Yachtcharter Skiathos

In the Northern Sporades, the picturesque island of Skiathos is a perfect starting point and small insider tip for a sailing trip off the main routes in the Ägäis. A sweltering meltemi, pleasant climate, short distances, fantastic landscapes and ancient ruined towns make Skiathos a great starting point also for families and less experienced sailors who want to sail in the ägäis.

Situated in the west, Skiathos is a nice place to sail around the Northern Sporades. If you want to reach the southern island of Skyros, you should rather start from here than from Volos on the Greek mainland. There are also flights from Germany to Skiathos.

The smallest and busiest island of the Sporades is ideal for bathers with its total of 60 beaches. Divers can also experience a rich and varied underwater world in the lagoons and caves around the island.

Skiathos image as a fertile and dreamlike island is mainly characterized by the beautiful coastlines with the long, white beaches, the small, tranquil fishing ports, Lake Strofilia and other attractions in the interior of the island and the peninsula Bourtzi. The island's capital is also a hive of activity in the bars and boutiques of the main street.

Climate: Mediterranean with temperatures between 24 and 28 degrees
. Winds: Meltemi
Sailing season: June to September

Yacht charter Skiathos

Skiathos is one of the four main islands of the Northern Sporades in the Aegean Sea, along with Skopelos, Syros and Alonnisos. Although it is the smallest of the four islands, it still has the highest population with just over 6000 inhabitants. The tourist center of the island is in the south, while the north is virtually uninhabited. Skiathos is the most popular of the Sporades islands and exudes a cosmopolitan charm, thanks in part to the 2008 film "Mamma Mia!", large parts of which were filmed on the neighboring island of Skopelos.

Arrival: From Germany, the island can be reached via Athens and partly directly by plane. You will land at Alexandros Papadiamantis airport, which is only two kilometers away from the main town and the port.

A yacht charter Skiathos in the Aegean Sea is also suitable for family cruises and less experienced sailors. This is mainly due to the good climatic conditions, the weaker Meltemi, the well sheltered location and the short distances between the destinations. In this area you will find enough harbors, countless anchorages and charming island villages.

The island is true paradise and offers alone more than 60 sandy beaches for swimming and beautiful anchor bays to stay. It is worth visiting especially the most famous beaches. In the south, among many bays, you will find, for example, Koukounaries Bay, lined with pine trees and known for its long white sandy beach and turquoise waters. Lalaria Bay in the north features unique rock formations, a long pebbly beach and sea caves, such as Skopoli and Galazia, which can also be reached only by boat. Both beaches are ideal for lingering and swimming in a picturesque atmosphere. The area is also suitable for experienced divers.

It is also worth exploring the island on the total of 25 designated hiking trails, most of which lead through the beautiful inland forests. There are routes ranging from one to seven hours in length for different levels.

Culture and pleasure in the lively south

In the south, Skiathos Town is the capital of the island. The town, right on the waterfront, consists of small nested streets and alleys with traditional white houses and is ideal for strolling at sunset, in addition to the harbor promenade.

You can stop for a bite to eat, especially in the many tavernas or cafes that are all located along Papadiamantis Street, the artery of the main town. In the colorful atmosphere still arrange a variety of small stores of all kinds and more restaurants. West of Skiathos town is the beach Megali Ammos. Skiathos is very popular especially among young people for its nightlife in bars and clubs.

Culturally, there is also a lot to see on the island. In Skiathos town, very close to the harbor, you can delve deeper into his moving life and œuvre in the former home of local writer Alexandre Papadiamantis, which has been converted into a two-story museum. Papadiamantis ranks among the most important Greek writers of the last century.

The fascinating Bourtzi peninsula, which divides Skiathos town harbor, is a landmark of the town that should be on the list of every Skiathos visit. There you will see the imposing fortress built during the Venetian rule in the 13th century. Today, the quiet peninsula is all about culture with the well-preserved fortress as a cultural center, the Kafenio coffee house and the busts of famous literary figures of Skiathos. In the high season, a wide cultural program takes place on Bourtzi. You should not miss the events in the open air theater.

Skiathos town with Bourtzi peninsula. ©moofushi/AdobeStock

The north of Skiathos - rustic and beautiful

A circumnavigation of Skiathos is about 20 nautical miles and, heading for the north coast, opens up a different facet of the island. Lonely, almost uninhabited and rugged, steeply sloping coastline characterize the picture here. Between rocks you will find wonderful, hidden beach bays like Madraki, Limenari or Aselinos. In summer, even small beach taverns are set up there for a perfect sundowner in an idyllic atmosphere.

An excursion to Kastro Fortress on the northern tip of the island is recommended. Built in the 14th century, the fortress is located on the top of a cliff, with a picturesque panorama and was the former capital of the island with 300 buildings and 30 churches. From the remains of the fortress you can see the historical importance of this place.

A little further inland you will find another treasure of the island in the form of the remote Moni Evangelistrias monastery, which has been lovingly renovated and is still inhabited by monks. It is located on a hill and offers a beautiful view of the island and the sea. Besides a church, it also houses a historical museum, a café and a store selling olive oil and other homemade products.

On the road in the Northern Sporades

One to one and a half weeks: Skiathos - Skyros - Alonnisos - Skopelos - Skiathos

Information about the other islands can be found on our Northern Sporades area page.

The green island Skiathos invites you for hiking, sandy beaches for swimming and sunbathing. ©panosk18/AdobeStock

Yacht charter Skiathos - set sail with 1a Yachtcharter!