Deadliest Catch

Top 10 Sea Superstitions
Deadliest Catch » Crab Fishing 101 »

Top 10 Superstitions at Sea

By Jessika Toothman, HowStuffWorks.com

Get More HSW

Learn More at HowStuffWorks.com:

* How Creationism Works
* Is the brain hardwired for religion?
* How Karma Works

Those who sail the world's oceans have traditionally been awash with superstition, so hitting the high seas involves learning a laundry list of potential pitfalls to make sure no omens go unheeded or taboos are committed. And although many superstitions that plagued sailors' thoughts in past eras have fallen away in modern times, some remain alive and well today.

For a look at some of the superstitions of the sea from then and now, check out the following.

10. APPEASING THE GODS:

Many cultures throughout history have attributed the powers of the sea to a plethora of authoritative deities and devils. And in an attempt to tame them and ensure a safe voyage, sailors often proffered gifts to these aquatic higher powers.

Animal and human sacrifices alike were one primitive way of appeasing the spirits of the seas. They could take place before launching, upon reaching safe harbor and at other times during a voyage. Cattle were a popular choice, but dogs, foxes, fowl, sheep, horses and a whole ark of other animals have also been among the many animals sacrificed over the millennia to calm the seas.

Libations and offerings of honey, flour, money, cloth, cheese, bread, brandy, fruit, meat, oil, wine and other gifts have all sunk slowly to the depths, having been cast overboard by superstitious sailors hoping for successful and safe travels.

NEXT: 9. A LUCKY LAUNCH >>

Next »10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 21« Previous

Get More on Crab Fishing

* Wanted: Boat Captain	* Is Crab-Fishing Lucrative?	* Top 10 Superstitions
* Wanted: Boat Deckhand	* Bering Sea Fishermen	* How Fishing Seasons Work
* Wanted: Boat Engineer	* On the Hunt for Snow Crabs	* Fishing Boat Upkeep
* Wanted: Greenhorn	* The History of Crabbing	* How Crab Pots Work