Day sailing Skiathos Skopelos with lunch on Rainbow yacht

If you’re dreaming of sailing through some of Greece’s most beautiful waters, the Day Sailing Skiathos and Skopelos tour offers an approachable way to indulge in the scenery, tranquility, and authentic flavors of the Aegean. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and excellent ratings suggest it’s a memorable experience for anyone wanting a mix of adventure, relaxation, and genuine hospitality.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size ensures a cozy atmosphere and personal attention from the crew. Second, the onboard lunch, cooked right on the boat, promises an authentic, delicious meal with stunning views. And third, the multiple swimming stops in crystal-clear waters mean you’ll get plenty of time to cool off and snorkel in some of Greece’s prettiest spots.

A potential consideration? The tour is weather-dependent, meaning poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. That’s typical for sailing trips, so being flexible is wise. This experience suits travelers seeking an intimate, scenic day on the water — perfect for couples, friends, or anyone who loves a bit of adventure with a relaxing vibe.

Good To Know

• Intimate Atmosphere: Small groups and personal crew attention make this a relaxed and friendly experience.
• Stunning Scenery: Stops include Tsougria Island, Skopelos’ famous Mamma Mia Beach, and other beautiful spots.
• Authentic Dining: Lunch is cooked onboard, with fresh, delicious food and plenty of cold drinks.
• Swimming and Snorkeling: Multiple opportunities to swim in clear waters, with a chance to see dolphins if luck’s on your side.
• Flexible and Weather-Dependent: Cancellations are possible in poor weather, with full refunds if canceled.
• Recommended Booking: Book around 52 days in advance as most travelers do to secure a spot.

A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

The Boat: Rainbow, a 55ft Sailing Yacht

The vessel itself is described as beautiful and well-maintained, offering a sense of affordable luxury. Its size comfortably accommodates around 12 guests, with enough space to stretch out on bean bags or enjoy the views from the deck. The crew, including Yannis, Angelica, and their dog Naya, are praised for their approachable, friendly attitude. Multiple reviews mention how relaxed and welcoming they are, making you feel like you’re sailing with friends rather than strangers.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off promptly at 10:00 am from Paraliakos, Skiathos. The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, which is a bonus for travelers arriving from different parts of the island.

First Stop: Tsougria Island

Your first swimming stop is at Tsougria Island, known for its crystal waters and quiet beaches. Here, you’ll have time to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat while the crew prepares for the next leg. Reviewers like Craig_D appreciated the relaxed vibe and ample space on Rainbow, with one noting that there are “several bean bags” on board, perfect for lounging.

Sailing to Skopelos

After the initial swim, the yacht sails from Panormos Bay towards Skopelos, a journey that offers breathtaking views of the coastline. The crew actively sails, giving guests a chance to learn about the process if interested, and to feel the thrill of being on a real sailing boat.

Stops in Skopelos: Mamma Mia Beach & Elliös Beach

The tour makes a stop near Skopelos’ famed Mamma Mia Beach, where the scenery is straight out of a postcard. This area is known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for swimming, taking photos, or simply soaking up the sun. Elliös Beach receives mention in reviews as a spot for swimming and relaxing.

Lunch on Board

One of the tour’s highlights is the lunch cooked onboard. The crew prepares a meal that’s described as delicious, with reviewers highlighting the quality and generous portions. You can expect a fresh, tasty experience with local flavors, served with scenic views as your backdrop. During each stop, the crew provides cold drinks, adding to the relaxed, holiday feel.

Further Stops and Optional Destinations

The itinerary is flexible based on weather conditions. If the wind is right, the boat might head toward Lalaria or Dasia Island, or Arkos Island, providing additional swimming opportunities and lovely scenery. Naya, the German Shepherd, is often seen in photos happily mingling with guests, adding a friendly, personal touch to the day.

The Atmosphere: Intimate and Personal

The limited group size, combined with the crew’s personal attention, makes this feel more like a day with friends than a touristy cruise. Reviewers repeatedly mention the welcoming hosts and the feeling of “not overcrowded,” which is rare with larger boat tours. The relaxed environment encourages spontaneous conversations and a genuine connection to the surroundings.

The Food and Drinks

Guests rave about the onboard meal, calling it “amazing,” with some reviews specifically mentioning how much they appreciated the variety of cold drinks and fresh fruit salads. Because the crew cooks on the boat, the food feels authentic and freshly made, rather than pre-packed. This aspect adds significant value, especially considering the tour price.

The Return: Back to Skiathos by 5:00 pm

The day’s activities wind down around early evening, with the boat returning to Skiathos port around 17:00. This gives you plenty of time afterward to explore more of the island or enjoy a relaxed dinner.

The Value for Money

At $156.75 per person, the tour offers a lot for the price. You get a full day of sailing, multiple swimming stops, a cooked onboard lunch, and the personal attention of friendly crew members. Compared to larger, crowded excursions, this experience feels more intimate and authentic, making it excellent value for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water.

Additional Considerations

Since the tour is weather-dependent, it’s good to have a flexible schedule. The full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind. Booking in advance is recommended, as most travelers seem to reserve around two months ahead, which suggests high demand, especially during peak summer months.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value small-group intimacy and authenticity over large crowd experiences. It’s perfect for couples wanting a romantic day, families seeking a relaxed adventure, or friends eager for a scenic sailing trip with good food. If you love swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying unspoiled views while being served delicious local-style food, you’ll find this tour fulfilling.

Travelers with an interest in sailing or those who appreciate a personal touch will especially enjoy the crew’s friendly approach and the chance to learn about sailing firsthand. Also, if you’re looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and activity—without feeling rushed—this trip hits the mark.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers can participate, and the relaxed atmosphere suggests it’s friendly for families. Just check if younger children are comfortable on a boat for several hours.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and perhaps a light jacket for cooler winds. Cold drinks are provided, but staying hydrated is important.

How long is the sailing?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time for multiple swimming stops, lunch, and sightseeing.

Will I see dolphins?
There’s a chance, as some reviews mention the friendly possibility of spotting dolphins during the trip.

Can I cancel if the weather’s poor?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, and you’ll get a full refund. The tour only runs in good weather to ensure safety and comfort.

Is the onboard lunch included?
Yes, the lunch is prepared right on the boat and included in the price, with fresh, tasty options served during the day.

Final Thoughts

For anyone craving a laid-back day on the water in Skiathos and Skopelos, this Rainbow yacht sailing tour offers a fantastic combination of scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and personal service. The small group size and friendly crew create an atmosphere that feels both special and genuine, making it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a genuine taste of Greek island life.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a peaceful escape, or just want to see some of the prettiest beaches in the Sporades, this tour provides good value and memorable moments. If you’re prepared for a weather-dependent adventure, you’ll likely find this day to be a highlight of your trip.

In summary: This tour is best suited for travelers who want a personal, scenic, and relaxed sailing experience with great food and beautiful stops. It’s ideal for those who appreciate smaller groups and authentic hospitality, making your Greek island adventure truly memorable.