Island Hopping from Skiathos

Experience the Charm of Greece’s North Sporades with an Island Hopping Day Trip from Skiathos

Exploring the North Sporades by boat offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, charming villages, and nature’s protected marine life. For about $68 per person, you’ll spend roughly 9 hours sailing between Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos. The tour kicks off early in the morning from Skiathos Port, giving you the chance to see some of Greece’s most famous sights, including the Blue Caves and the iconic Mamma Mia filming locations. It’s a great way to enjoy Greece’s islands without the hassle of multiple ferry rides or expensive private tours.

What we love about this experience is how informative the crew is—they make the islands come alive with stories and fun facts. Plus, the scenic sail through the Marine Park and past the Blue Caves offers plenty of memorable photo opportunities. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the limited time on each island, which means you won’t get a deep dive into local culture but rather a taste of island life.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized, lively day on the water, especially those who enjoy sailing, scenic views, and island villages. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a fun, social atmosphere with enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Visiting three beautiful islands in one day, with Skopelos, Alonissos, and Milia Beach.
• Enjoying scenic sailing through the Marine Park, Blue Caves, and iconic film locations.
• Flexible time at each stop for exploring, shopping, or relaxing.
• Fun and engaging crew known for their friendly, lively attitude.
• Good value for a full day of sightseeing, with all fees included.
• Weather-dependent itinerary, which might change if seas are rough.

A Deep Dive into the Island Hopping from Skiathos Experience

The Basics: What You’re Signing Up For

Starting early at 9:00 AM from Elisabet Cruises at Skiathos Old Port, this trip promises a full 9 hours of sailing and sightseeing, ending back at the port around 7:00 PM. The price is $67.99 per person, which, given the length of the trip, multiple island visits, and included transportation, offers solid value. Pickup is available from various hotels, making it convenient, and the tour includes all fees and taxes—no hidden costs.

The tour hits Skopelos first, where you’ll have about 1.5 hours to wander its charming streets, visit churches, or browse local shops. The island’s popularity is partly thanks to “Mamma Mia” filming locations, which make for fun photo ops. The second stop is Alonissos, home to Greece’s National Marine Park, a sanctuary for dolphins, seals, and seabirds. You get another 1.5 hours here, giving you some time to explore the old port of Patitiri and maybe find a local café for a snack.

The final stop before heading back to Skiathos is Milia Beach, a long stretch of white sand amid pine trees—perfect for a quick swim or relaxing walk. The boat then meanders through the Blue Caves and passes the famous Agios Ioannis Chapel, made famous by the movie “Mamma Mia,” offering fantastic photo opportunities from the boat.

The Voyage: What to Expect on the Water

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-equipped, with air conditioning for the journey and a bar to purchase drinks and snacks—ideal for keeping hydrated during the warm Greek sun. The crew has earned praise for their friendly, energetic attitude, often encouraging sing-alongs and fun interactions, especially with “Mamma Mia” tunes.

Most travelers find the scenery breathtaking. The sail through the Marine Park is a highlight, with views of rocky cliffs, lush greenery, and the sparkling-blue sea. The Blue Caves are surprisingly photogenic, and many guests enjoy snapping photos of the Amarantos Rocks and the chapel from the boat.

The Stops: What You’ll Do on Land

Skopelos is the largest of the stops, and many reviews mention how much they enjoyed wandering its narrow streets, lined with whitewashed buildings, boutiques, and churches. We loved the chance to enjoy a leisurely stroll, soaking in the local atmosphere—it’s not an island overwhelmed by travelers, but rather a peaceful place with a genuine vibe.

Alonissos is less developed, with a focus on nature and wildlife. The island hosts the National Marine Park, so it’s a haven for birdwatchers and marine life enthusiasts. Some reviews mention that the Pirate Village, which costs an extra €5, adds a fun, quirky element, especially for kids or those interested in pirate lore.

Milia Beach is praised for its long stretch of white sand and pine forest backdrop. However, some guests find the 1.5 hours there a bit short, especially if they’re keen on lounging or swimming. One reviewer suggested giving travelers the option of more time or choosing to skip the beach altogether if they prefer more island exploration.

The Experience: What Really Sets It Apart

Our favorite aspect is the welcoming, spirited crew—they go beyond just safety and logistics, making everyone feel part of the fun. They tell stories, play music, and sometimes invite guests to sing or dance, which adds a layer of authenticity and camaraderie. The reviews are filled with praise for this friendly atmosphere, with many describing it as a “family-like” experience.

The scenic sailing is truly memorable, especially during the passage through the Marine Park. Guests frequently mention the stunning views and the chance to capture beautiful photos from the boat—especially near the Blue Caves and the famous chapel.

The Drawbacks: What to Watch Out For

While this tour offers incredible value, its short stops mean you won’t get deep culture—more a taste of each island. Some travelers, like one review, felt that more time in Skopelos would have been better, instead of spending 1.5 hours at the beach.

Also, the itinerary is weather-dependent—bad weather can lead to changes or cancellations, and the tour might shift the order of stops. This flexibility is good for safety but can sometimes mean less predictable plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys lively, social atmospheres, with a mix of sailing, sightseeing, and island wandering, this trip is perfect. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting to see more than just Skiathos, but also for those who appreciate spectacular scenery and a good bang for your buck.

Travelers who enjoy photo opportunities, light exploration, and relaxed beach time will find this itinerary hits the right notes. It’s also great for groups and families, given its friendly crew and straightforward schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, from pick-up to return, with sailing and stops included.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there is a bar on board where you can purchase refreshments.

What islands are visited?
The tour visits Skopelos, Alonissos, and Milia Beach for swimming or relaxing.

Are the stops long enough?
Most guests say the time on each island is enough to explore or enjoy a quick visit, though some would prefer longer on Skopelos.

Can I see “Mamma Mia” filming locations?
Yes, the boat sails near the chapel used in the film, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the lively crew makes it an enjoyable experience for families and groups.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and your camera for scenic photos. Optional snacks and drinks can be purchased on board.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary is weather-dependent. If seas are rough, the tour may change or be canceled, with a full refund or alternative date offered.

How do I book?
Most book 28 days in advance, and the tour includes pickup from hotel (if requested), with tickets available via booking platforms like Viator.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

This Island Hopping trip from Skiathos offers a fantastic balance of scenic sailing, island exploration, and lively crew interaction. It’s particularly appealing if you’re looking for a value-packed day that delivers stunning views, fun moments, and a taste of local islands without the hassle of independent ferrying.

Travelers who enjoy small group experiences, photo ops, and a lively atmosphere will find this tour hard to beat. Just keep in mind the short stops if you’re eager for deep culture—this is more about seeing and experiencing rather than exploring in detail.

Overall, it’s a highly recommended way to add a splash of adventure to your Greek island holiday—whether you’re visiting for a week or just passing through Skiathos.

Note: Always check weather conditions and confirm your booking in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.