Ahoy! Although ship tattoos were common among sailors, pirates, and members of the navy in the past, today they are trendy body art ideas for many men and women. Ship ink is timeless and versatile. It can be combined with lots of nautical elements such as a compass, wave, sea animals, anchor, and ship wheel.
You have many reasons to get a ship tattoo. They are eye-catching and meaningful. Also, it is possible to choose a ship design to cover up a scar or unwanted tattoo. Because of its impressive features, we couldn’t ignore the incredible popularity of ship ink. Therefore, we have shared the newest and most modern ship tattoo ideas in our gallery. Take a quick look to get inspired. If you will conform to aftercare instructions after carving, it will be easy to have a bright and saturated tattoo. Of course, one of the key points is choosing an experienced tattoo artist.
Ship Tattoo Meaning
Sailboats are safe vehicles used to sail on unknown adventures since ancient times. Also from wild pirates to famous sea explorers, ships have been the subject of many legendary stories. One of the most famous of these stories is Odyssey, which is about a magnificent sea voyage narrated by Homer. Besides, Noah’s ark is an interesting and mystical religious story. These legends also attributed deep and rich meanings to ships at least as much as the ocean. Fortunately, you can reflect these meanings by getting a magnificent ship tattoo on your body.
Essentially, the meaning of a ship tattoo is good fortune, new beginnings, courage, and freedom. Also, it can symbolize journeys, adventures, and a troubled past. Occasionally, they were also accepted as a religious symbol because the sailing mast resembled the sign of the cross. Besides, we can say that a ship tattoo’s meaning depends on which objects it is combined with. For example, a compass accompanying the ship design can be associated with giving direction to life.
Ship Tattoo Placement
It is time to be captain of your body and turn your ship wheel through a tattoo studio for getting ink. However, you should decide which tattoo placement is suitable for you before taking action.
When it comes to ship tattoos, you have a lot of alternatives for placement. If you want a large and elaborate ship design, we recommend you prefer a large canvas such as the back or the chest. Even, waves can accompany your ship figure. Body parts such as arms, neck, and wrists are ideal for minimalist ship tattoos. Also, you can get a body suit by adding some nautical figures such as sea animals, pirates, sailors, and treasure. If you don’t want too much extravagant work, there are very stylish half-sleeve or sleeve tattoo ideas.
The Best Ship Tattoos Gallery
You can find many different ideas in our gallery, from modern single-needle and fine-line ship tattoos to vintage ship design interpretations. Of course, one of the most popular tattoo styles, Sailor Jerry (American Traditional), shouldn’t be forgotten. We have tried to gather the best and latest ship tattoos for all tastes. Pirates ships, Viking ships, shipwrecks, sailboats, and more…
1. Iconic Viking Ship Tattoo
Sail backward and imagine brave and wild Viking seamen. Viking ship tattoos are as stylish and eye-catching as they look impressive. this tattoo design is a modern interpretation of a vintage ship. Tattooists can use a single-needle technique for this ink. Thus shadows and shades will create a realistic appearance. We can say that it is a rare body art for tattoo collectors.
2. American Traditional Ship Tattoo
This is an amazing American Traditional ship tattoo. This style is also known as Sailor Jerry. In this design, the open sea, waves, and palm trees accompany the old ship. Before getting this tattoo, we recommend that you find a tattoo parlor with experience in the American Traditional style. If you are a man or woman who likes classic and vintage tattoo styles, you can consider this beautiful tat.
3. Unique Realism Ship Tattoo
If you want unique and creative ship ink, we highly recommend this tattoo design. It is suitable for arms. Also, this design looks ultra-realistic. You can commemorate the Age of Sail with this sailing ship and sailor composition. However, an apprentice probably won’t be able to handle such a magnificent tattoo design. Therefore, you need a professional tattooer for carving.
4. Full Sleeve Ship Tattoo
Ship designs are very suitable for full-sleeve tattoos. Also, you can match your ship figure with other marine elements such as waves, islands, and sea animals. This is black and gray ship ink. It includes a stunning sea view. Remember that good results require a good aftercare process.
5. Modern & Creative Ship Design
This ship tattoo design is about a sea creature named Kraken attacking a ship. It’s like recreating a movie scene. In addition, we can say that this tattoo design is very impressive and noticeable. It is a highly detailed realism tattoo style. After you find an experienced tattoo artist, we believe that every single hit of the tattoo gun is worth the result.
6. Watercolor Ship Tattoo
This is an artistic and aesthetic ship tattoo idea. Watercolor design works well with ship designs. This tattoo is suitable for a forearm. We can say that it is a custom tattoo. You may not find this design in portfolios of tattoo shops.
7. Detailed Pirate Ship Tattoo For The Back
Ship body art can sometimes becomes a masterpiece. This large pirate ship ink is quite suitable for the back. If you are a bold decision-maker and you like ship designs, this tattoo will be perfect for you. Don’t wait any longer to go on a journey through the open sea.
8. Creative Ship Body Art For Legs
When it comes to ship tattoo designs, ship and clouds are an awesome duo. This is an imaginative and different tattoo idea. If you want a fashionable tat on your skin, you can consider this design.
9. Modern Full Sleeve Ship Tattoo Idea
This is a stylish, different, and dramatic tattoo design. If you want this kind of body art, you definitely need to find a real tattoo artist. It isn’t possible to use a stencil for this ship concept. It requires freehand work. Also, you think twice before going to the tattoo studio. Because If you regret it, the tattoo removal process may not be an option for full-sleeve tattoos.
10. Minimalist Ship Tattoo
Minimalist tattoo designs are very popular in recent years. Here is a small, chic, and minimal sailing boat. Even if you’re not a sailor, it’s a pretty cool tattoo for someone who wants to have a piece of the sea on their body.
11. Fine Line Ship Tattoo On The Chest
Fine-line tattoos are widely preferred by men and women nowadays. This is a good-looking fine-line ship tattoo design. It can be placed on the chest. Of course, it is also possible to try different placements. We believe that you will get great results with a qualified tattoo machine.
12. Realistic Shipwreck Tattoo With A Shark
This isn’t a tattoo. It is wonderful artwork. This design contains a big white shark and a shipwreck in the depths of the ocean. We can say that it is a good alternative for those who like mysterious ocean images. Your tattooist can apply this design with a rotary or coil tattoo machine.
13. Unique Single Needle Ship Tattoo For Arms
Here is a custom ship tattoo idea that is created by the single needle technique. It looks stylish and contemporary. In this design, a female figure is used instead of a mast. Also, we can say that it is free-hand ink. Since it requires sensitive work, it would be appropriate to work with the right tattooist.
