Sailor Background 5e: Embark on Epic Adventures with a Maritime Twist!

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The Sailor background in D&D 5e allows players to explore the high seas, navigate treacherous waters, and encounter thrilling adventures on their voyages.


Ahoy, matey! Grab your spyglass and prepare to embark on a thrilling tale of adventure and daring on the high seas. In the vast world of Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, players have the opportunity to create characters from all walks of life, and few backgrounds offer such a rich tapestry of experiences as the Sailor background. From battling fearsome sea monsters to navigating treacherous waters, sailors possess a unique set of skills and a camaraderie forged by the perils they face together. So, batten down the hatches and join me as we dive into the intriguing world of the sailor background in D&D 5e!


The Adventurous Life of a Sailor

Set sail on the high seas and embark on thrilling adventures as a sailor in Dungeons and Dragons 5e. With a rich background that combines nautical expertise, survival skills, and the thrill of exploration, sailors are a force to be reckoned with in any campaign. Whether you are a seasoned seafarer or a landlubber looking to broaden your horizons, the sailor background offers a unique and exciting gameplay experience.

A Life at Sea

As a sailor, your life revolves around the vast expanse of the ocean. You have spent countless days and nights aboard ships, navigating treacherous waters, battling fierce sea creatures, and braving storms. From the moment you set foot on a ship, you became part of a tight-knit community that relies on teamwork, trust, and a sense of adventure.

Skills and Proficiencies

Having spent years at sea, sailors possess a set of skills and proficiencies that make them invaluable in any maritime setting. They are adept at handling sailing vessels, understanding weather patterns, and reading nautical charts. In addition, sailors are skilled in survival, making them resourceful and adaptable in the face of adversity. These skills make them excellent scouts, navigators, and valuable assets in any exploration party.

Tools of the Trade

The sailor background grants proficiency with navigational tools, allowing you to accurately determine your position and chart a course on the open sea. These tools include compasses, sextants, and astrolabes, which are essential for any sailor's toolkit. Additionally, sailors are well-versed in the use of water vehicles and are proficient in repairing and maintaining them. Whether it's a small rowboat or a majestic galleon, sailors can handle any vessel with ease.

Sea Legs

Living life at sea has endowed sailors with remarkable physical abilities. They possess exceptional balance, allowing them to maintain stability on a pitching ship's deck even during the most violent storms. Their bodies have adapted to the constant motion of the ocean, making them resilient and resistant to seasickness. These traits make sailors formidable combatants, able to keep their footing and strike with precision in the most challenging circumstances.

Survival Instincts

Survival is second nature to sailors. From fishing for sustenance to finding drinkable water on deserted islands, sailors know how to fend for themselves when resources are scarce. They are skilled hunters and gatherers, able to identify edible plants and track wildlife. These survival instincts not only ensure their own well-being but also make sailors invaluable in providing food and supplies for the entire crew during long voyages.

Tales of the Sea

The sailor background comes with a wealth of stories and legends passed down from generation to generation. Sailors have experienced unimaginable adventures, from battling legendary sea monsters to discovering hidden islands teeming with treasure. These tales make sailors excellent storytellers, captivating audiences with their vivid descriptions and larger-than-life adventures. Their stories often inspire others to seek a life at sea or encourage the brave to embark on perilous quests.

The Call of Adventure

For sailors, the open sea holds endless possibilities. The allure of uncharted waters and the promise of discovering new lands drive them to constantly seek out new horizons. Whether it's exploring forgotten ruins on distant shores or uncovering ancient artifacts buried beneath the waves, sailors are drawn to the unknown like moths to a flame. The call of adventure is impossible for a sailor to resist.

Sea Shanties and Camaraderie

Aboard a ship, camaraderie is vital for survival. Sailors forge deep bonds with their fellow crewmates, relying on each other for support and protection. Sea shanties, traditional work songs sung by sailors, serve as a form of communication and boost morale during long and grueling voyages. These songs are often filled with tales of love, loss, and triumph, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose among the crew.

