Article: The Sailor's Story
The Sailor's Story
Sailor’s tattoos have been an important part of maritime culture for centuries; every mark on a sailor's skin has a tale to tell. More than adornment, they echo the timeless human quest - for belonging, for identity, and for a personal narrative in a universe of stories.
They are deeply personal and act as a form of storytelling, instantly broadcasting their achievements. For example, a fully-rigged ship tattoo shows that a sailor had rounded Cape Horn, which is almost a rite of passage. Tattoos were also a way of fending off boredom during long periods at sea and many sailors doubled up as amateur tattooists.
We love the symbolism and the language that goes hand in hand with tattoos, they are an inked diary of a sailor’s maritime adventures. Here in Falmouth, Cornwall, we are surrounded by maritime history as our studio looks over the harbour, and this narrative is a constant source of inspiration.
Our new collection, The Sailor’s Story is unique, beautiful, and tells a story. Each design represents a narrative and we hope you love it as much as we do. If you'd like to know more about the designs, please read on!
Our new collection, The Sailor’s Story is unique, beautiful, and tells a story. Each design represents a narrative and we hope you love it as much as we do. If you'd like to know more about the designs, please read on!
Mermaids & Daggers
Mermaids were commonly chosen as a good luck charm by those who wanted to demonstrate their love for the open sea. They were said to lure sailors to their doom with their beauty and enchanting songs. This was a reminder that no matter how much sailors loved the sea it could be a fickle and dangerous place.
A dagger tattoo has 2 meanings, a representation of betrayal, loss and danger but it is also seen as a symbol of protection, sacrifice and bravery. We choose to use the latter, and when the mermaids & daggers come together they serve to remind us of the dangers of the sea and the bravery you need to endure the ocean.
Swallows & Anchors
If you are looking for good luck & protection at sea, our swallows & anchor has it all in abundance. Swallows indicate that you are a highly experienced sailor and only you had sailed more than 5,000 nautical miles and only then were allowed to get a tattoo of a swallow.
An anchor is the safest & most secure thing at sea and has long been a symbol of protection, stability & security. Anchor tattoos were also for sailors who had successfully completed a journey across the Atlantic Ocean, again evidence of great bravery where you would need Lady Luck on your side.
An anchor is the safest & most secure thing at sea and has long been a symbol of protection, stability & security. Anchor tattoos were also for sailors who had successfully completed a journey across the Atlantic Ocean, again evidence of great bravery where you would need Lady Luck on your side.
Sharks & Hearts
A sailor staring down a long stint at sea, including the possibility of not returning home, often wanted a heart tattoo to keep his loved ones close. Hearts are accompanied with the name of a loved one or Mum and remain one of the most popular tattoos to this day.
A shark tattoo symbolises the traits of the animal itself and about what you need to overcome the power of the ocean. A shark on your arm says you’re willing to stand your ground. It says you’re not about to become someone else’s seafood, and that you have a fighting spirit. Our design embraces both in a bold statement where love overcomes adversity.
Ship & Kraken
A tattoo of a fully rigged ship can only be earned by those who had sailed around Cape Horn. A symbol of the bravery and fearlessness of the men who set out on the high seas to defeat this merciless and dangerous journey. It also demonstrates a great determination to be ‘Homeward Bound’ . Kraken were once feared and admired in seafaring legends. Norse myths had this gargantuan beast dragging ships to the briny deep. The sailors used this mythical beast to remind them to respect the unknown the perils of the sea. Our design stands a reminder to be brave and respectful of the mercy depths in equal measures.
Lighthouse & Kraken
The lighthouse represents guidance and navigation, helping sailors navigate stormy seas and find their way home. A symbol of light, hope & protection. Popular beliefs and ancient mythology give the Kraken deep meaning and the symbolic qualities of versatility. A king of disguise they are full of ploys to pass unnoticed by predators as well as being revered for their agility, intelligence and regenerative qualities. They constantly change and adapt, a trait admired by sailors who have to think on their feet to avoid the perils of the ever changing sea. Our design shines a light on the ability to adapt quickly & the intelligence needed out at sea.
Rebecca & Allison X
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