New Testament
Acts 28:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
After three months, we set sail on an Alexandrian ship that had wintered at the island, with the Twin Brothers as its figurehead.
Compare translations
And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.
What Acts 28:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
After spending three months on the island, the group finally prepared to leave. They boarded a ship from Alexandria, which had been docked there for the winter. This ship was notable for its figurehead, which depicted the Twin Brothers, Castor and Pollux, who were associated with protection for sailors. The journey was significant, marking a transition from a period of waiting and survival to one of movement and purpose. The crew and passengers were likely filled with anticipation as they set sail, leaving behind the island that had provided refuge. This moment symbolizes new beginnings and the hope that comes with embarking on a new adventure. It reminds us that after times of difficulty, we can find opportunities to move forward and explore new horizons. The ship represents not just a means of travel, but also the journey of life itself, where we often face challenges before we can set sail toward our goals and dreams. Each journey has its own story, and this one was about resilience and hope.
How to apply Acts 28:11 to your life
When faced with challenges, remember that every difficult period can lead to new opportunities. Embrace change and be open to the adventures that await you. Just like the travelers in this story, you can find strength in moving forward after hardship. Trust the process and look for the next steps in your journey!
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Paul's story: Arrival in Rome (Acts 28:11–16)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul

Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 28:11
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 28:11
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 28:11 mean?
Acts 28:11 describes the departure of Paul and his companions from the island after three months, highlighting their transition to a new journey. They boarded an Alexandrian ship, which symbolizes hope and new beginnings after a period of waiting.
What is the significance of the ship in Acts 28:11?
The ship in Acts 28:11 represents a means of transition from a time of refuge to a new adventure. It signifies the journey of life, where challenges can lead to new opportunities and experiences.
Who are Castor and Pollux mentioned in Acts 28:11?
Castor and Pollux, referred to in Acts 28:11, are the Twin Brothers from Greek mythology, known as protectors of sailors. Their image as the ship's figurehead symbolizes safety and guidance during maritime journeys.
What does the phrase 'after three months' indicate in Acts 28:11?
The phrase 'after three months' in Acts 28:11 indicates a significant period of waiting and survival on the island, suggesting a time of preparation before embarking on a new journey.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.