A Life Beyond the Sea

Although sailors feel most at home on the open water, they can adapt to life on land when necessary. Whether it's trading goods in bustling ports, serving as guides for land-based expeditions, or using their navigational knowledge to navigate treacherous terrain, sailors bring their unique skills with them wherever they go. However, the pull of the sea is never far away, and sailors often find themselves yearning for their next adventure on the waves.

Finding Your Place in the World

As a sailor, you have seen wonders beyond imagination and faced dangers that would make most people tremble. Your experiences have shaped you into a resilient and resourceful individual, ready to face any challenge that comes your way. Whether you choose to continue your life at sea or seek new horizons on land, your background as a sailor has prepared you for a lifetime of excitement, exploration, and adventure.

So hoist the sails, set your course, and let the winds carry you to uncharted territories. The life of a sailor awaits!


Sailing the High Seas: Embark on a thrilling voyage across vast oceans and explore uncharted territories as a seasoned sailor in D&D 5e.

There is something undeniably captivating about the open sea. The vastness of the ocean, stretching out as far as the eye can see, holds an allure that calls out to adventurous souls, beckoning them to leave the comforts of land behind and set sail on a thrilling voyage. In Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition, the sailor background allows players to immerse themselves in the life of a seasoned seafarer, navigating treacherous waters and uncovering uncharted territories.

A Life Bound by the Tides: Uncover the rich history woven into the sailor background, tracing your lineage back to the brave seafarers who faced the unpredictable power of the waves.

The sailor background is steeped in history, tracing its roots back to the brave men and women who braved the unpredictable power of the waves. As a sailor, you carry with you a rich lineage of seafarers who ventured into the unknown, their stories etched into the very fabric of your being. Whether you hail from a family of fishermen, explorers, or pirates, your connection to the sea runs deep, binding you to a legacy of courage and resilience.

Master of the Ship: Learn the intricate skills required to command a vessel, from navigating treacherous waters to managing a crew with the finesse of a true captain.

To be a sailor is to be a master of the ship, possessing a wide array of skills necessary to navigate the treacherous waters. From understanding the intricacies of celestial navigation to interpreting the ever-changing weather patterns, you are a veritable expert in the art of sailing. But your mastery does not stop at the technical aspects of sailing. As a seasoned sailor, you have honed your leadership skills, knowing how to manage a diverse crew with the finesse of a true captain.

Tales of Adventure: Sailors are always at the heart of extraordinary stories, as they encounter legendary sea creatures, mythical isles, and secret buried treasures during their daring escapades.

The life of a sailor is never dull. From encountering legendary sea creatures like the fearsome Kraken or the enchanting Sirens, to stumbling upon mythical isles teeming with hidden wonders, sailors find themselves at the heart of extraordinary stories. Every voyage holds the promise of uncovering secret buried treasures, lost civilizations, and ancient artifacts that lay hidden beneath the depths. As a sailor, you become a living testament to the tales of adventure that echo through the ages.

Weathering the Storm: Brace yourself for the unpredictability of the weather, as a sailor learns to conquer turbulent storms and navigate safely through treacherous hail, wind, and thunder.

One of the greatest challenges faced by sailors is the ever-changing weather. The open sea is a realm of unpredictable storms, where hail, wind, and thunder can strike with little warning. But as a sailor, you have learned to brace yourself for these tempestuous conditions. With skill and determination, you navigate your vessel through the eye of the storm, ensuring the safety of both your crew and your cargo. The ability to weather the storm and emerge victorious is a testament to your resilience and unwavering spirit.

Portside Connections: Gain valuable knowledge of the various ports, harbors, and coastal towns scattered across your world, building helpful relationships that grant you access to valuable resources and information.

