Last updated on July 9th, 2024 at 02:30 pm
Ahoy there, fellow mommas and seafaring adventurers! Are you on the lookout for some charming and nautical-inspired baby names for your little sailors? Well, you’ve dropped anchor at just the right spot! Today, we’re diving into the vast ocean of baby names with a whimsical twist – think anchors, waves, and mermaids aplenty!
Whether you’re a salty sea dog yourself or simply captivated by the beauty of the maritime world, these nautical-inspired baby names will have you setting sail on a journey of cuteness and charm. And don’t worry, we’ve got you covered for both boys and girls, so all hands-on deck!
Picture your little buccaneer with a name that embodies the spirit of adventure and resilience like a seasoned sailor riding the waves. Or perhaps your little mermaid, with a name that shimmers and shines like sun-kissed seashells on the shore. We’ve got the perfect names that will make your heart sail away with joy!
So, batten down the hatches, grab a cup of your favorite sea-salted caramel drink, and let’s navigate through a sea of nautical-inspired baby names together.
Nautical Inspired Names for Boys
Anchor
This name symbolizes stability and strength. An anchor is a heavy object attached to a rope that prevents a vessel from drifting due to a current or strong wind. While it may need unconventional, this masculine name is a great strong option for any little boy.
Bay
An inlet of water connecting the seas to the oceans, this British baby name means “reddish brown” and is a great for parents searching for options with both uniqueness and simplicity. While Bay is widely considered to be gender neutral, it is much more often used for boys.
Caspian
Most notably the largest inland sea located between Asia and Europe, the name sound regal and strong. That is probably why it was chosen as the name of the prince in the much loved series The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis.
Crew
One of the most upcoming names on this list (reaching #254 in 2022 on SSA list), the name literally means “people working together”. Other variations include Crue (#868) or Cruz (#317).
Dylan
A lot more traditional than several names on this list, Dylan means “son of the sea” and is the perfect ocean name for your little boy (maybe even girl?). Also, with its association with singer Bob Dylan, this baby name has a timeless and even romantic feel to it.
Fisher
It doesn’t get more maritime than the name Fisher. Literally meaning “one who fishes” or “fisherman”, this name fits right in with the growing trend of using surnames as first names. While still less common than other occupation names, Fisher has been slowly increasing in popularity since arriving in the top 1000 names in 2004.
Kai
This Hawaiian name has been jumping in popularity in recent years and means “sea”. Currently it is sitting at #59 for boys and #790 for girls, it is a great choice for your beachy sailor baby.
Harbor
The name of where ships are docked, Harbor is a strong and powerful moniker for a sea loving boy. It conveys a sense of safety and protection, just like a well-protected harbor sheltering ships from storms.
Hawkins
How could we continue with this list of nautical baby names without including a name like Hawkins, given to the navigating main character in the classic “Treasure Island”. A classic English surname, this name comes from the word “hawking” which means falconry and would be an expected masculine choice for a boy destined to be an adventurer.
Hurley
This Irish name means “sea tide” and while it may seem unconventional, fits in great with the trend of names ending in the “lee” sound.
Mariner
A unique name derived from the word “maritime”, it represents someone who is skilled in the ways of the sea. Choosing this name suggests that you wish for your child to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and skill.
Marino
This Italian name means “of the sea” and is the more masculine form of the well-known nautical name Marina. The name is probably most well known for its connection to American football quarterback Dan Marino.
Morgan
Another great unisex name that has been declining in popularity for boys, but recently spiked to #538 in 2022. This would make it an excepted and unique, but timeless option for a sea loving baby boy! A Welsh name meaning “sea circle” or “sea born”, the most notable celebrity reference would be Morgan Freeman .
Moses
A name with biblical roots, this Egyptian name means “delivered from the water” coming from the story in which Pharaoh’s daughter finds him in the water. Due to its ancient roots, this name has been used throughout history and continues to be used by parents today.
River
A gender-neutral nature inspired name of British origin, River means “a flowing body of water” has been exploding in recent years with the boys far out numbering the girls. River has a calming and tranquil feeling like many other water-related names but exudes strength and tenacity as well.
Sailor
This German occupation names means literally “boat man” and can also be spelled Saylor. This gender-neutral name evokes all that is nautical, while remaining unique.
