Funny Boating Phrases
I’m here to talk to you about something that every sailor knows, but few can put into words: the funny phrases of boating!
From the salty sea-dog sayings of the old-timers to the modern-day slang of the younger generations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
In this article, I’m going to take a look at some of the funniest and most creative phrases used by sailors around the world. So sit back, relax, and enjoy a few good laughs as we explore the wonderful world of boating phrases!
Boat Sayings That Will Shiver Your Timbers
Ahoy mateys! If you’re looking for some fun, unique boat sayings to make your time on the water even more memorable, look no further.
As a seasoned sailor and sailing enthusiast, I’ve compiled a list of boat sayings that will surely shiver your timbers.
From witty one-liners to more elaborate expressions, these are sure to entertain your crew and make for an enjoyable sailing experience.
So, without further ado, here are some of my favorite boat sayings:
“Set sail and see what the waves bring”
“A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor”
“Ride the waves and kiss the wind”
“Life is better on the ocean”
“Sail away and leave your worries behind”
“A sailor’s life is a life of freedom”
“May the wind always be at your back”
“Live each day as if it were your last sail”
“The sea is calling and I must go”
“The sun will always rise in the morning and set in the evening, just like the tides”
No matter what kind of sailing experience you’re looking for, these boat sayings will help make it a memorable one. So, don’t be afraid to shiver your timbers and embrace the sea!
Here are boat sayings that will definitely shiver your timbers!
Ahoy, sailors! If you are looking for some fun, light-hearted phrases to make your time on the water more enjoyable, then look no further.
As a lifelong sailor and sailing expert, I have compiled some of the best boat sayings that will definitely shiver your timbers! These nautical phrases are sure to add a bit of fun to your sailing experience, so get ready to set sail and enjoy!
1. Shiver Me Timbers!
Ahoy me mateys! ‘Shiver Me Timbers!’ is one of the most common and beloved boat sayings out there. It’s often used to express surprise, but can also be used to express great excitement or joy.
The phrase has been around for centuries, and its roots come from the old tradition of shivering timbers to make a boat watertight.
While this practice has been replaced with modern materials and methods, the phrase remains a popular part of boat culture.
In fact, it’s so popular that it’s even been used in popular culture, including in books, films, and comics. So next time you’re out on the water, be sure to shout out ‘Shiver Me Timbers!’ to express your excitement!
2. Above Board
When you’re out on the open seas, there’s nothing more important than staying above board. This is a sailing phrase that refers to being honest, fair, and ethical in all your dealings.
It’s a reminder that as sailors, we should always strive to be above reproach in our conduct. Whether it’s dealing with other sailors or handling a difficult situation on board, we should always work to make sure that our actions are above board.
This phrase is a reminder to be honorable and honest in all your dealings, and to live up to the highest standards of sailing.
3. A Square Meal
Nothing says “sailing” quite like the phrase “a square meal.” This phrase is an old sailing term that refers to the four traditional courses of a meal.
It’s a reminder of how important it is to take a break from sailing and enjoy a hearty, hot meal. Not only will it provide you with the energy to stay on course, but it will also give you something to look forward to during your voyage.
Whether you’re out on the water for an afternoon or on a long-distance sail, a square meal will help you stay focused and energized.
So, the next time you hear the phrase “a square meal”, make sure to take a break and enjoy a meal with friends and family on board.
4. Clean Bill Of Health
As a sailor, it’s important to keep your boat in top shape. Having a clean bill of health for your boat can be a great assurance when it comes to a successful voyage.
Regular maintenance checks, inspections, and safety drills can help ensure your boat is running properly and is properly equipped for the voyage ahead.
Additionally, having a professional surveyor look at your boat before taking it out can provide you with much-needed peace of mind. A clean bill of health is essential for any sailor looking to embark on a safe and successful voyage.
5. Fathom
This classic sailing phrase has a long and rich history dating back to the days of the Royal Navy. A fathom is a unit of length equal to 6 feet, and it’s used to measure the depth of the water.
Sailors used to use a fathom line to measure the depth of the water, and would drop it into the sea and shout a phrase like “by the mark, five!” to let their shipmates know the depth.
This phrase has been adapted to mean something else in the modern sailing world, and it often refers to the level of understanding and knowledge a sailor has about sailing and the sea.
A sailor who has a deep understanding of the craft is said to have “fathomed” the sea. This phrase is a reminder that a sailor’s experience and knowledge can be a valuable asset and should never be taken for granted.
