Greek islands offer the ultimate
destinations in yacht charter
Skiathos
Koukounaries
Koukounaries beach is among the largest and most popular destinations on Skiathos. It is packed by pine trees from which take its name. It is also known by the name "Golden Sand" since the sand is very fine and shining like the sun. At Koukounaries beach one can deal with any water sport, restaurants and beach bars. The sunset is magnificent and should not be missed. The beach is ideal for anchoring with its deep, sandy bottom, although there are some under water beach-rocs.
Agia Eleni beach
Agia Eleni is a small sandy beach organized with umbrellas, sunbeds, tavernas and beach bars at the W side of Skiathos Island. Although open to meltemi winds there is some temporary shelter towards the N end of the beach by anchoring as close the shore as possible. Underwater cables run from the beach to the Pelion peninsula and must be avoided-white square signs mark their location.
Banana beach
Banana is a sandy beach in close distance to Koukounaries and it is one of the most beautiful and famous beaches of Skiathos. It is an organized beach with fine sand and crystal-clear waters, offering a wide range of water sports. It is also well known because it has great rhythms, while during summer time many parties are hold at Bananistas bar. Next to this, there is also another smaller bay called Little Banana, a nudist beach separated from the Banana beach with a huge rock.
Kolios beach
Kolios sandy beach is organized with many beach bars and water sports centers. It is well-sheltered by the prevailing meltemi and an excellent place to head for if the wind is blowing hard and Skiathos harbor is full. The beach shelves gently into the water making it ideal for swimming.
Vromolimnos beach
Among the most popular and organized beaches of Skiathos, Vromolimnos gets very busy in summer. The beach is famous for its great weather since it is almost always protected from the N prevailing winds. Its name derives from a small lake with shallow waters which nowadays is a dried marsh. Vromolimnos is the ideal place if you are looking for a beach party. In fact there are beach tavernas and cafes, beach volley and many opportunities for water sports. If sailing close to the cost, you are pleased to mind the rock which exists 85m from the shore at the S end of the beach.
Skiathos harbor
Skiathos marina is located on the N end of the island main port. There is a pontoon which is usually reserved for charter boats. The N end of the town quay is used by day trip boats. Otherwise the rest of the town quay N of the ferry berth is for visiting yachts. It is suggested to visit the port during the week when the charter boats are out. Care is needed of numerous moorings. Here one can find water and electricity. Fuels can be delivered to the harbor by mini-tanker. The main street is a 5-minute walk from the quay. There, one can find numerous tavernas, restaurants, cafeterias and bars by the sea front. This port has facilities for the basic needs of its customers. Due to the proximity to the city, boaters can have access to additional services such as laundry, supermarket, medical facilities and ATM.
Tsougria islet
Tsougria islet lies S of Skiathos harbor. Although uninhabited it gets busy at the height of the season. Tsougria Island has two bays on the W coast. The first one has a perfect sandy shoreline while the second is more on the wild side. There are beach bar/tavernas in each bay. Both are protected from N winds. Anchor off the beach in either bay in 5-8m on sand. Keep clear of reefs to the N of the island extending from shore 300-400m. At night you should avoid making passages between the islets surrounding Skiathos Bay.
Arkos islet
Arkos uninhabited island is located 1.5 NM to the SE of Skiathos harbor and it is a good choice for ideal swim stop. The main beach is sandy and there is a small taverna that serves drinks and snacks. Metal stakes are available on shore to tie lines to. If you are looking for some privacy, there is also the S cove, perfect for temporary anchorage.
Lalaria beach
The famous Lalaria beach at the N side of Skiathos Island is accessible only by boat. Words cannot describe its wild beauty with its impressive steep cliffs, the clear blue waters and the small, round white pebbles (lalaria) from which it took its name. Be cautious when approaching due to underwater marble slabs. The beach is open to the full force of N winds and it is not suggested to visit it with stormy weather. Approach the beach with caution as depths are around 4-5m and generally shallow into 50m offshore. The best approach for a yacht is to the NW part of the beach anchoring before the rocks.
