Kefalonia - Ionian Islands

The largest island in the Ionian is Kefalonia. It is a rugged and mountainous island. In ancient time it was part of the kingdom of Odysseus and evidence at archaeological sites mentioned by Homer have been found. The ruins of most interest are those at Krani.

Places to moor

Argostoli - Until 1953 Argostoli was ver much like Fiscardo, due to the earthquake the town was rebuilt. Some remains show what the capital was like. You can get water and fuel on the quay, provisions are in an abundance. You can tie on the quay but might opt for the cove on the east side near the entrance but this is recommended only in calm weather.

Lixouri - Across the gulf from Argostoli is Lixouri. The prevailing NW winds can make anchoring uncomfortable. Fuel and water can be obtained.

Fiscardo The north east village of the island and the only one that survived during the 1953 earthquakes. Fiskardo is considered as one of the most traditional villages in Europe due to its architecture and all the traditions that it carries. Cosmopolitan surroundings, luxurious shops, beautiful bars and food for all tastes and ages is what Fiskardo has to offer its visitors. The beachside restaurants, tavernas and bars which you will find situated side by side, are decorated with beautifully glowing lit candies which give you the colour of festivity at its best. Walk along the beautiful pathways of the village and witness the Ionian beauty at its best. Take a swim in the ever enchanting beaches of Emblisi, Foki and Andrea limani. Join the hustle and bustle of Fiscardo, a picturesque bay where you can find the best food in the famous "Captain's Bar" that serves the best food in the area.

Poros - A small harbor with winds from the north. Fuel and water can be obtained. If you are the adventurous type a walk to gorge is quite a spectacular site.

History

The earliest finds of pottery point to a first settlement towards the end of the 3rd millennium BCE. A number of Mycenaean sites have been identified, though their poverty is difficult to reconcile with the wealthy Homeric times. In the 6th and 5yh century BCE the Islands were - like Corfu - under the influence of Corinth; then in 456 BCE Tolmides compelled it to submit to Athens. At that time there were four city states on Kefallinia - Kranioi, Pale, Pronnoi and Same - which Thucydides refers to as a tetrapolis. The cities were members of the Aeolian League, and Cephallenian vessels fought against the Romans, but eventually the island fell into the power of Rome. Thereafter the islands shared the destinies of the other Ionian Islands.

Ports

The entrance to Fiscardo bay is difficult to locate, but a few modern buildings north of Fiscardo are conspicuous. The Large stone lighthouse as well as the smaller Venetian lighthouse are clearly visible. Excellent shelter in all conditions, although the anchorage just below Fiscardo town has a bad reputation (bad holding and less protected). British Admiralty Chart 2402.

Argostoli port is located in the deep Kolpos Argostoliou. This bay is frequented by the ferry between Lixouri and Argostoli (caution). There is a reef running from Cape Pelagia and from Cape St Nikolaos. When you have reached the port of Argostoli you can berth stern-to or bows-to near the ferry quay. If you prefer to anchor there is a cove on the east side of the entrance of the inlet, poor shelter.