6. Footloose
Ahoy, landlubbers! All aboard for a sailing adventure like no other. When you’re out on the open sea, nothing quite compares to the feeling of being footloose and free.
The phrase “footloose” is often used to describe a person who is completely liberated from the constraints of everyday life. As a sailor, you’ll experience the same sense of freedom, carefree and unencumbered as you explore the world’s oceans and seas.
As a reminder of this special feeling, let “footloose” be your motto, a call to seize the day and take full advantage of the boundless opportunities sailing has to offer.
7. Pipe Down
To pipe down is to stop talking, and this is a commonly used phrase among sailors. To pipe down is more than just reducing noise—it’s a reminder to be mindful of the power of words and the importance of thoughtful communication.
At sea, it’s often essential to stay silent and listen. On boats, the slightest mistake can lead to disaster. When the crew is called to pipe down, it’s an indication that everyone needs to be alert and focused.
The phrase also carries a hint of authority. A skipper who calls for everyone to pipe down is reminding everyone that he’s in charge and that everyone should pay attention to him and his orders.
Taken together, the phrase “pipe down” is a useful reminder to be mindful of the power of words, to stay quiet when necessary, and to always respect the authority of the skipper.
8. Scuttlebutt
Ah, scuttlebutt – the lifeblood of any sailing crew! This phrase is both a literal and metaphorical term for a sailor’s water cooler, the place where all the gossip, news, and stories are shared, and friendships are made.
It’s a time-honored tradition that, while not always able to be observed in person, can now be facilitated online, allowing sailors to share their experiences and build a community.
Scuttlebutt is a reminder that, while sailing is an individual pursuit, it can also be a collective one. Whether it’s sharing tips for optimal sailing performance, discussing the latest trends in the industry, or simply recounting tales of wild adventures, scuttlebutt is the place for camaraderie, communication, and connection.
So, if you’re looking for a way to inject some fun and excitement into your sailing experience, gather around the scuttlebutt – you won’t regret it!
9. Hand Over Fist
This phrase has been used for centuries to describe a sailor who is making rapid progress. Hand over fist refers to a sailor making quick and steady progress, as if they were hauling in a rope with each hand.
This phrase is typically used to describe a sailor who is making headway in a race or sailing in a straight line.
In more recent years, this phrase has been used to describe someone who is making money quickly and easily.
No matter the context, this phrase is sure to strike a chord with any sailor, inspiring them to make their own progress.
10. From Stem To Stern
One of the most iconic phrases associated with sailing is “from stem to stern.” This expression is used to describe the complete length of a boat, from the front, or stem, to the back, or stern.
It is often used as an analogy to describe an expansive journey, or to refer to a thorough examination of a problem.
To sailors and yachtsmen, this phrase carries a special significance, and is often used as a metaphor for an adventure on the sea. For those of us who love the ocean, we can appreciate the phrase in a very special way!
11. Flying Colors
Flying colors is a phrase that is used to describe a successful outcome. It is often used in sailing, especially when referring to a race in which a boat has completed the course in first place.
This phrase can be used to describe any successful endeavor, but it has a special meaning in sailing because it is a reminder of the hard work and dedication that goes into completing a race.
It is a reminder of the pride and joy that comes with achieving a great victory. Flying colors is a phrase that is sure to bring a smile to any sailor’s face!
12. Three Sheets to the Wind
Ah, the classic “three sheets to the wind.” This phrase is used to describe someone who is so drunk they can barely stand. It has been around since the 18th century and is still used today.
It comes from the idea of a sailboat with three main sails. When the sails are “to the wind,” they are loose and flapping wildly, much like a drunken sailor.
So if you hear someone say “three sheets to the wind,” you know they’ve had a bit too much to drink!
13. Toe The Line
One of the most popular sayings among sailors is “Toe the Line.” This saying is used to remind sailors to stay disciplined and adhere to the rules and regulations of their ship. It is also a reminder to stay in line with the expectations and standards of the crew.
On a sailboat, no one is above the rules and all crew members must toe the line in order to ensure a safe and successful voyage. This saying is a reminder to stay focused on the task at hand and to stay in line with the expectations of the crew.
By following this simple rule, it will help ensure a successful voyage and a safe return home.
14. Clear The Deck
If you are a sailor, you have probably heard the phrase “clear the deck.” This phrase is used to remind sailors to get rid of anything that is not necessary for sailing.
It is a reminder to keep the deck clutter-free and ready for action. This phrase also serves as a call to action, as it gets everyone on board to work together in order to prepare the boat for sailing.
