5 Common Nautical Superstitions

Since time immemorial, sailors have navigated the Seven Seas holding superstitious beliefs thought to prevent bad luck. Even today, many boaters adhere to these traditions, such as not renaming a boat, often without understanding their origins. Here are five common boating superstitions and their roots:

1. It’s Bad Luck to Rename a Boat

Renaming a boat, a belief tied to ancient Greek mythology, is widely considered unlucky. According to the legend, Poseidon, the god of the sea, maintained a scroll known as the Ledger of the Deep, documenting the names of all ships. Changing a boat's name invited Poseidon's anger upon the vessel.

Modern boaters circumvent this curse by eliminating all traces of the old name – from transom to maintenance manuals. Following this, a re-christening ceremony is held, honoring Poseidon and formally declaring the new name, hoping for his blessing for safe voyages.

2. Never Step Onto a Boat With Your Left Foot

This superstition arises from a medieval misconception that the left side was unlucky, as the Latin word for left, "sinister," developed negative connotations. The word for right, "dexter," became associated with skillfulness ("dexterous"). Consequently, sailors ensured their right foot touched the ship first.

3. Whistling is Forbidden On Board

Whistling was believed to summon fierce winds potentially sinking the boat and might be mistaken for commands issued by a bosun's whistle. Interestingly, only the ship’s cook was allowed to whistle – a practical assurance they weren't eating coveted supplies.

4. Bananas Should be Banned from Boats

Prevailing among anglers since the 1700s, it is believed that carrying bananas ensures no fish are caught. Ships had to navigate quickly to prevent bananas from ripening, leaving no opportunity for fishing. The ethylene gas bananas emit accelerates spoilage of other cargo and occasionally harbored lethal tropical spiders, further amplifying the superstition.

5. Cats Bring Boats Good Luck

In a positive twist, cats were regarded as harbingers of good fortune. Ships used to carry cats to control the rodent population, which in turn protected wooden decks and rope riggings. An intact ship’s cat ensured good luck; however, if the cat fell overboard, a storm might ensue. Cats’ sensitivity to atmospheric changes, which might anticipate storms, could explain their perceived mystical control over weather.

Today’s enjoyment of nautical lore often stems from past practical solutions to seafaring dangers. While on your next boating adventure, embrace these superstitions, enrich your journey's narrative, and allow yourself the liberty to whistle a tune!

Earlier, SSP wrote why a rabbit’s foot is considered lucky.