Boating superstitions - A bunch of bananas or one for luck?

“Let’s grab a banana, jump on the boat and go fishing,” said no Kiwi fisherman ever. Well, not according to those who know their boating superstitions. The “no bananas” rule is arguably the most famous of them all.

Superstitions have long been woven into the fabric of seafaring culture, with tales passed down through generations. While some are entertainingly bizarre, others still hold sway over seasoned boaties.

Bananas on Board? Absolutely Not!

The belief that bananas bring bad luck on a boat is one of the most enduring maritime superstitions. Some say it dates back to the 1700s when cargo ships carrying bananas were known to sink mysteriously. Others reckon the speed at which bananas ripen led to dangerous conditions, causing food supplies to spoil faster and even attracting unwelcome pests like spiders. Whatever the origins, the superstition is alive and well today. Ask any Kiwi fisho, and chances are they’ll leave the bananas at home – just in case.

Old School Superstitions That Still Make the Rounds

Boating superstitions are as varied as the ocean itself. The New Zealand Maritime Museum even has a dedicated section on its website showcasing some of the more curious beliefs from maritime history. Here are a few that have stood the test of time:

• Farewells Stay Indoors – Wives of fishermen were told never to call out or wave goodbye as their husbands left, believing it would bring misfortune to the voyage.

• Redheads and Flat-Footed Folk – Unlucky? – In old European maritime lore, both were seen as bad omens. If a redhead approached a vessel before departure, sailors would try to avoid direct conversation with them.

• No Whistling on Board – Whistling or singing into the wind was thought to “whistle up a storm.” Even today, some boaties refuse to whistle while at sea.

• Losing a Hat Overboard? Expect a Long Trip – If your hat goes flying into the water, it’s a sign that your journey will take longer than expected.

Fishing for Luck

Not all superstitions spell doom and gloom – some are thought to bring good fortune. Take these examples:

• Changing a Boat’s Name? Proceed with Caution! – If you must rename your vessel, a de-naming ceremony followed by an official rechristening is essential to avoid bad luck.

• The ‘Lucky’ Extra Net – Setting an odd number of nets (e.g., 101) is said to improve the catch, with the extra one “for luck.”

• Scottish Fishermen’s ‘Good Luck’ Ritual – According to old Scottish tradition, tossing a crew member overboard and pulling them back in was thought to bring a good haul of fish. Let’s hope this one has been firmly retired!

Superstitions: A Bit of Fun or Something More?

While we may laugh at the thought of avoiding bananas or refusing to whistle at sea, many New Zealand boaties still adhere to these age-old beliefs. Whether out of habit, respect for tradition, or simply not wanting to tempt fate, superstitions remain part of boating culture.

So, next time you’re heading out on the water, you might tell yourself that bananas have nothing to do with your fishing success. But let’s be honest – they’ll probably stay at home anyway. And heaven help the person who unknowingly brings one aboard!