In case you’re not entirely sure what nautical tattoos are, here’s a quick explanation. Nautical tattoos are all themed and focused on the navy and sailors. These tattoos have a specific design concept and you might notice them on those who have either served in the army/ marine.
The history behind these tattoos
The history of these tattoos dates back to eons ago when sailors would mark their bodies with ink to honor their achievements. While sailing, life onboard was packed with adventures, risks, danger and even loneliness. The meanings behind these tattoos were profound and alluring.
To express all these emotional changes that constantly occurred, sailors got tattooed on their bodies, to help remind them of certain times in their lives. These tattoos have ever since been a very personal trait to sailors and of more recent years navy men/ women too.
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What to Nautical Tattoos mean?
As previously mentioned, nautical tattoos are profound; mainly because they symbolize something deeper. Many of these tattoos had certain meanings behind them and here’s what you need to know.
Lighthouse
The meaning behind a lighthouse is protection and shelter. Often sailors would get a lighthouse tattooed to themselves as a means of a guiding light, protecting them from crashes.
Swallow
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If you’re into nautical tattoos then you’d know that a swallow represents 5000 miles of traveling. These swallows often were thought to bring those onboard some luck and also signified getting home safely.
Nautical Star & Compass
These stars were significant mainly because this meant that sailors would always find their way back home. Likewise, the compass represented the same thing.
Rose and dagger
This tattoo was symbolic to those who showed great courage and were fearless. It was specially done on those who were willing to fight.
Hula Girl
This simply meant that the sailor had been to Hawaii.
Anchor
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Anchors represented the huge achievement of crossing the Atlantic Ocean. Sailors would get this tattoo after traveling and many thought of anchors also symbolized steadiness.
Crossed anchors
This tattoo represented being in-charge of the crew and equipment. This tattoo had a very specific location and was only found between the forefinger and the thumb.
Ship
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A ship also marked another great achievement- successfully sailing around the Cape Horn
Dragon
This tattoo represented China, so if a sailor had been to China, they would get this nautical tattoo.
Pin-up
These classic tats reminded sailors of female companionship and love. It would help them feel less isolated and give them the hope of seeing their wives/ girlfriends/ lovers.
Rope around the wrist
This informed others of the sailors rank as a deckhand.
Hold fast
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This was written across the knuckles and basically meant that the sailor would never let go of the rope
Crossed cannons
A representation of having served time in the navy.
Can anyone get Nautical Tattoos?
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Gone are the days where only sailors get nautical tattoos; as a matter of fact anyone can get these tattoos, provided that they are of the legal age.
An important point to remember is that these tattoos can symbolize what you want them to symbolize. You do not have to use the exact meanings that were used previously.
Nautical tats are super trendy right now and no one is limited to getting these tattoos. Whether you’re passionate about this theme or whether you just like the designs, it’s safe to say that you can get these sorts of tattoos.
What to do before getting a nautical tattoo
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Before getting any tattoo it’s important to plan. Decide on what tattoo you would like and start researching for designs. It’s important to show your tattoo artist what you want or you can also have them sketch you something unique.
Once you’re completely happy with how the design of the tattoo looks, you can go ahead and schedule an appointment to get it done. If you have any questions about the tattoo contact your tattoo artist so that you can have all your questions answered.
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After getting the tattoo to make certain to follow all instructions given to you by your tattoo artist. Post-healing and recovery are vital for your overall health. Keep the skin out of the sun and apply the advised ointments.