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- One Week Sporades
Sailing in the Sporades Islands is terrific thanks to the regular summer Meltemi wind. This area is perfect for those of you looking to really get a heel on! The unbeatable combination of gin clear water, great wind and beautiful beaches is a timeless combination that sailors just can't seem to resist - we can't think why!
Sail from Skiathos Town (just two minutes from the airport) and explore Skopelos, Alonissos and Kyra Panayia to name a few of the 24 islands!
The summer months in the Sporades are dry and warm with temperatures reaching highs of 26 degrees even in May! Prevailing winds are from the north (sometimes NW) providing fantastic sailing conditions. The Sporades in general enjoy a warm summer with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees in July and August.
With the stunning clarity of the water and the beautiful bays in the more remote islands that lie further east, our favourite feature of this route is spending the occasional night cooking aboard, rather than dining ashore. These nights are spent anchored in uninhabited, sheltered bays, with just the twinkle of starlight above you. The only sound is of water lapping on the beach and the tinkle of bells from wandering goats! This is a most satisfying and relaxing way to enjoy these outer islands.
When you arrive at the base you'll be met by our local partners who will handle your check-in. Once all the paperwork is complete you'll be shown to your boat and after a quick briefing it's over to you! Time to relax (might we suggest with a cold beer?).
There's plenty to do on your first night in Skiathos, once the sun has set over the white washed houses the bars and restaurants that line the waterfront come alive and have stunning views across the bay. We highly recommend a walk up to the Windmill Restaurant for the most terrific views in the whole town. It is a little pricey but a great spot for a special occasion or to celebrate the first or last night of holiday!
From Skiathos a great first sail is over to the island of Skopelos. It's around 20 miles away which means plenty of time for a lazy lunch and swim stop. There are a number of possible stops on Skopleos - from sleepy Neo Klima and Loutraki to buzzing Skopelos Town (not a spot to be missed!).
Skiathos Island
Skopelos Island
Loutraki
From Skopelos we recommend heading up north up to Patitiri on Alonissos Island and into the National Marine Park. This is around 10- 15 miles from Skopelos Town. We highly recommend a sail to the famed Mamma Mia church en route (Abba tunes at the ready!). Once you arrive on Alonissos you will feel the pace of life slow...simply drop anchor, have a swim, relax and unwind, make sure you keep an eye out for the Mediterranean Monk Seal that is found in the area. A walk or taxi up to Alonissos Old Town is a must! The views from the top of the hill are incredible. If you fancy a few drinks, head up to the Piano Bar where (as the name suggests) there is live music in the summer. Our favourite taverna is a small unassuming spot above the supermarket. It doesn't sound like much but this is some of the best Greek food we have ever tasted!
After Patitiri continuing north to Kyra Panayia, gets you even further off the beaten track. This is the furthest you can easily reach on a one week holiday from Skiathos. Kyra Panayia is a peaceful island where the only people you'll bump into are monks and fishermen! A night under the stars here can't fail to disappoint!
Once you've sailed as far north as you can, head back south to Steni Vala on Alonissos, another tranquil place to spend a night. A lunchtime anchorage either on Steni Vala beach or Peristeri Island are both great options.
Alonissos
Kyra Panagia
Peristeri
A great last stop can be Panormos Bay on Skopelos Island, a beautiful emerald green bay 16km from Skiathos town. The unrivalled beauty of this bay is hard to beat and the sunset here will make you never wanting to leave!
On your last day it's time to head back to Skiathos, we usually aim for between 4-6pm. This gives you plenty of time to stop off at Koukounaries Beach on Skiathos Island just a short sail from the town. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region and a brilliant stop to make the most of your last day.
Once you're moored up it's time to explore the winding back streets of Skiathos Town and enjoy one final Greek taverna feast!
Skiathos Island
Panormos Bay
Koukounaries
Below is an indication of the yachts that will sail on this flotilla. Please call us on 020 8459 8787 to check live availability.
Our Shore to Sail holidays are a combination of a one or two week flotilla sailing holiday with another relaxing week or two ashore.
These holidays will appeal to those who enjoy sailing but have family or friends who are not quite so enthusiastic about sailing - a compromise can now be made!
Most people opt for a week of sailing followed by a week of winding down on shore. However it is entirely up to you to do what you want to do (and when!)
The Iris Hotel has been a popular choice for flotilla sailors for many years. This accommodation option will fit in with any of our flotillas starting and finishing on Lefkas Island. The hotel itself is a small family run hotel located close to Nidri Town. It has a combination of studio rooms for two or three people and apartments that can sleep up to 4.
The Salvator Spa Hotel is perched in the hills above Parga town and is a slightly more luxurious offering. The rooms on offer range from the Deluxe Room for two people, up to the Superior 2 Room Villa for up to 6 people. The hotel itself has an excellent restaurant, pool and spa facilities and all villas come with their own private pool.
Our brand new villa in Sivota on Lefkas is exclusive to Sailing Holidays Ltd. Built with families and groups in mind, the 3 double bedrooms all feature en-suite bathrooms. Built into the hill the ground floor level comprises of the master bedroom, a large kitchen and living space. On the same level you will find a huge outdoor seating area and a private pool.
