6 Songs With Nautical Vibes For Sailing The Tides

While nothing floats a boat quite like a Cat® Marine engine, we believe nothing can rock a boat better than these 6 songs. Whether you’re in the mood for a cheerful country hit to accompany a day of smooth waters and sunshine or some Yacht Rock to get your feet dancing on the deck, this list has something for every sailor.

By Max Russell, Contributor | Posted December, 2022

‘Son of a Son of a Sailor’ by Jimmy Buffet

Speaking of sailors, this song by the man behind such hits as ‘Margaritaville’ and ‘Cheeseburger in Paradise’ is a true testament to the sailing tradition.
Buffet sings from the perspective of a man hailing from a long line of sailors, taking the listener on a lyrical adventure. Though we trust you’ll always keep your vessel on course, this song will make you want to get metaphorically lost at sea.
 

‘Wellerman’ by The Longest Johns

If the previous song got you thinking about the sailors who came before, this next song will get you feeling like one. This historical sea-ballad by The Longest Johns pays homage to New Zealand’s whaling heritage, telling the story of a whaling crew and its perilous voyage.
The song’s title refers to ships owned by the real-life Weller Brothers, which would make supply runs to the whaling vessels. These ships were known as, you guessed it, Wellermen!
Though it seemed like the legacy of the Wellermen ships was bound to be lost in history, it was forever immortalized when The Longest Johns’ rendition of this song became the center of a viral TikTok trend in 2021. And who says today’s youth don’t respect their elders?
 

‘(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay’ by Otis Redding

This critically acclaimed song by legend Otis Redding won two Grammy Awards for Best R&B Song and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.
You don’t have to be a music aficionado to appreciate this song though, just someone who knows how to get lost in the groove. One could only wish that the waters would always be as smooth as Redding’s voice.
 

‘Knee Deep’ by Zac Brown Band Feat. Jimmy Buffet

From the collaborative efforts of country star Zac Brown and Jimmy Buffet comes this hit song so good that it should be mandatory to play whenever the sun is shining.
Whether on a boat, at the beach, or even stuck in traffic on the highway, ‘Knee Deep’ is guaranteed to raise your spirits as high as a tidal wave.
 

‘Kokomo’ by The Beach Boys

Whether you hit the waves for recreation or are a mariner by trade, this song from this 60s American rock band will have you feeling like you’re on a tropical vacation.
With lyrics that take listeners on a metaphorical voyage around the world, ‘Kokomo’ is so catchy it’ll be playing on repeat in your head for days!
 

‘Come Sail Away’ by Styx

This last song from the Classic Rock Hall of Fame band Styx is a journey at sea for your ears. Beginning as a ballad and ending as a guitar-powered rock anthem, ‘Come Sail Away’ is full of masterful musicianship and epic lyrical imagery.
If you’re not already on the ocean when you fire up this song, it’s going to make you want to be.

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