Volos is a hidden gem nestled between the sparkling blue waters of the Pagasetic Gulf and the foothills of Mount Pelion.
The town acts as a gateway for a gulet charter to the Sporades archipelago, a chain of twenty four stunning islands of which only four are inhabited, and the Alonissos Marine Park which is one of the largest protected marine areas in Europe.
Anchored in mythology and surrounded by natural splendour, a gulet charter from Volos is an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable Mediterranean experience uncovering the Sporades' hidden gems.
Volos is a perfect starting point for an island-hopping adventure in the Sporades islands, including Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos. Each island has its own unique atmosphere, with clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and attractive villages waiting to be explored.
The waters around Volos teem with marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Be prepared to encounter dolphins, turtles, myriad smaller fish and, if you're lucky, a rare Mediterranean Monk seal.
Volos has a rich historical and cultural heritage. Exploring the city's archaeological sites, museums, and varied neighbourhoods will give you a thrilling connection with the region's past and present.
Volos is known as the birthplace of the mythical hero Jason who, with the Argonauts, sailed from here on a quest for the Golden Fleece. The city boasts an exciting mix of modern amenities, traditional architecture, and museums and archaeological sites offering insights into its past.
Volos is well-known for its tasty seafood and traditional Greek cuisine. Enjoy fresh catches from the Aegean Sea, and taste a variety of local delicacies.
Sample the wines of the region at one of the excellent restaurants or bars in Volos. From the locally produced wines of Magnesia and Thessally on the mainland, to a selection from Skorpios or the other Sporades, you're sure to find one that lends itself to sipping on the deck of your gulet.
While Volos is a thriving city, it has retained its authentic Greek island charm. Here, you can experience the laid-back island lifestyle while still enjoying the amenities and services of a larger city.
Volos is located on the Greek mainland in the picturesque region of Magnesia, with stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding mountains; a breathtaking backdrop for your gulet charter.
Explore the bustling port city of Volos, known for its modern waterfront, lively restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Discover archaeological sites including the ancient theatre and the Byzantine Fortress of Volos.
Skiathos is a cosmopolitan island known for its stunning beaches and lively nightlife. Visit iconic beaches like Koukounaries and Lalaria with their crystal clear azure waters, explore the charming town, and enjoy the vibrant energy of this famous island.
Skopelos offers a more serene and traditional experience. Known for its lush green landscapes, charming villages, and quiet beaches, it provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous church of Agios Ioannis, featured in the movie "Mamma Mia".
Alonissos is a nature lover's paradise. Nestled in the National Marine Park, you can spot endangered Mediterranean monk seals and enjoy fantastic diving and snorkelling opportunities. Discover the island's tranquil beaches, hike along scenic trails, and immerse yourself in its unspoilt beauty.
Skyros is the largest island in the Sporades and offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Explore the island's charming main town, visit the Byzantine Monastery of Saint George, or simply enjoy the rugged landscapes and secluded beaches.
The "Mountain of Centaurs" offers stunning landscapes and picturesque villages. You can explore walking trails, swim in the Pagasetic Gulf, or visit the traditional villages of Tsagarada and Makrinitsa.
Skantzoura is an uninhabited island known for its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and hiking trails. It's a great place to explore by boat, discovering hidden bays where you can anchor and enjoy the unspoilt natural beauty of the island.
The Sporades islands are dotted with beautiful Byzantine monasteries which offer a glimpse into the region's rich religious and cultural history. Visit monasteries like Agios Ioannis in Skopelos or Evangelistria in Skiathos to feast your eyes on their unique architecture and religious artefacts.
The smaller islands of Peristera and Kyra near Alonissos are ideal for those seeking seclusion and nature. Explore hidden coves, relax on deserted beaches and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of these ruggedly beautiful islands.
When embarking on a gulet charter from Volos, timing is everything.
For the ultimate sailing experience, May, June, and September are genuinely the golden moments. During these periods, Greece unveils its charm without the peak season crowds.
The Greek islands also come alive during the summer with a vibrant atmosphere that bustles with life and is hard to beat.
Monthly weather for the area *
Avg. High Temp | Avg. Low Temp | Avg. Daily Rain (mm) | Avg. Wind Direction | |
---|---|---|---|---|
JAN | 12.5°C (54°F) | 6.8°C (44°F) | 1.7mm | SW |
FEB | 12.2°C (54°F) | 4.8°C (41°F) | 1.3mm | WNW |
MAR | 16.1°C (61°F) | 8.4°C (47°F) | 1.4mm | SW |
APR | 18.5°C (65°F) | 10.6°C (51°F) | 1.7mm | SW |
MAY | 21.5°C (71°F) | 14.4°C (58°F) | 1.7mm | SSW |
JUN | 27.8°C (82°F) | 19.2°C (67°F) | 1.5mm | SSW |
JUL | 34.9°C (95°F) | 25.0°C (77°F) | 0.0mm | SSE |
AUG | 33.1°C (92°F) | 24.0°C (75°F) | 0.1mm | SSE |
SEP | 26.8°C (80°F) | 19.6°C (67°F) | 8.8mm | SW |
OCT | 24.2°C (75°F) | 16.7°C (62°F) | 0.5mm | SW |
NOV | 19.6°C (67°F) | 12.1°C (54°F) | 0.8mm | SSW |
DEC | 14.3°C (58°F) | 8.0°C (46°F) | 2.2mm | WSW |
The official language of Greece is Greek with English being widely understood in the tourist areas.
The official currency of Greece is the Euro.
Tipping is a common practice in Greece and very much appreciated for good service, typically you leave 10%.