Loutraki harbour
Loutraki is the nearest port to Skiahtos, in fact you should reach this harbour in about 2 hours sailing. Loutraki is also the second port of the island serving the neighbouring up the hill village of Glossa where you will find an ATM, post office and pharmacy. At Loutraki harbour are several local tavernas, cafeterias, a mini market and a bakery. This port is naturally protected by strong winds and storms. The best berthing can be found on the S side of the main pontoon where depths range from 5m to 1.80m at the shore-end. The pontoon has automatic electric and water service poles. Buy a stick to activate the service from the charter office 100m from the pontoon.
Elios (Neo Klima) harbour
Elios is a small village on the W coast with an up-dated harbour (concrete quays, shore power and water taps). It offers a good protection from the prevailing meltemi, but can become untenable in strong S winds. You should avoid sailing along the coast where the depths N and S of the harbour entrance can be relatively shallow. There are some tavernas overlooking the harbour, a mini market and bakery.
Kastani beach
Kastani beach a small secluded beach that became famous from the movie “Mamma Mia”, as many of the shootings were made there. It is a beach with pines down to the sea, wonderful clear waters, with not a hint of organization. The shore has white pebbles. The best shelter from prevailing wind is as close to the N end of the beach as possible.
Milia beach
Milia is an extremely beautiful beach with glimmering white sand and turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and diving. Right opposite the marvellous beach is the island of Dassia. One rock separates the coast in half, with the S side gathering most people, while the smaller beach to the N it is often much quitter. The main beach offers some rental facilities like sun beds, umbrellas and a nice beach bar serving cold drinks and snacks. Stay on till sunset to enjoy the most majestic sunset that for sure will stay in your memory forever.
Panormos bay
Panormos sandy beach is enclosed in a large, stunning bay which is very deep even close to the beach (be aware that anchoring is impossible at this part!). It is a quite popular area with beautiful surroundings and many facilities. Close to the beach lies the village of Panormos where you will find plenty of taverns, restaurants, mini market, bakery and many local shops. The place to anchor is in the E part of the bay, but you should take care as you will need to use the entire length of the anchor chain and to be sure that it is dug well in. Even better, you can also take a line ashore.
Limnonari beach
Limnonari is a small, lovely sandy beach, hidden in a magnificent cove. Sun beds, umbrellas and a waterside tavern can be found there. Anchor outside the swimming area in 5-7m on sand.
Agnontas bay
On the S coast of Skopelos, at a beautiful bay lies the lovely beach of Agnontas. There, the pine trees literally touch the sea. Agnontas is the third port of Skopelos where ships and ferries anchor when the winds prevent them from reaching the other ports of the island. It is a picturesque coastal settlement where you can find ashore many tavernas, bars, and a nearby mini market. Unfortunately, there is limited space to anchor in the bay. If possible go alongside or bows-to the quay as a stounami-like swell is created by passing ships and ferries (!). Be aware to use the entire length of the anchor. Water facilities and fuel by tanker is available on the quay.
Stafylos bay
Stafilos, on the S coast of Skopelos, is among the most popular and picturesque beaches on the island. It is surrounded by high cliffs and the coast is organized with umbrellas and an ashore beach bar. The approach is straightforward but care needs to be taken as some visible rocks on the W side of the open bay exist. The large bay offers good protection from the meltemi although a swell often curves around into the bay.
Skopelos Town (Hóra)
Hóra, on the N coast, is the capital of the island. The town of Skopelos is very scenic with its red roofs, amphitheatrical, with paved streets and on the top of the hill there is a Venetian castle. Take a trip through the rich history of the island with a visit to the Folklore Museum, housed in a renovated mansion built in the previous century, where you can enjoy a rich collection of folklore-related exhibits (open Mon-Sat, 10:00-14:00 & 19:00-22:00; entrance: €3). At the evening, have a stroll along the picturesque seafront of the town where many tavernas/restaurants, bars and cafeterias exist. Here you can find shopping streets, super markets, bakeries and all the facilities associated with a big town. Do not leave Skopelos without tasting the traditional Skopelos cheese pie, a mouth watering delicacy made of crispy pastry in a spiral shape and local goat cheese. In general Skopelos harbor is tenable, although with a meltemi (NE) it can develop an uncomfortable swell. Thus it can be sometimes dangerous to enter or leave the harbor, so be sure to keep some distance off the quay. Go stern or bows-to the N quay. The bottom in the harbour is mud and provides excellent holding. This harbour has automatic service poles for water and electricity on the quay. Sticks are available in the harbour kiosk and fuel can be delivered by mini-tanker.
