Immersing our Senses in Patmos, Greece

Monday, April 24, 2017
By Azamara
Note: This is a special feature post from Mark and Dale from Meet Me OnBoard, the largest gay cruise community online. Azamara is a proud partner with Meet Me OnBoard.
 
Among our stops on the Azamara Journey, Patmos—a Greek island—is a place we felt the ship had taken us on a journey back in time. We learned that the island’s history reaches into Greek mythology of the seas: Neptune, God of the Sea, was said to have been the first to set foot on Patmos. Mere mortals arrived somewhere around 3,000 BC. Around 4,000 years later, in 1,088, an awesome Orthodox monastery was built.
 
Patmos, Greece.
 
Everything about our cruise on the Azamara Journey has been an immersive feast for the senses, and visiting an ancient, still-operating monastery on Patmos engaged all our senses. 
 

 
For us—as lovers of interesting music—it was our ears that got the main course. While exploring the hilltop Monastery of St. John the Divine, we discovered that modern monks still chant as part of their daily ritual. Hearing them chant while we walked the narrow corridors was a special treat. 
 
Patmos, Greece
 
(St. John the Divine was the man who is said to have received the biblical book of Revelation in a cave—now a chapel—halfway up the hill to the Monastery). 
 
The monastery features narrow stone spiral staircases, bell towers, a domed oven, and a museum’s-worth of ancient art and icons. We had a true sense that Azamara Journey had delivered us to another period in time. 
 
Patmos, Greece
 
Whether religious or not, visiting a place like this is a reminder of the lengths people have gone for their beliefs. We listened for whispers from the walls—wondering what they’d say if they could talk—there’s certainly been more than one gay monk in the world.
 
Set atop a hill, the still-functioning Orthodox monastery can be reached by bus, taxi, or on foot by the hearty traveler. Surrounded by the old town of Chora, and with a commanding view of the island and the harbor, this is a “don’t miss” UNESCO world heritage site. 


Cruises Featured in this Article

croatia intensive voyage
7-Night Cruise

croatia intensive voyage

June 10, 2023
Pricing Unavailable
View Details
ireland intensive voyage
11-Night Cruise

ireland intensive voyage

June 13, 2023
Pricing Unavailable
View Details
italy intensive voyage
11-Night Cruise

italy intensive voyage

June 17, 2023
Prices from 2073*

USD Avg Per Person

View Details

Recent Articles

Dubrovnik, Croatia at dusk
DESTINATION IMMERSION

Seven Things to do in Croatia

Croatia has seen a sort of transformation recently, one that has taken it from a hidden gem of coastal delights to one of the hottest travel destinations in Europe. What makes this small Balkan nation so appealing? It could be the brilliant sapphire waters of the Adriatic and spectacular white beaches. Or maybe it’s the medieval architecture and walled towns steeped in history begging to be uncovered. Or perhaps it’s the friendly, welcoming people and unique folk culture.

Read Article
aerial shoreline view
DESTINATION IMMERSION

Highlights of the 2025 Azamara World Voyage

155 nights. 37 countries. Explore every corner of the globe on Azamara’s 2025 World Voyage. A leader in Destination Immersion® experiences, Azamara continues to bring guests to bucket-list destinations, providing immersive travel moments while delivering service excellence. 

Read Article
shimmer background woman holding gift
DESTINATION IMMERSION

2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Travel Lovers

Just like every snowflake is unique, so is every individual and their approach to travel. Some people value staying connected while they travel, while the fashionista in your life might prioritize wardrobe changes. The aspiring photographer might have a carry-on filled with camera equipment, and someone drawn to wellness may need their portable workout gear on every trip! 

Read Article