SPORADES ISLANDS

Relaxing Sailing Holidays

When sailing the Sporades islands, one feels surrendered in a rich and yet unspoiled natural environment, with serene, calm bays, beautiful trees running down to the sea level and overall, a relaxing sailing area with countless beauties. 

There are two main ports that operate as sailing bases in the Sporades: the port of Volos and the marina of Skiathos. 

Volos is situated on the mainland, so access by road is easy. The distance from Skiathos is around 6 hours sailing, but the trip is wonderful, especially since there is a wonderful stop mid way, either in Trikeri  islet or in the bay of Agia Kyriaki, both located at the eastern edge of the Pagasetic Gulf.

On the other hand, Skiathos as a sailing base has the advantage of an international airport near the marina, and the closer access to the islands. 

All in all, both ports can be the starting point of a wonderful sailing experience in the Sporades islands

Weather Conditions in the Sporades islands

Overall, sailing conditions in the Sporades islands are easy, as the winds are calm; the sailing area is not affected strongly by the meltemi, allowing for soft winds even in the days when the central Aegean is tormented by fierce winds. There might be some rain in the off-season months (e.g. before June or after mid-September), but most days are sunny, even in that period. 

All in all, the weather allows for calm sailing holidays in the region of Sporades

Moreover, there are few things that one should note when sailing the Sporades islands:

• Skiathos has a limited number of bays to anchor for the night, all at it's south coast. Lalaria beach at North is a beautiful beach and suggested by many, but it's not protected and thus not suitable to stay over night, even when the wind is out.
• On the same grounds, Skopelos best side to anchor is it's southwest (facing Skiathos island). Alonissos also has very beautiful bays at it's east side nothern to Patitiri and opposite to Peristera islet.
• Alonissos main town (chora) up on the mountain is suitable for a romantic walk around traditional houses and offers a spectacular, panoramic view to the Sea, from South, East and West.
• "Planitis" islet, located at the north of Alonissos, has two magnificent bays, on south and north sides, both worth visiting, but with high caution to the protection of the environment, since this uninhabited islet is the 'heart' on the National Marine Park.