Ai Giannis (Mama Mia Church)
Ai Giannis is one of the most picturesque locations in N Skopelos. Here is the church of Ai Giannis built at the tip of an impressive rock overlooking the small cove and offering a breathtaking view to the coasts of Skopelos and Alonissos. The church and the beach of Ai Giannis have become worldwide famous after the American movie “Mamma Mia”. If you want to visit the monastery you need to climb 105 steps but the stunning view totally worth it. In general, the N side of the island is accessible by yachts only weather permitting.
Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades
Alonissos Island together with six smaller islands (Peristera, Kira Panagia, Gioura, Psathura, Piperi and Skantzoura), as well as 22 uninhabited islets form The National Marine Park of Alonissos Northern Sporades. The park is a unique combination of terrestrial and aquatic Mediterranean habitats. Hundreds of flora species as well as numerous animal and plant species are of significant scientific interest. It is home to the Mediterranean monk seal “monachus monachus”, nowadays considered as the number one endangered species of the European fauna. You will have a great opportunity to visit these unique places with the sailing yacht. There are specific restrictions on amateur fishing, hunting and camping, as well as fire lighting is not permitted. Thought it is permitted swim and take photographs. Also, be careful with waste disposal and don’t use shampoo and soap during your stay in the Marine Park.
Mourtias bay
On the SW part of the island two pleasant beaches awaits you: Mikros Mourtias and Megalos Mourtias. Both are pebbly with crystal-clear waters. Mikros Mourtias is located N to Megalos Mourtias and it is a small, pleasant cove with sand and pebbles. The beach is proffered by nudists. No facilities are found as the beach is totally off the beaten track. Megalos Mourtias beach is very calm since it is protected from the strong winds. There are some tavernas in the area serving delicious seafood. Ancore in 4-6m around the bay taking care to avoid the prohibited area where there are underwater cables.
Patitiri harbour
Patitiri is the capital and the main port of Alonissos. Narrow whitewashed streets and stairs give a particular atmosphere to this little harbour, surrounded by incredibly crystalline emerald waters and by a dense pine forest. A nice variety of tavernas, cafeterias, supermarkets, bakeries and other local shops can be found in Patitiri, in the two main streets starting from the harbour. Here you can find other facilities such as Post Office and ATM. The harbour affords good shelter from the meltemi, although sometimes a swell it is created. You can anchor stern or bows-to the N quay, while there is limited space to anchor in the harbour. The bottom is mostly sand and provides good holding. Care is needed of ferries entering and leaving the narrow entrance to the harbour. On the quay there are water taps and fuel can be delivered by a mini-tanker. It is also worth visiting the Old Town of Alonissos (Hóra) at the top of the hill, easy accessible by bus approximately 10 minutes away from the main harbour. There you will discover traditional houses, cobbled streets, local tourist stores and numerous tavernas/cafeterias. Other facilities such as mini-markets and pharmacies provided.
Votsi harbour
The small picturesque harbour of Votsi lies close to Patitiri. The village extends around the natural bay where small fishing boats mooring and some local, ashore tavernas exist. This small port offers a good shelter from the meltemi, although is affected by SE winds. Sailing boats can secure their sterns to the quay or anchor on its NE corner with a line ashore taking care of the numerous permanent moorings.
Milia beach
Milia lovely beach is located in a small gulf, surrounded by a thick pine forest. It is a beautiful place with colourful round pebbles and crystalline emerald waters shining under the sunlight. This little jewel is the ideal place to enjoy the sun and the crystal clear sea in a peaceful and calm atmosphere, surrounded by a great and unspoiled natural beauty.
