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 The anchorage features stunning turquoise water and a serene setting. Depths remained favorable at 6 to 7 meters, with good holding in sandy areas. Visitors enjoyed privacy with limited boat traffic, highlighting its appeal for tranquility.
	Panormos Bay, South ★ 5.0 Skopelos Anchoring in Panormos Bay is characterized by good holding and a calm environment. Visitors have reported depths of 9 to 10 meters with excellent shelter from wind. Access to local amenities, including restaurants and shops, is convenient for those staying in the area.
	Votsi ★ 4.8 Alonissos Many boats can anchor securely with lines to shore in a sheltered bay. Visitors report good holding conditions and proximity to amenities. The area features tavernas and supermarkets within walking distance, contributing to its appeal.
	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.
	Skyropoula ★ 4.7 Anchoring in this bay is possible in a large sandy area at 6m depth. Visitors reported good shelter from NW winds and noted the presence of goats on the beach. Phone signal availability varies.
	Marathon Schinia Beach ★ 4.5 A spacious bay offers calm conditions despite stronger winds outside. Visitors noted good holding and facilities for anchoring. The area includes a sandy beach, surrounded by trees, ideal for relaxation.
	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 ★ 4.3 Clear waters and beautiful sunsets characterize this anchorage. Boat traffic increases on weekends but decreases significantly at night. The holding is generally good, with some small swell and occasional disturbances from passing ferries.
	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.
	Eretria Harbour ★ 4.3 Eretria Harbour provides well-protected anchorage with good holding in sandy mud. Visitors noted clear water and nearby tavernas, though some found the area quiet. Anchoring requires careful spot selection due to the presence of multiple boats.

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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.
	Steni Vala ★ 5.0 Alonissos Calming conditions prevail in Steni Vala, with multiple visitors appreciating its appealing bay. The area features various tavernas and offers options for stern-to docking, with adequate holding noted. The local mini market serves as a useful stop before venturing further out.
	Linaria Marina ★ 4.8 Skyros A welcoming atmosphere characterizes this marina, with a friendly harbourmaster who assists with mooring and provides helpful information. The facilities are well-equipped, including laundry, WiFi, and restaurants nearby. Visitors highlight the marina's excellent service and cleanliness.
	Orei ★ 4.8 Protection is provided by the harbour, along with available water and electricity. A local harbour master manages docking procedures. The quay is maintained, enhancing the cruising experience.

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Boat services

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

Boatyards

DimStef ★ 5.0 This boatyard offers a community-oriented environment for boat owners with facilities including free water, electricity, washing machines, and showers. DimStef provides assistance in finding external companies for work on boats, including mast services.

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 have been noted by visitors, enhancing the experience of those seeking supplies. Interaction appears to be positive even for minor purchases.
	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 The shop features a selection of shackles, bolts, and washers. Staff are reported as helpful, and opening hours are noted as convenient by visitors. However, it primarily focuses on fishing and snorkeling equipment, lacking a full range of boating gear.

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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: