Introduction
Definition of Manning the Yards
Origin of Manning the Yards
Historical Context
Benefits of Manning the Yards
How Manning the Yards is Practiced
Safety Considerations
Advantages of Manning the Yards Today
Disadvantages of Manning the Yards Today
Conclusion
References/Bibliography

Why do Sailors Stand on Deck When Leaving Port?

Introduction

The act of sailors standing on deck when leaving port is rooted in a centuries-old tradition that was practiced by navies around the world: Manning the Yards. This article will provide an overview and discussion of what this practice entails, its origin, and its ongoing relevance today for sailing vessels and their crews who partake in it when leaving port.

## Definition of Manning the Yards
Manning the yards (also known as manning the rail) is a nautical tradition that requires crew members to stand on a vessel’s yards (or arms on masts which hold sails) as a way to render honors when returning to port or sailing away from port for long-distance voyages or for other important occasions such as national holidays or other ceremonies and events involving naval vessels. This practice dates back centuries, with evidence of its existence being found in paintings, literature and even ancient drawings by sailors at sea or in ports around the world.

## Origin of Manning the Yards
The exact origin of this practice is unknown, but it is believed that it began as a way to show respect and appreciation towards those who had helped them arrive safely at their destination or set sail on their journey with good luck and fortune. This tradition was also seen as a sign of respect to officials at ports or other dignitaries who may have been present during such occasions, such as kings, queens, or other high-ranking members of society who were often present during important ceremonies involving naval vessels.

## Historical Context
In addition to royal ceremonies, manning the yards was also associated with wartime events such as battles between opposing fleets or naval engagements between ships from different countries or empires in conflict with each other during times of war. During these engagements, sailors would stand on deck to show their readiness for battle and would remain standing until a victor had been declared after a battle had ended or until one side had conceded defeat in some way. This practice was seen as an act of courage and heroism by those involved in these battles, with many sailors receiving awards for their bravery during such engagements over time throughout history.

## Benefits of Manning the Yards
Aside from showing respect and appreciation towards those who have helped them arrive safely at their destination or set sail on their journey with good luck and fortune, manning the yards also served as an opportunity for crew members to gain some respite from their duties onboard a ship while still being able to show solidarity amongst themselves when leaving port together after finishing their voyage together successfully – something that could be seen as a morale booster amongst crew members who had just spent weeks (or months) working together under difficult conditions onboard ships at sea whilst away from home comforts for extended periods at a time.

## How Manning the Yards is Practiced
Today’s vessels are much larger than they were centuries ago when manning the yards first started being practiced so this tradition has evolved over time based on advancements made in shipbuilding technology. On modern ships today, manning the yards involves having crew members form two lines alongside both sides of a vessel’s rails which extend down its length towards its bow (front) section; these lines then move forward together towards said bow section – all while still standing – before stopping after they have reached said section before finally returning back down towards its stern (rear). It is customary for crew members to remain standing during this process so that everyone can be seen by onlookers such as dignitaries that may be present during such occasions like national holidays or other ceremonies involving naval vessels (e.g., regattas).

## Safety Considerations
Safety must always be considered when practicing manning the yards so it is important that crew members remain alert during this process since there are potential hazards associated with it; these include things like slippery surfaces due to rain water collecting on decks or waves lapping against sides which can throw people off balance if not careful enough – both leading to potentially serious injuries if proper care is not taken into consideration whilst partaking in this tradition onboard ships today! Additionally, crew members should never lean too far over rails if they are not properly secured against them since doing so could cause them to fall overboard if they were caught off guard by strong winds blowing against them while partaking in manning the yards onboard ships at sea today!

## Advantages of Manning The Yards Today
Despite these potential risks associated with manning the yards, there are still many advantages to practicing this traditional nautical ritual onboard modern ships today; these include things like providing crews with an opportunity to show solidarity amongst themselves whilst also honoring those who have helped them arrive safely at their destination(s) – something which can be seen as especially beneficial for those sailing vessels taking part in longer voyages away from home comforts for extended periods at any given time! Additionally, this practice can also help boost morale among crews since it provides them with an opportunity to break up monotony from their everyday duties onboard ships whilst still showing respect towards others involved in such occasions (e.g., royalty/dignitaries). Finally, practicing manning the yards helps keep alive an important maritime tradition which has been passed down through generations – something many sailors today still take pride in doing despite advancements made over time throughout history!

## Disadvantages of Manning The Yards Today
Though there are many advantages associated with practicing manning the yards onboard modern ships today there are also some disadvantages too; one being that it can take up valuable time which could otherwise be used more productively elsewhere aboard vessels – something which may not always be possible depending upon certain circumstances (e.g., tight schedules); another being that there are potential safety risks associated with participating in this traditional nautical ritual too – something which must always be taken into consideration whenever doing so onboard vessels today! Lastly, there may also be some cultural/religious sensitivities involved when partaking in this activity depending upon where/when said vessels are located/traveling too since not everyone may necessarily find it appropriate due to personal beliefs/opinions held about such practices aboard ships!

## Conclusion
In conclusion, though there are potential risks associated with practicing manning the yards onboard modern ships today there are also many advantages too which make participating worthwhile; including providing crews with opportunities to show solidarity amongst themselves whilst honoring those who have helped them arrive safely at their destination(s). Additionally, partaking in this activity can help boost morale among crews since it provides them with an opportunity to break up monotony from their everyday duties onboard ships whilst still showing respect towards others involved in such occasions (e.g., royalty/dignitaries). Finally, practicing manning the yards helps keep alive an important maritime tradition which has been passed down through generations – something many sailors today still take pride in doing despite advancements made over time throughout history!

## References/Bibliography:
1) “Manning The Yard” – Marine Insight – https://www.marineinsight.com/naval-architecture/manning-the-yard/. Accessed 26 October 2018
2) “Man Overboard Prevention” – Maritime Safety Information – https://www2aemaritimegovuk/msi/msiprogrammesandactivities/manoverboard_prevention/. Accessed 26 October 2018