General Superstitions:
* Bad Luck:
* Black cats: These were considered good luck on land, but unlucky at sea.
* Seeing a single magpie: This was a sign of death.
* A woman aboard a ship: It was believed that having a woman onboard brought bad luck.
* Spilling salt: This was considered a bad omen, and sailors would throw a pinch of salt over their left shoulder to counteract it.
* Whistling: Sailors would not whistle on board ship as it was believed to invite the wind.
* Good Luck:
* Horseshoe: This was a common good luck charm.
* Four-leaf clover: This was another symbol of good luck, thought to protect against evil spirits.
* Wearing a wedding ring: This was thought to protect the wearer from drowning.
* Throwing a coin overboard: This was a way to appease the sea gods and ensure a safe journey.
* The Sea and its Creatures:
* Seeing a mermaid: This was a sign of good luck and was often associated with abundance.
* Hearing a siren's song: This was a dangerous omen, as it could lure sailors to their deaths.
* A dolphin following a ship: This was a good sign, as dolphins were thought to be friendly and protective of sailors.
* Encountering a storm: This was often seen as a punishment from the gods or a sign of bad luck.
Astrology and the Stars:
* The phases of the moon: The moon's phases were closely observed, and sailors believed they influenced the weather and sea conditions.
* The stars: Sailors used the stars for navigation, but they also believed that certain constellations held special significance.
* Planets: Planets were thought to influence the fate of those at sea.
Other Superstitions:
* Carrying a Bible: This was a common way for sailors to seek protection from God.
* Saying a prayer before a voyage: Sailors would often pray for a safe journey.
* The "Mermaid's Curse": This was a belief that if a sailor saw a mermaid, he would be doomed to a watery grave.
It's important to remember that these are just a few of the many superstitions held by Tudor sailors. Their beliefs were often influenced by folklore, religious teachings, and their experiences at sea.