Chrisi Milia beach
Chrisi Milia is one of the most popular beaches within the National Marine Park of Alonissos and North Sporades, where the dense pine forest literally reaches the level of the sea. It is a quite large beach with fine sand, organized with umbrellas, sun beds and facilities for water-sports and other activities to enjoy, such as diving tours. There are some ashore tavernas. The beach offers a typical safe berth, but pay attention when you approach the NW rocky coast of the bay, as there are few rocks inside the sea reaching 3m depth. It is suggested to use your anchor and a line toward N to keep close to the shore.
Kokkinokastro beach
Kokkinokastro (“Red Castle”) is a quite impressive beach with its characteristic red colour of the rocks that surround the beach. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches of the island. It is organised with sun beds and umbrellas, a beach bar also exist and canoe rental facilities. The bottom of the beach is one of the most interesting to explore with a mask. Opposite the beach, on the islet called Kokkinonisi (“Red Island”) or Vrahos (rock) tools from the Palaeolithic area were found. The best time to enjoy is late afternoon when the sun sets after the red rocks of the area.
Tzortzi Yialos bay
The picturesque bay of Tzortzi Yialos can be found just after Kokkinokastro beach. This little narrow beach is full of pebbles and pine trees while the limpid and blue green waters are a real delight. The whole place is incredibly calm and peaceful. A little tavern is opened near the beach during summer. The bay offers a good shelter from the meltemi. Anchor in 4-8m off the beach where the sandy bottom provides good holding. Care is needed of the rocks extending out from the nearby Kokkinokastro.
Steni Vala bay
Steni Vala is a fishing village in the SE part of the island, very popular especially for sailing yachts. Nearby there is a pretty and spacious beach for swimming and sunbathing. Steni Vala is a good shelter from the meltemi, only open to E-SE. There are some cafeterias, ashore restaurants and two mini markets. Water is also available in some cafeterias. There, one can find the Mediterranean Monk Seal Treatment and Rehabilitation Center and the “Ikion Diving Center” which offers the experience of a unique underwater exploration in the marine protected area of Alonissos. When approaching to the quay, pay great attention, as the water is less than 2m deep and you may damage the rudder. Thus, larger yachts may need to keep a larger distance off the quay. Anchor bows-to, as close as possible to the S shore of the quay.
Kalamakia harbour
This small fishing harbour is not recommended for sailing yachts as it is very narrow for maneuvering inside, the depths are less than 1m and the place is usually crowded with small local boats.
Peristera Islet
This little island (only 14.2 sq Km) to the E side of Alonissos is almost deserted. There are no inhabitants or facilities, so bring all the necessary items before visit it. There you can find three different ideal bays to swim (Peristera & Xero bay on the S end of Peristera Islet, Vasiliko bay on the W coast ), totally off the beaten track, with sandy and pebbly beaches, as well as green.
Peristera bay offers a good shelter from meltemi. Drop your anchor 3-6m off the beach where the muddy bottom provides good holding.
Xero bay is immediately E of Peristera Bay, and it is an adequate shelter from meltemi. Anchor 5-10m away from the head of the beach.
Vasiliko bay offers a good shelter from the meltemi but is exposed to the south winds. Drop your anchor in 4-8m in the bay.
Kira Panayia Island
Kira Panayia is a small (only 25 sq Km) island lies 4 NM to the NE of Alonissos. It is uninhabited with two natural harbours, Agios Petros (Kira Panayia bay) on the SW corner and Planitis bay on the N side. At the island there are no facilities, so before arriving, take all the necessaries. Agios Petros, on the SW side of the islet, is an impressive bay that provides good shelter from the meltemi and good anchorage. Its emerald waters attract many boaters. In a small cove on the E side of the island lies the Monastery of Kira Panagia from which the island derives its name. The cove provides shelter to visit the monastery but only from W winds and should be preferred in calm weather only. Anchor in 5m from the shore and take a line ashore. There is a path leading to the monastery and it takes around 15 minutes to get there. Planitis bay lies on the N side of the islet. Its entrance, which is formed south of the rocky islet Sfika, is quite narrow (82 m) and difficult to recognize from afar. When strong N winds prevail enormous waves piles up at the entrance. Accordingly, with strong N winds it can be difficult to leave the bay. Thus, visit the island only whether permitted. Inside the bay the water is always smooth and consist an excellent all-round shelter regardless of the weather conditions. Anchor in 3-6m offshore. The bottom is clay and mud and provides a good holding. The inner part of the bay consist an ideal shelter to stay the night.
