For centuries, sailors believed the ocean had a mind of its own, and tempting it was never wise. A simple whistle could summon a storm. Women on deck were bad luck, but a carved woman on the bow was a good omen. 

• Whistle at your own risk. Sailors believed whistling on a ship could summon powerful winds and storms.

• Women brought bad luck—except when carved in wood. Real women on board were said to curse the voyage, but a bare-chested figurehead of a woman was thought to calm the sea.

• Why ships are called “she.” For centuries, vessels were given female names and figureheads, believed to offer protection and care.

• Sailor ink tells a story. An anchor tattoo meant you’d crossed the Atlantic. A swallow meant a safe return home.