These two or three-masted boats are the perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm, and make a fantastic platform for exploring Volos and beyond.
Gulets will typically have a professional chef on board who can accommodate dietary preferences while providing exceptional dining.
Sailing on a Gulet is a unique and memorable experience in itself. The feeling of connection with the sea and exploring exciting new locations, all while being superbly looked after by your crew makes for a very special holiday indeed.
With recent advances in the luxury Gulet charter market, this is an excellent choice for a truly magical charter. From the moment you step aboard, every detail is testament to the skills of master craftsmen and designers, with stylish staterooms and cabins sitting alongside fantastically spacious decks for basking in the Mediterranean sun.
On a luxury Gulet charter your crew will include a professional chef to create the perfect menu, catering to all tastes and dietary requirements. This bespoke treatment extends to your itinerary and activities; whether you’re looking for adrenaline-fuelled watersports, deserted coves for private swimming or sundowners on deck before dinner, the expert crew will ensure you have a truly luxurious charter experience.
While Gulets do have sails, they're often motor-sailed or purely motored. Even when under sail, the experience is generally more relaxed and less hands-on than on a typical sailing yacht.
Gulets are designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. They usually feature a large aft deck for dining and lounging, and a spacious foredeck for sunbathing.
Gulets can accommodate larger groups, typically ranging from 6 to 12 guests, making them ideal for families or groups of friends.
Gulets usually come with a full crew, including a captain, chef, and hostess, providing a more hotel-like experience.
Gulet charters tend to travel at a slower pace than large motor yachts, emphasizing relaxation and coastal exploration rather than covering long distances.
Many Gulets feature a full-sized galley, allowing for elaborate meal preparation and are typically known for their excellent onboard cuisine.
Gulet charters often focus on coastal cruising, with frequent stops for swimming, snorkelling, and exploring small ports and bays.
A Gulet is a traditional wooden sailing boat, originating from Turkey. It typically has two or three masts and a wide beam (width), which provides lots of deck space for socialising, eating and relaxing on board.
A crewed Gulet charter from Volos offers a unique way to explore the stunning Mediterranean coastline. These traditional wooden sailing boats combine the charm of old-world craftsmanship with modern world amenities, and all with crews who are committed to ensuring your comfort, safety and enjoyment.
Each trip offers the opportunity to create a unique journey and our charter experts will guide you through choosing the perfect boat and customising the itinerary to your specification. Whatever your preferences, we take care of all the details, ensuring you and your party have a unique and unforgettable holiday.
Greece is one of the most popular charter destinations in the Mediterranean. Therefore, it is best to book your dream boat in advance, typically six months ahead, to secure your preferred dates in this perfect destination.
You can search for your dream gulet via the the link, or if you want one of our charter experts to do the searching for you, click the build your trip link to get them working on creating the perfect trip.
Volos has a fascinating history that dates back centuries.
Volos has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and the ancient ruins and archaeological sites scattered throughout the area are a testament to this rich history. Explore the ancient city of Demetrias, visit the Mycenaean ruins of Sesklo, or even take a day trip to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Meteora. And don't forget that according to Greek mythology, Volos was the hometown of Jason and the Argonauts, who embarked on a legendary quest for the Golden Fleece.
Volos and the Sporades in general are renowned for their warm and welcoming atmosphere. The locals pride themselves on their hospitality, ensuring visitors feel welcomed, wherever they choose to anchor.
The area is also one of the gateways to the Sporades Islands archipelago and the stunning Alionissos Marine Sanctuary. Celebrated as Greece's first National Marine Park, Alonissos is renowned for its spectacular natural beauty and not to be missed.
Skiathos is a vibrant and bustling hub with charming narrow streets and whitewashed buildings or sail to Skopelos, where the famous Mamma Mia chapel perches dramatically above Kastani Beach. Skyros, the largest Sporades island, is known for its quintessentially Greek architecture and gorgeous painted ceramics.
Kyra Panagia is the largest of the uninhabited islands and boasts pristine beaches and a historic 11th-century monastery. Psathoura, the northernmost Sporades, is known for its lighthouse and submerged ancient city, or sail near Piperi for the chance to spot a rare Monk seal. These uninhabited gems provide tranquil anchorages and a true sense of escape in these unspoiled Greek waters.
A gulet charter from Volos to explore the Sporades offers the perfect blend of off the beaten track exploration and authentic Greek life.
There are typically five main types of boats and yachts you can hire in Greece, which are Sailing Yachts, Catamarans, Motorboats, Gulets and Luxury Yachts (including Superyachts)
If you are doing a bareboat charter, you need to consider if you have the relevant sailing licences. If you are on a skippered or crewed charter, it's good to understand the weather conditions for the trip so you can bring the appropriate clothing and think about which locations you would like to visit so as you can let the skipper know.
For the ultimate sailing experience, May, June, and September are genuinely the golden months, but the summer months are also popular, though the anchorages are busier.
The good news is we spend a lot of time vetting who we work with, so this rarely happens, but if there is a problem, you can contact your charter company or ourselves who will be available to sort out any issues.
The typical times for a yacht charter are either 7 or 14 days, but you can charter boats longer if you wish. Most charters, particularly in high season, start on Saturdays and finish seven days later.
Once you've found your perfect yacht, you will typically pay an upfront deposit fee for holding the boat (these vary from 20% to 50% of the charter fee), and then you will pay the rest one month before departure.
When chartering a yacht from Volos, consider factors such as budget, yacht size and type, along with the crew when relevant to make sure they're a good fit for you and your party.