Yioura Island
NE of Kira Panagia lies the rocky islet of Yioura. It has an area of just 11 sq Km and its coasts are steep and rocky. On Yioura Island, human presence was first detected in the 9th century BC, according to findings at Cyclop’s cave. There are no facilities and nowadays there one can only find a kind of rare wild goats. There are no natural protected harbours. It is possible to anchor at Pnigmenos small cave in the SW part where normal water coming out from several holes in the cave or at the small pebbly beach called Liadromitiko. Be aware as in the area there is limited (almost no) phone signal!
Piperi Island
In a distance of 6.4 NM W of Yioura Island lies Piperi Island. No available anchorage even 3M around it.
Psathoura Island
Psathoura is the northernmost island of the group of Sporades. This remote island formed from a volcano that was active in the Pleistocene era. It is totally uninhabited and there are no amenities, so be sure that you have all the necessaries before arriving. Its N tip is marked by a handsome lighthouse constructed of local stone in 1895 and it is the highest in the Aegean. Some ruins on the N side seem to have been an ancient fortress and on the S and W sides are remains of habitations dating from Neolithic times. At the S side there is a lovely beach called Mandraki. In general, you should visit the island when there are no strong winds from the N and S as the sea in the vicinity of Psathoura can be exceptionally disturbed and steep.
Skantzoura Island
Skantzoura Island lies about 15 NM E of the S end of Skopelos Island. Close to it there are a number of islets lay off the coast. Care must be taken in the vicinity of the islands especially at night. At the Skantzoura Island you can find two bays that provide adequate shelter from meltemi:
Prasso Bay on the W side is formed by two successive small coves. Anchor in 4-6m offshore and take care of the marked mooring lines lying in the S bay.
Skantzoura Bay lies on the S side of Skanzoura Island. It is deep and narrow. Drop your anchor in 3-5m from the edge of the beach and take a long line ashore.
Pagasetic Gulf
The Pagasetic Gulf is a rounded gulf in the Magnesia regional unit that is formed by the Mount Pelion peninsula. The unique beauty of the region comes from the bright sun, the impressive fertile mountain Pelion, picturesque - friendly family villages and naturally formed beaches.
Sailing to the W side of the Pagasetic Gulf leads through the Euboean Sea to the second largest Greek island, Euboea (Evia). To this part, one can explore Nies bay and/or Achillion and Orei harbor.
To the E side of the Pagasetic Gulf, before reaching the Sporades Islands (Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos), it is also worth visiting the small colourful harbors of Milina, Kottes, Old Trikeri Island and Agia Kyriaki as well as, the natural charming bays of Tzasteni, Trachilli, and Prasouda little island. Depart for the island of Skiathos, we also suggest that you pay a visit at the wonderful bays of Chondri Ammos and Platanias on the SE part of the Mount Pelion peninsula.
Nies bay
To this picturesque small bay you will surely find peace and tranquility. It is a reasonable shelter from the meltemi. Anchor in 4-6m. on mud. The beach is not organized and there are no facilities.
Achillion bay
Achillion is one of the larger villages on the W side of the Gulf of Volos. Berth stern or bows-to on the large quay. Water and electricity are available. The long seafront is lined with tavernas, cafeterias, a bakery and two mini markets.
Oreoi harbor
The harbor provides a good shelter from the prevailing winds. Berth stern or bows-to on then N large quay. The bottom is sandy and offers a good holding. There you can find water and electricity supplies. Fuels can be delivered by mini-tanker. Many restaurants ashore.
