The Sailor's Nautical and Marine Tattoos
Sailors were one of the first groups to bring the art of tattooing to the world after visiting Polynesia and other areas in Southeast Asia. Tattooing was first recorded by Captain Cook as he explored Tahiti, Hawaii and New Zealand. After returning from their travels the fascination with tattooing embraced Europe.
Sailors across the globe developed a code for their tattoos and soon a sailor’s tattoos told a story of where he had been and what he had encountered on his travels. Other markings were intended to protect sailors from falling overboard or drowning.
Over time there have been many favoured maritime signs, such as the nautical start to help guide sailors home, or a tattoo reminded the sailor of someone back home.
Back to the complete list of tattoo designs and their meanings.
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