From Skiathos: Skopelos and Alonissos Boat Trip with Stops

Planning a day trip around the North Sporades can be an exciting way to experience Greece’s beautiful islands without the hassle of overnight stays. This particular boat tour from Skiathos promises a well-rounded glimpse of Skopelos and Alonissos, two stunning spots that often steal the spotlight for their charm and scenery. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and it’s clear that it’s a solid choice for those wanting a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and fun on the water.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the flexibility in exploring two islands in one day is appealing—you get a taste of both Skopelos and Alonissos without the need to ferry back and forth yourself. Second, the entertaining and friendly crew receives high praise, with many reviews mentioning their humor, knowledge, and energy. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the short times allocated at each stop — which means you’ll need to make the most of limited exploration time. This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic boat rides, enjoy lively atmospheres, and want to see the highlights efficiently.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic experience with a touch of entertainment, this trip could be a great fit. Just keep in mind that if you prefer more time on each island, or want a quieter, more relaxed day, you might find some limitations here. Now, let’s unpack everything about this tour so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your Greek holiday.

Key Points

• Efficient island hopping allows visiting Skopelos and Alonissos in a single day with a comfortable schedule.
• Entertaining crew and lively atmosphere make for a fun, engaging experience.
• Timing at stops is limited (about 1.5 hours on each island), so plan to focus on highlights.
• Inclusions and extras include a boat ticket, taxes, and a group leader, but food and drinks are not included.
• Scenic route passes by famous sights like the Blue Caves, Agios Ioannis Chapel, and Amarantos Rocks.
• Price point offers good value (~$63) considering the boat ride, stops, and sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Day Trip

This tour offers a full 9-hour journey on a comfortable boat that departs from Skiathos Old Port around 09:15 AM. The boat, named Agios Nikolaos, is operated by MTM TOURISM GREECE OE, a family-run business with a good reputation for friendly, professional service. Once onboard, you’re in for a mix of scenic sailing, sightseeing, and time to explore.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off early, with a prompt departure. After about 1.5 hours sailing to Skopelos, your first stop, you’ll find yourself in the main town, which is famous for its narrow, picturesque streets. Expect to have around 1.5 hours here to wander, shop for souvenirs, or visit some of the many churches dotted around the town. Many reviews praise the town’s charm and the opportunity to soak in the local vibe. One guest noted: “We loved the way the crew kept everyone up to date and made the trip lively and fun.”

From Skopelos, the boat heads to Alonissos, stopping at its port, Patitiri. Here, you’ll have another 1.5 hours to explore the Old Town perched on a hill, offering stunning views across the Aegean. This part of the trip is particularly appreciated by travelers who enjoy scenic coastal vistas. Some reviews mention that the crew also provides engaging commentary, making the journey informative and lively.

The Highlight of the Passages

While sailing between islands and along the coast, you’ll pass through part of the Marine Park, home to the famous Blue Caves. This is a fantastic photo opportunity and adds a layer of natural beauty to your day. Many reviews highlight how the crew’s commentary and the scenery make this part of the trip memorable.

Beach Time and Additional Sightseeing

After exploring Alonissos, the boat makes a short 20-minute sail to Kastani Beach, known as the filming location of the iconic Mamma Mia! movie. Here, you’ll get about an hour to swim, relax, or take photos. The beach is praised for its beauty and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for some downtime after sightseeing.

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The Return Journey

On the way back to Skiathos, the boat sails along the west coast of Skopelos, with chances to spot dolphins, according to reviews. There’s also an opportunity for a short swim at Milia Beach, a quieter spot with the chance to unwind and cool off before disembarking. The boat arrives back in Skiathos around 19:00, wrapping up a full day of adventure.

The Experience on the Boat

Many reviews rave about the atmosphere onboard. The crew is described as fun, friendly, and attentive, with some reviewers mentioning the captain’s entertaining personality. One said, “The captain made sure everyone was having fun and kept us up-to-date.” It’s clear that a lively, social environment is a cornerstone of this trip.

Music plays a key role—singers and dancers often join in, with many enjoying ABBA songs and even a little dancing on deck. Some reviews mention the crew’s playful pranks and humorous storytelling, which elevate the experience from just a ferry ride to a memorable event.

The Value for Money

At around $63 per person, the tour offers good value considering the length of the trip, the stops, and the scenic sailing. Not included are meals and drinks, but the boat features a bar with reasonably priced refreshments, which many found convenient. Guests also appreciated the generous amount of time allocated for each island stop, allowing for meaningful exploration despite the short duration.

The Downsides

A few reviewers noted that the time at each stop is limited, which means you won’t get to see everything in-depth. If you prefer to take your time wandering and soaking in the atmosphere, this might feel rushed. Plus, some mention that the engine noise at the back of the boat can make it harder to hear the commentary during certain parts. Also, not suitable for wheelchair users, so accessibility might be limited for some travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy scenic boat rides, lively crew interactions, and the chance to see several highlights in one day, this trip is a good fit. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling as part of a group or family and want a day packed with fun, sightseeing, and swimming. The tour’s energetic atmosphere and entertainment are ideal for travelers looking for a lively, social experience.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, longer exploration on each island, or quiet time, you might find this schedule a bit hurried. The focus here is on enjoying a bustling, interactive trip rather than a slow, contemplative island visit.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Skiathos to Skopelos and Alonissos strikes a nice balance between sightseeing, fun, and relaxation. The entertaining crew, scenic passages, and the opportunity to explore two islands in a single day make it an attractive option for many travelers. The good value and positive reviews suggest it delivers a solid experience—so long as you’re okay with shorter stops and a lively atmosphere.

If you’re after a day filled with beautiful scenery, a bit of adventure, and the company of a friendly crew, this tour could be the highlight of your trip to Greece. Just be prepared for a full day on the water, and bring your camera, swimwear, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy food and drinks during the stops or on the boat’s bar.

What time does the trip start and end?
The boat departs from Skiathos Old Port around 09:15 AM and returns around 19:00 PM.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the lively atmosphere and full-day schedule suggest it’s more suited for older children or teenagers. Always check with the provider if traveling with very young children.

Is there an option for pickup?
Pickup is optional and will be communicated via email. Note that pickup is not available from hotels in Skiathos Town or near the airport.

How long are the stops at each island?
You’ll have approximately 1.5 hours on Skopelos, 1.5 hours on Alonissos, and about an hour at Kastani Beach.

Are there any restrictions or considerations?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Pack comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the vessel is described as comfortable and suitable for a full day out with amenities like a bar onboard.

Will I see dolphins or other wildlife?
Guests have reported that dolphin sightings are possible along the route, especially during the sail back along Skopelos’s coast.

How crowded does it get?
Reviews indicate a friendly, social environment, often with a lively, party-like atmosphere, especially with singing and dancing onboard.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned island hopper, this day trip offers a fun, scenic way to experience Greece’s North Sporades. Enjoy the journey, and don’t forget your camera!

You can check availability for your dates here: