Private Daily Sailing Cruise from Skopelos port to Alonissos

A Smooth Sailing Experience from Skopelos to Alonissos: An Honest Review

Taking to the seas on a private sailing trip from Skopelos to Alonissos offers a blend of scenic beauty, peaceful relaxation, and authentic island charm. This tour, operated by Kardous Sailing “Thasos,” provides a chance to explore the Northern Sporades’ marine park and some of Alonissos’s most pristine beaches, all aboard a cozy, private boat that accommodates up to 8 guests. It’s perfect for those seeking a more intimate, personalized escape, away from busy group tours.

What truly pulls us in is the emphasis on authentic experiences—from the chance to spot dolphins en route, to tasting local specialties right on the boat. However, the flexible itinerary, which ranges from 1 to 8 hours, means you can tailor your day according to your energy level and interests. One thing to consider is that this tour is weather-dependent; bad weather might mean rescheduling or cancellations. But if you’re after a quiet, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing, this is a fantastic choice. This tour suits travelers who appreciate personalized service, love the sea, and want to see some of Greece’s lesser-visited beaches with a knowledgeable crew.

Key Points

Intimate private experience: Maximum of 8 people ensures personalized service and a relaxed vibe.
Flexible duration: From 1 to 8 hours, so you can customize your day on the water.
Authentic marine park visit: Chance to see dolphins, seals, and turtles in their natural habitat.
Beautiful beaches: Access to secluded, boat-only beaches perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Gourmet touches: Onboard local snacks and meals, adding a tasty dimension to your trip.
Weather-sensitive: The experience depends on good weather; cancellations are fully refundable if necessary.

Setting Sail from Skopelos

The journey begins at the Kardous Sailing “Thasos” dock in Skopelos at 10:00am. From the outset, it’s clear this is not just a standard boat trip—it’s about enjoying the sea in comfort and style. The boat itself, a well-maintained vessel, provides a cozy setting to watch the coast slip past as you leave the bustling port behind. The small group size keeps the experience intimate, allowing you to converse easily with the crew, Alexandra and Antonis, who are highlighted for their attentiveness and warm hospitality in reviews.

This private cruise is especially appealing for those who value a tailored experience. You can opt to join a select group or book the entire boat for your family or friends, making it ideal for special occasions or quiet escapes. The starting point is centrally located and easy to reach, with public transportation nearby, which makes logistics straightforward.

The Marine Park of Alonissos and the Sea Life

The first major stop is the National Marine Park of Alonissos and the Northern Sporades, a protected area teeming with marine life. Here, the chance to see dolphins is a highlight, with travelers often reporting sightings of playful dolphins that seem to follow the boat. If luck is on your side, seals and turtles might also make an appearance—adding a magical touch to the trip.

The three-hour visit inside the marine park is a wonderful opportunity to witness Greece’s marine biodiversity up close. The included admission ticket means no extra costs here. We loved the way the crew shared interesting facts about the local ecosystem, making the experience both fun and educational. For many, this stop is the highlight of the tour, offering plenty of opportunities for photos and dolphin watching.

Discovering the Secluded Beaches of Alonnisos

After exploring the marine park, the boat drops anchor at some of Alonnisos’s most beautiful beaches—reachable only by boat, which adds to their untouched charm. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing away from crowds. Reviewers frequently mention the delight of finding beaches accessible only by boat, which makes the experience feel exclusive and authentic.

The approximately three-hour stop here is free of admission charges, and you’ll have ample time to snorkel, paddleboard, or enjoy a picnic on deck with the onboard local delicacies. The crew is known for their friendly attention, helping guests get comfortable with the equipment and offering tips on the best swimming spots.

One reviewer praised how the hosts Alexandra and Antonis made everyone feel at home, noting the “perfect in every way—from the food to the bays we sailed to.” This truly underscores how significant the personal touch is on this tour.

What’s Included and How It Feels

The tour also includes local snacks and meals, which many guests describe as “delicious.” The onboard food is a pleasant surprise—simple yet flavorful, with fresh ingredients and authentic Greek flavors. Having tasty bites while gazing at scenic views or swimming in turquoise waters elevates the whole experience.

The paddleboards and snorkeling gear are available for guests to use freely, offering a fun way to engage with the sea. The crew’s attentiveness ensures safety and comfort, making even first-time snorkelers feel at ease.

Practicalities and Comfort

Starting at 10:00am, travelers should plan for a day that can stretch from just a few hours to nearly a full day, depending on your preference and schedule. The price of $1,446.02 per group (up to 8 people) might seem steep initially, but considering the private setting, personalized service, and all-inclusive nature, it offers good value—especially if you’re after a custom, luxurious experience.

The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refunded or rescheduled. This flexibility is reassuring and emphasizes the importance of clear communication with the crew beforehand.

Real Guest Insights

One reviewer from July 2024 shared, “I would highly recommend this tour, you will not be disappointed. We had the best time and they took great care of us. Breakfast and lunch were delicious, views were amazing!!” Their glowing feedback highlights the quality of food, the scenic views, and the attentive service.

Another guest called it “the most magical day,” emphasizing how Alexandra and Antonis made everyone feel welcome, from the moment they stepped on board to the final sunset. Such genuine care makes a tangible difference in creating memorable experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing cruise is ideal for travelers looking for a private, tailored experience on the water, especially those who enjoy a mix of relaxing beaches, wildlife spotting, and good food. Since the tour can be customized in duration, it suits both those with limited time and those wanting a full-day adventure. Families, couples, or groups of friends will find this a perfect way to explore the islands comfortably and authentically.

It’s also suited for those who value small group intimacy and personal attention over larger, more commercial tours. While the price might be higher than standard group excursions, the trade-off in comfort, privacy, and quality makes it worthwhile for many.

The Sum Up

This private sailing cruise from Skopelos to Alonissos offers a wonderful blend of serenity, adventure, and authentic Greek charm. With the chance to see dolphins, visit secluded beaches, and enjoy local delicacies, it’s a superb way to experience the Northern Sporades in comfort and style. The personalized service and flexible itinerary mean you get a tailored day on the sea, making it a memorable escape for those who value quality over quantity.

Whether you’re after a romantic day, a family outing, or a special celebration, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather forecast and book in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

If you’re craving a private, scenic, and genuinely enjoyable maritime adventure, this cruise is hard to beat.

FAQ

How many people can join this sailing tour?
Up to 8 guests can participate, making it a cozy, private experience with plenty of personal attention.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers the boat, the guided experience, admission to the marine park, snacks, and meals onboard. You’ll also have access to paddleboards and snorkeling gear.

Can I choose how long I want the tour to last?
Yes, the duration ranges from 1 to 8 hours, allowing you to select what fits your schedule and interests best.

What’s the starting point?
The tour departs from Kardous Sailing “Thasos” dock in Skopelos at 10:00am.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The personalized setting and safety measures make it family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy swimming and marine life.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, it can be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is food provided?
Yes, onboard snacks and local specialties are included, with many guests praising the delicious offerings.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?
The tour includes onboard meals, but you might check with the provider if bringing extra items is allowed.

How do I book and what’s the cancellation policy?
Booking is through Viator, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour. You’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Whether you’re dreaming of dolphin sightings, secluded beaches, or just a peaceful day on the water, this private sailing trip from Skopelos to Alonissos offers a memorable Greek adventure.