In 1818, he was initiated into the Filiki Eteria (Friendly Society) which was preparing the ground for the revolt. When the war broke out, his fellow islanders made Tombazis admiral of the fleet of Hydra.
In 1818, he joined the Filiki Eteria (Friendly Society), which planned the rebellion. Upon the outbreak of war, his compatriots made Tombazis the commander of Hydra's naval forces.