Sailor’s superstition: Uttering a certain word can evoke chills on the open sea

Venturing into the vast and unpredictable realm of the ocean, sailors have long been known for their superstitions, and cruise ships are no exception. A TikTok revelation by passenger Marc Sebastian has unveiled a surprising taboo that sends shockwaves through those on board.

As part of the nine-month-long Ultimate World Cruise with Royal Caribbean, Sebastian spent 18 nights at sea and discovered a peculiar cruise ship superstition. While recounting his experiences on TikTok, he disclosed that the one word strictly forbidden on board is ‘Titanic.’

Given the infamous fate of the White Star cruise liner, which tragically sank on its maiden voyage, the mere mention of ‘Titanic’ on a cruise ship elicits a strong reaction. Sebastian recounted an incident where he casually brought up the fact that their ship was only 100 feet longer than the ill-fated Titanic during a lunch with fellow passengers. The response was immediate and dramatic – utensils dropped, waiters gasped, and a hushed silence enveloped the room.

In his TikTok video, Sebastian shared the surprising reaction, saying, “I brought it up to an entire room of people having lunch that our ship is only 100 feet longer than the Titanic — when I tell you that utensils dropped. Waiters gasped. It’s dead silent.”

Amid the awkward moment, Sebastian’s friend Nadine discreetly informed him, “You’re not allowed to talk about the Titanic.”

The TikToker, expressing his disbelief, added, “Well, it wasn’t like that was in the f*cking handbook.”

This cruise ship superstition highlights the enduring nature of nautical beliefs, reminding passengers that some taboos transcend time and continue to shape the maritime experience.

In the world of seafaring traditions, uttering the name of a ship that met a tragic end is more than a superstition; it’s a shared understanding among those navigating the open waters.