Port information & tips for Sámi (Kephallonia)
Sami is an idyllic port town on the east coast of the Greek island of Kefalonia and a true jewel in the Ionian Sea. The charming coastal town impresses with its picturesque bay, lush greenery, and a relaxed atmosphere that inspires you to linger in the inviting cafés on the harbor promenade. Spectacular natural wonders such as the magical Melissani Cave with its glowing blue underground lake and the impressive Drogarati stalactite cave are in the immediate vicinity, while the nearby Antisamos Beach invites you to relax with its crystal-clear water. Cruise ships dock at the central pier in the port of Sami, which is located directly in the town and, thanks to the short distances, allows convenient access to all local sights as well as the cozy taverns of the lively center.
Sami on Kefalonia is a picturesque cruise port that is ideal for a relaxed arrival and is easily accessible thanks to the nearby airport. It is usually a tender port, where ships anchor offshore and passengers are brought to the charming harbor pier by smaller boats.
Airplane
Kefalonia International Airport (EFL), also known as Anna Pollatou International Airport, is the closest airport and serves as an important gateway to the island. It is located approximately 28 to 33 kilometers from Sami. There are seasonal direct flights or convenient connections with a layover from the DACH region. For a relaxed embarkation, especially for longer journeys, arriving at least one day before departure is recommended.
Transfer to the Port
The fastest and most convenient way to reach the port of Sami from Kefalonia Airport (EFL) is by taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. The journey takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and costs around 30 to 55 euros. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and will take you straight to the port area. A bus connection is also available, but requires a change in Argostoli and is significantly longer with a travel time of 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes.
Car and Parking on Site
Those who wish to explore the island flexibly can rent a car directly at the airport or in Sami. The drive to the port follows well-maintained roads, takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and offers scenic views. Parking options directly at the port of Sami are limited, especially during the high season. However, both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available in the town of Sami, not far from the center.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Sami on Kefalonia is a picturesque cruise port that is ideal for a relaxed arrival and is easily accessible thanks to the nearby airport. It is usually a tender port, where ships anchor offshore and passengers are brought to the charming harbor pier by smaller boats.
Airplane
Kefalonia International Airport (EFL), also known as Anna Pollatou International Airport, is the closest airport and serves as an important gateway to the island. It is located approximately 28 to 33 kilometers from Sami. There are seasonal direct flights or convenient connections with a layover from the DACH region. For a relaxed embarkation, especially for longer journeys, arriving at least one day before departure is recommended.
Transfer to the Port
The fastest and most convenient way to reach the port of Sami from Kefalonia Airport (EFL) is by taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. The journey takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and costs around 30 to 55 euros. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and will take you straight to the port area. A bus connection is also available, but requires a change in Argostoli and is significantly longer with a travel time of 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes.
Car and Parking on Site
Those who wish to explore the island flexibly can rent a car directly at the airport or in Sami. The drive to the port follows well-maintained roads, takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and offers scenic views. Parking options directly at the port of Sami are limited, especially during the high season. However, both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available in the town of Sami, not far from the center.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Sami impresses with its central location directly at the coastal town and allows you to continue your journey easily to the highlights of the island of Kephallonia.
On foot
The charming center of Sami with its inviting waterfront promenade and numerous tavernas can be reached directly from the quay in about five minutes. The path is flat and leads you relaxedly along the sea to local shops and cafés.
Taxi
Directly at the port exit, you will find a taxi rank for individual tours into the hinterland. Thanks to the short distances, you can comfortably reach world-famous natural spectacles such as the underground Melissani Lake or the picturesque Antisamos beach from here in just a few minutes.
KTEL buses
The stop for the regional KTEL buses is located in the immediate vicinity of the port basin and is easily accessible. These connections are ideal for excursions to the island's capital, Argostoli, and also offer an affordable way to explore the island's diverse landscape.
To make the most of your stay in Sámi, it is recommended to focus on the spectacular natural wonders in the direct vicinity as well as the authentic atmosphere of the charming harbor village.
Harbor Promenade of Sámi
The extensive waterfront promenade invites you to take a relaxed stroll with its traditional taverns and small shops, and also offers a wonderful view of the turquoise sea and the green hills of the opposite island of Ithaka. Thanks to its direct proximity to the ship, this area is ideal for an authentic Greek coffee or a lunch with freshly caught fish in a maritime ambiance.
Melissani Cave Lake
This mystical underground lake is located just a few minutes from the harbor and impresses with its crystal-clear water, which shines in brilliant blue tones thanks to the sunlight falling through the collapsed cave roof. A short boat trip across the lake is perfect for unforgettable holiday photos and can be excellently integrated into any shore excursion due to the short travel time.
Antisamos Beach
The bay, world-famous as a film set, is ideal for a swim in the crystal-clear water and is quickly reached from Sámi thanks to the short driving time over the hills. The beach impresses with its protected location and is simultaneously framed by an impressive backdrop of lush green mountains, making it one of the most beautiful swimming spots on the island.
Antisamos Beach
The picturesque Antisamos Beach is only about ten to fifteen minutes drive from the port of Sámi thanks to its location and impresses with its crystal-clear, turquoise water in the midst of a lush, green hilly landscape. This bay offers you a first-class tourist infrastructure with comfortable beach clubs, high-quality loungers and a selection of excellent bars and restaurants for an all-round relaxed stay. Thanks to its sheltered location and gentle sea breeze, this place is perfect for a luxurious swimming experience and also offers ideal opportunities for snorkeling in the crystal-clear bay. It is best to visit the beach directly in the morning to enjoy the special atmosphere before the arrival of larger groups of visitors and plan your return journey to the port conveniently ninety minutes before departure.
The return journey to the picturesque port of Sámi is very straightforward thanks to the short distances and good connections to the surrounding highlights.
Taxi
Taxis are available at the central taxi rank directly on the harbor promenade and also wait for passengers at the parking lots of Melissani Cave and Drogarati Cave. At the popular Antisamos Beach, the staff at the beach bars are happy to call a taxi for you so that you can get back to the pier safely and promptly.
Bus and Shuttle
The KTEL bus stop is centrally located on the shore road in the immediate vicinity of the harbor entrance and offers regular connections from the surrounding area. Many organized tours also end directly at the ship, so you can enjoy the comfort of a private transfer right to the terminal.
On Foot
From the center of Sámi, you can walk back to your berth along the waterfront promenade in just a few minutes. The way back from Melissani Cave is also easy to find thanks to the flat coastal road and offers a relaxed way to reach the harbor again after about twenty minutes of walking.
