I Saw Three Ships

Christmas Carol Lyrics

I saw three ships come sailing by
on Christmas Day, on Christmas Day.
I saw three ships come sailing by
on Christmas Day in the morning.

And what was in those ships all three
on Christmas Day, on Christmas Day?
And what was in those ships all three
on Christmas Day in the morning?

The Virgin Mary and Christ were there
on Christmas Day, on Christmas Day.
The virgin Mary and Christ were there
on Christmas Day in the morning.

About This Carol

I Saw Three Ships is a bright and buoyant English carol that’s been sung since at least the 17th century, though its origins may go back even further. The earliest printed version appeared in the 1600s, and like many folk carols, it evolved through oral tradition, with variations appearing in different parts of England and Scotland.

The lyrics are simple and repetitive, making it easy to sing and remember. The carol opens with the intriguing image of three ships sailing into Bethlehem on Christmas Day - something that’s geographically impossible, as Bethlehem is landlocked. Scholars suggest the imagery may be symbolic rather than literal. The “three ships” could represent the Journey of the Magi, relics of the Wise Men arriving in Cologne, or even be tied to older sea-going traditions and medieval pageantry.

Regardless of the deeper meaning, the song’s cheerful rhythm and joyful refrain - “On Christmas Day in the morning” - give it a sense of celebration and movement. It’s often performed with lively instrumentation and a folksy flair that reflects its seafaring roots.

I Saw Three Ships is a perfect example of how folk tradition, faith, and festive cheer blend together in classic carols that have stood the test of time.

Performance Video

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