I Saw Three Ships - Traditional

I saw three ships come sailing in
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day;
I saw three ships come sailing in
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?

Our Savior Christ and His lady,
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day;
Our Savior Christ and His lady,
On Christmas Day in the morning.

Pray whither sailed those ships all three,
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day?
Pray whither sailed those ships all three,
On Christmas Day in the morning?

O they sailed into Bethlehem,
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day;
O they sailed into Bethlehem,
On Christmas Day in the morning.

And all the bells on earth shall ring,
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day;
And all the bells on earth shall ring,
On Christmas Day in the morning.

And all the angels in heaven shall sing,
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day;
And all the angels in heaven shall sing,
On Christmas Day in the morning.

Then let us all rejoice amain,
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day;
Then let us all rejoice amain,
On Christmas Day in the morning.

I Saw Three Ships lyrics use the nautical imagery of three ships sailing into landlocked Bethlehem to symbolize the arrival of the Holy Family or the Wise Men on Christmas Day in the morning. The song I Saw Three Ships is known for its bright dancing rhythm and repetitive structure which reflects its origins in the folk and caroling traditions of the British countryside. It is a joyful and inclusive song that invites everyone to rejoice and sing on the day of the Saviors birth. By singing the I Saw Three Ships lyrics participants connect with a lighthearted but sincere expression of festive gratitude that has delighted generations of carolers.