Boating is full of traditions and quirky superstitions that have been passed down for generations. One of the most famous is the “Bananas on Board” superstition. It’s believed that bringing bananas onto a boat invites bad luck. This tale dates back to the 1700s when ships carrying bananas were rumored to be plagued by mishaps, from spoiled cargo to shipwrecks
Another popular superstition? Renaming a boat without performing a proper ceremony is thought to anger the sea gods. Legend has it that changing a vessel’s name without paying homage to Neptune will bring misfortune.
Then there’s whistling on board—it’s said to summon storms, a belief likely rooted in sailors’ experiences with unpredictable weather. While modern boaters may not take these beliefs as seriously, they add a sense of fun and mystery to life on the water.
What about you? Do you have any boating superstitions or funny traditions? Share them in the comments below—we’d love to hear your stories!
by Frank LaMark