Song Lyrics That Every Sailor Should Know

Whether you’re trimming a mainsail or just lounging on the dock, a good tune can make the wind feel friendlier. Below you’ll find the most popular sailing lyrics, broken into old‑school shanties and fresh‑water songs you can belt out on any boat.

Classic Sea Shanties You Can Sing With the Crew

Sea shanties were the work songs of the past, designed to keep hands moving in sync. "Drunken Sailor" leads with a simple "What shall we do with the drunken sailor?" and a catchy call‑and‑response that still gets crowds clapping. Leave Her, Johnny wraps up a hard day with a soothing “Leave her, Johnny, leave her!” – perfect for lowering the mainsail after a long haul.

Another favorite, "Rolling Home", uses a steady beat that matches the rhythm of pulling lines. The chorus “Rolling home to old New England” is easy to remember, so even a rookie can join in. These songs aren’t just fun; they actually helped sailors stay coordinated when hauling heavy ropes.

Modern Sailing Songs That Fit Today’s Boat Life

Modern sailors love tracks that blend rock, folk, and pop with nautical themes. "I'm on a Boat" by The Lonely Island may be tongue‑in‑cheek, but its hook “I’m on a boat! Take a look at me now!” can turn a calm cruise into a party. For something more mellow, check out "Southern Cross" by Crosby, Stills & Nash – the lyric “When you see that Southern Cross” feels like a sunrise on the horizon.

If you prefer indie vibes, "The Ocean" by Mike Perry mixes EDM beats with the line “I’m swimming in the deep, what's the point of no fear?” It’s a great soundtrack for early‑morning paddling sessions. Even contemporary country has a place: "Beachin’" by Jake Owen includes the line “I’m just a beachin’ boy, with my yo‑yo on the sand,” perfect for a solar‑powered sailboat docked at a cove.

All these tracks have one thing in common: the lyrics are easy to sing along, and they capture the feeling of being on the water. Next time you’re out on a calm sea or a windy day, pull up the words on your phone, hum the chorus, and let the wind carry your voice.

Remember, the best sailing songs are the ones that match your crew’s mood. You might start a shanty for a tough pull, then switch to a modern pop chorus when the sun peaks. The mix keeps morale high and makes every trip memorable.

Got a favorite sailing lyric that isn’t listed here? Share it in the comments and we’ll add it to the next update. Keep the verses flowing and the sails full!