A sailor's journey takes them to a myriad of ports, harbors, and coastal towns scattered across the world. In your travels, you have gained valuable knowledge of these locations, forging connections with the locals who call these places home. These portside connections grant you access to a wealth of resources and information that can prove invaluable during your adventures. Whether it is securing a rare trade route, acquiring crucial supplies, or uncovering hidden quests, your network of contacts ensures that you are never alone in your endeavors.

Maritime Lores: Immerse yourself in a wealth of maritime knowledge, from the secrets of celestial navigation to the lore surrounding mythical sea monsters, uncovering the mysteries of the deep as you sail.

The life of a sailor is one of constant learning and discovery. As you traverse the open sea, you immerse yourself in a wealth of maritime knowledge, delving into the secrets of celestial navigation and honing your understanding of the tides and currents. Along the way, you uncover the rich lore surrounding mythical sea monsters, legendary ships, and ancient civilizations lost to time. Your thirst for knowledge fuels your passion for exploration, propelling you further into the unknown depths of the ocean.

Sea Legs and Agility: Develop impressive physical agility and balance as you effortlessly traverse the swaying decks of a ship, adapting to the constant movement with the grace of a seasoned sailor.

A sailor's life demands physical agility and balance. The constant movement of the ship's deck becomes second nature to you, as you develop sea legs that allow you to navigate even the most precarious situations with ease. You move with the grace of a seasoned sailor, adapting to the swaying of the ship as if it were an extension of your own body. Your ability to maintain your footing and perform tasks with precision sets you apart as a true master of the sea.

Sailor's Superstitions: Delve into the fascinating world of sailor superstitions, such as avoiding the infamous dreaded red sky at night or whispering the name of a particular god to ensure safe travels.

The world of sailors is steeped in superstition and folklore. Over centuries of seafaring, sailors have developed a myriad of beliefs and rituals to ensure safe travels and ward off ill fortune. From avoiding the dreaded red sky at night to whispering the name of a particular god for protection, these superstitions are an integral part of a sailor's life. As a sailor yourself, you embrace these traditions, understanding that sometimes the line between myth and reality becomes blurred on the open sea.

The Call of the Ocean: Experience the undeniable allure of the open sea, as the salty breeze and relentless call of adventure beckon you to leave the comforts of land behind and embrace the life of a sailor.

Ultimately, the life of a sailor is driven by an undeniable allure—the call of the ocean. The salty breeze, the vastness of the horizon, and the relentless call of adventure beckon you to leave the comforts of land behind and embrace a life of exploration and discovery. The open sea becomes your home, and the ship your sanctuary. You thrive in the face of uncertainty, finding solace in the ever-changing tides. As a sailor in D&D 5e, you heed the call of the ocean, ready to embark on thrilling voyages across vast oceans and explore uncharted territories that await.


The Sailor Background 5e: Tales from the Open Seas

The Life of a Sailor

Life on the open seas is a wild and unpredictable adventure. Sailors are a unique breed, braving the vast ocean and battling against the turbulent waves. They possess a deep understanding of the sea, its currents, and the creatures that reside within it. The sailor background in Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition allows players to delve into the life of these daring adventurers.

As a sailor, you have spent most of your life aboard a ship, whether it be a massive warship, a sleek pirate vessel, or a humble fishing boat. Your skills lie in navigating treacherous waters, interpreting weather patterns, and manning the sails. You have become adept at using your strength to hoist heavy anchors and climb up towering masts, all while maintaining your balance on a constantly shifting deck.

Tales of the Sea

Sailors have countless stories to tell, each more exciting than the last. They speak of epic battles with mythical sea monsters, encounters with beautiful mermaids, and the discovery of hidden treasure on long-forgotten islands. They also share tales of tempestuous storms that threatened to swallow their ships whole, and the camaraderie formed amongst the crew as they faced these trials together.

One famous tale tells of a sailor who found himself marooned on a deserted island after a shipwreck. With nothing but his wits and the tools he salvaged from the wreckage, he managed to survive for months until he was finally rescued by passing sailors. His resourcefulness and resilience have become legendary among seafarers.

