Why go there?
Sail into Europe's premier marine sanctuary, home to the endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), wild dolphins, and rare seabirds. Discover the picturesque harbors of Patitiri and the charming fishing village of Steni Vala, or take a short bus trip up to the hilltop Old Town (Chora) for panoramic sunsets across the archipelago. Anchor in spectacular coves like Kokkinokastro—famed for its striking red cliffs—or cross over to the uninhabited outer islands of Peristera and Kyra Panagia to experience night skies far removed from city lights.
Your Charter may coincide with these events:
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Panigiria (Summer Feast Days): Traditional island celebrations occur throughout August, most notably on August 15th in Chora, featuring local music, folk dancing, and regional dishes.
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Alonnisos Museum & Cultural Evenings: Summer art displays, marine conservation talks, and classical recitals hosted at the Alonnisos Museum and cultural venues in Old Town.
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Open-Sea Regattas & Environmental Events: Periodic Sporades sailing events and marine conservation awareness days hosted by the Marine Park management body.
How to get there?
Alonnisos has no airport, keeping its bays serene and uncrowded:
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Via Skiathos Airport (JSI): Fly directly into Skiathos International Airport, then take a high-speed hydrofoil or ferry to Patitiri Port in Alonnisos (journey time typically 1.5 to 2 hours).
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Via Mainland Ferries: Seasonal catamarans and conventional ferries connect Alonnisos with mainland ports including Volos and Mantoudi (Evia).
Approaching by yacht
Approaching Alonnisos and the Marine Park requires careful attention to environmental zoning regulations. The eastern coast of Alonnisos offers numerous well-sheltered, pine-fringed bays sheltered from summer winds. Sailing into Zone A of the Marine Park (including Kyra Panagia and Gioura) requires purchasing a digital permit online, and strict rules apply—such as anchoring only on sandy bottoms to protect Posidonia seagrass meadows and keeping a safe distance from sea caves and wildlife.
Marina & Port Facilities
Alonnisos features charming, small-scale harbors alongside well-protected natural anchorages:
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Patitiri Port
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Services: The island’s main harbor offers quayside mooring with access to water and electricity pedestals, fuel tanker delivery, mini-markets, and waterfront tavernas.
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Capacity: Busy during peak summer; space along the town quay can be limited, requiring yachts to anchor off or raft up.
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Steni Vala:
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Services: A picturesque, narrow fishing inlet opposite Peristera Island with quayside mooring, water, electricity, and renowned fresh seafood tavernas.
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Capacity: Popular and cozy; best accessed early in the afternoon to secure a berth along the quay.
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Planitis Bay (Kyra Panagia Island):
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Services: Located within the uninhabited outer islets, this massive natural fjord-like harbor offers near-total shelter from all winds. Fully off-grid with no onshore services - pure wild anchoring.
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Capacity: Excellent holding on sand and mud with space for numerous yachts.
What food to expect?
Alonnisos cuisine focuses heavily on fresh seafood, local herbs, and traditional pie recipes:
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Alonnisos Tuna: World-renowned local white tuna, preserved locally in olive oil or served fresh as steaks and tartare.
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Lobster & Seafood Pasta: Local lobster or octopus stewed with fresh tomatoes and pasta (Astakomakaronada), a specialty in Steni Vala.
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Fried Cheese Pie: Traditional Sporades spiraled phyllo pie filled with tangy local goat cheese.
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Dustouria & Fouskakia: Traditional sweet fried dough treats flavored with honey and cinnamon.
Provisioning advice
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Main Provisioning Base: Patitiri is the primary hub for provisioning, offering mini-markets, bakeries, butcher shops, and wine merchants within walking distance of the docks.
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Steni Vala Options: Offers small minimarkets for daily bread, fresh produce, and essentials.
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Marine Park Prep: Before venturing into the uninhabited outer islands (Zone A), fully stock your galley with fresh water, food, and supplies in Patitiri, as there are zero provisioning options once you leave Alonnisos proper.
Language and currency
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Main Language: Greek is the official language. English is widely understood in ports, tavernas, and charter offices.
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Widely Accepted Currency: The official currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are accepted in Patitiri and Steni Vala, but cash is required for Marine Park tickets, small mooring fees, or seasonal dinghy operations.
Visa requirements
As part of Greece and the Schengen Area, standard Schengen entry rules apply:
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US, Canadian, UK Passport Holders: No visa required for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism. Passports must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended departure date.
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EU Passport Holders: No visa required; entry with a national identity card or valid passport is sufficient.
