This post is the second in our two-part series exploring traditional sailor tattoos. If you haven’t already, you may like to start with Part I: Sailor Tattoos – Their History and Meanings.
Tattoos have been closely associated with sailors for many years. It should, therefore, come as no surprise that many of the tattoo designs inked onto the skin of nautical adventurers carried a deeper significance. Here we look at five more designs that have often appeared on the flesh of sailors.
Mermaids
The sea has always inspired myth and legend, and mermaids were a popular tattoo motif among sailors. They symbolised the allure and danger of the ocean: beautiful, mysterious, and sometimes perilous. To some, a mermaid tattoo represented temptation; to others, it was a charm to bring good fortune on long voyages.
Harpoons
Another tool often depicted in sailor tattoos is the harpoon. While many might associate it with whaling, the harpoon tattoo actually showed that the mariner had served in a fishing fleet. As with many designs, these tattoos often recorded the sailor’s past experience.
Crossed Cannons
Crossed cannons or guns were a sign that the sailor had served in a military capacity at sea. This design was more commonly found among members of the Royal Navy or the US Navy. Sometimes crossed cannons were used, while other gun types also appeared in tattoo form.
Memento Mori
Sailor tattoos were not always about profession or travel; they also carried spiritual meaning. A “memento mori,” or reminder of death, was a way for sailors to remember a comrade lost at sea. One common design was a swallow with a dagger through it. Since swallows already symbolised safe return, this darker variation was a poignant reminder of mortality and sacrifice.
Hold Fast
The words Hold Fast were sometimes tattooed across the knuckles, one word on each hand. Originally linked to oarsmen, the design spread to sailors of all kinds. It served both as a practical reminder to grip ropes and rigging securely and as a talisman to keep the sailor safe during storms and rough seas.
Sailor-Style Tattoos Today
Although few modern sailors face the same dangers as their forebears, these designs remain part of tattoo culture. Classic sailor imagery—anchors, swallows, ships, mermaids—lives on in “old school” or American traditional tattoo styles. Bold outlines, vibrant colours, and timeless symbols ensure their popularity even among those who have never been to sea.
In recent years, neo-traditional tattooing has refreshed these designs with richer colour palettes, fine details, and shading, while retro styles celebrate their mid-century roots. Whether worn for heritage, superstition, or style, sailor tattoos continue to inspire and endure.
Want to read more? Take a look at Sailor Tattoos: Their History and Meanings – Part I
From tattoos to salty tales, sailors have always shared their passion for the sea. At Lovesail, you can connect with others who share yours – whether for dating, friendship, or crewing opportunities. Join our global sailing community today.
Image courtesy of Sailor Jerry
2 thoughts on “Sailing Tattoos and their Meaning Part II”
Comments are closed.