Boating Folklore - Boating myths and superstitions

Boating Folklore - Boating myths and superstitions © Grady-White

Whether you're an old salt or new to boating, you've probably heard at least some of these myths and superstitions.

However, do you know the stories behind them? Get the details on these ancient boating beliefs, then decide for yourself if you'll comply or take your chances the next time you leave the dock.

Today, superstitions are mostly regarded as entertaining. However, you've probably "knocked on wood" at least one time in the past month. And would you really walk under a ladder or break a mirror purposefully? If you subscribe to those myths, you might want to consider taking into account some of these top boating superstitions before you leave the dock.

1. Ban the bananas

This widely known boating superstition dates back to the early 1700s when trade ships would transport the yellow fruit between Spain and the Caribbean islands. Venomous spiders would camp out in the banana bushels and surprise sailors with a nasty, sometimes deadly, bite. Bananas also release ethylene gas which some believe acts as a natural fish repellent. Mechanical issues and bad weather have also been "linked" to having bananas on board.

2. Redheads = bad luck

People with red hair were often believed to be unlucky by several cultures. Redheads were not welcome aboard ships and were to be avoided by sailors before their journey began.

3. Board with the right foot

Superstition states that you should always step aboard with your right foot. Starting your journey on your left foot will bring bad luck.

4. Adopt a ship's cat

Cats have served as a good omen on ships through the ages. These whiskered critters are good luck charms because they hunt and kill pesky rodents that gnaw through rope, carry diseases, and eat the food supply.

5. Never rename a ship

Legend has it that renaming your boat without holding a special de-naming ceremony can incur the wrath of Poseidon, god of the sea. It is said that every vessel's name is kept in the "Ledger of the Deep" maintained by Poseidon himself, who considers it tempting fate to rename your boat and will no longer protect you from disaster at sea.

6. Withhold the whistle

Whistling was thought to challenge the wind at sea, angering it, causing strong gusts and treacherous conditions.

7. Red sky...

You may have heard the saying "Red sky at night, sailor's delight. Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning." Although many superstitions are myths, this one is factually based. When the sky is red at sunset, this means stable atmospheric pressure, indicating good weather to come. Conversely, if the sky is red during sunrise, a storm is likely brewing and bad weather is on the way.