Anchor tattoos hold a special place in sailor culture. It is common to get an anchor tattoo after a sailor's first crossing of the Atlantic, giving them the mark of an experienced sailor. Anchors are often incorporated with other nautical design elements, like sailing ships, mermaids or military emblems, particularly the Navy or Coast Guard. An anchor tattoo is thought to be able to hold the wearer steady against life's many woes, just as a real anchor keeps a ship from being swept away by wild winds and strong currents. Anchors were also used by early Christians as a substitute symbol for the cross when they couldn't openly worship Christ. And it can also mean a significant other who is the foundation of that person's life.
