through Chora, Skopelos. At 10:30 a.m., we set sail for Alonnisos.

After about 8 nautical miles, we arrive either at Patitiri or at the picturesque little harbor of Steni Vala, depending on weather conditions and availability. Along the way, we’ll stop for a swim and lunch at a beach on Skopelos or Alonnisos, such as Agios Ioannis, weather permitting, or at Spartines Cove.

On Alonnisos, we can visit the Historical and Folklore Museum, the MOm Information Center in Patitiri, and the Marine Park Information Center, where a digital experience introduces us to the Alonnisos Underwater Museum.

Later, we’ll follow the famous cobblestone path leading to Palia Chora and stroll through the picturesque alleys and the castle. The day ends with a sunset view from one of the village’s most beautiful spots and a tasting of local sweets.

Day 4: Alonnisos – Glossa, Skopelos, or Skiathos

We set sail for Skopelos, following a route of approximately 18 nautical miles toward the island’s southern coast. The day’s stops are determined by weather conditions.

At noon, we stop at Panormos, one of Skopelos’s most unique coves, with pine trees reaching almost to the water’s edge. There will be time for swimming and lunch on board.

In the afternoon, we continue on to Glossa, Skopelos’s second-largest port, or alternatively to Skiathos, depending on the conditions and the day’s itinerary.

Day 5: Glossa – Platanias, Pelion

Early in the morning, before the group has even woken up, the captain weighs anchor and we set off on the final leg of our journey.

We stop at Koukounaries on Skiathos for a morning swim and a light meal on board. We then continue on to the port of Platanias, where we are scheduled to arrive around 1:00 p.m.

From there, we’ll be transported by van back to Volos.

Meeting Point: Volos Central Port

Meeting Time: 1:00 PM

Difficulty Level: 1/5

Duration: 5 days

General Information

• Accommodations are on the sailboat, in cabins.
• Stops for docking and swimming may be adjusted depending on weather conditions and availability of berths at the ports.

Participation requirements:

• Aged 16 and older
• Ability to swim
• Moderate physical fitness
• Good mental health

Participation Cost:

• 550€ per person