Notes from a sailing journey on the Aegean’s most mysterious island — cooling off in waterfalls, finding freedom in the wind…
Imagine an island in the Aegean Sea — rugged, wild, untouched. An island washed by the freedom of the wind, hidden beneath deep green forests, and brought to life by the cool melodies of its waterfalls: Samothraki.
For sailors, this island is much more than just a waypoint. Samothraki, the lesser-known gem of the Northern Aegean, is mysterious and captivating enough to steal the hearts of even the most seasoned sailing enthusiasts.
From afar, the island’s silhouette is striking. Mount Fengari rises to 1,611 meters, disappearing into the clouds — it feels as if you’re approaching a mythical land. Unlike most islands with gentle, sandy beaches, Samothraki’s coastline is rocky, wild, and unprotected. This makes it both a challenge and a pure joy for sailors.
Starting from Limnos or Thassos, sailing to Samothraki means dancing with the Meltemi winds and testing your skills against strong currents and rapidly changing weather. But once you drop anchor, the journey’s reward is beyond words.
One of the most enchanting treasures of Samothraki is its “vathres” — natural pools formed by waterfalls. Swimming in these icy, crystal-clear waters after stepping off your boat is one of those unforgettable moments that define a true adventure.
The day I stopped by the island, the taste of freshly grilled octopus at a small taverna by the port still lingers on my palate. My recommendation to you is to definitely try the local goat stew prepared by the villagers in Hora in the evening. In addition, the island’s famous wild herb salads and homemade ouzo can be the perfect companions while watching the sunset.
The village of Hora welcomes you with narrow stone streets, old stone houses, and small tavernas. As you sip an ouzo at sunset and watch the sun slip behind the mountains, you’ll find a deep, peaceful pause in your sailing journey.
There are no fully organized marinas on the island; most sailors choose to moor at Kamariotissa port. During peak season, it can get quite busy, so for a more tranquil experience, you can anchor in one of the secluded coves along the northern coast.
For sailors, Samothraki isn’t just a stop — it’s a soul-stirring adventure. A place where the wind tests you, the currents guide you, and nature embraces you completely. And perhaps the most magical part: it still keeps many of its secrets hidden from the world.
If one day you decide to turn your bow northward in the Aegean, don’t miss spending a night under Fengari’s shadow and listening to the songs of the waterfalls. Samothraki will echo in your mind like a soft wave long after you’ve sailed away.
In pursuit of blue dreams — see you at the next port…
Article and Photographs: Banu Demir / The Sailor's Newspaper
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