Samothrace

Samothrace (Revised Version form; KJV "Samothracia") was a mountainous island in the northeastern Aegean Sea, lying roughly 38 miles south of the Thracian coast and about midway between Troas and Neapolis. Its highest peak (Mount Fengari) reaches 5,577 feet, making it visible from great distances at sea. The island was famous in antiquity as the site of the mystery religion of the Cabiri, whose initiates included many notable Romans including Philip of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great.

Paul's ship put in at Samothrace overnight during his second missionary journey, sailing from Troas toward Macedonia after his Macedonian vision (Acts 16:11): "Setting sail from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace, and the following day to Neapolis." The brief mention indicates a favorable wind enabling a fast overnight passage; the normal journey from Troas to Neapolis took 5 days when winds were contrary (Acts 20:6).