Which port do ferries to Patmos use?

All scheduled ferries use Skala, on the sheltered east coast of the island. The village is immediately above the port.

How do I get from the port to the monastery?

Buses and taxis connect Skala to Chora and the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian on the hilltop, about 4 km above the port.

Is there a ferry from Patmos to Rhodes?

Yes — Blue Star Ferries on the Piraeus–Rhodes run calls at Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos and Kos on the way south to Rhodes. Journey time from Patmos to Rhodes is typically 7 to 9 hours.

Patmos Ferries

Everything you need to know about ferries to and from Patmos — the port of Skala, routes to Athens and the Dodecanese, and how to plan an island visit.

The port: Skala

Patmos's ferry port is Skala, a well-sheltered harbour on the island's east coast. It is the island's main settlement as well as its only ferry stop — the small quay handles Blue Star Ferries large conventional vessels and the occasional high-speed connection from Samos or Kos. The whitewashed alleys of Chora and the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Saint John the Theologian dominate the hilltop above.

Routes from Patmos

The principal connection is the Blue Star Ferries overnight service to and from Piraeus — roughly 7 to 8 hours south to Athens. Southbound the same ship calls at Leros, Kalymnos, Kos and Rhodes; northbound it continues from Patmos toward Samos and Chios. This means Patmos is a convenient jumping-off point for exploring the central and southern Dodecanese.

Island-hopping tips

Patmos is one of the most sacred sites in the Christian world — pilgrims and travellers arrive year-round, but the island remains unhurried and relatively uncrowded. It sits near the northern end of the Dodecanese arc, so island-hoppers typically combine it with Leros or Lipsi to the south, then continue to Kalymnos or Kos. Frequency is best in summer (late June–September); in winter sailings reduce to a few times a week.

Planning your visit

Ferries to Patmos are not dramatically busy compared to the Cyclades, but book ahead in July and August if you need a cabin berth or want to bring a car. The island has limited parking and most visitors explore on foot or by scooter — a car is rarely needed unless you are staying in a remote villa.

Ports & terminals

Patmos FerriesView on map →

Frequently asked questions

Which port do ferries to Patmos use?: All scheduled ferries use Skala, on the sheltered east coast of the island. The village is immediately above the port.
How do I get from the port to the monastery?: Buses and taxis connect Skala to Chora and the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian on the hilltop, about 4 km above the port.
Is there a ferry from Patmos to Rhodes?: Yes — Blue Star Ferries on the Piraeus–Rhodes run calls at Patmos, Leros, Kalymnos and Kos on the way south to Rhodes. Journey time from Patmos to Rhodes is typically 7 to 9 hours.