Among the many persons, places, and things that American Traditional tattoos are known for, are those that are nautical in nature. The most popular American Traditional nautical tattoo subjects include the following:
- Schooners – Originating in the 18th century, schooners were/are sailing vessels that are rigged with fore-and-aft sails on its two or more masts.
- Anchors
- Mermaids
- Sharks
- Cephalopods – Including octopus, squid, and the mythical kraken.
Less common American Traditional nautical tattoo subjects include the following:
- Hybrids with subjects that are not nautical – Combining other popular American Traditional subjects with nautical themes. For example, pairing a panther with a mermaid tail, or roses with a schooner.
- Hybrids with subjects that are both nautical – Combining nautical subjects. For example, an anchor used to frame a portrait of a schooner or a sea-maiden fighting a shark.
- Pirates – Including pirate hats on skulls, et cetera.
- Divers – Donning a traditional copper diver’s helmet
- Shellfish – Including lobsters and crabs
- Other – if it’s from the sea, there’s no limit!
While the words above give may give you an idea of which direction to head, there’s nothing like photos of actually work to provide the inspiration you’re really looking for. To help you out, we have selected some of our favorites from Adrenaline VanCity’s own Kurtis Chappell. Kurtis is one of our resident Traditional tattoo artists who specializes in bold line tattoos that work impeccably well for nautical themes.
American Traditional Nautical Tattoo Ideas and Designs That May Inspire Your Own
Nothing incites feelings of seafaring wanderlust quite like an 18th century schooner.
In the examples below, we see mermaids and a sea-maiden (in the middle) in the American Tractional blackwork style:
Below we find sea creatures. They can work as standalone subjects or positioned as being menacing to a protagonist.
Here are some unique examples of hybrids:
Ready to get your American Traditional nautical themed tattoo? If so, and you are located within or plan to visit the Greater Vancouver area, you can schedule a FREE consultation at Adrenaline VanCity at your earliest convenience.
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Written By:
Adrenaline Tattoo
Tattoos, not attitudes. Piercings, not pricks. From the beginning, Adrenaline’s focus has been on delivering the best customer service possible within the body modification industry.
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