Kefalonia Sailing and Mooring Guide

Overview of Kefalonia

Kefalonia (Cephalonia, Nisos Kefallinia) is a beautiful island in the Ionian Sea, located 20 NM west of mainland Greece, south of Lefkada, and just across a narrow sea strait from Ithaka. The island is marked by a high mountain spine, dry, rugged slopes, valleys rich in pines, and an indented coastline with limestone cliffs, bays, and many short sandy coves with beaches made up of strips of white sand, some of which are only accessible on foot or via boat.

The island is worth extensive touring by foot or car. The capital, Argostoli, is located within a deep bay on the SW side and is close to Krani, where ruins from Mycenaean times are considered some of the best preserved in Greece. Fiskardho (Phiscardo), located on the island’s northern tip, shows 19th-century charm. The ancient town of Sami, built just above the port of the same name on the island’s east side, is mentioned in Homer’s writings as one of the kingdoms of Odysseus. On the NW side, Port Asos houses a large Venetian fort, and of the numerous beaches, you may not want to miss a swim at Myrtos or Antisamos.

Anchorages and Mooring Spots

Fiskardho (Phiscardo)

Coordinates: 38º27′.53N 20 34′.94E – Light at the entrance [FL.R.2M] – Light on E cliff [FL. 3S.7M]

It is located at the northern end of the Ithaca Strait. The ruined stone lighthouses on the north side of the bay can be seen upon approach. Some new buildings can be seen on the NE side, in the south and west, and in many hotels and tavernas. You can go stern or bow-to on the south or west quays. Please don’t worry about berthing in the SW, as it is reserved for local boats. The bay is very crowded during the summer, but you can anchor at the entrance (within some distance of the ferry dock), with a long line to the north shore, in sand, rocks, and weed with reasonable holding. Depths range from 2-4 m.

The bay offers excellent shelter from the prevailing winds from the NW; however, strong southerly winds may make anchoring to the north shore and the west berths uncomfortable in summer. There are facilities all around, and mooring is quite affordable. Water and electricity connections are available at some berths on the quays. Divers are available. Fuel (Gasoline, Diesel; Tel: +30 694 481 1214, [email protected]). Chandlers (Tel: +30 267 404 1045 www.fiscardochandlers.com). You can find supermarkets, banks, ATMs, and car hire and motorbike rentals in town, and the ferry goes to Frikes and Vasiliki.

Sami

Coordinates: 38º15′.30N 20 38′.78E – Light at entrance [FL.R.2S.4M]

The triangular Sami marina is located at the SE end of a large bay on the east side of the island. You can go stern-to the pier, anchoring in 3-7 m depths. The bottom is mud with good holding. Rafting up alongside the north breakwater may be possible. The basin to the west of the marina is for local craft and is mostly shallow. Shelter is good though a small surge may develop in summer. Water should be available (if supply is turned on), as well as fuel (Gasoline, Diesel; Tel: +30 694 473 0789), chandlery, provisions, and ATM.

Antisamos

Coordinates: 38º15′.775N 20 40′.562E

Antisamos bay and beach are located to the east of Sami, around the cape. This is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing.

Assos

Coordinates: 38º22′.74N 20 34′.31E

Assos (Asos) is a natural harbor open to the north, located on the NW coast of the island. The best mooring is stern-to the quay on the east entrance. Care is needed as the ballast extends underwater. Otherwise, you can anchor in 10-15 m with a long line to the west shore, or anchor freely in 8-10 m deeper in, away from swimmers and local moorings. As the bay is open to the prevailing winds from the NW, mooring is not always comfortable. Facilities are limited, but there are some tavernas on shore.

Myrtos Beach

Coordinates: 38º20′.620N 20 32′.010E

Myrtos beach, with its famous cave, is just 2 NM to the south of Assos. It’s a must-visit for anyone touring Kefalonia.