Triton
Inspired by the son of Poseidon in Greek mythology, Triton is a powerful and magical nautical baby name choice. Your little boy is destined to have a strong and adventurous spirit, much like the mythical sea beings.
Nautical Inspired Names for Girls
Ariel
While this Hebrew girl’s name means “lion of God”, its relation to the Disney classic The Little Mermaid makes it the perfect nautical name for your little girl!
Aqua
Meaning “water” in Latin, Aqua is a refreshing and playful name choice. Yes, it is more a unique choice, but the name represents fluidity and the ability to bring a sense of calmness to those around them. The longer choice of Aquamarine could be used with the short moniker as the nickname.
Blue
The color of the beautiful sky and endless ocean water, this name is perfect for parents who want an ocean-inspired name but not too literal. You could even add a twist using the name Azure, which means blue in French, for even more unique qualities.
Breezy
A gentle breeze can set a sail in motion, propelling a boat forward. Breezy is a light and airy name choice, symbolizing your daughter’s ability to bring a breath of fresh air and positivity into your lives.
Catalina
This Spanish name meaning “pure” is derived from a touristed island of the coast of California near Los Angeles known for its boating and sailing.
Coral
Coral reefs can be found for miles and miles along the ocean floors and are more beautiful than even pictures can depict. This name also refers to a bright pink color, perfect for a spunky, beach loving baby girl.
Cove
Definitely one of the least common names on this list, Cove means “sheltered bay”. Already cute by itself, but with a nickname like Coco you cannot go wrong with this one!
Isla
This name is derived from the Scottish island of Islay and is very popular across the pond in England and Wales. Isla fits right in with the popular trend of old-fashioned girls’ names that start and end with a vowel, but not as trendy as Ava or Emma.
Journey
Sailing is all about the voyage, and Journey embodies the spirit of exploration and growth. Naming your daughter Journey emphasizes your belief that life is a continuous adventure, and you’re excited to witness her unique journey unfold.
Kailani
This Hawaiian moniker means “sky and sea”, which brings to mind so many beautiful images of the beaches and waters of the paradise state. This name is earthy, bohemian, and feminine all in one!
Marisol
Combining “mar” (sea) and “sol” (sun), Marisol creates an image of sunny shores and sparkling waves. This cute and fun name celebrates the joy and warmth your baby brings to your life.
Marlowe
This charming name combines “mar,” meaning “sea,” with “lowe,” representing a small hillside. Marlowe evokes images of a serene coastal town where the sea meets the land, making it a perfect name for your little girl who brings together the best of both worlds.
Moana
Many may thing of the popular Disney movies when hearing this name. Can you just hear the catchy tunes now? This has been a popular Polynesia name used for both boys and girls meaning “ocean”.
Meredith
Most commonly used for baby girls, Meredith means “guardian of the sea”. With cute nicknames like Meri or Reddy it is a great soft and gentle choice.
Pearl
Nicknamed the diamonds of the sea, pearls can be found hiding in the depths of the water. Classic and old fashioned but very beautiful, this would be a perfect nautical baby name for your little girl.
Sela
This name has never appeared on the top 1000 baby names list and was actually given to a Norwegian princess in the 4th century who became a pirate. It is from Hebrew origin meaning “rock” and is a strong yet feminine option for a future navigator.
Waverly
While it actually means “meadows of quivering aspen”, this name actually sounds like crashing ocean waves as it rolls off the tongue. Slowly rising on the charts, it only came in at #750 in 2022 making it a great choice for parents wanting something unique and unexpected.
And there you have it! We’ve reached the end of our journey through nautical-inspired baby names. From anchors to waves, mermaids to sailors, each name carries a unique charm and a sprinkle of maritime magic.
Choosing a nautical-inspired name for your little one is like setting sail on a lifelong adventure. It’s a way to celebrate the beauty of the sea, the wonder of exploration, and the spirit of resilience that comes with navigating life’s tides.
So, whether you’re drawn to the tranquil beauty of “Marina,” the adventurous allure of “Captain,” or the magical charm of “Ariel,” each name tells a story as enchanting as the ocean itself.
Thank you for joining me on this nautical escapade! Here’s wishing you smooth sailing and many unforgettable adventures with your little sailors and mermaids.
Still looking for the perfect name for your little one? Check out some of our other great baby names lists here!
