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Situated on the eastern side of Kefalonia, Sami is set below a backdrop of magnificent, heavily wooded mountains. Sami achieved overnight fame when it was chosen as the setting of pre- earthquake Argostoli for the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. Many people still visit hoping to get a glimpse of the realistic film set, but thankfully all evidence of filming was removed. Everything, that is, except for the ruins of the Doctor’s cottage. Hidden away in a beautiful deserted village, it’s worth a visit. Sami is well worth a visit for it’s spectacular views and it’s ancient settlements from the Byzantine, Roman and Mycenean periods. Take a break from sailing for a day and hire a car or scooter to explore this ancient area. Or stop in Antisamos bay, great for a lunchtime anchorage. If you visit by land, you will find footpaths leading from the beach to ancient settlements. The incredible view down to Sami and across to Ithaca is ample reward for your efforts more photos |
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| Pilotage Sail into the gulf of Sami and the harbour entrance becomes obvious. Berth stern or bows to the new “T” shaped pier inside the harbour. There is some swell inside the harbour when the wind is blowing down the channel between Ithaca and Kefalonia. However, the bottom is mud and holding is good. Later on in the evening, as the Ionian NW wind dies down, Sami is a great option for an overnight stay. Yacht Facilities and Provisions The people of Sami are keen to encourage yacht sailors to its harbour and facilities and provisions are in plentiful supply here. Fuel and water, together with marine equipment shops can be found here. Supermarkets and bakeries can also easily be found. Yacht Sailing Conditions A typically light southerly morning breeze later becomes a stronger NW wind. These are typical Ionian conditions. If you are sailing towards the north, through the channel between Ithaca and Kefalonia, expect the wind to be stronger. If you are sailing to any of the harbours along the east coast of Ithaka, the wind can become gusty as it drives down the high sided mountains. With the right amount of sail up and a nicely balanced boat, you will enjoy some great upwind sailing. Eating Out Sami is a popular holiday tourist destination as well as a sailing yacht marina, so there are plenty of options for eating out. Fresh fish is in abundance here. Choose a harbour-side restaurant and relax as you sip a glass of wine and enjoy the magnificent evening view across to Aghia Efimia. |