Day sailing Skiathos Skopelos with lunch on Rainbow yacht

If you’re vacationing in Skiathos and craving a taste of authentic Greek sailing combined with scenic beauty and a relaxed vibe, this day-long sailing tour on the Rainbow yacht might just be your perfect match. With a rating of 5.0 based on 98 reviews, it’s clear that travelers love the personal touch, stunning stops, and the chance to enjoy Greece’s crystal waters in style.

What really draws us in is the opportunity to sail on a charming 55-foot yacht, which promises a more intimate experience than crowded boat trips. The personal attention from a friendly crew, topped with a delicious onboard lunch, makes this a standout option. But, of course, it’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent and best suited for those who enjoy swimming, scenic stops, and a calm day at sea.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and scenic day on the water, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families wanting a personal adventure with fewer crowds, plenty of swimming, and some good Greek hospitality.

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Multiple swimming stops at Tsougria, Panormos Bay, and other islands for snorkeling and cooling off
• Onboard lunch cooked fresh, with a variety of cold drinks and fruit salad to enjoy
• Scenic routes from Skopelos’ famous Mamma Mia beach to the less crowded shores of Lalaria and Dasia Island
• Flexible itinerary based on weather conditions, with dolphin sightings a hopeful bonus
• Booking well in advance (typically 52 days) indicates high demand for this popular sailing trip

An In-depth Look at the Sailing Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The day kicks off at 10:00 AM at the meeting point in Skiathos, setting sail on the beautiful Rainbow yacht, a vessel that’s described as offering both comfort and a sense of adventure. The boat is intentionally small, accommodating just your group, which in reviews is praised for the intimate and friendly atmosphere.

The first stop is Tsougria Island — a tiny, uninhabited spot perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. Reviewers mention how there’s “plenty of room with bean bags on Rainbow,” making lounging comfortable even while at anchor. The crew, Yannis and Angelica, are noted as relaxed and welcoming, creating a really laid-back vibe.

After some time in Tsougria, the boat moves toward Skopelos, starting from Panormos Bay. Here, you’ll find another swim stop amid clear waters, described as “the deepest of the crystal waters,” ideal for cooling off or snorkelling. Many reviewers highlight how these stops allow for immersive experiences in nature without feeling rushed.

Next comes the highlight of the day — a scenic cruise along Skopelos’ coast, passing by iconic spots like the Mamma Mia beach and Elios beach. The boat pulls into a nice, secluded beach for lunch, cooked onboard, which is a huge plus. The meal — described as delicious — is complemented by cold drinks and fresh fruit salad, adding to the sense of indulgence.

In the afternoon, the boat might head toward Lalaria or smaller islands like Dasia and Arkos, depending on weather conditions. The flexibility in routing allows the crew to chase the best weather and dolphin sightings, making for an unpredictable but exciting day. Reviewers appreciated the personalized approach, with one noting that “you’re not over-crowded or in a rush, it feels like a private day out.”

The Value of the Stops and Views

Each stop offers a different perspective of the islands’ natural beauty. Tsougria Island’s unspoiled beaches, Panormos Bay’s rugged coastline, and Lalaria’s famous white cliffs all contribute to a visual feast. The boat gets close enough to shore for excellent photo opportunities, yet remains comfortable and stable.

The route along Skopelos’ coast gives travelers a chance to see the stunning landscape while enjoying some downtime in the sea. The opportunity to swim in the deep, clear waters is a consistent highlight, with reviewers describing it as “crystal waters perfect for snorkeling” or “a chance to relax away from crowded beaches.”

The Food and Refreshments: A Highlight of the Day

A major draw of this tour, according to reviews, is the onboard lunch. It’s cooked fresh on the boat and includes delicious Greek-style dishes, with many reviewers mentioning the quality and taste. The inclusion of cold drinks and fruit salad helps keep everyone refreshed, especially under the Greek sun.

One reviewer called the food “amazing,” and another appreciated the generous drinks served throughout the day. The crew’s hospitality clearly shines through, making the meal feel like a special part of the experience rather than just a necessity.

Crew and Atmosphere

Yannis and Angelica, along with their adorable German Shepherd “Naya,” are highlighted as friendly, relaxed, and attentive hosts. Reviewers mention how their personalized approach makes the experience feel exclusive and more like a day out with friends than a commercial tour.

The boat’s layout, with several bean bags and shaded areas, offers comfort without sacrificing the sense of adventure. Guests consistently mention feeling “welcomed,” with the small group size allowing for personalized service and plenty of interaction.

Practicalities: Booking, Price, and Duration

Priced at $156.75 per person, this experience provides good value considering the length (around 7 hours), the multiple stops, the onboard lunch, and the personalized service. Booking typically occurs around 52 days in advance, indicating high popularity, so planning ahead is recommended.

The tour starts promptly at 10:00 AM from the designated meeting point, and the all-inclusive nature means you won’t need to worry about additional costs during the day. Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, which adds to the intimate feeling.

Weather plays a role in the day’s itinerary, with the crew adjusting routes to ensure the best experience, and a full refund is available if the weather cancels the trip.

This sailing trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience that combines swimming, scenic views, and a tasty onboard meal. It’s especially suited for small groups, couples, or families who prefer a personalized adventure rather than a crowded boat tour.

If you love photography, the stops along Skopelos’ coast and the chance to see dolphins make this a compelling choice. The small-sized yacht and attentive hosts ensure comfort and a genuine Greek hospitality experience.

Those with limited mobility or a fear of open water might want to consider their swimming ability, but overall, the calm waters and flexible routing make it suitable for most travelers in good health.

For anyone wanting to combine the joy of sailing with the stunning scenery of Skiathos and Skopelos, this tour offers a fantastic balance of relaxation and adventure. The small group setting and attentive crew make it feel special, while the stops for swimming and snorkeling keep the day lively.

The onboard lunch is an added bonus, with reviews praising the quality and the friendly service. The route offers a taste of some of the most iconic and less crowded spots, including the famous Mamma Mia beach and Lalaria’s cliffs, making it an excellent choice for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The value for money is clear when you consider the length, personalized experience, and all-inclusive offerings. It’s perfect for travelers who want a semi-private sailing experience that’s both scenic and fun.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and memorable day on the water in Greece, this tour will likely tick all your boxes and then some. Just remember to book early, keep an eye on the weather, and prepare for a day full of beautiful sights and good company.

FAQ

How long is the sailing trip?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 AM and returning around 5:00 PM.

What are the main stops during the day?
Stops include Tsougria Island, Panormos Bay near Skopelos, and possibly Lalaria or smaller islands like Dasia and Arkos, depending on weather conditions.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a freshly cooked onboard lunch, along with cold drinks and fruit salad.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. There are multiple swimming stops in crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and cooling off.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it a flexible choice for families, but always consider your children’s swimming ability and comfort with open water.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 52 days ahead, as this tour is quite popular.

What is the group size?
Since it’s a private tour, only your group will be on the boat, enhancing the personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Whether you’re after an intimate sailing adventure, scenic beauty, or a delicious onboard meal, this day sailing tour on Rainbow promises a memorable slice of Greek island life.