Milina harbor
As you embark on your sailing holidays to the E part of the Pagasetic Gulf, the first destination to reach is Milina, a seaside village towards the nearby small islands Alatas and Prasouda. It is a perfect mooring place for all kind of sailing boats. Here you will find untouched, sandy beaches and of course, peace and quiet. This area is like heaven with numerous small deserted islands, quite sandy beaches and hidden caves. Along the beach you can find restaurants, bars, coffee places and fish tavernas.
Prasouda islet
Prasouda it is a small uninhabited islet the size of which is almost 7,000 sqm. What makes Prasouda particularly special is the abandoned byzantine monastery of “Zoodohos Pigi” built on the 11th century a.c. It is suggested to walk around the islet and to have a stop just to have a quickly swim at the blue, deep waters and onboard lunch.
Tzasteni bay
Tzasteni is among the most photographed locations in Pelion and the reason is profound: the fabulous, emerald color water and the serene atmosphere can stimulate anybody. The picturesque bay of Tzasteni has become an emblematic spot of the peninsula, present in all articles devoted to the region. It is an ideal destination to have a swim at the vivid waters and to taste dinner on board. Anchor in 6-8m. on sand and weed. You can also have a long line ashore off the rocks.
Kottes harbor
The peaceful, little harbour village of Kottes is another beautiful quaint fishing hamlet by the sea. At the port you can find fish taverns, which serve fresh fish caught by the local fishermen and other local dishes such as the famous crayfish or lobster spaghetti. Water and electricity supply only available to our clients to “Tseta Tavern”.
Trachili bay
Trachili is the natural boundary of Mount Pelion on the internal side of the Pagasetic Gulf. In this place you can stay for a short stop to enjoy the swim in the sandy beach before heading out to the next destinations.
Old Trikeri Island (Agios Yiannis)
The peaceful and scenic Old Trikeri Island is situated at the foot of the Pelion peninsula in the Pagasietic Gulf, 12 ΝΜ away from Volos. It is a little charming harbor, free of any traffic, leaving the island to be explored in perfect peace. Two picturesque, little taverns around the water’s edge offering fresh fish, seafood and local tsipouro at really affordable prices. A mini market is also available. Following the coastal paths, it is possible to walk around the island in half a day. At the top of the hill on the island you can see the “Monastery of Annunciation of Virgin Mary”, which is dated from 1825. To reach the monastery you should walk a path full of extreme nature and while going up the hill you will be satisfied by the view. At the W side of the island is the church of Agios Yiannis, dated from 1786. The beaches on the island are more than beautiful, and they invite you for a nice cool swim. On the E of Old Trikeri Island you can find Pithos bay. There you can anchor with a long line ashore off the beach in 3-6m. This bay provides good holding and it is a reasonable shelter in settled weather.
Agia Kyriaki port
Agia Kyriaki is a quaint port with colourful wooden fishing boats and small old houses. All visitors are attracted to this authentic village, which still maintains its original colors. Simple and so beautiful, the village has a bit of an island atmosphere and by definition is a must see destination. The bay, which is very deep, is a good shelter from the meltemi, although open to the W and S wind. At the small picturesque taverna around the port you can try traditional tastes, such as octopus, fresh fish, lobster pasta all caught by local fisherman “Manolas”. There is also a mini market. As for swimming, it is recommended to anchor to the beautiful and quite Mylos beach, which is approximately 1km before the village.
Chondri Ammos beach (SE part of Mount Pelion Peninsula)
Chondri Ammos is a lovely small beach located in a well-kept natural cove, ideal to have a short stop to swim. The waters are vivid blue and the place emerge tranquillity. Anchor in a cove on the N side in 5-8m on mud. It is a reasonable shelter from the meltemi, although open on S side.
Platanias beach (SE part of Mount Pelion Peninsula)
The stunning golden, sandy beach is ideal for a peaceful swim, surrounded by pebbles and olive groves. The place offers a wide choice of tavernas, souvenir shops, mini markets and a bakery. The harbour is safe and provides good shelter from the meltemi. Drop your anchor and pay attention to the moorings.