Sailor Background Table

d6 Personality Trait
1 I'm constantly humming or singing shanties while I work.
2 I have a collection of seashells from all the places I've visited.
3 I always have a story or a joke to liven up any situation.
4 I'm superstitious and believe in various maritime omens.
5 I have a tattoo that represents an important moment in my sailing career.
6 I'm always seeking new adventures and dreams of exploring uncharted territories.

In addition to their unique personalities, sailors also possess a set of skills that make them invaluable on any ship. They are proficient in both Athletics and Perception, reflecting their physical prowess and keen senses honed by years spent at sea. Sailors also have access to navigational tools and can speak the language of the sea creatures.

Whether you choose to be a heroic sailor fighting against pirates and monsters, or a mischievous pirate searching for hidden treasure, the sailor background adds depth and excitement to your character's story. So hoist the sails, grab your compass, and embark on a thrilling adventure across the vast ocean!


Thank you, dear readers, for embarking on this journey with us as we explored the fascinating world of the Sailor background in Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition. We hope that you have found our insights and information to be both engaging and informative, shedding light on the rich history and unique characteristics of this versatile character option.

Throughout our exploration, we have delved into the origins of the Sailor background, tracing its roots back to the seafaring adventurers who braved the treacherous waters in search of fortune and glory. We have uncovered the various skills and proficiencies that sailors possess, from their exceptional navigational abilities to their knack for surviving in harsh and unpredictable environments.

Furthermore, we have examined the different personality traits, ideals, bonds, and flaws that define a sailor's character, highlighting the diverse range of backgrounds and motivations that can be found among these intrepid souls. From the seasoned captain to the lowly deckhand, each sailor brings their own unique story and perspective to the table, making them an invaluable addition to any adventuring party.

As we bid farewell, we encourage you to embrace the spirit of the sea and consider incorporating the Sailor background into your next D&D campaign. Whether you choose to take on the role of a swashbuckling pirate, a fearless naval officer, or a merchant sailor navigating the trade routes, the possibilities for adventure are endless.

In conclusion, we hope that our exploration of the Sailor background has inspired you to set sail on your own epic quest. May the winds guide you, the waves carry you, and the stars light your path as you navigate the vast oceans of your imagination. Fair winds and following seas, adventurers!


People Also Ask about Sailor Background 5e

1. What is the sailor background in Dungeons and Dragons 5e?

The sailor background is one of the character backgrounds available in the Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition (5e) role-playing game. It represents a character who has spent a significant amount of their life on the open seas, whether as a merchant sailor, a pirate, or a naval officer.

2. What skills and proficiencies does the sailor background grant?

The sailor background grants proficiency in Athletics and Perception skills, as well as proficiency with navigators' tools. This means that characters with a sailor background are adept at physical activities and have a keen eye for spotting details.

3. Can a sailor background be used for any class in D&D 5e?

Yes, the sailor background can be used for any class in D&D 5e. While it may naturally align with classes like the rogue, fighter, or bard, as they often have abilities related to physical prowess or charisma, the sailor background can add depth and flavor to any character concept.

4. What are some suggested personality traits for a character with a sailor background?

Some suggested personality traits for a character with a sailor background include being fiercely loyal to their crewmates, having a strong sense of adventure and wanderlust, being quick to jump into action, and having a knack for telling tall tales or sea shanties.

5. Are there any specific story hooks or quests that work well with a character who has a sailor background?

A character with a sailor background can find themselves embarking on quests such as hunting down a legendary sea monster, uncovering the secrets of a long-lost pirate treasure, or navigating treacherous waters to reach a distant, unexplored island. Additionally, their expertise in maritime matters can make them invaluable in situations involving naval warfare or seafaring diplomacy.

Overall, the sailor background in D&D 5e provides a rich foundation for characters with a connection to the sea, offering unique skills, proficiencies, and opportunities for exciting adventures on the high seas.