irios School. Although some hotels were present, tourists often stayed in purpose-built holiday homes. From the 1980s, these were often supplanted by north European tourists, especially from Britain, who were attracted by the low cost of a holiday. Package tours to Spetses declined and eventually ceased during 1990s; nowadays the island's holiday clientele remains more upmarket and largely Greek.
Now
"Spetses is where superyachts bob up and down next to traditional wooden fishing boats and where the super-rich rub shoulders with the locals in quayside tavernas. All are drawn to this pine-covered island for its secluded coves and clear waters and the glories of Spetses Town, the island hub, untainted by package tourism."
The main Athenian tourist season lasts for only two months of the year, although most hotels and restaurants are open from Easter until October. Efforts are currently being made to extend the season with the addition of major events:
• The Spetses Classic Yacht Race
In June a spectacular weekend of Sailing races, starting/finishing in the straight between Spetses and Kosta. 50 yachts took part in the 2012 Regatta, catagories were Vintage (built prior to 1949), Classic (built between 1949-1975) and Spirit of Tradition (built after 1975) as well as Aegean Schooners and Open Boats.
• The Spetses Mini Marathon
The main event is an international 26km marathon around the Island. The first year, 2011, attracted over 1200 participants, including the 5km fun run around the town. This year's race will be held on October 2012. A 1km childrens' race a non-competitive bike race around the island have been added to the program
The first decade of the current century saw a distinct shift away from package tourism on Spetses and the island once again became fashionable amongst the wealthier Greeks. Nowadays, the majority of visitors are Greek or
