I Saw Three Ships

I Saw Three Ships is a traditional English carol with roots reaching back to the 17th century, possibly to Derbyshire, and it likely evolved from an older song known as As I Sat On a Sunny Bank. One of its first printed appearances came in 1833, in William Sandys' collection of Christmas carols. The three ships have inspired many theories — from the vessels said to have carried relics of the three wise men to Cologne, to a simple, joyful image of Christmas morning.

Its short, repeating lines make it wonderfully easy to sing along to, which is why our Love to Sing choir keeps it bright and bouncy. It's a lovely pick for carol services, school nativities and singing together at home.

Explore more Christian Christmas carols, or pair it with other traditional favorites like We Three Kings and The First Noel.