Patron Saints of Sailors and the Sea
No saint is more loved by sailors than St Nicholas. Greek fishing boats carry his icon, Russian sailors called him “Nikola of the Sea,” and the Church sings of him calming the storm and saving the drowning. Fishermen also keep the Apostles Andrew and Peter, who left their nets to follow Christ, and Greek sailors keep St Phocas. St Herman of Alaska is asked for safety at sea and in storms, and St Olaf for travelers by sea. For anyone who works on the water, or loves someone who does, the St Nicholas icon is the first gift.
The saints the Church turns to
St Nicholas the Wonderworker
Patron of sailors and all who travel by sea, asked for a safe voyage and a safe return.
6 December (19 December on the Old Calendar); 9 May (22 May on the Old Calendar).
St Herman of Alaska
Asked for safety at sea and in storms.
13 December (26 December on the Old Calendar).
St Olaf of Norway
Asked for protection for travelers by sea.
29 July (11 August on the Old Calendar).
The Apostles Andrew and Peter, fishermen, and St Phocas, patron of Greek sailors, are also prayed to.
In our shop
How Orthodox Christians pray for this
Greek boats carry a small icon of St Nicholas with a lamp, and the priest sprinkles a new boat with holy water. Families of sailors pray to St Nicholas for the voyage and light a candle on the safe return. A diptych folds into a sea bag.
Have it consecrated by our priest before it reaches you — Consecration, $49.
Questions
Who is the patron saint of sailors?
St Nicholas, East and West. Catholics also name St Brendan and St Elmo (Erasmus).
Who is the patron saint of the Navy?
Greek sailors keep St Nicholas as patron of the Hellenic Navy. For anyone in naval service, his icon is the natural gift.