This gendered maritime superstition reflected several factors. The sea was traditionally personified as female (e.g., “Mother Ocean” or sea goddesses), and ships themselves were referred to as “she,” creating a symbolic dynamic of jealousy when women were physically present. The all-male environment of sailing ships was considered especially vulnerable to disruption by female presence. Women were believed to distract sailors from their duties, compromising safety and discipline on long voyages. Additionally, the practical difficulties of privacy and facilities on historical vessels further complicated female presence. Interestingly, exceptions were sometimes made for captain’s wives or female figurehead carvings on ships’ prows, which paradoxically were thought to pacify the sea and offer protection.