BOAT-COMPARATOR Guide

Boat Rental in the Sporades, from Skiathos

Pine-covered islands and a protected monk seal reserve at Alonissos: renting a boat from Skiathos to explore the Sporades in the Aegean.

Away from the well-trodden Cyclades or Dodecanese, the Sporades form a small, green Aegean archipelago, easy to explore at a relaxed pace in a week.

Skiathos, a lively, well-equipped base

With its own airport and a well-served marina, Skiathos is the most practical starting point for the archipelago. The island, covered in pine forest right down to the waterline, boasts renowned beaches like Koukounaries, reachable on foot or as a stop by boat.

Skopelos, the film-set island

A short crossing from Skiathos, Skopelos served as the filming location for Mamma Mia!, with several scenes shot on its beaches and in its harbour. The island, steeper and quieter than its neighbour, is worth a stop for its plum orchards and its perched white village.

Alonissos and the monk seal marine park

Further east, Alonissos sits at the heart of the largest marine park in the Mediterranean, created to protect the Mediterranean monk seal, one of the world's most endangered marine mammals. Navigation is restricted in some sectors to protect the species: check with your rental operator about areas to avoid before setting off.

Easy-going Aegean sailing

Unlike the Cyclades, the Sporades don't take the full brunt of the meltemi — the archipelago is partly sheltered by mainland Greece, making it a good option for a less experienced crew in high summer.

Budget and comparison

A sailboat rents for €300-700/day (€1,500-4,000/week), with or without a skipper (€150-350/day). Boat-Comparator compares Boataround, SamBoat, Click&Boat and GlobeSailor from Skiathos in one search.

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