Nautical Star tattoos

The nautical star has long been seen as a representation of hope, safety, and guidance. But just as every other tattoo, the nautical star has been embraced by various groups of people and been translated differently by each. It is a five pointed star that has the points cut in half and shaded with a different color in order to construct a three dimensional look. This star is the most masculine of the star tattoos. Some believe that when the nautical star points upward, those wearing it possess a better outlook in life.

Sailors and the Nautical Star

Although many different groups have a meaning for the nautical star, sailors were some of the first to adopt the symbol. Before navigation, sailors used the stars in the night sky to find their way back home. They would often look to the North Star for guidance. Compared to other starts in the night sky, the

North star appears stationary. Therefore, when the sailors were able to find the North Star, they knew which direction to begin sailing home. They looked to the North star as a constant in an unpredictable environment. So many sailors decided upon the nautical star for their tattoo in hopes that their tattoo would aid in bringing them home safely. Some also believed the tattoo would assist them in finding their path in life. Sailors were some of the first to bring back the practice of tattooing when they passed through the islands of Polynesia in the South Pacific. When sailors returned home to Europe with these curious tattoos, those around them were intrigued with the unfamiliar designs. Even in present day, sailors and others who work on the water favor the nautical star tattoo. There is also evidence that different colors used in the shading of a nautical star tattoo may depict a dangerous trip or voyaging a particular number of miles. Soldiers also equate the masculine nautical star tattoos as a symbol of protection. They see the tattoo as finding their home safely.

Punk Rockers and the Nautical Star

Nautical stars are also favored by the punk rock community. Many see them as a symbol of finding their own path in life. They traced the nautical star and its history to many of the tattoo artists of the 30’s and 40, Sailor Jerry being one of the more popular artist of those times. Sailor Jerry was a well known artist with many popular tattoo designs. Punk rockers applied the nautical star tattoo as a symbol to show their independence and a sign of the rockers were seeking their own way.

The Irish view of the Nautical Star

The Irish view the nautical star as a representation of good health. It is an ancient Pagan symbol found in some Irish hospitals in hopes to aid the sick and weak. Irish choose the nautical star tattoo as a symbol of wellness.

Lesbian Nautical Stars

The Lesbian community also favors the nautical star. In the 1940's and 50's when their lifestyle was not widely accepted, they would often have a nautical star tattooed on the inside of one of their wrists to

show their preferences. Therefore, it could be easily hidden during the day but shown off when they desired. Some women still get this tattoo to support the initial movement by their early sisters.

When the star is tattooed on the left wrist and aligned with the thumb, it is thought to be a positive guide for one's future. During palm readings, the left palm is used to declare one's future.

Celebrities with nautical star tattoos

Tom DeLonge/ Musician: Nautical star on the inside of his wrist

Aaron Carter/ Singer: Nautical star on inside of his right inner forearm

Mike McCready/ Musician: Nautical stars on each shoulder

Nautical Star Tattoos