It is a reminder to work together to get the job done quickly and safely. “Clear the deck” is a phrase that is often yelled out by the captain of a boat, and it can be a great motivator for everyone on board to work together.
15. Jury Rig
When you hear the term “jury rig,” it’s likely to conjure images of MacGyver-style quick fixes. In the sailing world, it’s no different – jury rigging is a term used to describe a temporary fix or repair to get a boat going again, usually with limited resources.
For many experienced sailors, jury rigging is a skill that can be invaluable when confronted with the unexpected.
The most common use of jury rigging is to replace a broken or damaged mast or boom, which can be done with a combination of poles, boards, and ropes.
Even though these makeshift masts may not be as strong or reliable as the original, they will do the job until a proper replacement is available.
Many sailors have had to employ jury rigging methods to get them back home in a pinch. Whether it’s due to a storm, a mechanical problem, or simply running out of resources, jury rigging can be an invaluable tool in the arsenal of the resourceful sailor.
16. Know The Ropes
Knowing the ropes is one of the most important skills for any sailor, no matter what their experience level. It is essential to understand not only how to rig a boat, but also how to use the ropes properly.
It is also important to know the names of the different ropes and how they are used in different situations. Knowing the ropes can help any sailor quickly and safely handle all the tasks involved in sailing.
For the novice sailor, learning the ropes can be an intimidating process, but with practice anyone can become a competent and confident sailor.
17. Slush Fund
As a lifelong sailor, I know that a Slush Fund is an essential component of any boat trip. This is the money set aside for unexpected expenses and to ensure that everyone on the boat has a good time.
It’s also a great way to ensure that no one on the boat gets stuck with an unexpected bill. A Slush Fund is especially important when sailing in unfamiliar waters, so make sure to set aside some money to cover any potential mishaps.
Slush Funds are also a great way to reward crew members for their hard work and dedication. So don’t forget to set aside some money for your Slush Fund and keep your crew happy!
18. Turn A Blind Eye
One of the most important pieces of sailing advice is to “turn a blind eye.” This means to ignore bad behavior, mistakes, and minor misdeeds that don’t deserve your attention.
In a way, it’s a way of keeping the peace, and it’s especially important when sailing with a group of people.
By turning a blind eye, you’re able to focus on the task at hand. When sailing, you have to be attentive and alert, and having to worry about every little mistake can be an unnecessary distraction.
So, while it’s important to take responsibility for your own mistakes, it’s also important to recognize when it’s time to “turn a blind eye” and move on.
The phrase “turn a blind eye” is an old sailor’s phrase, and it’s still relevant today. Whether you’re sailing solo or with a group, understanding when to “turn a blind eye” is an important part of being a successful sailor. So, the next time you’re out on the water, remember to “turn a blind eye” and enjoy the journey!
19. Under The Weather
Ah, “under the weather.” This classic phrase is a perfect descriptor for when your sailing journey goes south. It’s an expression that has been around for centuries, although its exact origin is unknown.
It could be derived from the phrase, “falling off the weather side of a ship,” which is when a ship is caught in a storm and the wind forces it to veer off its intended course.
No matter where the phrase comes from, it’s a great way to describe the feeling of being unwell after a rough sail.
It can be a physical discomfort or emotional distress, but the point is, when you’re under the weather, you’re not feeling your best.
When you’re out on the open sea, it’s important to always be prepared for the worst. Be sure to bring the necessary supplies to keep you healthy, such as sunscreen, food, and plenty of water.
And if the weather turns bad, know that you’re not alone – just remember the phrase “under the weather” and you’ll get through it.
20. Fits The Bill
When it comes to sailing, you can’t go wrong with an old classic like “All hands on deck!” It’s a classic because it fits the bill: it’s clear, concise, and everyone knows what it means.
It’s a great way to rally your crew and get them in the spirit of sailing. Another great phrase that fits the bill is “Anchors aweigh!”
This phrase is often used to signify the start of a voyage, and is a great way to get everyone excited and ready to set sail. Both of these phrases capture the spirit of sailing, and will definitely shiver your timbers!
Conclusion On Funny Boating Phrases
I’m pleased to have shared a collection of funny boating phrases with you today. We hope that these phrases have added some levity and humor to your boating experience.
Whether you use them to express relief after a successful voyage or simply crack a smile when the wind is blowing in your face, these expressions are sure to help you enjoy yourself out on the water. So, go ahead and give them a try – you won’t regret it!
