That's what we say to each other from time to time when strong winds and a restless night are forecast, when we hope that our anchor will hold. Here on Samothraki in the harbour of Kamariotissa, that's also the motto. Secure the boat well, be alert, persevere. We are moored alongside the outer pier together with several other sailing boats that have also taken refuge here from the forecast strong north wind. It is the only safe harbour on the island; the nearest harbours on other islands are at least 40 nautical miles away. And here, you can only moor alongside, as a large ferry docks in the harbour every day.
However, we didn't think it would be so violent and last so long. Twenty-four hours of strong winds of up to 40 knots, spray and breakers coming over the quay wall and pouring over our boat meant we had a sleepless night and a day on watch on board. Our lines have held so far. But the breakers are bringing lots of Posidonia onto our boat. The drains on deck are constantly clogged with it, so the water that comes over the side cannot drain away. We are waiting for the weather to calm down so we can go ashore for a coffee and to buy something for dinner. We don't even want to think about cleaning up the deck yet.
Waves come over the pier on our boat: video
