The Sporades

The Sporades are a group of islands in the northern Aegean, stretching from the coast of Thessaly northeast into open water. The main cruising islands are Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonnisos, with the more remote Skyros lying further southeast. The group offers a mix of well-sheltered anchorages, wooded hillsides, and clear water, with services concentrated on Skiathos.

Skopelos is the most architecturally intact of the main islands. The old town climbs steeply from the harbour, its whitewashed houses and narrow lanes largely untouched by the development that has altered other Aegean ports. Skopelos Old Town rewards exploration on foot, with Byzantine churches scattered throughout the upper streets.

On the north coast of Skopelos, the clifftop chapel of Agios Ioannis sits above a small beach and is reached by a steep flight of stone steps. It became widely known after featuring in the Mamma Mia film, though the setting and views stand on their own. The approach is best made in the early morning or at evening.

Inland from the port of Loutraki on Skopelos, the village of Glossa sits high on the hillside with views across the surrounding water. The walk up from the port on Trail 5 takes around 35 to 40 minutes on a steep path through the trees and is rewarded by a quieter, more traditional atmosphere than the main port.

On Skiathos, a trail starting from the western end of the island leads through olive groves to a monastery before continuing to Kastro, the island's abandoned hilltop settlement. The full loop covers around 18 kilometres and reaches the highest point on the island, with views back across the channel toward Skopelos.

Skiathos airport sits at the end of a short runway and arriving aircraft pass low over the beach on their final approach. The plane spotting area at the eastern end of the runway is a fun place to sit and watch as planes fly low overhead.

On Alonnisos, a Venetian-era fort sits above the old village and is accessible via a walk from the coast. The fort itself is in a poor state of repair and not open to visitors, but the path up offers good views across the surrounding sea and islands.

The National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades covers the outer islands of the group, including Kyra Panagia, Psathoura, Piperi, Skantzoura, and Gioura. Anchoring is restricted, and free camping, open fires, scuba diving with respirators, and speargun fishing are prohibited throughout the park. Mariners are advised to check current restrictions before arriving.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Stira Island ★ 5.0 Visitors experience an isolated and serene setting with clear turquoise waters. Depths of 6m at the entrance allow for easy access, while anchoring in 7m on sand is common. The sunset views are particularly stunning.
	Vasiliko ★ 4.8 The anchorage features a beautiful sandy bay suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Anchor holding is generally reliable with good visibility in the water. Visitors should be cautious of strong winds and underwater hazards, particularly near the eastern section.
	Marathon Schinia Beach ★ 4.7 Calm conditions can be found even during strong NE winds in this large bay. Multiple sand patches allow for good holding between sea grass. Reviewers note spaciousness and tranquillity, making it a favorable overnight anchorage.
	Spartines Beach Anchorage ★ 4.7 Alonissos The anchorage provides good holding with sand bottoms, and many prefer to anchor away from seagrass. Visitors reported comfortable conditions despite some swell and occasional charter boat traffic. The area is scenic, with clear water and access to nearby amenities.
	Votsi ★ 4.7 Alonissos This anchorage features clear water and accommodates up to ten boats with good holding. There are no dedicated yacht spaces, meaning anchoring is in front of the fishing harbor. Bars, taverns, and supermarkets are available within walking distance.
	Boufalo ★ 4.5 The anchorage features good holding in sand, with visitors noting protection from waves and strong winds. The presence of two restaurants and basic amenities is mentioned, although the area offers limited facilities overall. It is a quiet spot with space for multiple boats.
	Chersonisis N Anchorage ★ 4.4 Many boats visit during the day, but evenings are relatively quiet. The water is clear and suitable for swimming, with some reports of minor swell from northwest winds. Good holding is noted, enhancing the experience for those anchoring.
	Loitra Spa Bay ★ 4.3 Anchoring near Loitra Spa Bay offers sandy conditions in depths of 5-8 meters. Visitors report strong rolling at night when winds are calm. The unique thermal springs create an interesting swimming experience, highlighting its appeal as a daytime stop.
	Stafylos East ★ 4.3 Skopelos Clear waters and picturesque scenery characterize this anchorage. Space can be limited, with potential discomfort from swells and noise from nearby charter boats. Adequate holding exists, and the proximity to a beach bar adds to the appeal.
	Kolios Bay ★ 4.3 Skiathos Anchoring in Kolios Bay offers several options with depths ranging from 4 m to 7 m. The conditions are generally protected from northerly winds, though some swell may be present. Multiple sand patches are noted for good holding, but caution is advised due to rocky areas.

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Marinas

Vourkari Chalkida Tourist Anchorage ★ 3.7 Access to the marina features multiple nuances. One visitor experienced complications with paying berth fees and navigating arrangements. In contrast, another noted reasonable rates and adequate facilities, emphasizing good sheltering from winds.

Harbours

	Agia Kiriaki ★ 5.0 Mooring service is available, with owners assisting with lines. The dining facility has allowed overnight stays, and several visitors have enjoyed quality seafood. Experiences in this area have generally been positive, particularly regarding the friendly atmosphere.
	Kavalianni ★ 5.0 Kavalianni provides a sheltered environment, particularly effective against the Meltemi winds. The harbour can accommodate 3-4 boats, though it may feel isolated, with limited services nearby. Visitors have noted the quietness and sufficient depth for entry.
	Linaria Marina ★ 4.9 Skyros A welcoming atmosphere is highlighted with highly accommodating staff who assist visitors. Facilities include showers, laundry, and dining options nearby. Prices are about 30 euros per night, and services like WiFi and a fuel station are available.
	Orei ★ 4.8 A safe harbour with well-maintained facilities. Water and electricity are available, and mooring fees are reasonable at approximately €0.68 per meter per night. Visitors noted the absence of ATMs while enjoying various local dining options.
	Skiathos town quay ★ 4.6 Skiathos Water and electricity are available for boats at Skiathos town quay. Visitors report collective experiences of easy access and helpful staff, with reasonable anchorage conditions. However, availability may be limited on weekends due to reservations for charter companies.

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Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Chandlers

	DimStef ★ 5.0 DimStef Marina Services allows sleeping on board and offers all necessary services, including electricity and water, as part of the staying fees. Visitors have noted friendly staff and a well-stocked chandlery.
No image	Barbouris ★ 5.0 Friendly and helpful staff are noted in the Reviews. Visitors report positive interactions, even for small purchases. The chandler is operational and provides a variety of boating supplies.
	Citimarine ★ 5.0 A chandler provides various supplies, including a replacement toilet. The shop is described as small but adequately stocked. Communication is praised, with services available at reasonable prices.
	Paschalis ★ 4.0 Skiathos Primarily a fishing and snorkeling equipment store, this shop also stocks some boating gear. It has stainless washers available. The overall inventory seems limited for broader chandler service needs.

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Useful yacht clearance links:

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in Greece: