It is common for sailors crossing the Equator for the first time to be initiated into the Kingdom of Neptune. But why is Neptune the sea god so important to mariners?
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Yacht Rock
What is Yacht Rock? The Smooth Sailing Music Genre Explained (+ Playlist)
If you’ve ever found yourself relaxing on deck, cocktail in hand, and wondering what is the perfect soundtrack for sailing? Chances are, it’s Yacht Rock.
The Origins of Gin
Popular among the sailing fraternity, a gin and tonic has graced many a cockpit after a hard day racing around the cans. But what are the origins of gin, and why has this spirit remained so popular for centuries?
The Foundations of the East India Company
The Age of Exploration
The 16th century paved the way for the East India Company, which would become one of the most notorious organisations in history.
It was a hotbed of naval exploration. The oceans belonged to Portugal and Spain as they blazed trails through uncharted seas. Such was their dominance that they agreed to split the world in half with the Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494.
The History of Tea
Steeped in Adventure: The Global Voyage of Tea.
No good boat galley would be without a solid stash of tea. It’s a fascinating story, complete with tales of drug dealing, industrial espionage, and cultural significance…
Decorative Knots
Nautical Decorative Knots
Nautical knotwork, also known as decorative knots, fancy knotting, creative rope craft, and traditional knotting, was a highly valued craft among mariners during the age of sail.
Underwater Statues
Underwater Statues Around the World
Humans as a species have been responsible for some pretty lousy abuse of the oceans, especially in recent history. For once, though, something we are placing into the ocean is a force for good. Underwater statues are being installed on seabeds around the world, and they appear to be having a genuinely positive effect.
Unusual Nautical Terms
The language of the sea is rich with colourful expressions. Some have sailed into everyday speech, while others remain little-known gems of maritime history. Here are some of the more unusual nautical terms once heard aboard sailing vessels.
Breverton’s Nautical Curiosities
Breverton’s Nautical Curiosities: A Book of the Sea – Terry Breverton
I was given my copy of Breverton’s Nautical Curiosities by an old boyfriend – one whose conduct was, shall we say, less than shipshape. He’s long gone now (last seen somewhere off the stern!), but my trusty Breverton’s remains by my side as a much-treasured companion.
Explore Dream Discover
Explore. Dream. Discover: The Real Story Behind the Misattributed Mark Twain Quote
Many of you will be familiar with these three words: Explore. Dream. Discover.
They appear at the end of a well-known quote that is widely attributed to Mark Twain. I see it often on Lovesail, where it graces the profiles of many sailors seeking adventure, and perhaps love.