The Cuban content creator Humberto Miranda (@hmirandafilm) piqued the curiosity of his followers by sharing a video on Instagram discussing a peculiar maritime superstition: "no bananas on boats." In the video, Miranda explains that this belief dates back to the 18th century, when some ships transporting bananas from the Americas to Europe mysteriously sank or were found with their crews deceased.
Miranda suggests that one potential reason was the carbon dioxide (CO₂) emitted by decomposing bananas, which could have led to the suffocation of sailors in poorly ventilated holds. Beyond the popular lore, several theories lend realism to this superstition:
Perils of Bananas at Sea
Food Spoilage: As bananas ripen, they release CO₂ and ethylene (C₂H₄). These gases accelerate the maturation of other produce aboard, leading to significant food preservation issues in the poorly ventilated ships of the past, potentially leaving sailors without supplies on long voyages.
Fishing Woes: Banana-laden vessels needed to maintain high speeds to prevent the fruit from spoiling, hindering opportunities to stop and fish. This led fishermen to link bananas with poor luck in fishing endeavors.
Maritime Disasters: Historical sailor tales associate banana cargoes with shipwrecks or disappearances, contributing to their reputation for bringing "bad luck."
Hidden Dangers: There are accounts of hazardous insects, spiders, and poisonous frogs hitching rides in banana bunches, posing threats to ship crews.
Slippery Decks: On a more practical note, banana peels on a damp ship deck could cause dangerous slips and falls.
Superstition or Sensible Caution?
While this superstition is viewed as a historical curiosity, many sailors still choose to forgo bananas, particularly aboard fishing vessels. "So just in case, as we head out on the boat, we won't be bringing any bananas," Miranda concluded with a chuckle.
The video has not only sparked reactions for its lighthearted tone but also rekindled interest in maritime superstitions that, while seeming mythical, often have practical or scientific roots.
Exploring Maritime Superstitions: Why Bananas Are a No-Go
Why are bananas considered bad luck on boats?
Bananas were historically associated with shipwrecks and mysterious deaths due to the carbon dioxide they emit during decomposition. Additionally, they were believed to cause food spoilage, impede fishing, and hide dangerous pests.
Is there any scientific basis for not having bananas on boats?
Yes, bananas release ethylene and carbon dioxide, which can spoil other produce. These gases, combined with poorly ventilated ship holds, could have created hazardous conditions for sailors.
Do sailors today still avoid taking bananas on boats?
Many modern sailors, particularly those on fishing boats, continue to avoid bringing bananas, adhering to the superstition and erring on the side of caution.