ABOUT THE ISLANDS
The Sporades Islands are located off the eastern shore of mainland Greece and are known for their golden sands, crystal clear waters and quaint little villages. In comparison to the more southern islands of the Aegean, the Sporades are dense with greenery and the forests reach all the way to the beaches. The close distances between the 11 islands (only Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skiros are inhabited) means line-of-sight sailing and short, sightseeing hops.
While the inhabited islands share a similar mountainous landscape, they all have their very own distinct personalities. All four islands have something to offer a Sunsailor, whether you are looking for nightlife, quiet beaches, watersports, mountain walks or just a hideaway from everything!
CRUISING NOTES
Skiathos
The most widely known island of Sporades group, Skiathos is also the smallest – approx 8 miles long. Skaithos has developed touristically at a faster and more advanced rate than the others, due partly to the islands airport, but mainly because of its stunning natural beauty. Like the other islands Skiathos is extremely green, but it also has an abundance of fine, sandy beaches stretching all along the south facing coast offering fabulously clean seas, golden sand and watersports. Skiathos also offers a riding school and a tennis club with clay courts.
Within a walkable distance from the marina in the Port of Skiathos is Skiathos town, a very cosmopolitan resort with supermarkets and grocery stores, small taverns, quality restaurants, coffee shops, bars and nightclubs.
Despite the fact that the island and some of its beaches can be busy in high season, it’s still possible to escape from the crowds by sailing along Skiathos’ north coast. More rugged than the south, this area has hardly been developed and there are some lovely natural beaches only accessible under sail. From this coast the views out over the ocean are breathtaking.
Sailing from Skiathos you have access to an area extending from the Gulf of Volos throughout all the Sporades Islands to Skyros. (Skyros is no longer part of the official sailing area, although yachts can visit providing they sign a waiver).
Milina
Milina is a small, attractive seaside village located on the eastern shores of the Gulf of Volos. Attractive tavernas spill out onto either side of the coastal road running through the village which remains a quiet area unspoilt by tourism. The village has a few local stores for provisioning and a good pharmacy and medical centre locally.