Boat Days in Skiathos: Why a day at sea is the island’s best experience

Crystal-clear water, hidden coves, green coastlines — and a sense of freedom you can only feel at sea.

If there is one experience we recommend to every single guest — whether it’s your first time in Skiathos or your tenth — it’s a boat day.

Nothing compares to seeing the island from the water.

Nothing.

Skiathos is stunning from land, but from the sea?

It becomes magical.

Here’s why boat days are such an essential part of the Skiathos experience — and why so many of our OHLIVE guests say it was the highlight of their holiday.

1. You get access to beaches you can’t reach by car

Skiathos has more than 60 beaches and coves, and many of the most breathtaking ones are only accessible by sea.

This includes secret gems like:

• tiny hidden coves on the north coast

• stretches of golden sand without a single footprint

• beaches carved between rock formations

• calm, shallow bays perfect for kids

From the water, Skiathos feels wild, untouched, and incredibly peaceful — like discovering the island for the very first time.

2. You can visit Tsougria — the dreamlike “postcard island”

A boat day means you can reach Tsougria, the small uninhabited islet just across from Skiathos Town.

It’s a paradise of:

• shallow turquoise waters

• soft sand

• gentle waves

• a laid-back beach bar

• pine trees meeting the sea

Many guests say Tsougria feels like the Caribbean… just closer to home.

3. Lalaria & the sea caves — Skiathos’ wild, dramatic side

On the northern coastline, nature becomes dramatic:

• towering white cliffs

• deep-blue waters

• the famous stone arch of Lalaria

• the Blue and Dark Caves

Arriving here by boat is an experience of pure awe — especially on calm-sea days when the light enters the caves like blue fire.

It’s one of the most iconic boat routes in all of Greece.

4. Swim, eat, relax — repeat

A boat day is the definition of slow, happy living.

You:

• anchor in a turquoise bay

• jump into warm water

• dry off in the sun

• enjoy a simple Greek lunch

• move to the next cove

Pure freedom, zero stress.

Some guests take a picnic, others ask us to arrange lunch at a seaside taverna only reachable by boat.

Both options are heaven.

5. You might spot dolphins

Skiathos waters are full of life.

It’s not unusual to see:

• dolphins swimming alongside boats

• flying fish jumping over the surface

• seabirds gliding over the water

If you’re lucky, a dolphin family may even accompany you for a few minutes — unforgettable for both adults and kids.

6. The coastline looks completely different from the sea

Seeing Skiathos from a boat gives you a new perspective:

• endless green hills plunging into the water

• cliffs turning the coastline into sculpture

• tiny chapels on remote hills

• untouched beaches hidden between rocks

Even if you’ve explored the island by car, the view from the sea feels like a different world.

7. Snorkelling heaven: clear water, colourful fish

The waters around Skiathos are famously clear — perfect for snorkelling.

Expect to see:

• bright fish

• underwater rock formations

• swaying seaweed

• rays of sunlight creating shimmering patterns

Kids adore it.

Adults… maybe even more.

8. You don’t need experience — we organise everything

Whether you want a:

• private skipper

• semi-private boat trip

• luxury rib boat

• simple motorboat without licence

We can arrange it all.

Our OHLIVE concierge helps with:

• choosing the right boat

• the safest itinerary depending on the wind

• reservations for lunch at hidden tavernas

• personalised recommendations

• insider-only spots

All you need to do is… enjoy the day.

9. Safety first — especially on windy days

The north coast of Skiathos can be windy depending on the day.

That’s why we always recommend:

• checking the forecast

• choosing the right route

• following the skipper’s advice

Our concierge knows the island’s sea conditions inside out — so you’ll always explore safely.

10. The best place for memories you’ll treasure forever

Sun, sea, freedom, laughter, nature — a boat day captures everything that makes Greece special.

This is where:

• couples have their most romantic moments

• families create memories kids never forget

• friends feel happiest and most carefree

• travellers experience the island at its purest

There’s a reason guests tell us:

“We wish we’d booked two boat days.”

Boat days are pure OHLIVE living

If Skiathos is magical from land, it’s unforgettable from the sea.

Whether you’re swimming in hidden bays, exploring sea caves, relaxing at Tsougria or cruising along pine-fringed coastlines, a boat day is the experience that stays with you long after your holiday ends.

And the best part?

You’ll still be home in time for sunset on your terrace.