Kamariotissa Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Kamariotissa is the only proper harbour on Samothrace — a small ferry port on the NW coast of the island. Anchor in 3–5m on sand and mud with good holding, or stern-to on the quay if space allows. Sheltered from N, NE, and NW by the island's massive mountain backdrop (Fengari, 1,611m). Exposed to S, SW, and W. The harbour is small and can be uncomfortable in strong SW winds. Ferries from Alexandroupoli call here daily in summer.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Kamariotissa is primarily sand and mud with reliable holding when properly set. Use the following approach:

1. Approach slowly and check your depth sounder on the way in. At 3–5m, deploy at minimum 7:1 scope (35m chain at 5m depth).
2. Drop into the wind or current and pay out chain steadily as the boat drifts back — do not allow chain to pile on the anchor.
3. Set firmly in reverse. Apply moderate throttle astern for 30–60 seconds. The chain should tighten without the boat moving backwards.
4. Take a GPS bearing. Note your position once set and compare to the scope calculator to confirm you have adequate chain for the depth.

Recommended anchor types for this bottom: Rocna, Mantus, Spade. See our guide to anchor types by bottom for detailed comparisons.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Kamariotissa are feasible but require monitoring. The anchorage is exposed to S and SW and W winds.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 55m radius before going below for the night.55m for the outer anchorage in 3–5m on sand and mud. Good holding. Exposed to S, SW, and W — monitor forecasts carefully. Samothrace is known for sudden, violent gusts — katabatic winds off Fengari can arrive with little warning even in settled conditions. Set a conservative alarm and sleep lightly on the first night.

July–August is the only reliable sailing season around Samothrace. June and September are possible but the island's weather is notoriously unpredictable. May and October are not recommended for sailing around the island — strong NE winds and poor conditions are common. The island itself is beautiful year-round for those willing to arrive by ferry.

Navigation Hazards

• Katabatic gusts off Fengari — violent downbursts can hit the harbour without warning; these are most common in NE conditions when wind flows over the mountain; always have anchor alarm set
• No fuel on Samothrace — carry reserves; plan fuel stops at Alexandroupoli or Myrina before arriving
• Ferry traffic: daily ferry from Alexandroupoli; keep approach clear and monitor VHF 16
• Exposed to S, SW, W — southerly or westerly winds make the harbour uncomfortable; limited options for moving to a better-sheltered position on the island
• Remote island — medical facilities are limited; hospital on mainland at Alexandroupoli (28nm)

Rules & Regulations

• Permit: Not required beyond standard Greek DEKPA transit log
• Anchoring fee: Free anchoring. Quay berths: small harbour fee in high season.
• Restrictions: DEKPA and TEPAI required. Ferry traffic daily from Alexandroupoli — keep ferry approach clear. Monitor VHF 16. Katabatic gusts off Fengari can be violent — never leave the boat unattended without a GPS alarm set.

For a full overview of Greek anchoring rules, see our overnight anchoring rules by region guide.

Facilities

• Fresh water: Available
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Kamariotissa village (0nm)
• Restaurant: Two or three tavernas in the village. Basic mini-market. NO fuel on the island — carry reserves from Alexandroupoli, Kavala, or Myrina (Limnos). Water available from the quay.
• Provisions: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. The Sanctuary of the Great Gods (6km east, 10min by taxi/scooter) is one of the most important and least-visited ancient sites in Greece — allow half a day; it was here that the Nike of Samothrace was found in 1863
2. Rent a scooter or car in Kamariotissa to explore the interior — the waterfalls and gorges of the Fonias River (8km east) are spectacular
3. Always have the anchor alarm set even in the harbour — katabatic gusts off Fengari can arrive suddenly and are stronger than the external forecast suggests
4. Stock up with fuel at Alexandroupoli before crossing to Samothrace — the 28nm crossing is the minimum passage and there is no fuel on the island