Ideal for Summer Season
The Greek Islands are undoubtedly one of the most popular island getaways when it comes to cultural and historical points of interest. But they are also known for their staggering levels of natural beauty. A short trip around the northern Sporades islands will prove that there is much more to Greece than temples and olive oil. Starting and finishing on the lovely island of Skiathos, there is much to see so stock up on supplies and let your crew whisk you away to somewhere beautiful.
- Day 1
SkiathosDistance: 30 nm*
Welcome to the start of your Greek odyssey
Meet up with the crew of your luxury charter yacht in the port of Skiathos and settle into your temporary home away from home.
Familiarise yourself with the layout of your chosen vessel and enjoy a refreshing glass of champagne before heading back ashore to do a little exploring before raising anchor. Strolling around the streets filled with whitewashed buildings, there are plenty of small cafes to visit if you want to try some authentic Greek food. If you enjoy seeing some culture, make a stop at some of the stunning churches in the areas, such as the Evangelistria Monastery, which had a role in the Greek war of independence.
In addition to the quaint eateries and nods to the past, Skiathos has an exciting night scene including an open-air cinema which often airs the Abba-infused Mamma Mia. Have a dance in some of the clubs or head to a cocktail bar to toast your latest luxury charter yacht adventure.
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GinFish
Bars
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GinFish
- Day 2
Kyra-Panaghia, Psathoura and SkantzouraDistance: 30 nm*
Rare seal sightings on offer in picture-perfect surrounds
On your first full day in the Sporadic islands, drift away from the mainland and see some of the smaller gems of these waters.
The islets of Kyra-Panaghia, Psathoura, and Skatzoura form part of the protected National Marine Park. The park was established 1992 after the area became a breeding ground for the rare monk seal, and is the largest protected marine site in all of Europe. If you are lucky, you may get the chance to spot some of these endangered creatures frolicking in their natural habitat, along with many other species of marine life.
Snorkel through the waters for the best views of the seals, before drying off on one of the beautiful deserted beaches peppered around the coast. Afterwards, head back to the yacht and take in the spectacular sunset from the aft deck, cocktail in hand.
- Day 3
LalariaDistance: 15 nm*
Beautiful beach with Instagram-worthy rock formation
Situated on the northern edge of Skiathos, this beach is a pretty sight away from the hustle and bustle of mainstream tourists.
Consisting largely of white pebbles, Lalaria is different to many other Greek beaches, but it has no lack of quality. The almost perfect roundness of the white pebbles gives an amazing look to the beach and the dramatic rock formations that surround it make Lalaria look even more incredible. There isn’t a huge amount to do here, but there is plenty of space on the water’s surface to bring out your water sports equipment.
If you still have time after flying across the waves, there are a couple of small uninhabited islands called Tsougria and Arkos just off the coast. Offering even more peace and quiet, the serenity of these two uninhabited islands give you the feeling of seclusion while still being in touching distance of civilisation. Enjoy a Greek feast on board your luxury charter yacht to finish your day.
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Lalaria Beach
Beach
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Lalaria Beach
- Day 4
SkopelosDistance: 10 nm*
Sea caves and pirate legends
The islet of Dasia is next on your list of destinations as you arrive at Skopelos.
This pretty area has a lot to offer, so Dasia is the natural place to start. Despite the islet being largely undeveloped, this pretty place features many sea caves which are ideal for explorers and those interested in the history of pirates. Put on your diving gear to see the underwater caves, and while you're exploring, pay a visit to some of the intriguing shipwrecks on the seabed.
Back to the surface, your next stop of the day is to see the bays of Panormos and Stafylos. These spots are a great stop for lunch with plenty of stunning areas for a picnic. Pine trees are sprinkled everywhere, and some are so close that they almost meet the waterline. Take some photographs of these lovely bays as you prepare to move back to civilization, towards the main town of Chora.
Built into the nooks and crannies of the Skopelos harbour, Chora has many quaint family-run businesses as well as some great places to eat and drink. A visit to Greece would not be complete without a taste of the locally produced raki or ouzo, so indulge in some tasty cocktails in a coastal taverna before returning to your luxury charter yacht for the rest of the night.
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Agnanti
Restaurants
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Agnanti
- Day 5
AlonissosDistance: 20 nm*
Soak up the archipelago's astonishing beauty
Cruising northwards from Skopelos, the next destination to visit is Alonissos.
This visually pleasing island features numerous bays of solitude and pure natural beauty. The bays and beaches of Alonissos have their own characteristic charm, so it’s worth taking the time to visit more than one during your day here. Notable bays worth visiting include Agios Dimitrios, Spartines, Votsi and Georgi Gialos. Spend the morning sunbathing followed by a filling beach barbeque, before hopping back onto your luxury charter yacht to continue your adventure.
You may well be joined by some energetic dolphins that will play and spring from the water as you charter around Alonissos. Trying to get photographs may be tricky as they move with speed, so grab your video recorder and capture the moment to enjoy forever.
Arriving in the area of Kokkinokastro, it becomes evident that you are in the middle of the National Marine Park. The area is in pristine condition and is as nature intended. Explore the land to find some interesting views and see the stunning beauty of the island, which saw its first glimpse of habitation as far back as 100,000 BC.
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- Day 6
Piperi
Wrap up your last day immersed in nature
On the last day of your luxury yacht charter, you will make the most of your final moments in Greece by unwinding in complete bliss while overlooking a natural wonder.
Your yacht will have to follow very particular regulations when chartering through this part of the National Marine Park. The island of Piperi is a very popular hotspot for environmentalists and animal enthusiasts, but comes with a notice saying you cannot be closer than 3 nautical miles from the shore. This is due to some very special wildlife who inhabit the island and must not be disturbed.
Using your binoculars, you should be able to spot some extraordinary birdlife flying around Piperi, such as rare species of falcon that nest there. In addition to these animals, you may also spot some migrating sea turtles, as well as monk seals who use the caves here to deliver their pups.
You will then continue onwards towards a nearby islet, where you will stop off for some sun and a delicious meal to end your trip to Piperi. As the day comes to an end you will return to Skiathos, where you will disembark from your glorious adventure through the Sporades.
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*All distances are approximate