Spetses is a mountainous and wooded island off the south-west coast of the Argolida, also a part of the Saronic Gulf and you reach it, within a day's sail from Athens.
Spetses is a popular destination for sailing and yachting in the Mediterranean. The island is located just off the coast of the Peloponnese and is known for its crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and picturesque harbors. Popular sailing routes include the Argo Saronic Gulf, the island of Hydra, and the nearby island of Poros. Sailors can also explore the nearby islands of Agistri, Moni, and Dokos. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional architecture, and restriction on automobiles. Yacht sailing is a popular activity in Spetses, with the island providing a great base for sailing trips around the Saronic Gulf. There are numerous marinas, where visitors can find suitable anchorage during their vacation, making it a perfect location for a yacht charter.
Spetses town is the island's main harbor - and the only colony of the island. Spetses shares history with the island of Idhra, of late-eighteenth-century mercantile adventure and the same leadenness in the War of Independence of Greece (year 1821).
The sights of the island, are mainly the majestic old residences and the beautiful gardens! The grandest residence, which you can visit as a local museum is the Mexis family mansion (built in 1975).
At the foot of the Argolic gulf you will be greeted by this gorgeous island, welcoming you to her beautiful beaches, ports, and glorious landscapes. Charming classical alleyways await your discovery, tempting you to explore them and see where they lead. When on a Spetses, everyone will have the opportunity to explore every nook and cranny of the island and discover all her secrets. It has an enchanting town which is engulfed by the dense pine forests in the surrounding areas. When exploring the many alleys you will soon notice that these picturesque moments have been imprinted in your mind, which will surely be remembered in the years to come.
Although it is considered a cosmopolitan island, it is rather affordable and many would say noticeably cheaper than other Greek Islands. When it comes to pampering you should find everything you need on this charming little island. From nail salons, massage therapists, hair stylists, fancy restaurants, bars, and pretty much anything else one may need to satisfy their needs. Guests will find a variety of attractions to explore, from its beautiful beaches and traditional architecture to its lively nightlife. The island is home to many churches, such as the Church of Agios Ioannis and the Monastery of the Three Hierarchs, as well as a number of archaeological sites.
Spetses has a number of beautiful traditional Greek buildings and monuments, such as the Town Hall, the Poseidonion Grand Hotel, and the Church of Agios Ioannis. Other notable buildings include the Venetian Castle and the Palamidi Fortress. Visitors can also explore the island’s many old mansions, which were built in the 19th century. There are likewise a number of museums on the island, for example the Spetses Historical Museum, the Folklore Museum, and the Maritime Museum.
The most preferable mode of transport for Spetses, are the motorbikes and the scooters. A few taxis supplement the horse-drawn carriage. The bell of the carriages is the sound you hear day and night. Close your eyes and enjoy!
Let’s not forget to mention Laskarina Bouboulina (1771-1825) who was a Greek naval commander and heroine of the Greek War of Independence. Born and raised in the Greek islands of Hydra and Spetses, Bouboulina amassed a considerable fortune through trading and real estate using the money to finance the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire. During the war, she commanded several ships, the most famous being the Agamemnon, and her bravery and resourcefulness led her to be awarded with the rank of admiral by the provisional government of Greece.
After the war, she settled in Nafplio, where she built a formidable fleet and became one of the first female admirals of the Mediterranean. She was also an outspoken advocate of women's rights and a philanthropist, providing financial support to orphanages, schools, and churches. Her legacy lives on in Greece and she is celebrated as a national hero. The home of Laskarina Bouboulina is located in Spetses. It was built in the early 1800s and is a two-story stone house. The house was originally built by her father, Stavrianos Bouboulina, and it was here that she grew up. After the Greek War of Independence, Bouboulina returned to Spetses and resided in her family home until her death in 1825. Today, the home is a museum and a popular tourist attraction, as it is a reminder of the courage and patriotism of this remarkable Greek heroine.
Spetses has a reputation for its energetic culture, which hosts an annual musical festival, and there are a number of traditional celebrations held throughout the year. Guests can also explore the many art galleries, which feature a range of contemporary and traditional works. This Greek Island is known for its exciting nightlife, which include bar hopping, beach parties, and live music. Many bars and clubs offer all-night dance parties, karaoke, and live DJ’s. There are many restaurants and cafes that stay open late into the night for dinner and drinks. The lively beach bars offer a variety of cocktails and drinks with stunning views of the sea and surrounding areas. For those late night owls, there are several discos and nightclubs which keep the party going till the early hours of the morning.
The food is based on the traditional Greek cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the local seafood and fresh produce. Popular dishes include seafood stew, grilled octopus, grilled shrimp, stuffed tomatoes and peppers, fried eggplants, and oven-baked lamb. Fish is a major part of their diet, with favorites such as red mullet, sardines, and mackerel being cooked in a variety of ways. Olive oil is used liberally in all dishes, as are herbs like oregano, thyme, and parsley. The local wine is also an important part of the cuisine, with the island being home to several wineries. Other local favorites include cheese pies, spinach pies, and traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and pastitsio. Desserts are also popular, with traditional Greek yogurt, baklava, and galaktoboureko among the most popular.
Spetses is an ideal destination for sailing enthusiasts, with its sheltered bays, numerous marinas, and hidden hot spots. It is blessed with many beautiful beaches. Agios Nikolaos, on the east side of Spetses, is a popular beach with crystal clear waters and plenty of amenities. Agioi Anargyroi, on the south side of the island, features a sandy beach backed by a lush pine forest. Kounoupitsa, on the north side, is a well-organized beach with sunbeds and umbrellas.
Bekiri, on the west side, is a picturesque beach with white sand and crystal clear waters. Dapia, the main port of Spetses, features a pebble beach with plenty of restaurants and bars. Lastly, Zogeria, to the south of Dapia, is a secluded beach with crystal blue waters and stunning views. Make sure not miss the opportunity to visit the mysterious cave of Agia Anargiri, which can provide memorable moments of the majestic and mythical experiences you enjoyed on your Spetses yacht charter.
Also, except that you can reach every single beach with your sailing boat, it is also a good way to get around the island with a bike, which you can secure at the boat.
To find some really good beaches, you have to get clear of the town, but you can find one in a walking distance.
Berthing and Anchorages
Old Harbor or Baltiza
The Old Harbor or Báltiza is the only organised port for small yachts in the island. At the high seasons it is always crowded and has been used for a long time.
Dapia
Dapia or The New Harbor is mainly used by commercial vessels and is not recommended for small yachts.
There are no organised Yachts Clubs in the island.
Zoyeryia Anchorage
Zoyeryiá or Zogergiá is a lovely deep cove with clear waters and it is enclosed by a pine forest. Of course there is a chance to find somewhere to place your yacht, unless it is crowded during the weekends.
You can anchor in 5-8 m because the bottom is sand and weed and it holds ok.
Also you can find a good restaurant ashore that serves traditional Greek food with local specialties.
Beaches
Ayia Paraskevi
Where: 6,2 miles from Spetses town
More info: Ayia Paraskevi is a rather isolated beach on the western side of the Spetses. It has soft sand and crystal water
Type: Sandy, Family Friendly, Partly Organized
Ayia Marina
Where: 1,8 miles south of the Town
More info: A small beach organized where you can find sun beds, umbrellas and many watersports activities.
Type: Sandy, Family Friendly, Organised
Kaiki
Where: 1,2 miles away from Dapia
More info: Kaiki is one of the most popular beaches close to the town. It is partly organized and has a lively bar in summer.
Type: Pebbled, Partly Organized
Enjoy a wonderful air video of Spetses!
